Some are naturals to DIY, others find it more of a struggle. But follow TOMMY WALSH'S EXCLUSIVE advice and just about anyone can be proud of their DIY!

Some can, some can't, we're talking DIY here, but at one time or another most of us have given it a go or will give it a go.

If you fall into the category of reluctant DIYer take heart because with a bit of help from the experts the job can become a whole lot easier. If you are competent and willing, also take note because learning is an ongoing process.

Like most things, the key to all DIY is in the planning,' says Tommy. Step one is to work out what you're going to do, how you're going to do it and what materials and tools you'll need for your job. Having a workable plan in place from the word go can make all the difference in the world to you.

That old adage that a job worth doing is a job worth doing properly or not at all, is ultimately very true.'

For a man who made his name labouring away outdoors in the BBC series Ground Force, it's interesting to note that Tommy's best advice is for those planning to refurbish their homes with a little bit of decorating. It's the job that most people do at some time or another.

Like I've said before it is all down to preparation. If you are decorating you need to do the foundation work first and then you can start the painting,' he reasons.

It's always best to try and decorate a room that is free of furniture. Clear it away if you can and better still take up the carpet. Even the most proficient decorators with bags of experience have spills.

If you aren't able to do that then I suggest you cover your carpet with plastic sheets, putting dust sheets over the top. I'm never entirely happy with that option because the floor can be slippery but it is a fair compromise if you can't move furniture out of the room.

Always use a paint kettle and never overfill it. If you're climbing up a ladder you need two hands free and that means you also need a hook to hang the kettle on. I like to think it's all down to common sense but it is amazing how many people seem to lose their heads.'

Of course, before you reach the stage of slapping on the paint, the surfaces have to be prepared and primed. And it is this stage that has the most impact on the finished look in your home.

The better the preparation, the better the result at the end,' says Tommy. For that reason, if you are sanding an area to paint, it's better to start with rougher paper and gradually work through the grades until you get to the finest paper.

If you are removing wallpaper then use a steamer. They do a great job and although you can hire them they're well priced and would make a very good investment. Once the paper is off, any blemishes in the walls, or holes, need to be prepared.

The right tools for the job also make a huge difference. It means you will do the work well and good quality tools will make your life easier. Remember, only bad workmen blame their tools!'

A crucial part of the planning is working out the quantities of materials you will need. Check how much paint is required and buy enough. This is where many DIYers go wrong. They make a mess of the calculations and have to run out mid-job for supplies.

Time management is another big consideration,' says Tommy. Try not to overdo it in a day, I'd recommend that you work for six hours at best but whatever you do, don't go beyond eight. The more tired you get, the more your work suffers.

Even if you think you've nearly finished the job after your six to eight hours, do stop. Estimating the length of time the job will take is all part of the planning stage. However much you enjoy what you're doing, you still need to get away from it. If the house is in uproar because of the decorating then it is a good excuse to go out for a meal with your wife. It's important to relax and unwind.'

Once the walls have been decorated, there are those other bits that need attention. Doors and skirting boards need the same preparation and Tommy is emphatic in arguing that doors should never be dipped to remove old paint.

It ruins them,' he explains. The caustic soda eats into the grain and can weaken them. It takes out the oils in the wood. Prepare by sanding, by filling and replacing the beading if necessary and I always recommend that you use eggshell paint rather than gloss because it is matt and doesn't reflect and highlight any imperfections in the door. It might seem a long and laborious job but I can tell you that there are no shortcuts if you want a decent finish and a job of which you can be proud.'

Tommy is adamant that common sense and patience can make even the most reluctant of DIYers proficient. Finding someone to share the job with will definitely help,' he advises. Some jobs are so much easier with two people involved. It is all part of the process of doing the job right. Once you start a job you are duty bound to see it all the way to the end.'

Even though he has been busy at work renovating his new home, is Tommy a DIY man in his spare time? It seems to me it is the one job that if you do it for a living you are expected to carry on at home in the evenings,' he says. If you're a baker, you're not expected to come home and start cooking bread so why should builders continue working? Of course builders are going to end up working on their jobs at home but I belong to the school of thought that allows the jobs to build up and then I have a big clear up of them.

In my case, employing outside contractors means I'm always going to be very critical and very demanding. I've been busy of late and my new house has been a job well beyond the range of one man. I'm lucky because I've got contacts in the business and I know what people are capable of achieving so I have been working with a first class crew. That and my attention to detail will mean I will end up with a job well done, and if I can do it, so can you!'

And if you've got any more questions Tommy's book, The Amateur Survival Guide is excellent for first time DIYers!