If you are an avid crafter, capable writer and own a digital camera, you are eligible to participate. Submit your craft projects to ThriftyFun and we will pay $15 for any crafts that we publish.

More Information:
Click Here: http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_craft.ldml

Creative Storage Containers

Easy ways to create attractive storage from "cast-offs" from your house or those you pick up at garage sales.

Approximate Time 30 - 60 minutes

Supplies:

containers
spray and craft paint
paint brushes
crafting stamps or stencils
paint pens
sponge
small silk flowers
paper or fabric trim
ribbon scraps
scissors
glue

Instructions:

Pink Basket: This was an old wicker lunchbox and is now my sewing basket. Spray painted pink, then craft painted on the flowers by just dabbing the brush on the basket to make circle-flowers and leaves.

Dark Green Container: This old wooden tool carrier is now a CD holder. Brushed on dark green craft paint, then stamped on pictures of watering cans and birdhouses. Outlined watering cans and birdhouses with gold paint pen and sponge painted a frame around each side with dark brown and white.

Light Green Container: This old candy box now holds panty hose and knee highs. Painted the box sage green, glued paper trim around the edges, and glued small silk flowers and ribbon bows to the top.

By Marie E. Cecchini from West Dundee, IL

Creative Storage Containers

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf87397933.tip.html

If Fish Could Fly?

Catfish in our tree: Living on a lake I see a lot of weird things but this takes the cake. I saw something but couldn't make it out until I got out the zoom on my camera. Evidently a LARGE bird dropped his dinner. Glad it didn't hit me or my dogs in the head, lol. A catfish could have really hurt!

By Peggy from Cortland, OH

If Fish Could Fly?

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42594454.tip.html

Giant Sunflowers

Here are my giant sunflowers I grew this year. When they bloom, I will take another picture and post it. By the way, I am only 5'2" so you can see how tall they are.

By Sandy from Bluff City, TN

Giant Sunflowers

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf16342465.tip.html

My Little Country Girls

These are my little country girls.

By Deanna from San Antonio, TX

My Little Country Girls

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf80322878.tip.html

Harley - Great Dane/Boxer

Harley is 4 years old and is a Great Dane/Boxer mix. He is my sister and brother-in-laws baby.

He likes to chase ducks and birds. Harley is so big and spoiled he thinks he's human.

By Peggy from Cortland, OH

Harley (Great Dane/Boxer)

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf34243906.tip.html

Decoupaging Ceramic Tiles

Decoupaging ceramic tiles is fun and easy. Although smooth, white tiles work the best, choosing tiles of pale shades and different textures gives you more options for interesting effects. The thinner the paper you choose to use, the better and don't forget to varnish. These are decorative tiles, not hot plates.

By Lisa from Thessaloniki, Greece

Decoupage Tiles

Decoupaging Ceramic Tiles

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf83912139.tip.html

Tip Contest
Submit a Tip or Recipe!
Photo Contest
Submit a tip with photo!

These contests are weekly. We pick 2 tip winners and 1 photo winner at the end of each week. Each winner will win $25!

My Frugal Life
Submit a My Frugal Life Essay!

Other Uses for Suspenders

Suspenders go in and out of style for fashion, but in our house they never go out of style as useful tools. Between the double clipped ends, the long elastic length, and the adjustability, they are invaluable to us.

We took an inexpensive pair of suspenders and removed the metal slide that held them together in the back by clipping it with wire cutters - if the suspenders are sewn together, just pick out the stitching. Then you have two very long lengths of elastic with clips on both ends.

We used these to hold towels on the vinyl bench seat in an old station wagon instead of slipcovers, and just stretched them diagonally across the back of the bench, clipping beach towels in each corner.

After we sold that car, we then used them stretched from corner to corner underneath an air mattress to help keep the sheets from popping off the corners. We never had guests complain that the sheets came off the bed!

When we covered our sofa with a slipcover, we used a pair to help keep it from sliding up in the back. they are clipped to the slipcover in the back, and to the original "skirt" in the front, stretching underneath and holding the slip cover in place better.

Now that we have a toddler, and a table top that really requires a constant tablecloth, we stretch them from end to end under the table to keep our son from pulling down the tablecloth and everything on it.

So next time you see an old pair of suspenders at a yard sale - or find a pair in your drawer - think beyond fashion to what they can be used for.

By Regina from Rochester, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf28141519.tip.html

Be Thrifty In The Kitchen With Eggs

I love to look for ways to be thrifty in the kitchen. One of the most inexpensive food staples I have in my refrigerator is the egg! If you are still concerned about the cholesterol in your diet, in most recipes, you can use just the whites. My cholesterol is a little on the high side of normal, but my doctor has not banned the egg from my diet. Moderation is the key. Freqently, the local grocers run eggs on sale at great prices, even buy one carton and get another carton for one free.

Here are some great facts on eggs I would like to share with you. My local Kroger store sent out a mailer recently with egg safety and usage tips:
Use only properly refrigerated ( below 45 degrees F), clean, unbroken eggs. Eggs need to be used withing 30 days of the "sell date" stamped on the carton. Hardboiled eggs can be kept refrigerated for up to one week.

I hardboil eggs often and use them in tuna, chicken, potato, and pasta salad. The hard boiled egg also makes a great item to pack in a lunch or to eat on the go for breakfast, I did not think of them for breakfast until our last trip out of town, the Holiday Inn had hard boiled eggs on the breakfast bar.

When I make deviled eggs, sometimes there are leftovers, which I mash the next day and make egg salad. For easy deviled eggs, after hard boiled and cooled, add a little lite mayo, a little yellow mustard, chopped sweet pickle, and a tiny bit of salt and pepper. When I have left over potatoes or other veggies that will taste good in an omelet, eggs are easy to mix with a little milk and leftover cheese, pour into a heated pan to which you have either sprayed with a cooking spray or melted a little margarine, cook until set, add veggies, fold in half and continue to cook until done. These are just a few uses for the great "thrifty" kitchen staple, the egg. Hope these tips inspire you to experiment with eggs!

By Bobbie G from Rockwall

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf17001225.tip.html

Saving on Clothing - Be Willing to Do Minor Repairs

Want nice stuff cheap? Be willing to do minor repairs! Just got 2 pairs of summer shoes new/practically new for $2 each at a sale at the Salvation Army (they have sales, too) - Why were they there? - One pair of moccasins had to have the lace re-threaded and the other had tiny bleach spots, which I easily filled in with my all purpose marker set! (I have also gotten great deals on clothing with simple ripped seams, lacking buttons, etc.!)

By pamphyila from Los Angeles

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf72118575.tip.html

Please Recycle Your Carpet

I saw the Tip of the Day that went out about carpeting. PLEASE recycle your carpet!

Here is a couple companies that will recycle carpet:

Interface - ReEntry Program

http://www.interfaceinc.com/us/services/Reclamation/

DuPont - The Invironmentalists - the Interior Services Company

Contact: Kim Lawing (770)723-7691 kim.x.lawing@theinvironmentalists.com

For others, and to learn more, please visit Carpet Recovery:

http://www.carpetrecovery.org/

It is incredibly wasteful to dump carpet, so PLEASE try to recycle it. These companies can make it into new sustainable product and keep it out of the landfill.

By Concetta from Westmont

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf43973689.tip.html

White Iodine for Weak Fingernails

I have received so many great tips and information from this site that I thought I was over-due for a pay-back.

Ladies, for those of us who have weak, soft, splitting fingernails, listen up! Buy a bottle of White Iodine (at Wal-Mart or any pharmacy-it can be ordered). It is also very inexpensive - $1.49.

Coat nails every day for a week and then a couple of times a week afterwards. It binds the protein of the nail (or something) but it will make them harder. You will not believe it. It truly works! Try it--you will love it!

By Nolasandy from New Orleans, LA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf43051071.tip.html

Reasons for Not Using Coupons

Although getting only encouraging information is great, it can be equally rewarding to have some of the reasons NOT to do something. When I had plenty of money, could afford mistakes or most anything within reason, I couponed for years on end as a hobby, making about $.75/hr. and accumulated so many products I really could NEVER have used up before they expired. I was a sucker for cleaners, and lotions, etc.

I advise you to just stick to a few coupons and don't get carried away in the habit/addiction of it. You and your family will be happier in the long run...

By Lynda from TX

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf81579175.tip.html

Rejuvenating Aluminum Garden Furniture

Giving aluminum garden furniture a coat of liquid Turtle Wax rejuvenates the luster of the metal.

By Mythi from Silverdale

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf51201610.tip.html

Hiding Joints on Wallpaper Borders

If you are putting up a wallpaper border, don't cut it straight. Cut in and out following the pattern. When it is up, you will not be able to see joints.

By Lynn from Toronto, Ontario CANADA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf71331145.tip.html

Tips for Buying School Supplies

As a teacher and mom, I am on both sides of the "school supply list" scavenger hunt. Here are my tips.

1. You don't have to buy everything new every year. If your child's crayons, scissors, geometry set, pencil case, etc. is in good shape, re-use it for next year.

2. Avoid trendy supplies with the latest cartoon character on it. These are more expensive, and often not of good quality.

3. Don't give in to your child's request to get some expensive padded binder with zippers and compartments or calculator with 700 functions or some other high cost item, especially if it has been specifically requested NOT to be supplied. The teachers have reasons for not wanting such things -- no room to store them, too complicated for the students to use, or whatever.

4. Pay attention to the details on the supply lists. If a certain size of line spacing is requested for notebooks, get that size. If a certain kind of paper is requested in art sketch books, get that kind. The teachers did not specify these things to make a mom's life difficult. It has some specific educational reason that will make things easier for your child.

5. Buy good quality supplies. Bargain pencils often have off-center leads that make them impossible for kids to sharpen. Bargain pens often blob and are messy. Bargain glue does not do the job like the regular top quality brands. That being said -- watch for sales, specials, loss leaders, or buy in bulk from places such as Costco for items such as pens or glue sticks, that your children will use a lot of.

6. If you have difficulty finding some item, such as a specific dictionary or some sort of specialized notebook, phone the child's teacher and ask where such things can be found. If you live in small towns, sometimes the local stores request the supply lists from the local schools and order in the specific items, which might be impossible to find in bigger centers! Experienced moms or friends who are teachers can also help with suggestions of where to find a specific item.

7. For class specific lists, such as high school art or home economics, see if the specialty store (art supply, fabric store) will give a discount because you are purchasing school supplies. Many do.

8. When all of the supplies are purchased, especially if your child is in the primary grades, remove the supplies from the blister packs and put your child's name on the items with permanent marker or pen so that your child will not spend a lot of time fussing with this when it is time to get to work at school and so that things will not go missing in a week or two.

9. Another money saving source of binders or rulers or dictionaries can be yard sales, but you have be on the watch well ahead of time.

By Louise from Nipawin, SK, Canada

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf10812449.tip.html

Homemade Wrinkle Releaser

I tried some of that stuff in the grocery store that you spray on clothes to get rid of the wrinkles. It was expensive, but it worked. I looked at the label, and basically it was just fabric softener. So now I buy some fabric softener, put about 1/4 cup of it into a spray bottle with water, and spray it on my clothes. Then I hang them up and shape them on the hanger. Presto, the wrinkles are completely gone. It is a fabulous thing to know; I had to share. Does anyone else do this?

Cubangirl from Seattle

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf201154.tip.html

Friends of ThriftyFun

Dear Webby's Humor Letter

Webby publishes our tips daily! A very funny newsletter. Webby now has a blog, read his latest newsletter as well as back issues here: http://webby.com/humor/blog/

More Information:
http://webby.com/humor

Care For Potentilla Shrubs

I have 6 potentilla shrubs that are close to 15 years old planted on the south side of our house. They have been beautiful until the last couple of years. They are brown and drying and look spindly. We prune them every fall. Does anyone know what could be wrong? We've had very hot weather. How long do potentillas last? Do they need fertilized? Should we be watering them? Thank you for responding.

Hardiness Zone: 5a

Kathy in Western Illinois

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf15703221.tip.html

Party Ideas For Information Systems Grad

My soon to be mother in law and I are hosting a graduation party for my fiance, he has been in school for quite sometime now, and this is a huge accomplishment. We are having his party at a neighborhood restaurant. It's semi formal and my problem is I cant seem to come up with any ideas for a centerpiece. I know I want to include his school colors, black and gold and also the restaurant will have white tablecloths and blue napkins. Sooo, I want to work with those colors and his major was information systems, (computers) and this is a HUGE part of his life, so I want to also incorporate that as well, I was thinking something with CD's and photos, but I cant decide, please help!!

Crystal from Edgewood, MD

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf76340728.tip.html

Frugal Curtain Tiebacks

Does anyone have any frugal ideas for making curtain tiebacks?

Christine from Melbourne, Australia

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf88972974.tip.html

East Coast Vs West Coast Behavior Differences

What is the difference between people from the East coast and people from the West coast?

cubangirl from Seattle

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf87123974.tip.html

Window Treatment For Victorian Bathroom

How do I decorate a window in the bathroom that does not need to be screened off for privacy? Just an idea of how to drape some voile or net curtaining on a rod or hook? Any suggestions would be appreciated. My bathroom is Victorian in style. Black and white tiles and free standing tub, walls are cream. huge windows (the house was built in 1900). Thanks!

Susan from Durban, South Africa

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf92705198.tip.html

What is this plant?

What kind of fruit tree is this? Or if it isn't a fruit tree, then what is it?

Hardiness Zone: 10b

Sherri from Orlando Florida

What Is This Plant?

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54157041.tip.html

Long Term Storage Of Chewing Gum

I recently got a bunch of chewing gum for free after coupons. Should I keep it in the freezer to keep it fresh or how should I store it? Will freezing it change it's chewing consistency? Thanks for any help!

Terri from NV

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf56814378.tip.html

Storage Ideas For Small Kitchen Appliances

I have several small kitchen cooking appliances (2 crock pots, 2 electric skillets, large mixer, etc.) that I don't have room for in my kitchen cabinets. Just wondering if anyone has any cleaver ideas on where and how to store these while not being used.

Linda from Alabaster, Alabama

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf84790872.tip.html

Making Gatefolded Wedding Invitations

How do you make single gatefold cards for wedding invitations?

Jeananna from Detroit, MI

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf14595090.tip.html

Pros And Cons Of Homemade Laundry Detergent

I found a recipe for homemade laundry detergent I would like to try:

Powdered Detergent

1 Cup Grated Fels Naptha Soap
1/2 Cup Washing Soda
1/2 Cup Borax

For light load, use 1 tablespoon.

For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 tablespoons.

I was wondering if any one has used this or similar recipes and if any one can share the pros and cons. I would also like to know if these recipes are more environmentally friendly then store bought. I look forward to your advice! Thanks!

Tracey from Duluth, MN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf37834777.tip.html

Looking For Plans For A Buggy

I'm looking for free plans for a two seater buggy. Full working plans preferred. Ta!

Scotty from Perth W.A.

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf95438473.tip.html

Alternatives To Shock For Pools

Is there anything I can put in my pool instead of shock?

Michelle from GA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf81619044.tip.html

Recipes Using Condensed Milk

Last week I've got 2 cans of Nestle Full Cream sweetened condensed milk and I don't know how to use it. Does anyone know some recipe using condensed milk? Thanking you in anticipation.

Jessie from Mauritius

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf43341009.tip.html

Removing Pumpkin Mildew

There is white powdery stuff on my pumpkins. I'm assuming it's powdery mildew. The leaves are already turning brown, and I'm worried that I will loose my pumpkins before Halloween. Does powdery mildew affect the pumpkins themselves, and if so how can I save them from going bad? Please help! Thanks.

Hardiness Zone: 7a

thriftymomof2

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf68764435.tip.html

Removing Melamine Paint From Polyester

We used a Melamine paint and accidentally 1 drop was detected on a polyester sheer drape after it dried.

How can I remove the paint without damaging drape?

Bert from Abbotsford, BC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf23245543.tip.html

Help Selling Homemade Doll Clothes

Hi I am eleven years old and get very many compliments on how well I crochet. I like making hats, booties/socks and other clothes for my dolls and was thinking about selling on ebay... And yes I am aware of copyright and my mom, Jamesia, will check every pattern before I even start the project. I mostly make up my own patterns. I need to know the price range I should sell in on ebay and such! Thanks SO MUCH!

Mackenzie from Millington, TN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf62444809.tip.html

Vacuum Seal and Freeze Fresh Vegetables

Can you freeze corn on the cob and banana peppers fresh from the garden? Also, can you vacuum seal those and if so, how long will they keep?

Rhonda from West Jefferson, Ohio

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf51680500.tip.html

Advice For Aggressive Older Dog

I have a 7yr old Siberian Husky and a 3 yr old Husky. Lately, the older one has been attacking the younger one for no reason. Even when I let them outside if the little one even growls the bigger one jumps her. It is breaking my heart. Its been going on for almost 2 weeks now. I started letting the older one sleep with me and the younger one sleep with my kid, but she still attacks her even if she moves from the spot she is in. I have tried to show the older one more attention, but the minute I even try to show the younger dog any attention the older one wants to attack her. They have been together for 3yrs now but all of a sudden they have been fighting and they are both female. Any ideas would be great because I am at wits end I don't want to get rid of the older 1 but I will if she keeps it up. Please help Thanks.

tammy120002004 from Michigan

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54604334.tip.html

Recipes For Breakfast Casseroles

Does anyone know if a good recipe for a breakfast casserole?

Evan from Ohio

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42056785.tip.html

Black Spots on Tomatoes

The leaves on my tomato plants are turning yellow and dying and some of the tomatoes are black on the bottom. However, new leaves are growing up the side of our house. What can I do to stop the yellow leaves and black on the bottom of the tomatoes?

Hardiness Zone: 7a

Wanda from Chapel Hill, TN

Editor's Note: Here is a recent request about tomatoes with yellow leaves:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf482428.tip.html

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf10012181.tip.html

Whirlpool Ice Maker Not Working

I replaced my Whirlpool ice maker with the proper replacement. When I plug it in, I do not think it is getting any power. I used the cable that came with the new one, and even swapped out the old cable, which fit perfectly. But I don't think I have power to the ice maker. The ice maker model is IM943, 4317943 also is the replacement number.

Alan from Chapel Hill, NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf77688633.tip.html

"Montgomery Inn" BBQ sauce

I'm looking for a recipe for Montgomery Inn barbecue sauce.

Christine

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42740161.tip.html

Baking Without Eggs

Hi, I am a vegetarian! I don't want to use eggs in baking and other cooking because the chickens are treated horribly. I would like recipes for cakes, cookies, other desserts, scones, breads, and main courses that can be made successfully without eggs. (Of course, no meat or broth from animals either.) I do use cheese. Thanks! :)

Michelle from Bethlehem, PA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf64448017.tip.html

Cat Peeing In The Same Place

How do you stop cats from peeing on the carpet?

Nicole41819 from West Milford, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf304993.tip.html

Removing Sticky Residue

I am removing contact paper from my kitchen cabinet shelves and it is leaving a sticking residue. What can I use to clean this sticking residue off?

Thank you.

Susie from Fernandina Beach, FL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf353263.tip.html

Problems Housebreaking a Dog

We adopted our dog Scruffy (hes a Bichon Shih Tzu) about 6 months from another family. He was in rough shape when we got him; lots of matts in his hair, didn't know how to play, and didn't want to be inside at all and when he was inside he used it as a bathroom. Well now all he does is play, we have him shaved, and loves being inside with us, but still uses the bathroom inside. We have really been trying hard to find solutions but every time he gets better, he seems to fall off the wagon so to speak. For example, he had stopped using the bathroom inside at night, so we allowed him more freedom inside the house, but a couple days later he started using the carpet as a bathroom, so we had to restrict him again. I have been reading online quite a bit but it almost seems like hes a special case because of the amount of time it takes him to go, if we let him outside, he takes at least 15-30 mins before he will actually do anything, so it is hard to reward him for going outside. If we leave him alone for 10 minutes inside, he will go to the bathroom inside the house. I just have run out ideas! If you could give me some advice, I would greatly appreciate it!

Drew from Edmonton, AB

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf873060.tip.html

Crafting for Fun and Money!

If you are an avid crafter, capable writer and own a digital camera, you are eligible to participate. Submit your craft projects to ThriftyFun and we will pay $15 for any crafts that we publish.

More Information:
Click Here: http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_craft.ldml

Aphids on My Roses

Aphids are invading my roses, anything organic that I can use? Tips from the ThriftyFun community.

Try washing them off with the garden hose first. A few high-pressure bursts of water will dislodge most of them. You can support the stems with your hand while spraying if you're worried about them breaking. You may need to spray them every other day for awhile to eliminate them. Otherwise, use a safe, commercial insecticidal soap or make your own with 1 tbsp liquid dish soap and two cups of water.

Strong smelling roots and spices such as garlic, onions, horseradish, ginger, rhubarb leaves, cayenne and other hot peppers, are all known to repel insects. To add any one (or all) of these to your spray, chop them finely and put them into a glass jar. Add 2 cups of boiling water, cover tightly and let everything stand over night. The next day, strain off the liquid and add your dish soap. Freeze any leftover mix to use the next time.

Good Luck!
Ellen
http://www.sustainable-media.com

Ladybugs

Ladybugs. I believe you can actually buy some, but they DO eat those aphids.

By smcarney

RE: Aphids on My Roses

This is the simplest one to fix. Mix soap, not detergent, with water and mix it up. Spay over roses and aphids are history. Dish soap is just fine. Spruce also get aphids. Any spruce needs a dose of soap and water to get rid of aphids. Don't go to the store and buy the commercial soap, it is the same thing.

By Bev

Pulling Aphids With Gloves

I have been pulling aphids (squishing) them with gloves every spring for years. I do use a soap solution to "drown" Japanese Beetles, which appear on roses (and other plants) later in the season. The beetles are weak in the mornings, and you can push them into a cup of soapy water.

By Kayla

Plant Onions Near Roses

My mother used to work as a secretary at Ohio State University in the botany department. She once heard that planting onions around roses keep aphids away. She had a miniature rose bush and placed a pot of chives (onion family) near it and the aphids left, never to return! The professors gave her a good-natured teasing about that one, but it sure worked!

By Margie

Try Rubbing Alcohol

I know of two methods that both work well. One is ladybugs, they eat aphids. The other is rubbing alcohol. Now if it's the entire plant you'll want to dilute it and put the mixture in a spray bottle but if it's for just a few leaves on a plant you can dab a cotton ball in the rubbing alcohol and swab the leaves.

By michellejones3

Aphids on My Roses

Saving Money on Packed Lunches

With kids going back to school soon, it's a good time to start looking for ways to save money on packed lunches. Here are some tips shared by the ThriftyFun community.

Hot Lunches

My school has microwaves in every classroom that the children use to warm up school lunches. Many kids take leftovers in plastic containers and eat that for lunch. Another favorite item is pizza pops, which some of the frugal moms make at home. Kids often eat this sort of thing better than sandwiches. No matter what you send, if the kids don't eat it, it is not a savings.

By Louel53

Frozen Applesauce Does Double Duty

I like to freeze applesauce in zip baggies so that they serve as chillers (keeps the other food cold) until lunchtime.

By Kimhis

Frozen Capri Sun And Homemade Pudding Cups

If you want to keep something in the lunch box cool I suggest using Capri Sun or some other juice in the foil container. I put one in the freezer the night before. Then I put it into my son's lunch in the morning. It keeps everything cool and is thawed by the time he eats his lunch. Also, I don't have to worry about anything being forgotten at school.

Another thing I did last year and will do again this year is make pudding cups. I bought some of those small Gladware containers (you can get about eight for around $2.00). Then I made pudding and spooned it into the cups, popped them into the frig and let them set. It's cheaper than buying the prepackaged stuff. Works with Jello too.

By Melissa

Make Muffins For The Week

I make and freeze muffins. My 3 kids all like different muffins, so I make a double batch of basic mixture and then divide it into 3. I add whatever each child likes, eg: fruit, banana, chocolate chips, etc. I have 2 large muffin trays and 2 small tray. The mixture make enough to fill all 4 trays and they all cook in the oven at once. Once they have cooled, I put then individually into zip log bags and freeze. Each morning the kids just take whatever muffin they like and the end of the week, I heat up all the left over ones, cut in half and serve with butter for Sunday breakfast. Also, handy if anyone wants a snack, just need to microwave for 30 seconds.

By Rae

Repackage Snack Foods Into Smaller Packages

I used to always do this when I packed lunches. On a trip to the store, I'd buy some big packages of cookies (usually on sale with coupons) or store brand, chips, crackers, cheese popcorn, etc. I'd go home and separate into smaller packages with those small snack bags. I had a large plastic container that I'd put all the packages in. When I packed lunches in the morning, I'd grab one per lunch. No one ever knew what they were getting, but always seemed pleased with the surprise. I remember getting really great at spotting bargains, and I often was able to fix these for pennies per bag, much cheaper than baking homemade cookies. Once I had the container established, whenever I found a bargain, I just added to the mix. Everyone knew to bring the bags home to get re-used too. It was so convenient.

By susanmajp

All four of my kids take packed lunches to school. To save money on the snacks that go in, I buy big bags of chips, cheeses, whatever, and bargain sandwich bags, then pack the snacks in them. Saves a lot over buying the individual snack packs that are made to fit into the lunches. I make my own peanut butter crackers too, with saltines or Ritz-type. It takes a few minutes extra in the morning, but it does save money.

By Marjorie

I too mostly buy the bigger bags of snacks, cookies and such and then pack myself in the little snack bags or sandwich size zipper bags. I get my bags at Wal-Mart, Dollar General or some place like that so they are pretty cheap. Of course, buying up the individual bags of snacks is very convenient but seems expensive to do a lot. We buy them for trips some times, though.

I too make my own peanut butter and crackers which my son seems to really be eating well at school.

Susan, I really like your idea a lot! Why didn't I think of that. I generally make up any non-perishable items for my son's lunch the night before and then I just add anything from the frig in the am....but to be able to just go to the big container of already made up baggies of stuff. Wow, I would like that, a time saver and just a convenience. I could also use those for just days out with the kids or garage sale day.

By Debbie52

Helpful Lunch Tips

Here are several suggestions:

Have a one day baking day with the kids, do the cookies from cake batter, mini muffins, mini cupcakes or mini banana bread (I found the mini molds at Dollar Tree, they are silicone and reusable.) When all the items have cooled, slice the bread for serving, mix and match for variety and bag in the sandwich bags and freeze for easy grab and fix.

On the same day, have the kids put together sandwiches on hard rolls or hoagies, meat and cheese. Wrap in plastic wrap, placing the tails on bottom. I heat my waffle iron and rub the bottom of sandwich on iron to seal. Freeze, they will be thawed by lunch if put together with the snack the night before. You can put a dab of sauces in small container or go to Sam's or a restaurant supply and get packages of mayo, ketchup and mustard for small amount or you can always get extra at drive through. This can be done with tacos, burritos, mini pizzas on muffins; just freeze before bagging.

Put any veggies in separate baggie the night before and drop in. Drinks can be the little jugs, they now have half size sipper jugs for milk or juice. Sam's has the mini juices and I have found them in the $1.00 section of my store.

Also you can do leftovers but try to skip the next day or two so you don't burn them out eating what they ate the night before.

I have all grown kids but have taken over for my daughter with the grandkids (4) so she can be ready for work and school and daycare within 30 minutes in the AM.

Like every parent I am looking forward to school. :) Happy days and good luck!

By Dpool from Memphis

If you have advice, please post it below.

Saving Money on Packed Lunches

Interactive

Coupon Swap!
Swap coupons with other ThriftyFun.com users.

Seed Swap!
Swap seeds with other ThriftyFun.com users.

Feedback

No feedback yet. Click here to post feedback.

Post Feedback

Your thoughts are welcomed and appreciated. Be the first to post feedback!

Like ThriftyFun on Facebook

Browse Topics

Over 80,000 tips, recipes, questions & crafts.

Christmas	Weddings for Less
Beauty	Budget and Finance
Cleaning	Craft Projects
Craft Tips	Food Tips
Garage Sales	Gardening
Gifts	Green Living
Home Improvement	Organizing
Parenting	Parties
Pest Control	Pets
Recipes	Repair

Daily Thrifty Tips - August 6, 2007