Need to measure a solid fat like lard or shortening for that pie? But, you hate cleaning the measuring cup afterwards? Here is something that may help you with that. Line the measuring cup with plastic wrap before adding the fat. Push the fat into the cup with a spatula or wooden spoon to be sure the cup is completely full. Then when you are ready, all you have to do is simply pull the hanging wrapping and the cup stays clean. You can even go one step further and chill the fat in the plastic wrap before cutting it into the flour for the pie dough.

And if you are using butter…

… you know that using your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour can heat it and melt it pretty quick. The food processor is the best method to avoid this, but if you don’t have one, or you don’t want to use it, try this: Rub a frozen stick of butter against the large holes of a regular box grater over the flour. Then use a pastry blender to work the butter into the flour. You want to make it even easier? Press the cold butter through a potato ricer.