Plumbers possess many special tools to ply their trade. From Stillson wrenches to pipe cutters and benders, all indispensable, they couldn't do the jobs without them!If you're looking to train to be a plumber, one item you are bound to already know about - as you will always find at least one example in a plumber's tool bag - is the humble piece of putty! A permanent piece of handy kit for those training to be a builder or decorator too, has often got many a plumber out of trouble!Plumber's putty is a soft, pliable substance used to create watertight seals around taps and drains, often used when plumbing fixtures are replaced - and should not be confused with a type of plumber's tape, which is used to seal threaded pipe joints!In fact, on jobs when putty is not to be used, e.g. sealing pipes or fixtures that will be under pressure from water because the seal will not hold, then pipes should be sealed using plumber's tape or a liquid pipe compound.Different brands of plumber's putty often contain different ingredients. Many products make use of some type of clay as a base ingredient. Linseed oil is also a common additive. Other formulas include limestone, a blend of fish oils, or talc.Plumbing training courses are bound to show you how to properly - and sparingly - use this amazingly versatile 'plumber's mate'- when you are receiving practical training in the workshops. When working with it, you will notice that the putty remains soft and pliable for a relatively long period of time. This is especially useful for where a watertight, but reversible, seal is preferred.Plumber's putty is most often used for creating a seal for taps and drains, and is also sometimes applied in the installation of sinks, although it is not always recommended to use putty to seal a sink, as it does not provide a secure enough seal. In some cases, plumber's putty can stain the material the sink is made from and silicon caulk may be a better option.A line of putty is applied to the area surrounding the insert for the body of the sink and the excess wiped off. The lip of the sink rests on the edges of the insert after the sink is slipped into place. By adhering sinks with plumber's putty, it is possible to create a tight bond between the counter top and the sink that will prevent any water seeping into the area directly under the counter.If you are thinking of undertaking a bathroom or kitchen project - besides doing the sensible thing and taking a short DIY training course to learn to do it properly - don't forget the plumber's putty! Purchased at hardware stores, putty is relatively inexpensive and will enhance the quality of the plumbing work while cutting down on the potential for leaks.