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

Craft: Recycled Train

My son still enjoys playing with trains. We used a tin can and some Snapple tea lids for the wheels. We found a cardboard box from some sticks of butter, toilet paper tube and used hot glue to fasten it together. Add a coat of silver spray paint and you are on the rails! We saved some cereal boxes and created a tunnel too.

By Wendy from Coopersburg, PA

Recycled Train

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf17334631.tip.html

Garden: Paint a Village of Rocks

I no longer spend lots of cash on plants and flowers which get battered by the wind and burnt by the salt air. I add colour and fun by painting rocks and developing a village much to the delight of neighbours and friends who visit. I sprayed the rocks white to give me a canvas to paint on with acrylic paint and the shape of the rock determines whether it will be a house, shop, car or animal.

By Isobel from Scotland

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf98104326.tip.html

Moocher (Domestic Shorthair)

Moocher is an 8 month old domestic shorthair cat. We adopted him from the PAWS animal shelter in Philadelphia along with 2 of our other cats (Cleo and Leo) in August of 2008.

Moocher just loves to jump up on anything and everything, getting into people's laps, faces, you name it! He's a huge ball of energy! He "poops out" during the day and lays sleeping on the computer desk, a chair, the floor, the couch - any hospitable place, really.

The week after we adopted Moocher, we discovered he had pneumonia and he was put on a 2 week course of antibiotics which had him confined to our room since he could have been contagious - he was not happy with that. 2 weeks after THAT, we discovered he had WORMS and had to treat all 5 cats! He's in great health now, though.

By Jackie from Feasterville, PA

Moocher (Domestic Shorthair)

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf21519825.tip.html

Craft Project: Bead Snowflake

Snowflake made from beads and pipe cleaners.

Bead Snowflake

View This Craft: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf16663381.tip.html

Garden: Keep Your Garden Child Friendly

The beauty in any garden is the child who helps tend it. Make your gardens child friendly, you teach by example. Grandma's Princess Tayte can't wait to get back out to help plant, weed and pick vases full.

By Joyce from Benson, MN

Keep Your Garden Child Friendly

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf97084058.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!

Waste Nothing: Creative Recycled Crafting

I have been moved out to the country and the city does not provide trash-pick up as a part of the water bill. It costs $25 a month for that service. So I wanted to come up with more ways to reduce and reuse. I normally do anyway but now it is even more important. I can burn trash but the weather hasn't been all that great.

Backing for Patterns

As I open food boxes from the kitchen, I flatten them and use them as a backing for patterns I trace off the internet. I use my lighted PC screen as a light box. I transfer these tracings onto the flattened boxes so they last longer.

Cardboard Foot Stool

The biggest problem has been cardboard boxes, which I have solved! I cut a stack about 18 inches high and dinner plate sized circles. I pieced several 1/2 circles together when the pieces got to small for whole ones and taped them together. Then, I taped several small stacks together for easier handling. I got an old clothing item, cut the hem off and made a strong tie and tied the ends together securely. Previously I crocheted a round rag rug that I put a drawstring of crocheted rag chain to form a bag. I slipped my stacked cardboard down into the bag and hooked it shut securely. Now, I have a very comfy footstool and plan on making a few more but larger around. These could also be made into a booster seat just the same way and covered with your choice of sturdy fabric or whatever. Make them whatever diameter you need!

Soup Cans

In addition to that I save some soup cans, rinse them out to use for meat drippings. I have a few covered ones for catchalls and pencil holders. Of course the cans could be used for basically crush resistant mail tubes too. My son had a teacher who recycled hers for cute little gift buckets when there was a class party filled with goodies and candies! Normally she painted a theme on them!

Crochet With Plastic

I crocheted an appliance plastic, which was pretty good size into a nice patio rug and added blue fringe made from a new blue trash sack.

Paper Beads

I also make paper beads from other papers I accumulate! I love it.

Source: I came up with these ideas while trying to keep from paying for trash pick-up service! It's working!

By melody_yesterday from Otterville, MO

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf87868597.tip.html

Review: Sock Locks

Just read your newsletter with tips on organizing socks. I use a great product called sock-locks. A wonderful little gadget that fits a pair of socks together - we use them and I never have lost socks. As you take your socks off just slip them into a sock lock - they stay though washing and drying then are already sorted to be put away.

By Betty from Orange, TX

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf90341672.tip.html

Recycle CDs as Ice Scraper

We get a lot of snow here and my daughter discovered that an old CD works great as an ice scraper for the car windshield.

By Sandra from PA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf72302107.tip.html

Getting Ready for Tax Season

During the year keep a running tab on how much you have spent on all medical costs including prescriptions, doctor visits, dental visits, co-pays etc. I also keep my statements and receipts together with this list in a folder. At the end of the year, you already have a total without any additional work. Now you can add it to other items you can claim as a deduction (property taxes, work related expenses, etc) to see if it is better to itemize- or to take the standard deduction.

Source: My own tried and true idea that I have been doing for many years

By Pat from Roseville, MI

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf72732734.tip.html

Freeze Birdseed to Kill Insects

Whenever you purchase wild birdseed, always place it in the freezer for 48 hours before opening bag. This will kill any insects present such as confused flour beetles.

By Clay from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf79391544.tip.html

Kill Weeds Between Paving Stones

For those that have cobblestone or brick pathways! Nasty spore growing weeds will bust through cement. Living in the lower Keys of South FL, I've dealt with some very destructive weather. As of now ,I have been pounding sand in between my rebuilt brick pathway. Those nasty weeds that spread my bricks and sea shell garden get a good dose of CHEAP SALT! After a couple days, they pull out easy! Saves on the finger knuckles and expensive weed killer. Also, I heard that cheap WHITE VINEGAR can help rid those weeds. Do not apply any salt next to your living gardening area.

By Cindy from Key West, FL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf12436810.tip.html

Shop for Spices in the International Aisle

Shop for spices and flavorings in the international foods section of your grocery store. You could get twice as much for half the price. Recently I purchased almond flavoring, ginger and onion powder this way, saved a few dollars on each, and got more than the containers in the baking aisle. The quality is good, too.

By Britt from Boston, MA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf10354287.tip.html

Use Yarn to Wick Water to Houseplants

To keep house plants watered while on vacation is quite simple. Place A bowl of water near plants with yarn running from the water to a hole made in the dirt with the other end of the yarn buried. The yarn will carry water to the plant as needed. It really works!

By Debra from Hampton,Tennessee

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf91035300.tip.html

Watch for Shrinking Package Sizes

In this economy food companies are shrinking package sizes as we have all found out. Pay very close attention shopping even at dollar stores. Check ounces on cereal boxes to get the best price for the most product. Aluminum foil has been selling 20 square feet for a dollar but if you check, you can find 25 square feet for a dollar. My grocery store has a dollar section for a lot of products and I go there first to see what I can find. Be vigilant and save money.

By Kim from Franklin Park, IL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf14922174.tip.html

Banana Splits for Valentine's Day

I started a tradition when my oldest son was 4 years old. Since our "sweethearts" are our children, we celebrate Valentine's Day by having banana splits for dinner! I make sure to have anything a person could desire for toppings. Our dining table looks just like a malt shop. (You should see the huge bowl of cherries that adorns the center of the table!) All with the benefit of having a fun intimate family meal, and the cost is the same or less than what we would have spent if we went to eat at an ice cream shop. And we get to keep the left over ingredients!

Valentine's Day is the one time a year my children can look forward to eating dessert for dinner, just as they count on turkey for Thanksgiving. It's a treat we all love! Now, we have a brood of 15, 10 and 4. We've been celebrating Valentine's Day with banana splits for 11 years and my kids proclaim they will pass this family tradition down to their own children some day!

By Jennifer from Hill Air Force Base, Utah

Banana Splits for Valentine's Day

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf26348583.tip.html

Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

The man passed out in a dead faint as he came out of his front door onto the porch.

Someone dialed 911.

When the paramedics arrived, they helped him regain consciousness and asked if he knew what caused him to faint.

"It was enough to make anybody faint," he said. "My son asked me for the keys to the garage, and instead of driving the car out, he came out with the snow shovel!"

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

Pani Puri Recipe

How do you make Pani Puri?

Sweeny

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54445234.tip.html

Using Baking Soda for Milk Odors

How can I use baking soda to get rid of milk odors on my car?

Meryem from Nevsehir, Turkey

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf46497432.tip.html

Test Management Software

I'm looking for test management software with collaboration capabilities but at an affordable rate. Please help.

Sean

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf87161207.tip.html

Saving Emails to Disks

I have been saving all my ThriftyFun emails in my mail folder and would like to copy them to disks. Does anyone know how I would do this? Thanks.

Beverly from Placerville, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf19139828.tip.html

Removing Betadine Stains from Furniture

How do I get a Betadine spot out of a white cloth couch?

Clarissa

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf39599835.tip.html

Betsy Ross Door Stop Pattern

Does anyone have a pattern for a Betsy Ross door stop from the 70's?

Karen from Hanover, MA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42061758.tip.html

Installing an Inlaid Kitchen Sink

I want to install an inlaid kitchen sink. My current sink is on the top. Do I need to replace my countertops as well?

Susan from Yuma, AZ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf79052861.tip.html

Unclogging Washing Machine Drain Pipe

My washing machine works, however, during the spin cycle water gushes out of the drain pipe and leaves a flood on the floor. What can I do to clear out the drain line? Thank you.

Ann

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf37071903.tip.html

MRE Wheat Snack Bread Recipe

Does anyone know how to make something like the Wheat Snack Bread that is found in the MRE's? It's a flat, shelf-stable (though that's probably due to the packaging) bread that is put in the soldier's MRE's. There are two companies that were contracted to make it, Pangea and Sterling, but my boys loved it so much (we're Hurricane Ike victims) and would love to be able to make it at home for an anytime snack. Thanks for any help anyone can give!

Leslie from TX

MRE Wheat Snack Bread Recipe

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf45849987.tip.html

What Breed is My Dog?

My dog is 4 years old and I was told he was a Maltese cross between a Yorkshire Terrier, but he definitely isn't. I've had him since he was a puppy, could anyone tell me what breed he is going by a the picture? I would be very grateful.
He has short hair, is playful, barks a lot and is aggressive towards strangers and other dogs.

teddydreams

What Breed is My Dog?

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf60772601.tip.html

Reviews of Ifrogz Earphones

Does anyone own Ifrogz earphones? I want the over the ear kind and was wondering if they are comfortable for long periods of time and what the sound is like. Thanks!

Mindy from Washington, IN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf54140761.tip.html

Reusing Ceramic Soap Dispensers

Does anyone have ideas for reusing ceramic soap dispensers that cannot be used because the pump no longer works?

CS7 from Salem, OR

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf83109828.tip.html

Saving Money on Beans

Tips and ideas for saving money on beans. Post your ideas below.

Saving Money on Beans

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf73707115.tip.html

Growing Lettuce Inside

Spring is coming (eventually), and my thoughts turn to gardening. I've been wondering, can loose-leaf lettuce be grown indoors? I have a nice west-facing window with a deep windowsill over the sink and wonder if enough UV rays get through to merit growing it. I can't afford a grow light, so this is the way it has to be.

Polly

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf33606275.tip.html

Recipes Using Canned Green Beans

I really need ideas for using up canned green beans.

Sandra from PA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf58851150.tip.html

Losing a Couple of Pounds

Does anyone know of any fast working diets meant for people who want to lose only a couple of pounds?

Aliesha

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf30708424.tip.html

Crochet Pot Scrubber

Can someone help me get a pattern for crocheted nylon net scrubbies? Thanks again.

Florence

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf192070.tip.html

Cleaning Wood Veneer Cabinets

How can I clean wood veneer kitchen cabinets?

Marcia

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf60413764.tip.html

Corn Dog Recipe

I've been looking for a recipe for homemade corn dogs. Not a casserole but the actual thing. Does anyone have one? Thank you.

Susan from Perry, FL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf29612618.tip.html

Crocheting Clothing for High School Musical Doll

I need some ideas or patterns for crocheting and knitting clothes for the Ryan Doll from High School Musical. I thought I could use Ken doll patterns but I can not find any of those for crocheting and knitting. Any ideas or help?

Sandra from PA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf74634667.tip.html

Getting Empty Wine Bottles

Where do you go to get a good supply of empty wine and liquor bottles? I have asked local restaurants and they seem reluctant to give me any. Short of looking through people's recycling bins on garbage day, can anyone help me? Thanks.

Marie from Buffalo, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf29906714.tip.html

Preservatives for Homemade Laundry Detergent

I made homemade liquid detergent using powdered fels naptha soap, washing soda and borax. I would like to know how long is this homemade detergent good for without preservatives? I only wash at the most 3 large loads a month. I would like to know if it is worth me making this homemade laundry detergent or is it not a good idea. Am I using detergent that is already spoiled since I do not put preservatives in the homemade detergent? Is there anywhere where I can buy preservatives?

Mary

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf33090242.tip.html

Marker Stains on UGG Boots

How do you remove marker stains from an UGG boot?

Luis from Stephenville, TX

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf40676112.tip.html

"Magic" Lawn Formula

Some time ago, when I lived in Florida, a person at Home Depot gave me a "magic formula" for a healthy lawn. Some of the ingredients were: Instant Tea and ammonia, along with a couple of others. It was fantastic. Can anyone provide me with the formula to be used with a 20 gal sprayer?

Leo from Houston, TX

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf67631402.tip.html

Removing Glued on Photos

How would I get pictures out of an old photo book? They are glued down.

Charlena

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf46479736.tip.html

Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Recipe

I am looking for a cookie recipe that includes chopped up peanut butter cups and possibly chocolate chips. I made this recipe once but can't find it.

Pam from South Jersey

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf10670361.tip.html

Carpet Colors for Room with Apricot Walls

I have painted my bedroom walls an apricot color and need advise on a carpet color.

Archie from Chesapeake, VA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf80653176.tip.html

Where can I buy ZOTE soap?

Where do you buy ZOTE soap?

Lana

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf13450308.tip.html

Surprise 30th Birthday Party

My sister is turning 30 this April and I wanted to throw a surprise party for her. She is my best friend and she deserves one especially with everything she's been through this past year. Can someone please help and give me some advice on to how to plan this. Much appreciated!

Stephanie from Trenton, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf405685.tip.html

Getting Rid of Ants in Kitchen

How do you get rid of kitchen ants?

Jeanine from Nashville, TN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf432417.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

Research Shows Weeds Becoming Resistant to Glyphosate
By Ellen Brown

What Gardeners Can Learn

Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum, non-selective herbicide commonly used on perennial plants including grasses, sedges, and broad-leaved weeds. Most gardeners have either heard of glyphosate or used herbicides that contain it in their gardens. It can be found in familiar products like Roundup, Rodeo, Touchdown, and Pondmaster. Due to its repeated overuse, researchers have recently found 13 species of weeds that are now resistant to glyphosate.

Research Shows Weeds Becoming Resistant to Glyphosate

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 - February 6, 2009

Feedback

Related

Post Feedback

Browse Topics

Popular Now

Ask a Question

Subscribe to ThriftyFun Newsletters!