Save Money by Hosting a Swap
If you love to shop, but your budget says you shouldn’t, why not try something different and organize a Swap? You’ll still feel as if you’re shopping because you’ll be browsing “new” merchandise to select things you want to “purchase.” The difference is that you don’t pay cash, you “pay” in similar items.
Swapping or bartering items you have on hand for items you want can save you a bundle. And swaps can be a lot of fun in the process! They’re easy to organize, you can swap for any number of items, and you can acquire things you really need at no actual cost – other than something you were going to get rid of anyway.
Swaps do require some planning, though, to be successful. Here are some tips to help you as you begin organizing your first swap.
Decide on the Type of Swap You’ll Host
You can swap anything you have a surplus of. Common swaps include children’s clothing, women’s clothing, books, toys, baby items, CDs or movies. But you don’t have to stop there! Swap direct sales products such as Avon or Tupperware, homemade dinner casseroles, cookies, even services like babysitting or running errands.
Choose a Date and Invite Your Friends
Once you know what you’ll swap, you need to find others to swap with. So pick a tentative date for your first swap and talk to friends and family to see who’d be interested in taking part. When you have a group of moms who are interested, firm up the date and tell them what to bring.
Set Some Rules for the Swap
Swaps can be run a variety of ways. You can have everyone bring a set number of items such as 10 books each, or 15 pieces of clothing. Or you can have everyone bring a dollar amount of merchandise such as $20 retail value in their company’s products. The former typically works best for used items, the latter for new ones. Whatever you decide, let your guests know what they’re expected to bring.
If you’ll be swapping services, create a simple form that allows the provider to list what they have to offer and the dollar amount. If you’ll be swapping used items, ask that all items be in very good condition, clean and ready to use by the one who will take the item home.
Decide if You Plan to Offer Refreshments
If you want more of a party atmosphere, you can provide cookies or finger food, and soft drinks. If you want to keep it more professional, put on a pot of coffee and leave it at that. Whatever you prefer is fine. Just keep in the mind the tone you want to set and go from there.
Choose How to Handle “Leftovers”
Invariably, you’ll have some items leftover that no one wants or can use. You will need to decide what to do with the surplus. You can have everyone take back their own leftovers, or you can agree that any unused items be given to a local charity. If you choose to donate them, you can take them yourself, or ask for a volunteer to handle that task. Just know in advance how you’ll handle the excess so you don’t end up with more things in the house you don’t want or need.
Organizing a swap is a relatively simple task, and requires only some planning and preparation. Everyone involved, however, can reap big rewards and it’s certainly something to consider if you have an abundance of items you no longer want.
30 Ways to Keep the Kids Busy This Summer
The official start of summer has come and gone, and the days are passing steadily. It seems to be about this time every year that the kids are over the “I can’t wait for summer vacation!” excitement and have moved quickly into the “Mom, I’m bored!” blues. Here are some ideas to help you entertain the kids, or help the kids entertain themselves, at little or no cost.
1. Let them host their own yard sale of unused toys, books and clothing. They can use the money to buy a new game.
2. Help them set up a lemonade stand and sell to the neighbors.
3. Offer them a reading challenge… X amount of dollars (or cents) for every book they read this summer.
4. Get out the sprinkler and let the kids have some good old fashioned – wet! – fun.
5. Make homemade ice cream.
6. Get crafty. They can draw, paint, craft with homemade clay or scrapbook. There are hundreds of patterns and ideas online and many things can be made from items you’d normally throw in the trash.
7. Start a garden. Give each child their own plant to monitor and let them see how exciting it is to watch a living thing grow.
8. Encourage them to volunteer. They can help an elderly neighbor with yard work or errands, babysit a harried mother’s younger child, or offer to walk a shut-ins dog. They’ll not only feel good, they’ll begin to learn a lifelong lesson of generosity.
9. Teach them to cook. They’ll need to know someday and cooking offers a great relief from boredom.
10. If it’s raining outside, create some indoor fun by building a fort (a blanket draped over a card table or a couple of chairs), playing hide and seek, or holding a Monopoly marathon.
11. Find some added chores they can do such as cleaning out the garage, organizing their closet, washing the car, etc.
12. Hold a backyard Bible club with games, prizes, Bible stories, etc.
13. Organize a kid’s block party. Invite all the kids in the neighborhood (and some parents) to bring a treat and a game to share. Play music and have some fun.
14. Create your own carnival games. A board with holes can become a bean bag toss. A board with balloons can become a dart board. Floating toys in a small tub with numbers on the bottom can become a duck race. Use your imagination and creativity.
15. Spend some time outdoors. There are dozens of activities to choose from in your own backyard such as skateboarding, bike riding, rollerblading, playing Frisbee, softball, etc.
16. Go for a hike or a family bike ride.
17. Play hopscotch (if you remember how) or jump rope.
18. Print several coloring sheets of the computer and make your own coloring book.
19. Hold a neighborhood talent contest and let the kids perform for their parents.
20. Put on a play or skit complete with costumes and music.
21. Find a bunch of old clothes, vintage things work really well, and create a “dress-up” box. Gloves, hats, shoes, pants, dresses, vests, ties, etc. can create a full summer of creative play.
22. Rediscover the craft of paper mache to make a simple piñata. Mix equal amounts of white glue or flour with water and coat strips of newspaper. Cover a blown-up balloon with the strips, leaving a small section uncovered until the paper dries. When it’s dry, pop the balloon and remove the balloon. Fill the piñata with small pieces of candy, and cover the hole with paper mache. Decorate with bright paints when dry.
23. Encourage your kids to become fans of a neighborhood softball team. They can go to all their games, get to know the players and cheer for their home team to win.
24. Play white elephant bingo. Pick up an inexpensive Bingo game from the dollar store, or have the kids make one. Use yard sale items or gag gifts for prizes. Invite other kids from the neighborhood or whole families to play.
25. Visit a different “kids eat free” restaurant for lunch each week.
26. Find a free concert in the park or at a local church featuring a group the kids would enjoy.
27. Encourage the kids to write their own stories and poems, and publish a book. They can make copies and bind them for gifts to grandparents, friends and other family members.
28. Create a neighborhood activity swap with other parents. Each week one parent is responsible for planning an activity or outing for all the kids in the group, keeping in mind cost, age level and abilities.
29. Host a weekly movie day and let all the kids gather at your house to watch videos and eat popcorn.
30. Go fishing. Even if you think you can’t bait a hook, you can take the kids to a lake and spend some time dropping in a line – with a fake worm on the end! It’s not about what you catch – though kids love to catch fish – it’s about being together and enjoying the warm air and nature.
Some of these activities are age dependent or need supervision. Others are things the kids can do on their own. But the idea is to find a variety of activities to keep the kids busy and active during the long weeks of summer, if nothing more than in an effort to maintain your own sanity until school starts again!
Frugal Party Theme: Hobo Holiday
You may be too young to remember how romantic the life of a hobo seemed to people at one time. The idea of being able to travel wherever you wanted, never have to work and simply enjoy life was a dream to many. Hobos were the forerunners to today’s homeless, yet hobos often chose their lifestyle, and there was just something attractive about their freedom.
Hobos had a look of their own. They often donned worn out clothing with colorful patches, old hats, and shoes with holes. They always – in the dreamer’s eye, at least – carried a “pack,” which was simply a large bandana or other cloth tied to the end of a stick and filled with all their worldly goods.
If you like parties and you love the idea of “dressing up,” you’ll love hosting a Hobo Holiday! It’s simple, inexpensive, and a lot of fun for everyone involved. This makes a great Halloween Alternative for churches as well as an easy all-occasion party.
THEME: A party where everyone dresses up like a hobo, plays games, shares stories, and enjoys some simple food.
INVITATIONS: Include a graphic of a hobo carrying his pack on the front (you can find several by searching online for “free hobo clipart”). Include the party details (Where and When the party will be held, How to get there, What to bring or not to bring, etc.) on the inside.
DECORATIONS: Few decorations are needed since the idea of a Hobo Holiday is simplicity itself.This is one party that is best held outdoors, and ideally, in the evening when it’s cool. Include a safe place for a campfire and place some large rocks or tree stumps around the fire ring to serve as seats.
PARTY FAVORS: Possibilities include bright bandanas for everyone, or a Polaroid photo of each guest. Again, the entire theme is simplicity so elaborate favors aren’t necessary.
FOOD: Serve Hobo Stew. You, as host, provide the meat (chunks of beef stew meat are best), and everyone else brings a can of something to “throw in the pot” (green beans, corn, potatoes, etc.). Make coffee and iced tea to drink. Include thick slices of Italian or French bread and a simple cake (unfrosted is great), or cookies.
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES: A Hobo Holiday works best in the evening so you can enjoy the campfire. Campfire conversations, and sitting around the campfire telling stories are part of the charm. If you know someone who plays a harmonica or guitar, invite them to bring it and lead in simple songs. You can also play games such as Charades that don’t require props or game pieces.
A Hobo Holiday is a lot of fun for a very small price. And it works well for all ages. Even senior adults can dress up as hobos and enjoy the simple activities. Add other creative ideas of your own to make this a great party for everyone you invite.
Frugal Home Decorating with Recycled Jeans
With our world going green in so many areas, it seems only natural to search for ways to reuse and recycle everything in our homes. One of the things many of us have an abundance of is denim. From denim shirts and jackets, to denim skirts, capris, and jeans, most frugal moms have access to a lot of denim. And there’s no need to trash those old jeans when they become worn or no longer fit. Use them to create budget home decor that will revamp every room in your house at little or no cost, other than time and effort. You’ll not only freshen up your home, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of going a little greener when you do.
• Cut strips from the legs, hem them all around, and use for curtain tie backs. These look really neat around lace or gingham curtains, in particular, though they’ll go with just about anything.
• Make your own comforter or bedspread. Cut squares or patchwork shapes from the denim and zigzag stitch them together to create a unique spread. Serge the edges, or hem them. Lined or unlined is up to you – this looks great either way.
• Cut squares about 10″ x 10″, hem around all four sides, and hang them on your curtain rod diagonally to create a simple valance.
• Or sew pieces together, any size you have on hand, and create a piece of fabric wide enough to cover your window and long enough to hang down about 10″-12″ for a valance. Hem three sides and stitch a simple casing at the top. Voíla! A new window treatment that’s especially good in a teen’s room.
• Sew (or fabric glue) the pockets onto a large scrap of coordinating fabric to create a pocket organizer for the bathroom or the back of a closet door.
• Cover an old potholder with denim to make a new one. Cut two pieces slightly larger than your existing potholder and sew them, right sides together around three sides. Turn right sides out, insert the old potholder in the pocket (for heat protection), tuck in the unhemmed edge, pin, and topstitch around all sides.
• Make your own placemats from the backside of the jeans and pockets. Find 4-6 similar sized pair of jeans, and cut apart at the legs leaving the pockets and waistband intact on the “seat.” Hem or zigzag stitch the edges for a great summer table decoration.
• Craft some coasters or bottle cozies. There are patterns online for the cozies, coasters don’t even need one. Cut a variety of shapes such as squares, circles, hearts, diamonds, etc. from old jeans. Either sew them as you did for the potholder with a fabric backing, or zigzag stitch the edges and use one-layer thick.
• You can also make pillows from jeans by creating the same type pocket (sewing around three edges with right sides together), turning right sides out, and stuffing with fiberfill or an old pillow form.
• Make a simple magnetic pocket to hold pens and a small notepad. Cut out a flat pocket leaving 1/2″ or more on every side for sewing. Cut another piece of denim the same size. Sew together around three sides (with right sides facing) and turn right side out. Hem the top of the “back” – the piece without the pocket. Attach two long magnet strips to the top and bottom of the pocket and hang on the fridge.
• Use your denim scraps to make a durable, attractive rug that will last for ages. You can either cut shapes and sew them together, then hem around all sides. Or make long strips of fabric and braid them into a rug. Either way, be sure to add non-skid tape to the back so you don’t slide.
• Cover your dining room chairs in denim. This looks wonderful in a country kitchen. You can either use the legs from large jeans by ripping out the innerseam and laying the fabric flat, or you can make squares and sew the pieces together to create a larger piece of fabric.
These are just a few of the many ways you can reuse your old jeans. Get creating and get crafting… everything you make will be truly original!
Delicious Fourth of July Recipes for Frugal Moms
Looking for some delicious, inexpensive recipes to make your Fourth of July (or any day!) special? Try these on for taste.
Texas BBQ Sauce
1 c. tomato juice
1/2 c. water
1/4 c. catsup
1/4 c. vinegar
2 T. worchestshire sauce
2 T. brown sugar
1 T. paprika
1 t. dry mustard
1 t. salt
1/4 t. chili powder
1/8 t. cayenne pepper
1 small onion, chopped fine
Mix all ingredients together in saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until slightly thickened. Makes about 2 cups.
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Coconut Lemon Squares
Crust
1 c. Bisquick
2 T. powdered sugar
2 T. butter or margarine
Preheat oven to 350º. Mix together Bisquick and powdered sugar with a fork. Using a pastry blender, cut in margarine until it’s in fine chunks. Press into ungreased 8″ x 8″ x 2″ pan. Bake about 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
Filling
3/4 c. sugar
1/4 c. coconut
1 T. Bisquick
2 eggs
2 T. lemon juice
2 t. grated lemon peel
Mix together all ingredients until well blended. Pour over crust. Bake about 25 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean. Loosen edges from the pan while warm.
Glaze
1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 T. lemon juice
Mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Pour over warm bars. Cool completely. Cut into squares.
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Deviled Eggs
6 hard boiled eggs, peeled
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. dry mustard
1/4 t. pepper
3 T. mayonnaise
Dash of paprika
Cut eggs in half, lengthwise. Remove yolks. Combine egg yolks, salt, mustard, pepper and mayonnaise. Mix well. Fill egg white halves with mixutre. Sprinkle lightly with paprika. Refrigerate until ready to eat.
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Old Fashioned Potato Salad
6 medium potatoes
2 hard boiled eggs, chopped fine
1/3 c. onion, chopped fine
3 T. mustard
1 t. salt
2 T. dill relish
1/2 t. pepper
1/4 t. celery salt
1/4 c. mayonnaise
Dash of paprika
Peel potatoes. Cut in chunks and boil until tender. Drain potatoes and return to pot. Add remaining ingredients except paprika. Mix well. Sprinkle with paprika. Refrigerate until ready to eat.
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Corn Bread Layered Salad
1 pkg. Jiffy cornbread mix, prepared as directed
1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can whole kernel corn, drained
1 medium green pepper, chopped
6 green onions, chopped
1-1/2 c. ranch dressing
3 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tomato, chopped
1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
Cool baked cornbread completely. Crubmle into chunks in a large bowl or serving dish. Layer pinto beans, corn, green pepper and green onions on top of cornbread. Cover with ranch dressing. Sprinkle with bacon, tomato and cheese. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serviing. Makes about 8 servings.
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Sweet Southern Iced Tea
8 regular-sized tea bags
1 c. sugar
water
Pour about 2 quarts water in a large sauce pan. Add sugar and mix well. Bring to boil, stirring often so sugar will dissolve completely. Reduce heat slightly and add tea bags. Simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let set about 15 minutes then pour into 2-quart pitcher. Fill pitcher with ice and cold water. Stir well. Cool. Serve over ice.
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Super Simple Cream Cheese Ball
1 c. tuna, drained well
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 med. onion, chopped fine
Dash of lemon juice
1/2 c. chopped pecans
Mix all ingredients well. Form into ball. Roll in pecans. Chill for at least one hour. Serve with Ritz crackers.
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Dreamsicle Fudge
3 c. sugar
2/3 c. evaporated milk
1-1/2 sticks butter or margarine
1 small jar marshmallow cream
3 T. orange flavoring
12 drops yellow food coloring
9 drops red food coloring
Combine suager, milk and butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to boil, stirring often. Boil 5 minutes or until cand thermometer shows “soft ball” stage. Stir in marshmallow cream. Mix until smooth. Remove one cup of mixture and set aside. Pour remaining mixture into a buttered 9″ x 12″ pan. To the one cup mixture, add the orange flavoring and food coloring. Mix well. Spoon orange mixture into white. Swirl with knife to partially blend. Refrigerate one hour or until set. No extra refrigeration needed after it sets up.
Extreme Solutions for the Financially Strapped
Desperate times require desperate measures. And sometimes life events bring a sense of desperation where finances are concerned. Maybe you or your spouse had to miss work for an extended period of time, or your car required major repair, or you were a victim of identity theft, or… any number of other scenarios can take families who live payday to payday to the brink of financial ruin. During those times we must find ways to quickly earn more money and eliminate expenses in an effort to simply survive.
Here are some financial tactics that may help you during these times of financial stress. Not all are viable for everyone or every situation, but maybe one of more will help you if you find yourself in dire financial straits and need immediate relief.
• Go into survival mode. Immediately stop all unnecessary spending. That means no movies, no eating out, no new clothes, books or toys. Save your money for what you have to have to live on.
• Simplify your eating habits. Buy cheaper foods and items on sale. Eat more beans, rice, ramen noodles, pasta, homemade biscuits, and meatless meals. Eliminate desserts. Snack on homemade (not microwave) popcorn. Shop at the day-old bread store. Eliminate convenience foods. Drink water instead of soda. Use what’s in the pantry and freezer before you buy more. There are many ways to cut your food bill dramatically. Use every money saving strategy you can find to keep your family fed.
• Visit your local food pantry. Most cities have at least one food pantry that will provide a few groceries once a week or more, free of charge. Typically, the items given include cereal, dry beans or peas, canned goods or bread. You won’t get enough to feed your family, but you will receive some supplemental help. And if there is more than one pantry in your area, visit every one of them. They are designed for just such an emergency so take advantage of them when you need to.
• Apply for food stamps and public assistance. You may or may not qualify, but it’s worth taking the time to interview and fill out an application. Many hardworking taxpayers feel they could never “take charity,” but if your children are hungry or you’re on the verge of homelessness, remember that’s exactly why you do pay your taxes… so the government can provide help for families just like yours who are in need.
• Cut out extraneous services such as cable TV, DSL (use the library), added calling features on your phone. Drop all voluntary memberships such as Stamps.com, exercise centers, music and book clubs.
• Cancel your cell phone if you can do so without a cancellation fee. If not, use it as little as possible so that you never go over on your minutes. Stop downloading music and ringtones you have to pay for.
• Eliminate paper. Use cloth napkins instead of paper, regular plates instead of paper plates, cleaning rags instead of paper towels, cloth handkerchiefs instead of tissues.
• Have a yard sale. Find anything and everything you don’t need and sell it. Look at every single thing in your home, and unless it has true sentimental value, or you know you could never get a price to warrant the sale, consider selling it. Now isn’t the time to show an attachment for “things.”
• If at all possible, pay your bills on time and keep your checking account balanced. Adding financing charges, late fees and insufficient fund or overdraft payments to an already over-extended budget can cause tremendous amounts of emotional and financial stress.
• Have an extra vehicle? Sell it. Make do with one car, ride a bicycle, use public transportation, or hitch a ride with a co-worker.
• Collect aluminum cans and sell them for cash. The price varies, and you certainly won’t get rich, but you could make enough to pay a small bill or buy a few groceries.
• Stop smoking. Cigarettes are a luxury you can’t afford, not to mention a health hazard. The ability to quit depends a lot on your mindset. Visit your local health department or library for free information to help you kick the habit.
• As long as you don’t have to pay added child care, which could eliminate any potential income you might earn, get a second job. While jobs are hard to come by, fast food restaurants are still hiring, as are pizza places and convenience stores. It may not be what you want to do, but there are times you do what you have to.
• If you can’t find a regular job, offer your services for pay. Consider babysitting, lawn care, baking, pet walking, writing, decorating, home repair, tutoring, giving music lessons, etc. Anything you can do capably is a potential moneymaker, so don’t overlook possible talents.
• Sell some things on eBay, etsy, Craigslist, or another online website. Your market reach is much wider than trying to sell locally, and many of these services are completely free.
• You may also be able to sell certain items locally such as books to a used book store, clothing to a consignment shop, or furniture to a used furniture store. You typically won’t earn as much selling locally as you would online, and you may not get your money immediately as in the case of consignment shops, but the potential is there.
• While it’s not recommended by financial experts, you can always get a title loan, or a cash advance from a local check cashing business. This isn’t something you want to do on a regular basis, but often the first such loan is free, or very cheap, and it might be enough to get you by until your next pay check.
• Pawn your jewelry, or sell some gold. The gold market is hot right now and there are any number of jewelry stores and pawn shops paying decent prices for gold items and jewelry. Deal locally, if possible, and be sure of what you’re selling. Also shop around to find a dealer you feel you can trust before you give them your items.
• Sell your antiques and collectibles. Look around your home for vintage pieces such as glassware, coins, stamps, toys, or other collectibles and call an antique dealer to see if they’re worth anything.
• Rent out a room in your house. This is especially viable if you have a basement bedroom or a room with a separate entrance. But you can easily rent any room if you live in a college town or other populated area. Use caution, of course, and ask for references before allowing someone you don’t know to move into your home.
While these ideas are not all-inclusive, and they may not bring you money today, they are pretty strong measues to help you earn and save money when you find yourself in a financial bind and need results fast.
Simple Ideas to Update Your Kitchen Decor
Since we spend so much time in the kitchen cooking, cleaning and simply visiting with friends, we can grow tired of our kitchen decor quicker than almost any room in the house. But redecorating a kitchen is expensive! Here are some ways to add new life to your kitchen without redoing the whole room or without spending a lot of money.
• Create a three dimensional border around your kitchen with plates or saucers hung on inexpensive plate hangers, baskets hung on hooks, or a shelf hung on brackets about 10″-12″ from the ceiling and filled with vintage tins or a variety of other items you have on hand.
• Change the entire look of your kitchen floor without retiling the whole kitchen by focusing on one section only. If you have a table in the kitchen, you can place an area rug underneath it, or place a long runner between the cabinets and stove. Check yard sales and estate sales for rugs, or pick up a remnant of vinyl tile at a surplus store, paint it to match your decor and seal it with a clear coating. Canvas can also be cut and painted and used as a floor cloth. Be sure to attach your mats to the floor with double-sided tape to avoid falls.
• Create a light, airy valance using ladies vintage hankies. Simply hang them diagonally over your curtain rod and let them flutter in the breeze for a romantic, Victorian window treatment.
• Use the space over your cabinets to display your collections. They don’t all have to be kitchen related although tins, antique glassware, mugs and teapots work very well.
• There are many ways to give your cabinets a new look without replacing them. Paint the doors with a bright new enamel, glue on a fabric placemat, cover with self-adhesive paper or decals. All of these options are easy to do and inexpensive, and will give your whole kitchen a new, updated look.
• Add molding around the ceiling in place of a border, or place a large ceramic medallion above the kitchen light fixture to create an elegant, finished look.
• Another easy and relatively inexpensive detail that offers big results is to change your kitchen light fixtures. If you only have one or two lights, you might find what something you like at a yard sale. If not, shop around to find just what you’re looking for before making a decision. You’ll be amazed at how this simple change affects the mood of your kitchen.
• Add a new tablecloth or placemats to match your updated decor. You may want to make one from a flat sheet (it’s much less expensive than buying fabric). You can then use the leftovers for a simple window swag – just cut your fabric to the required length, hem it all around using iron-on tape if you don’t sew, and drape it over a curtain rod.
• Layer your good china or mismatched vintage dishes on the table. Place a dinner plate first, add a salad plate on top, and a bowl on top of that. Set out stemware, saucers and cups, and silverware on cloth napkins to create a full table setting at each chair. They’re easy to move if you don’t want to use the dishes every day and will make your kitchen look “decorated” with very little effort and potentially no cost.
• Attach a backsplash behind the sink or the stove. You can use a variety of materials including mirrors or ceramic tiles. This will protect your walls from splatters and splashes while adding color and interest at the same time.
There are many ways for frugal moms to decorate the kitchen. Let these ideas kickstart your own or come up with something truly original and truly your own.
Smart Yard Sale Shopping for Frugal Moms
Yard sales, garage sales, rummage sales, tag sales – whatever you choose to call them – are a great way to save money on almost anything you need. Some people shy away from such sales because of the stigma associated with buying someone else’s used stuff. But if you can change your mindset and see yard sales as a way to get what you want for less, you’ll be amazed at what you can find.
If you’re a total newbie to the yard sale frenzy, there are some things to keep in mind. In no particular order, here are some tips to help make your yard sale experience a huge success from the first day out.
Beware… yard sales are addictive! After finding a few great deals, you may discover you need one of those bumper stickers that say, “WARNING: This car stops at all garage sales!”
• Yard sales are everywhere, so keep your eyes open. Check your local paper, Craigslist and other sites that offer free yard sale ads. If you plan to spend the entire day “yard saling,” map out a rough route so you know which direction you’re going. Be on the lookout for unadvertised sales, too! A lot of people will simply set out some items and throw a sign up on the corner rather than spend the money on advertising.
• The most common days for sales are Friday and Saturday, but you can find some sales on other days of the week. Get in the habit of stopping at every sale you see if you have time. A quick stop may uncover an expected bargain or two for just a couple minutes of your time.
• As you become experienced in locating sales, you’ll develop a feel for what areas to avoid, but give yourself time before you eliminate neighborhoods. Just because an area is filled with expensive homes and nice cars, never assume they have good yard sales. Often, the sales in those neighborhoods are much more expensive than sales in average middle-class communities. Often people who don’t frequent yard sales have no clue as to how to hold one, or how to price their merchandise.
• Always be safe. Never leave your car running when you stop at a sale, and never leave a child in the car unattended. Keep your purse or wallet with you. Never set your belongings down if there is anyone standing nearby. Be aware of your surroundings and never stop at a sale where you feel uncomfortable. For the most part, yard saling is a safe hobby, but it’s best to use common sense to safeguard yourself and your property.
• Plan your day well. Rather than spend money on food, pack a cooler with some water and soft drinks, a snack and a couple of sandwiches. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, take cash for your purchases, and don’t forget the sunscreen. You can have a lot of fun at yard sales and save a lot of money in the process.
• While many “experts” will say you should expect to pay about one-third of the retail price for an item. that generally applies only to very large items such as appliances or furniture. Smaller items such as books, clothing, household gadgets, home decor items, etc. can be found much cheaper. Depending on the area in which you live, you can find many nice items at yard sales for 25¢ to 50¢ and sometimes less.
• If you see something you really like but aren’t sure you want to buy it, pick it up and carry it with you as you browse. Planning to “think about it” with the intention of going back for an item before you leave could cost you a bargain you’ll regret losing.
• Inspect everything you’re considering before you buy. If it’s made of fabric such as clothing, linens, etc., look for rips, stains, flaws and other irregularities. If it’s made of glass, check for cracks or chips. Examine every item very closely so you know exactly what you’d be paying for.
• Don’t disregard an item simply because it’s damaged. For example, if you find a great designer outfit that you know would fit you well and in a color you absolutely love, but it has a small stain no the fabric, consider your options. Can you remove the stain? Cover it with lace or another kind of trim? Wear a jacket or vest to hide the flaw? Consider all possibilities if it’s something you really like. If you don’t think you could repair it, or don’t believe it’s worth your time and effort, then put it back. But look at the potential in yard sale finds – especially if you know they’re a really good deal.
• On the other side of that coin, don’t buy something only because it’s a good deal. You’ll find a lot of really great bargains on some really great items at yard sales. Learn to discipline your yard sale spending just as you would if you were shopping at the mall. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself with a house full of great deals you don’t want, and no money to spend on what you need.
• .If you’re looking for something specific, go early. Many times the “good stuff” will go quickly. Most sales start by 8:00 a.m. and end by 1:00 or 2:00 in most areas. Don’t go too early, however. Common courtesy says to follow the hours advertised and not arrive before the sale opens.
• Many people fear they must haggle for prices if they go to yard sales, but that’s entirely up to you. If you feel comfortable asking for a reasonably lower price on something, do so. If you don’t feel comfortable, and you’re not willing to pay the price on the tag, pass the item by. Let your own personality guide you. You’ll discover as you become more comfortable going to sales that even the most introverted shopper will ask for a reduced price at times.
• Take along a friend but leave the kids at home, if possible. Any mom knows what it’s like to take children shopping. Multiply that by 25 when you’re going to yard sales. It’s much less stressful, quicker and cheaper to ask someone to watch the kids if you plan to spend the day at sales.
Frugal Party Theme: I’m Your Biggest Fan Birthday Party
While birthday parties should be extravagant celebrations of the life of your loved one, they don’t have to be extravagantly expensive by any means! A little creativity goes a long way in making a great celebration using homemade decorations, games and more.
THEME: A birthday party where everyone shares memories and stories about the person who is having a birthday, and does their best to make them feel extra special on their “special day.”
INVITATIONS: Scan a photo of the person whose birthday you’re celebrating. Write “Come Celebrate NAME!” above the photo. Include the birthday party details (Where and When it will be held, How to get there, What to bring or not to bring, etc.) on the inside. Be sure and tell guests if the party is a surprise so they (hopefully!) won’t spill the beans!
DECORATIONS: Copy photos of the birthday girl or guy and make a collage. Hang streamers and balloons. Write HAPPY BIRTHDAY in bright letters on copy paper, or print them (one per page) on the computer and hang on the wall. Make pin-back buttons (you can get the forms for about 50¢ each) with a birthday photo and the words “I’m a Fan of NAME!” and have everyone wear one. Cut out crown shapes from cardstock, tape them together and make party hats for everyone to wear.
PARTY FAVORS: Create colorful bookmarks on the computer using the birthday photos or other colorful graphics. Print, cut out and cover with clear contact paper. You can even punch a hole in the top and add a ribbon or yarn bow.
• Buy packs of pencils or erasers, miniature notepads, balloons, plastic tops or rings, mazes and similar items at the dollar store. Add some “penny candy” – the kind that comes in large bags with hundreds of individual pieces – and fill a treat bag for each guest. For the bags themselves, you can use plastic zipper bags. Or if you’re hosting a children’s party, especially, have the kids decorate a brown lunch bag. Provide crayons, washable markers, and stickers. This makes a fun activity as well.
FOOD: Serve the birthday star’s favorite foods. Be sure to include cake and ice cream! For a frugal cake, bake your own. To decorate, tape a craft stick or clean popsicle stick to the back of a photo of the birthday girl or guy and insert in one corner. Write Happy Birthday in big, bold letters and add candles.
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES: Buy an inexpensive journal at the dollar store and set on a table with a pen. Encourage everyone to write some memories and greetings for the birthday person. If you have time, you can even pass the book around and get the memories in advance, then have someone read them at the party.
• Take an 8″ x 10″ photo and some funny mustaches cut from black construction paper and play “Pin the Mustache on NAME.”
• Save your yogurt containers and fill them with homemade play dough. Let everyone use the dough to make a sculpture of the birthday person. Give a prize for the best one, then let the guests take their dough home as part of their treat bag.
• Buy some inexpensive items like small stuffed animals, small toys, make-up for girls, etc. and hide them around the house or yard so guests can hunt for them. Whoever finds the item gets to keep it.
There are many ways you can have a terrific party for a child or adult without spending a fortune. Add your own creative ideas to these and make this party one the recipient will remember forever.
Natural, Non-Toxic Cleaners for Frugal Moms
Commercial cleaners are not only expensive, but many of them contain chemicals that – at the least – irritate sensitive skin and at worst can poison children and pets. Here are some solutions for making your own frugal, non-toxic cleaning products.
Be sure to label your homemade products clearly. While most of these products are completely safe, it’s still a good idea to keep them out of the reach of children and away from pets.
NOTE: These cleaners can be covered tightly and stored unless otherwise noted.
All-Purpose Cleaner
1/2 c. vinegar
1/4 c. baking soda
water
Combine vinegar and baking soda in a spray bottle. Fill bottle with water. Shake to mix well.
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All Natural Air Freshener
1 T. cinnamon
2 c. water
Combine cinnamon and water in small saucepan. Simmer on stovetop to remove odors and add a lovely fragrance to your home. Can add other spices as desired.
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Carpet Freshener
3/4 c. baking soda
2 T. corn starch
1/4 c. baby powder
Combine ingredients and mix well. Sprinkle on dry carpet. Let stand 10 minutes. Vacuum.
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Carpet Stain Remover
1 c. vinegar
1 c. water
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to mix well. Spray directly on stain and Let stand for several minutes. Clean with a soft brush and warm, soapy water.
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Drain Cleaner
1/2 c. baking soda
1/2 c. vinegar
hot water
Pour baking soda in drain followed by the vinegar. Let stand 15 minutes. Flush with very hot water. Repeat if needed.
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Furniture Polish
1/2 t. olive oil
1/4 c. vinegar
Combine ingredients in a small container. Mix well. Use on a soft cloth to clean and polish wood surfaces.
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Mold Remover
1 c. hydrogen peroxide
2 c. water
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to mix well. Spray mold completely and Let stand for at least one hour.
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Non-abrasive Scrubbing Cleanser
1/2 c. baking soda
1 – 2 c. liquid laundry detergent
Combine ingredients in a small container. Mix well to the consistency of thin cake frosting.
NOTE: Make only as much as you can use at one time as this will harden.
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Oven Cleaner
3/4 c. baking soda
1/4 c. salt
1/4 c. water
Moisten oven with damp sponge or spray bottle filled with water. Combine baking soda, salt and water in a small container. Mix well to form a thick paste. Spread over oven interior. Let stand overnight. Remove residue and clean with damp cloth. Use fine steel wool on hard-to-clean spots.
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Pet Urine Deodorizer
dishwashing liquid
1/2 c. vinegar
2 1/2 c. warm water, separated
Combine dishwashing liquid and 1/2 c. water until sudsy. Clean spot with mixture and a soft brush or cleaning rag. Combine vinegar and remaining water and rinse spot well. Cover with towel and let stand about 5 hours. Blot dry and remove towel. Allow to dry completely.
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Rust Remover
1 T. salt
1 T. lime juice
Sprinkle salt on the rust. Cover with lime juice. Let stand for at least two hours. Scrub clean.
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Sticky Residue Remover
Apply full strength vinegar directly to any glue residue left from price tags or other stickers. May have to set a few minutes, but can then be removed easily.
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Window Cleaner
1/2 t. liquid laundry detergent
3 T. vinegar
water
Combine liquid laundry detergent and vinegar in a spray bottle. Fill bottle with water. Shake to mix well.
