Hello everyone a newbie question

I would very much appreciate some help and advice, here goes, I have just purchased my first ever snake it is an ordinary one, he (I say he as I don’t know the sex) is five and a half months old about 15”-18” long I have only had him a week the problem that I am having is that when I get him out or before I can even get my hand in to get him (he is in a small tank 12x6x6high) he is over the side in no time when I do manage to pick him up he just fly’s up my arm and I have to put him straight back as I can’t slow him down or seem to control which way he has to go I am frightened I might hurt him as I have to be so quick to get hold of him as he moves so very very fast I really want to keep him but he has made me a bit nervous not that he will bite or anything but I just don’t know how I cam manage him, as I said this is my first ever snake I have read a lot and looked at many web sites but I think I need help and advice, Thanks to everyone in advance..

Dont worry we've all been there! They are damn fast aren't they!!

Anyway, this is what I do when i get skittish hatchlings. Get a big cardboard box (you can get them from most superstores for packing your shopping in). When you take your snake out, handle him over the box so if he escapes or you drop him, he'll land in the box and wont be able to go very far.
The more you handle him, the tamer he'll become. He'll become used to you and in a couple months he'll be perfectly happy to crawl up your arm, round your neck and wont be darting everywhere. Now, this is what *should* happen. Occasionally you get a fiery corn that will rebel against conforming to a placid nature! My mum's snake is a fine example!

Some people put clothing (a t shirt or similar) in their corns tank so it will get used to their scent. I tried this but it didn't seem to make much difference. Try that, maybe it will work for you. Good luck!

Thanks so much you have put my mind at rest, it really upset me as I thought I was doing something wrong he really moved so fast I didn't have any option but to quickly put him back as I was frightened I might hurt him, anyway thanks I will go and try holding him over a large box, will let you know what happens in a few days. Thanks..