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Hello,
We have an update to the Wood Spoon Deer craft that we posted yesterday. Harlean sent us some additional patterns. You can find them here (at the bottom of the page).
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf26924796.tip.html
Here's today's featured request.
Homemade Christmas Cards: How can I make the cutest christmas cards for my friends? They need to be cheap. - Brittney from Burlington, Iowa
Post your ideas:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf698399.tip.html
Do you have a pet to share with ThriftyFun readers? Submit it here:
http://www.thriftyfun.com/post_photocontest.ldml
Thanks for reading,
Susan
Today's newsletter contains:
Today's Photos:
Today's Tips:
New Requests:
More Reading:
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Today's Photos
| No Bake Santa Cookies
Here's a cute no bake Santa cookie to whip up on an hours notice. Use Nutter Butter cookies from your local supermarket. Just dip top in (head end) melted white chocolate and sprinkle with red colored sugar. Dot with either a white chocolate morsel or 1/2 of a mini marshmallow for the pom pom. Let cool on parchment paper lined rack. When that has dried, dip the beard end and if you want, sprinkle with sanding sugar (optional). For eyes and nose use mini semi sweet morsels and use a drop of melted white chocolate to get them to stick and the same with the nose using a red hot candy or a small red M&M. By Deb from Williamstown NJ (Originally Published 11/25/2005) Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Record Album Cover Shoulder Bag
By Stella Rivet
Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Clay Pot Santa & Mrs. Claus
By Amanda Formaro
View This Project: Click Here |
| Contests!
The above 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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Today's Tips
| Thread Wall Organizer
Keep spools of thread out of the way but in plain view by making this easy wall organizer. Cut a piece of plywood to the desired size and attach wall hangers on the top of it. Then cover the plywood with 1 1/2 inch headless nails (finishing nails work great). Position the nails at an angle so the thread spools don't slide off. Draw a grid to space the nails evenly. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Foamy Hand Soap From Bubble Bath
My son is always adding water to my soap dispensers. He thinks they are toys, I guess. One day, he poured bubble bath into my empty foamy dispenser and added water. Nothing came out, but I decided to try to add more water and (viola!) I had foamy hand soap. I have tried making foamy soap with liquid soap and it didn't work, so the trick must be using bubble bath. I'd guess it was a 50/50 mixture of bubble bath and water. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Gifts for Those Who Have Everything
By Kelly Ann Butterbaugh Almost everyone has that one family member who seemingly has everything and recites the vow, "Don't buy me anything," each holiday. Even if you're lucky enough not to hear this proclamation each year, these family oriented, budget friendly, and personal gifts will prove useful despite the gift giving season. Photo CalendarsThese are great family gifts that can work as the annual holiday gift since a new calendar is needed each year. Blank calendars are available for the crafty scrapbooker or stamper. An easier option is the Photo Fun Calendar offered at www.currentcatalog.com which features pages already decorated in paper scrapbooking style on which you simply paste the photos you chose to include. Another easy option is to visit your local photo developer to have a calendar created from twelve photos.Family VacationChoose a destination your entire family would enjoy. Then, create gift certificates telling what you've done such as: "This certificate good for a Memorial Day weekend family camping trip. You're in site C-10." Family camping trips, days at an amusement park, or even a trip to a local fair can make affordable vacations.Take Them to Dinner - For the Week!No matter how hard it is to shop for people one thing is certain: they need to eat. Prepare meals that can be frozen and heated later.(Sometimes it may mean preparing the meals without fully cooking them such as casseroles.) Use foil pans and throw away containers and label each container with its contents. Then, create a main menu to include with the meals. Don't forget to include side dishes and vegetables even if it means including a can of green beans with your meals.Plan a VisitSome people really don't want or need anything. Instead, give them a gift of time. Get out the calendar and book visits, promising yourself that you won't reschedule. Then, make gift coupons in the shape of travel tickets and promise the visits. It doesn't hurt to plan activities for the visits, either. (For example, on February 10th you'll have a girls' night out with your sister-in-law, or on June 27th you'll take your teen to see a movie of his/her choice.)Have a Family Portrait TakenTake it upon yourself to schedule the time and place and pay for the sitting fee. If you're willing to splurge, buy a copy of the photo and have it framed for others. In order to create a successful family photo consider the following: 1) Who will be in it? Do we want multiple generations or just children? 2) What will we wear? Everyone should dress either formally or casually. Matching white t-shirts and jeans create a casual yet pulled together look. 3) When and where will it be taken? If you're including children keep nap times and hungry tummies in mind.Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Protecting Your Remote
If you have kids you can prevent gooey and dirty hands from gumming up your remote control by placing it in a ziplock bag. They can still see the controls but can't gum up the buttons. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Make Your Own Gift Certificates for Christmas
My tip is for a Christmas gift idea. Several years ago, I made up certificates for my granddaughter, then about 4 or 5, to give to everyone in the family. I made up a 'coupon' with the words, "Good for one kiss, payable whenever presented" or something to that effect. I don't remember the exact wording now. Her job was to cut the coupons apart, then because it was to expensive to laminate them, we covered them with clear contact paper. The she wrapped them to give to the family. Most are still carrying the card in their wallets/purse and occasionally 'present' it for a kiss. My granddaughter will soon be 10. By Linda This seems to be a big hit, especially with teenagers. Using the Print Master (graphic) program, I make my own gift certificates using appropriate borders, pictures, etc.; examples: movie tickets, fast food restaurants (even though you could buy them direct), and attach MONEY inside the card. This gives them the option of using the MONEY however they wish! I use a frame border on the envelope and insert text & graphic in the center appropriate to the occasion i.e., Happy Birthday, Congratulations on graduation, Merry Christmas, you get the idea. If you are mailing this, insert the gift certificate & envelope into a larger envelope & address it. This could be used for an elderly person also, since the thought is there, but you may not know what they really could use ... MONEY is always appreciated! This way you are dressing up the cash gift that's different from the ordinary. Syd Barr Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Reusing Old Christmas Cards (Holiday Craft Idea)
When my sister and I were kids, we didn't have a lot of money in our family. We didn't know it and still had a ton of fun! My Mom would save all the old Christmas cards from years before, she had boxfulls! She then would have us cut out the picture on the front for either a gift tag or to glue inside a paper/plastic coffee cup lid or those O.J. can lids, (these lids aren't sharp and are safe for kids) With this, we would add glitter and things to make it look pretty. The inside of the card wasn't wasted. We would cut out the verse and use it as a gift tag or glue to the bottom edge of the lid. Then you add a string or ribbon to the top and hang on the tree. I'll never forget how much fun that was. My Mother is now 80 and ill, so having those happy memories are very important. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Three Meals for $4.00
My tip is to be ready to adapt and succeed. If you find yourself in unexpected circumstances, allow for it. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Make Your Own Hershey Kisses with a Funnel
Ingredients:
Directions: Put the mini marshmallow in the hole of the funnel. Melt chocolate in the microwave for approximately 3 minutes, stopping 1/2 way to stir the chocolate. Be careful not to burn it. Spray the funnel with Pam or your favorite cooking spray while the chocolate is melting. Once the chocolate is melted pour into the funnel. Place the funnel in a cup and put it in the freezer to harden. Once the chocolate is hardened remove it from the funnel and wrap in aluminum foil. At this time you can add your own tag on white paper to stick out of the top. You can vary this recipe by using white chocolate, adding peanut butter half way through then pour more chocolate on top, use butterscotch chips instead of chocolate, the possibilities are endless. Great gift idea for Christmas, Birthdays or Valentines. By Emily Barker Post Feedback: Click Here |
| More Of Great-Grandma's Cures: Diarrhea Remedies
Drink a mixture of black pepper in boiled milk to control diarrhea. Or try rhubarb boiled in water, mashed and strained. Sugar may be added for better taste. Post Feedback: Click Here |
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Syndication Spotlight
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:
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New Requests
| Making Almond Roca
When I make almond roca the sugar and butter mixture sometimes separates. The result is a greasy, not as hard or as tasty, product. Even when I make it on dry days this will happen. What am I doing wrong? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| 7 Year Old Birthday Party Ideas
I need birthday entertainment ideas for a 7 year old. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| White Film on Glasses
How do you get white film off glasses from the dishwasher. It's a new machine and the glasses look foggy. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Why won't my printer print?
Why won't my printer print? I'm trying to print the pattern for yarn dogs made with hangers. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Sweet Potato Pie
I would like a good sweet potato pie recipe. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Baby Block Centerpieces
I am having a baby shower and my invitation has a little boy playing with blocks. Don't know what to do for centerpieces. I was thinking of using blocks. Any ideas? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Toning Down a Bright Paint Color
How do you correct a paint color that's too bright? I painted my kitchen a yellow that now looks shockingly bright. I would like a more mellow yellow. Can I paint over it with a real pale yellow color and hopefully get a more desirable shade? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Gift Ideas for Girls
What are some great Christmas presents for 11 year old girls? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Christmas Balls Wrapped In Cloth
How do you make christmas balls wrapped in cloth? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Black Microfiber Sofa Feedback
I'm considering a black microfiber sofa. Will it attract dust and hair? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Homemade Wedding Favors
What are some cute homemade wedding favors? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Wrinkled Polyester Pants
I have a pair of polyester pants that were overheated in the dryer, now I can not remove the wrinkles. I have tried re-washing them and ironing them but I can not get the wrinkles out. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Black Grout Countertop
Apparently, HGTV did a countertop "using black grout, spreading it on, smooth it, let it dry, sand it smooth". Can anyone tell me more about this, or give me a link about it? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Buying a Cupcake Stand
Where can I find a 6 foot cupcake stand? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Coke Stain on Carpet
Does anyone have any tips on cleaning a set diet Coke stain on a one year old nylon carpet? Any help will be appreciated. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Substitute for Tomatoes
I have found out that I am allergic to tomatoes and I would like to know if anyone has any suggestions for something I could substitute them with. I like to eat lasagna, pizza and nachos but am no longer able to eat them with tomatoes. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Christmas Float Ideas
I want to know how to make Christmas gifts and big candy that's wrapped for our christmas float. Any ideas? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Homemade Christmas Cards
My friends and I have to make something for each other that is Christmasy. I wanted to make her a card that is really nice and has either her picture or just decorations on it. If you can help me with an idea that would be great. I just would like to make her a christmas card. We are young (13) so I don't want it to be too fancy, just simple. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Popcorn Balls
A few years back someone brought popcorn balls to a party. They said they were so easy to make. I am thinking they used Marshmallow cream. Has anyone got an easy recipe for pop corn balls? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Pale Yellow Paint Color
Does anyone have a good pale yellow color on their walls that looks nice against white trim? Just a nice pale yellow that could go throughout a house (not too creamy either)? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Keeping Flies Away From You (And Your Horse)
We have a few horses on our farm and as it is summer in South Africa, the horses are continually bothered by flies. We are having a particularly hot dry summer. Can anyone give me a recipe that I can make up at home to rub or spray on the horses to keep the flies away. Three of the horses have little foals a few weeks old. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Substitute for Orange Liqueur
What may I use for a substitute for Orange liqueur. Could I use orange flavoring? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Highlighter Stain on Vinyl
Does anyone knows how to take bright pink highlighter mark off my vinyl couch? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Cheap Place for a Wedding Reception
Where can I go to have a cheap but elegant wedding reception? I am very creative and I am willing to do all the decorating myself. I am also looking for a place available for short notice (May 2007), if we have to we will also provide our own food. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Is Tuna Safe for Cats?
Is canned Tuna dangerous to feed to cats? I have heard that it can cause Kidney Damage! Post Feedback: Click Here |
| First Holy Communion Speech Ideas
I need to make a speech at my goddaughters first holy communion. Any ideas? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| What are artificial Christmas trees made out of?
What are artificial Christmas trees made out of? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| How much money is spent yearly on bottled water?
How much money is spent yearly on bottled water? Post Feedback: Click Here |
| English Toffee (With Saltine Crackers)
I am looking for an English Toffee made with saltine crackers and sweetened condensed milk. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Macaroni and Cheese
I would like a good macaroni and cheese recipe. Post Feedback: Click Here |
| Hair Grease on Microfiber
I just bought a tan microfiber couch and some hair grease got on the couch. What would I use to get that out and what steps do I take? Post Feedback: Click Here |
Looking for a frugal solution to an everyday problem? Submit your request here: Click Here
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More Reading
| Pulp vs. Petroleum: The Debate Over Artificial Christmas Trees
By Ellen Brown I know people who struggle with cutting down live trees for Christmas, because I'm one of them. I can't stand the thought of cutting down a gorgeous tree just to uphold a holiday tradition. In the past I've attempted to avoid this self-imposed "tree guilt" by decorating artificial trees, displaying potted "living" trees or by decorating the trees in my front yard. Lately, I've been going Christmas "tree-less" altogether. So when people ask me which is a more environmentally friendly option, cutting down a real tree or buying an artificial one, I have only one answer: A real tree, of course! Read More: Click Here |
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Here's a fun project. I got some cheesy record album covers from a thrift shop for 50 cents each, some vinyl, plastic tubing and grommets and made this record album cover shoulder bag.
Santa & Mrs. Claus are ready to bring joy to all the girls and boys. What a fun way to say Merry Christmas to your holiday host, your child's teacher, or a member of your family.
