Daily Thrifty Tips - January 7, 2008

Here are the contest winners for the week before last! We picked 3 photo winners instead of 1 because there were so many deserving entries!

Photo Contest Winners

Turn A Photo Into A Window Outside
By John from Haysville, KS

Craft Birdhouses
By Denise from Nebraska

Crocheted Pot Scrubber
By Joyce from Regina, Sask.

Tip Contest Winners

Numbering Puzzle Pieces for Easier Sorting
By Randa from San Marcos, TX

Dollar Stores Don't Always Have The Best Deal
By Carol from Wyoming, PA

Thank you to everyone that took time to submit something!

Thanks for reading,

Susan

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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.

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Easy Pillow Quilt

This is one of several pillow quilts I made last winter. I got the idea from a lady friend who showed me how to make them. It's an easy way to have a lightweight multi-colored quilt for your bed.

I cut 5 inch squares (you can use any size you like) serged up 3 sides, stuff lightly, serge up that side. Lay one edge of one square on top of edge of another square and sew down that side. Then add another square to that one and so on until you get a strip. Lay it out on the bed to see how many you need for your size bed. Then just make more strips and sew the strips together. I used the zig-zag stitch to connect the edges together. Don't forget to blow out your machine every so often as this project can create lots of lint and clog up the machine. I did not attach a border but you can if your want to.

Everyone that has seen them really liked the idea. I hope you do too.

Happy Crafting!

By Marian from Danville, VA

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Using Old Barn Wood

This is how I've used old wood from a blown down barn. The old wood is given to me by friends. I made the sunflower sign and make children's chairs of them and sell them. Now some adults buy them to put on walls and use as shelves.

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Storage Cube Made from Foam Puzzles

Children's foam puzzles cost a dollar here and come in a variety of scenes and cartoons. Buy a pack and instead of putting it together as it was intended, make a foam cube from it for your desk. It can also serve as a small space to store a few items or hide them out of the way (don't glue the pieces, they fit together tightly).

Turn the picture side of it to the inside and the foam on the outside can be used as a mini bulletin board or pin board on all sides! A nice little box that from it's original state can evolve into a creative multipurpose storage cube!

By melody_yesterday from Sedalia, Missouri

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Mr. Koose-Koose (African Goose)

Mr. Koose-Koose (Kenya) is a 2 year old African Goose. A friend needed to find him (and his to be mate) a new home, so I was the lucky one!.

When I got Mr. Koose, he was gray and very soft and so tiny. In no time he grew feathers and now... I had to teach this little gosling to eat, swim, etc. and teach him he isn't gonna sink! ha ha! The first time I placed him in the water, he screamed(like a girl) and kicked his feet like I was going to drown him. It took 3 visits to the real pond. (The fake pond was no match for his feet!) He splashed and liked to DROWNED us BOTH! Now he swims like a . . . GOOSE!

He really shows off to any company that visits! He is like a watch-dog. Instead he is a watch-goose! He spreads his wings far out and thrusts his chest out (so beastly, just kidding...) but humble!

He talks to me in goose language. I understand his every honk! I pick him up sometimes and pet his soft feathers. We look for each other each day and I have my own goose language and words and I communicate to him and he understands too. He likes to nibble the ends of my long hair. He's fascinated, I guess?.

He has a lady mate now (Mrs. Koose_Koose - Kimbabwe) and 3 offspring. He is very very protective of them. He fights with my pot bellied pig, Turkey and goat! He's sweet to me, nonetheless. I have to separate them at times!

Mr Koose walks so proud and as you can see, I am very fond of this lovable and handsome goose!. . .and so is Mrs. Koose-Koose!

By Mona from Hatchechubbee, AL

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

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Scrapple Tip

Slice up the whole package. Wrap each slice in wax paper sheet. (I buy the sheets by the box!)

Put wrapped sheets into a freezer bag or container. Put a frozen slice right onto pan and cook.

No more wasted scrapple that you didn't get to yet that you have to throw away!

By Peggy B from Philadelphia, PA

Editor's Note: Here is a weblink about scrapple:

• http://www.globalgourmet.com/food/sleuth/0998/scrapple.html

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Oatmeal for a Healthy Breakfast

Oatmeal is a daily consumption around here. Watching calories is also a trend. If you use the 'quick' oats in the microwave, you will only add about 50 calories to that mix as it cooks by putting 7 little marshmallows on top. The Oatmeal is 150 calories and the marshmallows (7) are 50 calories. Stir it up and mix the melted marshmallows in the oats and it TASTES GREAT. 200 Calorie healthy breakfast.

By Sharon from Brenham, TX

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Pocket Calendar Tips

It's time to get out the pocket calendars/planners for the New Year. I like to use an interim calendar from one of the ones I get from advertisers through January, until I find a good deal on a pocket calendar book on sale. (I used to use those little Hallmark ones from the card stores. Do they still make those?) I customize these advertisement pocket calendars by gluing on art/graphics I have cut out and then covering them with clear contact paper.

Once I get the more 'permanent' calendar, I can slip the smaller one in with the 'better' one, as the ad calendars are the monthly kind, which gives me an overview of my schedule, while the details go into the 'better' pocket calendar where there is more room.

By Pamphyila from Los Angeles, CA

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Sewing Helpers

For those of you who sew: I've found that Tuna cans and small cat food cans work great as "Weights" to hold patterns down when cutting them out. This way, no pins are needed! And when you're done, back in the cupboard they go!

Source: I saw this on "Sewing with Nancy" on PBS TV.

By Cyinda from Near Seattle

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Soap Balls

Don't throw away small pieces of soap. Gather together like colors of soap (or you'll end up with an ugly colored ball.) Place scraps in a bowl, and if they are very small - great, no further work needed. If not, break them up with a knife, sprinkle pieces with warm water; let sit 15 minutes to soften.

Gather up a handful and squeeze into a ball shape. It will take from two days to two weeks to completely cure in a warm, dry area. Reshape every two days to maintain a round shape. Don't worry about irregularities; they will lend interest to your soap.

By MCW from Sanborn, NY

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Stopping a Superficial Wound from Bleeding

For superficial wounds that bleed, to quickly stop the bleeding after washing the area, use a cotton swab and dip in petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to wipe thickly over the bleeding area. I am told by my husband that boxers use petroleum jelly to stop their bleeding wounds so they can continue in the ring.

I was playing with my puppy and accidentally one of his sharp teeth scratched me and bleeding started and I couldn't stop it easily. My husband said to use the Vaseline. A scab soon formed and the Vaseline was wiped off. No more bleeding either.

By Lorelei from Georgetown, OH

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Solution for Stinky Feet

Stinky feet? I use the same deodorant that I use under my arms on my feet. It does the same thing. I like the spray type best for under the arms and feet.

Source: Me, I am cheap and have smelly feet.

By Gingerlilymay from New York, NY

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Storage Cube Made from Foam Puzzles

Children's foam puzzles cost a dollar here and come in a variety of scenes and cartoons. Buy a pack and instead of putting it together as it was intended, make a foam cube from it for your desk. It can also serve as a small space to store a few items or hide them out of the way (don't glue the pieces, they fit together tightly).

Turn the picture side of it to the inside and the foam on the outside can be used as a mini bulletin board or pin board on all sides! A nice little box that from it's original state can evolve into a creative multipurpose storage cube!

By melody_yesterday from Sedalia, Missouri

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Reusing Gift Bags

Save gift bags you receive and reuse them for gifts you give.

Instead of using tissue paper, use shredded paper from the office or home to fill the bags and protect the gift.

Encourage the recipient of the gift to recycle the shredded paper also.

By Laura from Long Beach, CA

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Paint Advise for Dark Green Countertop and Terra Cotta Backsplash

My husband and I are redoing our kitchen. I am not sure what color to paint the walls of the kitchen and dining room, as they are connected. We have dark green counter top, and we just put up a terra cotta back splash with dark green grout. Our floor is a darker, green ceramic tile with some lighter green, and the grout is a terra cotta color. Any suggestions?

Wendy from PA

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Heat Stain on Marble Countertop

How do I remove a heat stain from a marble countertop?

Mel from McDonough, GA

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Covering a Cardboard Box with Fabric

I am looking for directions on how to cover a cardboard box (the box and cover) with fabric, to decorate a walk in closet, and a baby's room.
Can you help? Thanks!

Cheryl from Suffield, CT

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Uses for old computers and equipment?

Hello Frugal Friends, I've got a question for you. I bought a new computer last year, and now I want to know what to do with my old one. It's become a eye sore in my computer room. How do I go about disposing it properly? Thanks for all the help.

Teresa from Richlands, VA

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Things for Adults to do in Orlando

I am traveling to Orlando with my sister, my mom and Aunts (ages from 35 to 82). Does anyone know of things we can do while there?

Audrey from Canada

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Cleaning Dusty Mini Blinds

I haven't cleaned my mini blinds since we moved in about a year ago! I've lightly dusted occasionally, but little spots and such are showing up on them now. Could someone please tell me the best way to clean them at this stage of 'dustiness'?

Sue from San Francisco, CA

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Cleaning Bead Board Swans Stone in Bathroom

I just recently had my bathroom remodeled. My husband did this since this is what he does for a living. He put 'Swans stone' all around the bathtub/shower area. It was VERY expensive. Does anyone know how to clean this? I have Swan stone made with the 'bead board' look inside and soap scum gets in the crevices and it looks terrible. It does not come clean. Any ideas?

Dana from Newkensington, PA

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Finding The Right Computerized Sewing Machine

I just bought the Brother BC-1000 for myself for Christmas. I though I'd try it out since it was a good price at Target (Only $149) and they said I could bring it back any time within 90 days after Christmas. I've taken it out of the box and given it a "test drive" and read the manual. It's a truly WONDERFUL machine for the money! It has great reviews on Amazon.

But, I'm thinking I want just a little bit "more", a computer machine with more decorative stitches and a built in alphabet. I'd like to stick with a 'Low Shank' machine (like Brother, Kenmore or White) because I already have several costly attachments from my old Brother. I don't need an embroidery machine, as this would just add to the cost, but this isn't mandatory. I am definitely looking for something under $400, preferably even under $300.

I love the way this new Brother BC-1000 threads, as it's SUPER SIMPLE and I like the way the bobbin drops in quick and easy. I don't like the way the stitches can't be programed to any wider or longer than 4.0 in most stitches, but I'm suspecting it's that way in most machines?

Has anyone out there got a Sewing machine that cost under $500 with decorative stitches that they are super happy with? Let me know so I can return this one and buy one that has more stitches (they SAY it comes with '100 stitch functions' but there's really only 50 or so actual stitch patterns if you don't include the button holes). PLUS, the button holes stitch width can't be adjusted.

My new computer machine (my other machine is a 1970's model) will REALLY get a work out, so it would be great if it were also durable, though I've been told by more than one Sewing Machine Repair Man that a computerized machine is only meant to last 4 or 5 years with normal use. I asked: "Could I then repair whatever goes wrong?" and he said "Would you repair your OLD computer?" This got me to thinking, How much money do I really want to spend on a computer machine that most likely won't hold up? But, I have to admit, when I tried my first computerized machine, I fell in love with the ease of it!

Cyinda from near Seattle

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Locating My Ex-Husband

How can I go about finding my ex-husband? I want to change my kids' surname.

Vicky from UK

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Toy Wagons Recalled by Tricam Industries Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Metal Toy Wagons

Units: About 15,000

Importer: Tricam Industries Inc., of Eden Prairie, Minn.

Hazard: Surface paint on the wagon bucket contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves the red metal wagon model MH1250. The wagon has a red steel bucket, a black handle, a black steel axle support, and black tires.

Sold at: Tractor Supply Company stores nationwide from September 2002 through November 2007 for about $30.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled wagon away from children and contact Tricam Industries for instructions on how to return the wagon and obtain a refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Tricam Industries at (800) 867-6763 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.tricam.com

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Paying Taxes on a House Sale

My wife and I received a house as a gift from her mother this year. We also sold it this year. Do we have to pay income taxes on the proceeds from the sale?

Glen from Stanardsville, Va

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Why Are My Cookies Running Together?

What did I do wrong? What makes cookies run together when they are baking?

Carol from Toney, AL

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Bra Purse Instructions

Does anyone have easy instructions on making purses from bras?

nannie_mawmaw from TN

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Giving Ear Drops to a Dog

My dog needs to have ear drops in both ears. I am looking for a way to hold the dog and do ear drops alone. Any suggestions?

az2010 from Easthampton, MA

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Fixing Gravy that Curdled

Can you tell me how to fix my gravy? I made it as usual, but this time it curdled when I added the milk to it.

Joan from Grand Island, NE

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Looking for Nail Head Jewelry Ring

I am looking for Nail Head jewelry. Not the kind you make. It was sold on QVC. When my grandmother died I put my ring on her hand and it was buried with her. I would like to have another one.

Jackie from Glasgow, Ky

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Freezing Chicken Salad

I have a lot of leftover chicken salad. Can I safely freeze it?

Tina from Ashland, OR

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Getting a Dog to Use Dog House

I have a question about my Sheltie/Blue. He will not go into his dog house no matter what the weather is. What can I do? I hate seeing him outside when we have cold and rain.

Nelwyn from Bunkie, LA

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Restoring White Color to Old Crocheted Items

My daughter is expecting twins and would like to use the shawls that her grandmother crocheted for her as a baby. They have yellowed with age and were knitted in what we call Bri-Nylon. Any ideas on how to get back to that lovely white color back?

Chrissie from United Kingdom

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Kelpie Mix Breed Dog

I got Keely from the pound . They figure she's a Kelpie cross Cattle Dog. She's got the cattle dog speckles on her paws and chest but as for the Kelpie part, she's got the personality and ear markings. However her ears are floppy. Don't Kelpies have pointed ears? Her head and muzzle are also differently shaped and she is a fairly delicate build so am not sure! Any ideas?

Leo from Sydney, Australia

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Removing Water Spots from Empty Fish Tank

Does anyone know how to remove water spots from the inside of a fish tank? The fish died and I got really disgusted with the tank so I let the tank just dry up. Now it looks ugly!

Ruby from Oregon

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Doing Medical Transcription From Home

I want to find a job that I can do at home so that I can be a stay at home mom. I see all the ads on the computer but I know they are not what they are cracked up to be. I thought about doing medical transcriptions. Any advice?

Stephanie from Picayune, MS

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Removing Chili Grease Stains from a Silk Tie

How can I remove chili grease stains from a silk tie?

Trish from England

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3x3 Glass Blocks for Crafts

Where can I buy the 3x3 glass blocks for crafts? (Betty referred to them in postings dated 10/17/2007)

Becky from California

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What Color Wall Paint Would Look Good with Cherry Furniture?

What color should I paint my bedroom walls? My bedroom suite is cherry.

Rachel from Atlanta, GA

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Emo, Skater, Rocker Birthday Party

My daughter is turning 13 in February and wants to have a party. We are limited on funds and don't want to go to the bowling alley. She wants to have boys and girls come. We were thinking about a dance party. Her friends are 'skaters', 'emos', and 'rockers' any ideas?

Linda from Safford, AZ

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Housebreaking a Dog Again

My dog pooped in a bedroom, then did it again the next day. We made a point of keeping the door to that room closed. He figured out that too because then he did it right outside the door to that same bedroom.

He gets walked a lot, but for some reason he now thinks this is a bathroom. The floor has been cleaned with several deodorizing cleansers. How do we teach him to not go in the hallway to this room?

Holly from Richardson, TX

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Colors That Would Go Well in a Beige and Black Kitchen

My kitchen is beiges/browns with black appliances. What colors could I add that would look nice?

Jackie from Maple Hts, Ohio

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Removing Dull, Stained Appearance from White Tile Floor

How do I clean a white tile floor in my rental house? What works best to get rid of the stained dull appearance of white tile?

Hannah from Cabot, Arkansas

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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