Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
To start a nail, hold it just below the head between your thumb and forefinger, and give it a few light taps with the hammer.
Once the nail is started, remove your fingers and swing the hammer more fully, with a fluid stroke that combines wrist, arm, and shoulder action as shown here.
When the hammer’s face strikes the nail, the handle should be perpendicular to the nail’s shank.
To start a nail, hold it just below the head between your thumb and forefinger, and give it a few light taps with the hammer.