1 Before you begin, repair any damaged areas on the stairs, spindles, newel posts and handrail using wood filler, and replace any badly damaged boards where necessary. Sand away old paint or varnish,

Chris Nevard sets sail on the final part of his journey to build a coal-fired ‘Clyde Puffer’ steam cargo ship.

There are plenty of projects that can be done to keep your home looking fresh. The key is to work out which tasks you are capable of as a DIYer, and which require specific skills and safety measures.

For very little money Bob Shillito saves the 1953 Yachting Monthly three-tonner, Sparrow , from being scrapped and gets her sea-ready

SAMMY FAIRCLOTH, TECH CONTRIBUTOR You’ll be pleased to know that most scratches can be restored without replacing the window. Start by using a polish or paste designed specifically for acrylic. Househ

If your boat canopy has suffered from sun bleaching, ripped windows, worn stitching or fabric tears, don’t write it off. Jake Kavanagh investigates some life-extending fixes