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

Repainting Kitchen Counters

I just finished painting my kitchen counter top with acrylic latex paint and polyurethene. It was a lot of fun and saved lots of money. I spent a total of $150.00!

Anyone can do it. Here's a picture before I finished the last section. So you can see the color I previously had. I might mention, my counterops were in good shape when I started this project. The hardest part is applying the poly coats afterwards.

I got the granite look I was wanting. Now I can save up for the real thing down the road.

I might mention, that you treat painted counter tops as you would any laminate top. Nothing hot, and you don't cut on it.

It will chip easier if you have kids around. All you'd have to do is sand it, paint it again and then the poly.

By Jean from Robards

Repainting Kitchen Counters

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf87363972.tip.html

Craft Project: Halloween Bat

This is a simple hand-held bat that will flap it's wings when you fly it.

Halloween Bat

View This Craft: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf51193076.tip.html

Craft: Pumpkin Wreath

Recycle old wire hangers and make a beautiful pumpkin wreath with your children. All that is needed are orange and green pipe cleaners and paper. Simply shape your hanger into a circle and then wrap orange pipe cleaners around the circle. I used green pipe cleaners to make a stem around the top hook.

My daughter, Eryn, came up with the idea to cut triangles out of paper for the eyes and nose. We used paper for the mouth as well. She used thread and scotch tape to make the face look as if it was hanging. This works well for a school craft. No glue involved or mess! Only takes about five minutes when you have all of your supplies ready. See photo!

By Wendy S from Coopersburg, PA

Pumpkin Wreath

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf86191612.tip.html

Froggy (Common Frog)

Froggy is a common frog. We found him in the pool, over and over, just about every morning. He likes to swim and drive toy cars.

The kids would rescue him from the pool and of course play with him. He had a odd shaped foot, so we knew it was the same one. He really did seem to enjoy the houses (bowls of water, rocks, toy soldiers and of course grass!) and cars the kids would create for him.

By Jen from Kennett Square, PA

Froggy

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf89673639.tip.html

Spencer (Sheltie)

Spencer is 11 years old and is a Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog.) I bought him from a dog breeder.

He likes to Eat! Can you tell? He has one brown eye and one blue eye. Everyone thinks he is blind but he is not.

By Elaine from Iowa

Spencer (Sheltie)

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf81691617.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!

Sending Coupons To College Student

My daughter is away at college and she loves to get mail. Whenever I send her a card I like to enclose a little surprise, something that will fit inside a card like a bookmark, flat decorative magnet, stickers, shampoo samples, etc. Lately I have been sending coupons for the foods she likes, makeup she uses and cleaning supplies. She called me last week all excited and said, "Mom, guess what? I saved $13 at the store because they were taking double coupons." She is now becoming a thrifty person like her mom.

Source: My own ingenious idea.

By Luv to cook from NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf45777409.tip.html

Check Thrift Stores For New Baby Clothes

I found a wonderful way to help a mother-to-be when my daughter and I went to her baby shower. New clothes are donated to thrift stores when they are bringing in new stock later in the year, from what I was informed. I went with my daughter to see if I could find some new clothes. What a windfall! I got beautiful new clothing for very little money as did my daughter. What a happy mommy as she checked out outfit after outfit. They cost very little and as I picked out varying sizes, they helped her dress her little baby girl for a long period of time.

By Bev from Chilliwack BC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42431736.tip.html

Halloween Costume: Jailbird

I used an old pair of white sweats (top and bottom) and spray painted black stripes on the sweats by taping off lines. I then took red fabric paint and wrote "Blonde County Jail" on the back and then numbers on the left chest. I wore a pair of handcuffs to complete the costume.

By Patty from Yucca Valley, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf17135359.tip.html

Milk Jugs for Fishing Floats

This is a good way to recycle your empty gallon milk jugs. They do not ever disintegrate so we all have to be creative in using them again and again.

Empty milk jugs with the lid attached make great floaters to drop in the lake for fishing. Tie fishing line, with hook and bait, to the jug handle, toss in the lake and check later. This allowing fishing at all levels of the lake.

Source: Home and Garden

By Elaine from Iowa

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf78007544.tip.html

Making Your Own Shades of Lipstick

I have loved one particular color of lipstick for years but it's just simply too dark for me so I take the lipstick out of the tube and place it in an empty Carmex lip balm container (other lip balm containers will work too but I happen to like the glass container. ;-) Then, in very small increments, add a much lighter shade from the same color scheme and microwave to melt. Do not do this with the lid on and be sure to check the melting every couple of seconds. Once melted, stir and test on your lips with a cotton swab until happy with the shade :-)

If you have a tube of 'almost empty' or even 'not happy with the shade' full tubes why not have fun and experiment ;-) You can also use the plastic daily pill cases and contact lens cases to make and store your new lipstick colors.

You'll feel like an artist at work and not be wasting money already spent.

Source: I learned this tip when I was a hairstylist at CBS TV, a couple of decades ago from the makeup artists I worked with. They had to color coordinate skin color, hair color and costume colors. Sometimes the standard lipstick colors just weren't quite right and they had to be clever on the spot.

By Deeli from Richland, WA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf35584822.tip.html

Tote Bags for Christmas

It is going to be a home made Christmas and this year I am making tote bags. I have purchased very little fabric and have been lucky enough to have gotten a lot of free fabric from others who are recycling. I did not want to purchase or even waste double the amount of fabric in order to line the bags so I have been lining the totes with my old clothes, sheets and pillowcases. Pillowcases are great because there is not much sewing involved.

By Amy from Long Branch, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf35332622.tip.html

Stop Using Fabric Softener to Prevent Musty Towels

In response to the folks out there with musty towels. We've tried a lot of approaches and only one actually worked. The first thing we did was get rid of the liquid fabric softener. We then cleaned the washing machine by brush, using bleach and water.

We found that by running through 2 full hot water loads using only oxy clean and white vinegar (2 cups) that the machine smelled much better. We then washed our clothes using a mixture of oxy clean and borax with the white vinegar in the rinse dispenser. Works like a charm. The culprit is the Downey type products. They are not good for the machine, the pipes or the clothes. You must try this, if you want to end the problem, for once and for all. Good Luck

By Joe V. from Liverpool

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf47164035.tip.html

Try Nutella On Celery

Have you tried the Nutella Hazelnut spread? Nutella is mixed with skim milk and cocoa and it is great when spread on celery stalks. The celery softens and lightens the taste of the Nutella and you can make snack size chunks for party platters. It is less fattening than Nutella on toast and easier to eat.

Thanks for reading!

By Joseph from Laval West, Quebec, Canada

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf96613152.tip.html

Play Your Ipod While Grocery Shopping

I have hated going to the grocery store recently. I keep getting depressed with the high prices! I went today after I went for my morning walk at the track. I continued to listen to my music with one earpiece of my iPod in. I could still hear if my phone rang or someone talked to me but I could enjoy my music. I was in a better mood and came away in a better frame of mind - and savings.

By Savings Assistant from Georgia
http://www.savingspotpourri.blogspot.com/

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf25950501.tip.html

Cornmeal For Ants

To get rid of any kind of ants use cornmeal, regular cornmeal. Place on the ant mound or in a lid in their path and within a week there will be no more ants.

Source: Passed down from my grandmother.

By Vickie from Zebulon, NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf99308896.tip.html

Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

A few years ago the battery in my beat-up VW Beetle had died because I left the lights on overnight. I was in a hurry to get to work on time so I ran into the house to get my wife to give me a hand to start the car. I told her to get into her car, an ancient Caddillac Fleetwood as old as she is, and use it to push my car fast enough to start it.

I pointed out to her that because the VW had an automatic transmission, it needed to be pushed at a speed of at least 30mph for it to start.

She said "fine!" hopped into her car and drove off.

I sat there fuming wondering what she could be doing.

A minute passed by and when I saw her in the rear-view mirror coming at me at about 40 mph, I suddenly realized that I should have been a bit clearer with my directions.

Read More Jokes Here: http://webby.com/humor

Unclogging a Toilet

Do you have any ideas on how to unclog a toilet without calling a plumber?

Jes from Calhoun City, MS

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf322674.tip.html

Selling Lighted Glass Blocks

I have recently started making lighted glass blocks. Does anyone know how to make the bows? Also my husband signed me up to sell these at a local holiday craft show, as he thinks they're worth sharing. How much do I charge and do I add sales tax?

Sandra from Bayville, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf17603056.tip.html

Transferring Credit Card Balances

Is it wise to move the balance of a higher interest rate credit card to another card at a lower rate? What are the pitfalls?

Cheryl from Fort Wayne, IN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf772330.tip.html

Patterns for Barbie Furniture

I need Barbie furniture patterns for my grand kids.

Jan from St. James, MO

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf77835309.tip.html

Removing Fabric Dye from the Dryer

I dried a bed spread in the dryer. The color has rubbed off and now the whole dryer on the inside is blue. Any tips on how to get the color out?

Key-Key from Biloxi, MS

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf47045146.tip.html

Placing a Thermostat to Keep Pipes from Freezing

I have just purchased a house in Middletown, CT and thought I was being smart by buying a pellet stove to beat the high oil costs. My house is a two-story house with a basement. I installed the stove on the first floor. As it gets cooler I have realized how cold the basement gets now that the furnace never kicks in. My worry is frozen pipes.

My thermostat is also on the first floor so I am thinking it needs to be moved. My first thought was to move it to the second floor and away from the heat. But then I started thinking of moving it to the basement and setting it to 58. The basement move would be far easier than moving it to the second floor but I don't know if it is a good idea or not. Any one out there with some advice/input?

Thanks,
Cropner from Middletown, CT

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf23716860.tip.html

Diabetic Pumpkin Pie Recipe

I'd like a recipe for pumpkin pie for a diabetic. Also has anyone ever tried doing a Mock Apple Pie with Splenda?

Peggy from Oak Grove, MO

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf45313426.tip.html

Removing Unerasable Markers from a Dry Erase Board

I accidentally used a marker on my dry erase board, and am not able to erase it with the dry erase spray. It is faded but still visible to the eye, and I would hate to have to throw the huge board away. Any ideas on how to get this off? It would be very appreciated.

Sherry from Staten Island, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf113767.tip.html

Help Doing Things Opposite Handed

I just broke my right arm and of course, am right handed. I am typing with my left. Everything is so hard to do. Any suggestions on ways to do more things with my non-dominant hand only, will be appreciated. I live alone, no family, or kids to care for. Thank goodness!

Linda L. from Vista, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf62761528.tip.html

Transferring Perfume To Smaller Bottle

How can I transfer perfume to a smaller atomizer bottle for travel or to keep in my purse?

mom23boys from NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf82060580.tip.html

Activities For Sr. Citizen's Prom

What do you do for activities at a Sr. Citizen Prom since most of them can't dance for very long? Ages 60-80.

Donna from Durand, MI

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf93492993.tip.html

Using Up Potato Chip Crumbs

I'm looking for simple recipes where I can use up potato chip crumbs. There always seems to be a ton of them in the bottom of the bag and it's ashame to let them go to waste. I have put them on top of tuna casserole before.

Haley from Centreville, MD

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf48644957.tip.html

Re-Dying Eyebrows

I am a natural redhead with very light blonde eyebrows so I dye them. I tried a different brand today and now they look awful. The color is horrible, (a bright fake red) and they look dyed. They stand out like a sore thumb and I look hideous. Any suggestions on what I should do? I have tried many of the suggestions I read that others wrote for removing hair dye from skin but so far, nothing has worked! HELP! Should I redye them, and if so, what color? (Darker or lighter?) Thanks!

Donna from Silver Spring, MD

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf44740305.tip.html

Remedies For Crick in the Neck

Got any good remedies for a crick in the neck.

Ellen from Taft, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf56818164.tip.html

Puppy Only Poops Inside

I have 3 month old red/blue nose pit bull (Honey). She pees outside, but will not poop. When I take her outside and stand/walk with her, she only pees. When we come back into the house after a while, she goes right to her favorite place in the house and poops. Please help.

Nichole from Benicia, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54402037.tip.html

Eden Pure Comfort Zone Heaters

I can't find any reviews online about Comfort Zone heaters. I was wondering if they are worth it?

Katie from Davenport

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55590390.tip.html

Wedding Reception Locations in Raleigh, NC

I am planning a wedding for 150 guests. Does anyone know of any cheap wedding reception locations in Raleigh, NC (including food)?

Kathy from Wake Forest, NC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55692494.tip.html

Planning a Non-Profit Awards Banquet

I volunteered as an event planner for a non-profit awards banquet, their budget is very small! And I need to come up with the following: a party theme, a venue, a caterer, invitations/programs, and decorations.

The event will be in January for 150 people. I wanted to know if the ThriftyFun family could provide me with some ways to stretch a penny. Thanks and I really appreciate it!

Yvette from Virginia

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf14638506.tip.html

Having My Dog Neutered

I have a 31 month old pit bull and have an appointment to get him neutered next week and am scared to death it will emotionally change him. He is my baby and has been the only man in my life for a long time. I really don't want this to change him or how he is towards me or the other people in my life! I have read that it is best to get it done asap. I am fine with that! I just need reassurance everything will be ok. If anyone has any advice for me or my baby Marley let me know.

Krystina

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf36621912.tip.html

Using Enamel Pots on a Glass Stovetop

Does anyone out there know if it is safe to use porcelain enamel pots on the stovetop (ie Rachel Ray, Kitchen Aide, etc.). I love the pots but am afraid to purchase them if they are not safe. Help!

Barbara from Merchantville, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf29087007.tip.html

Adult Shih Tzu Started Peeing On The Floor

I have a Shih Tzu that is 5 yrs old. I am having trouble with her peeing in the house after we had 2 other dogs stay over for 4 days. She has never done this before and when she started this I took away her treats. She will pee right in front of me on the carpet and tile. What am I doing wrong?

puzzleless from Amarillo, Texas

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf73945318.tip.html

Frugal Gifts For Neighbors

I am looking for some good ideas for frugal neighbor gifts this year. I figure if anyone can help me, the thrifyfunners can! Thanks.

Kristie from Cleafield, UT

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf88230104.tip.html

Nail Polish Remover Stain On Dresser

I removed the finger nail polish off my finger nails and placed the cotton balls in an empty Kleenex box to toss in the waste basket. I sat it on my dresser, forgot about it until that evening, and now the Kleenex box is stuck to my dresser. After removing it there is now a rough spot and it also removed some of the stain. How can I repair it? It is about the size of a 2-3 quarters put together.

Pam from Indianapolis, IN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf16492445.tip.html

Making A Dessert To Be Sold Charity Function

I am a member of a motorcycle club that is hosting a charity benefit ride for a little boy with a softball size tumor. I would like to know what type of dessert would be the best to make for a large event? I would have to make it so that it could be sold individually, 2-3 cookies, couple brownies, ect.

What would be a good recipe or dessert for such an event that is not too time consuming or costly? Another lady is doing the all time favorite No Bake Cookies! Thank you for all your help!

April from Demorest, GA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf86046401.tip.html

What Is Catalina Dressing?

Could someone please advise me what Catalina salad dressing is? Is there something equivalent in Australia?

Vivienne from Australia

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf39345980.tip.html

Cyst In Rabbits Ear

Our rabbit has a wart/cyst on his ear. It doesn't seem to bother him but I would like to know how to remove it. A hunter that we know says wild rabbits get them but they fall off in the winter. However he is a inside spoiled rabbit. Thanks.

Dianna from Burton, MI

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf32962074.tip.html

Baby Shower Ideas

I need party ideas for a friend's baby shower (girl), games, gifts, food etc. I have never thrown or been to a baby shower before!

Kim from Nashville

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf202283.tip.html

Sponge Candy Recipe

Looking for recipe for a candy, which was sponge like and the size of a 1 pd. loaf of butter, yellow in color, and melted in your mouth. Checked many stores that have the old fashioned candy, but to no avail. I've made the sponge candy but it's not the same, very hard. I wish I had an image to show you. This was way back in the 40's and 50's.

Valerie from Niles, IL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55535084.tip.html

Removing Vomit Stains On Carpet

I have a cat who has been throwing, which then leads to a stain in the carpet. We have a Bissell pet spot remover and we have tried other Bissell products to get the stains out and nothing seems to work. I was wondering if anyone had any other suggestion.

Danielle from Orlando, FL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf77053236.tip.html

Removing a Steam Mark from Table

I put a towel down on a real wood table and ironed a shirt with a steam iron. When I was done there was a white cloudy stain in the wood that I can't get out. Do I need to have the table sanded and restained or does anyone have any tricks?

Sherri from Parlin, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf74577099.tip.html

Is Project Payday a Scam?

Is Project Payday legit? What is a legit business for part-time online/at home work?

Tracy from St. Clairsville, OH

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf14965402.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

Saving Money on Cleaning Products

Tips for saving money on cleaning products as suggested by the ThriftyFun community. Feel free to post your ideas below.

Saving Money on Cleaning Products

Saving Money on Cars

Tips for saving money on buying a car as suggested by the ThriftyFun community. Do you have any strategies keep you in reliable transportation without spending a bunch of money? Post them here!

Saving Money on Cars

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 - October 20, 2008

Feedback

Related

Post Feedback

Browse Topics

Popular Now

Ask a Question

Subscribe to ThriftyFun Newsletters!