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: Vinyl Disc Wall Display

After years hating this blank wall but having no ideas to improve it finally I've made this! Calm down! I only used those I didn't like it! I still have my vinyl collection.

If you want to make your own, you just have to glue the disks to the wall. I used a special tape designed to be used with carpets but worked just well and they still stay on the wall.

By Orquidea from Portugal

Craft: Vinyl Disc Wall Display

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf48780540.tip.html

Wildlife: Squirrel Photos

These squirrels have just made themselves at home. They like to eat and chase each other up the tree.

By mjcook65 from Indiana

Wildlife: Squirrel Photos

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf91612243.tip.html

Ralphie (English Pointer)

Ralphie is a 1 1/2 year old English Pointer (friend quality). We got him in October of '07 when my husband's dog passed away. They'd been pretty close even though "Puppy" lived outside. They hung out together a lot.

It was barely a week before my husband's birthday when he came home to find Puppy. I never saw him so distraught. I had called the pound, animal aid, humane soc. everyone I could think of. No one had anything. Then, on my husband's birthday I went to the pound in person. I was there waiting when they opened and told them why I needed a puppy so desperately. I was in luck. Someone, had brought in three puppies and they were just that morning over their quarantine. I walked in and looked at the three, and this little guy still had blue eyes, actually tried to slither under the gate to get to me.

My husband got a heck of a surprise when he got home that day. I still call Ralphie 'Babydog' as I called him so I wouldn't think of him with a name and my husband could name his dog. Ralphie is named for the boy in "A Christmas Story."

Ralphie loves to run and run and run. He also loves to play with his best buddy Tom (my husband). He loves to tease his "big brother" Russell (a beagle/bassett hound mix). Ralphie is one of those lucky finds I think. One of those pets that seem to have been made for the family they live with. The photo was taken on Christmas night. The fox toy was his present. He put himself to bed and took his new toy with him.

By Shosha from Berrien Springs, MI

Ralphie (English Pointer)

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf88180434.tip.html

Craft: Recycled Doll

This is a doll made by recycling items in my home. I took a piece of wood and stained and varnished it. Then glued the almost empty crochet thread to it. I gave it a light wash of paint. Any craft paint thinned with water will do.

Next I found the doll head and hands and attached them w/glue. A lace collar was added and fabric for arms. I finished it up w/a piece of trim fed through a wooden spool and added buttons for trim. Cheap easy and quick!

Source: Cloth Paper Scissors Magazine

By Karen K from Sun City AZ

Craft: Recycled Doll

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf75007572.tip.html

Craft Project: Old Clothing Rag Rug

I crocheted this small rag rug out of 2 nighties, 2 tee shirts and a pair of knit shorts. It measures 28 inches in diameter. I love working with old knit clothing because the edges do not fray.

Craft Project: Old Clothing Rag Rug

View This Craft: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf64922365.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!

Remember Freecycle

With Earth Day here I wanted to remind you of freecycle.org. It's a wonderful grass roots movement that is a great way to unclutter your home of unused items and a way to pay it forward by offering it to your local neighbors so they might use it.

By DebbyL950 from Springtown, TX

Editor's Note: Please do not post your Freecycle ads here. You should go directly to http://www.freecycle.org/ and post them there so the appropriate people will see them. We would love to hear feedback about how Freecycle has worked for you, good or bad.

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf664821.tip.html

Tomato Sauce to Clean Aluminum

If you need to clean an aluminum pot with tarnish. Make a pot of tomato sauce, the acid in the tomatoes cleans it. The sauce is good to eat.

By Lynda (crabby) from Kearny, NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf65460467.tip.html

Emergency Screwdriver Set

Many times, I have been on the side of the road without a screwdriver, or the one I had one was too small. Now I carry a pliers, and some change: a quarter, dime, and nickel. Many small screws on a car like the idler screw can be turned with a dime, and the next bigger ones with a nickel. The larger ones can be turned with a quarter. However, you need the pliers for torque; so don't forget that part of this tip.

Hope this helps!

Source: Tried and true from years of experience not having tools when I needed them!

By Poor But Proud from Salem, OR

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf61486612.tip.html

All Kids Recyclable Band

My neighbor and my self started a "All Kids Recyclable Band" last year. These kids have played for the mayor of St. Catharines. They have also played at schools, churches, and parades. The environment benefits from this band, as the kids learn about recycling.

We make it fun and the kids keep on coming. They make their instruments out of recycled materials. Anything that is recyclable. The kids really enjoy making the instruments. The next generation will be the ones to put this planet back to balance.

By Marie C. from St. Catharines

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf81897506.tip.html

Ideas for Used Birthday Candles

Here are some ideas for used birthday candles.

These tiny candles work wonders for sticky locks and zippers. For sticky locks, simply rub the candle on the key then insert in the lock several times. For sticky zippers, open the zipper then rub the birthday candle on both sides of the zipper.
You can also rub the candles on sticky door jams.
Kids can use tiny candles for "invisible ink". Have your child write or draw a message on a piece of white computer paper, then hold the paper over the sink and pour your left over coffee or a cup of water with food coloring over it. The message will magically appear because the wax will resist the coloring.
These candles can be lifesavers in an emergency: for light, you can stand them up on a glass plate or in a small cup of salt.
They also make wonderful campfire starters when camping. Store them in an old vitamin bottle.

By Cyinda from near Seattle

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf35404529.tip.html

Reusable Cotton Menstrual Pads

Here's how I've re-purposed my ceramic crock pot liner and its lid. I sprinkle a little baking soda, add a bit of vinegar and boiling water (no more than 1/3 of the way full), and let it foam up and then cool down. Then I add a couple of drops of tea tree oil. Sometimes, instead of baking soda and vinegar, I just use the tea tree oil, or a little hydrogen-peroxide, or Oxy-Clean, or biodegradable detergent, depending on what I've got in the house. (Whatever you use, make sure it's biodegradable and safe for plants.)

Now, how to use the thing: I use that as a soaking post for my cotton menstrual pads. It loosens the blood and kills at least some of the bacteria. Every morning, I pour off the water into a watering can and use it to water my garden, and the nutrients help my plants to grow really well.

"Hey, wait a minute!" I hear you cry. I know at least a few of you are going "Ew, re-use a menstrual pad?" Here's the thing: your grandmother did it, and so did every other woman who came before her.

I did the calculation, based on a woman beginning to menstruate at the age of twelve and continuing to menstruate until she's 57 (that's 45 years of cycles), one could spend up to $10,000 on disposable pads. Alternatively, one could spend about $200 to buy a startup kit of re-usable overnight, regular, and mini/panty-liner sizes, then buy another two or three re-usable pads at $8 to $15 each every year or two, as they wear out, and wind up spending about a tenth of what one would spend on disposables. Not to mention, you won't be filling landfills with the non-bio-degradable polymers used in disposable pad/tampon construction. Saving the environment AND 90% of the cost? THAT'S thrifty!

By Chayil from Chicago, IL

Editor's Note: We are aware that this is an extreme measure for most of us but it is a frugal and green option, similar to using cloth diapers. There are several companies that sell different brands of reusable menstrual products.

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf98439328.tip.html

Hair Clips Hold Sunglasses on Visor

I have long hair that sometimes gets in my way so I usually keep a hair clip hooked to my car's visor in case I need it. I recently found it is the perfect way to hold my sunglasses to the visor! I've also started using a hair clip to hold my car's registration and insurance info to the inside-top of the passenger-side visor. This way, no rummaging around in the glove compartment while you're nervous and frustrated if you get pulled over! You can either use 1 large clip or 2 small ones.

By Cyinda

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf78784016.tip.html

Freeze Leftover Holiday Chocolate

If you have too much chocolate left over from Easter and the kids lose interest or you want them to ease off, here's what you can do. You can cut it into little pieces and freeze it. When you make chocolate chip cookies, chocolate chip muffins, or anything else needing chocolate, all you need to do is pull out some of the chocolate pieces from the freezer and you are set! No need to buy any chocolate chips until you are all out of the leftovers!

By Bellevillelady from Belleville, Ontario, Canada

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf56413288.tip.html

Use Freezer Burned Veggies for Soup

Everyone has told me that once as bag of veggies is freezer-burned that it's no good, and you'll have to throw it out. This is not true! There is one thing you can do with freezer burned veggies and that's make homemade veggie soup.

What you do is run warm water into the bag and let it sit until all the freezer burn and frozen water has melted. Now rinse the veggies off with fresh, clean water several times You can use a colander if you like, but I just poke several holes in the bottom of the bag and run tap water through the bag.

Then just put the veggies in your favorite type of soup stock and use a lot of flavoring; like onion, garlic, soy sauce, Italian seasoning and bouillon. You won't taste the freezer-burn.

By Cyinda from near Seattle

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf17421792.tip.html

Use Non Fat Dry Milk for Coffee Creamer

Coffee creamer that is actually good for you. Use non fat dry milk as coffee creamer. There is no need to pre-mix dry milk with water, just use it as is. You can use as much as you like, without the fat. Your coffee will taste just as good as coffee creamers that have questionable additives like high fructose corn syrup. Canned "no fat milk" is also good, but it is more expensive. If you're big on coffee, like me, this will also help keep off the pounds. Enjoy!

By suzyspinkmoon from Clinton, TN

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf59872389.tip.html

Dear Webby's Joke of the Day

MacTavish's little boy was being questioned by the teacher during an arithmetic lesson. "If you had five pounds," said the teacher, "and I asked you for the loan of three pounds, how many would you have left?"

"Five," said young MacTavish firmly.

"Five?" the teacher said "How do you make it five?"

"Well," replied young MacTavish "You can ask for a loan of three pounds, but that doesn't mean you will get it."

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

Replacing a Countertop Stove

I want to replace my countertop stove. How do I rewire it?

By Jojo7 from Oklahoma City, OK

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf37596781.tip.html

Nail Polish on a Vinyl Bus Seat

How do I get orange nail polish off of a vinyl bus seat? My 5 year old took polish with her to school and got it on the school bus seat. Help!

By Shellbug73 from OH

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf88006743.tip.html

Growing Seeds in Perlite

I have already started seeds in little jiffy pellets. My question is about starting seeds and rooting cut offs in Perlite. I am re-using plastic tubs that fresh spinach comes in at the supermarkets. How much Perlite should I put into the bottom? They are about 6-7 in. deep. How much water do you use and how do you achieve that? Also, how much do you water the Perlite? Thank you.

Hardiness Zone: 7a

By Extremefrugalist from Baltimore, MD

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf43982565.tip.html

Recipes Using Frog Legs

I bought a case of Frog Legs in Nebraska. I would like recipes to try and cook them differently. For example, grilled, sauteed in garlic and butter, fried, etc. Please share your recipes. Thank you.

By SweetCali40 from NV

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf95278764.tip.html

Preventing Dust Build-Up on Ceiling Fans

Is there something that you can coat ceiling fan blades with that will repel dust, grease and/or nicotine?

By Captarlo from West Salem, OH

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55458719.tip.html

Restoring a Split Bamboo Veneered Table

How can I restore a split bamboo veneered table top? It has ring marks from glasses as well as some loss of the polished finish.

By Scottish Linda from Aberdeen, Scotland

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf29549249.tip.html

Planting Potted Tulip Bulbs

I bought potted tulips for Easter which are now in full bloom. How do I save them to plant in flower beds for spring blooming?

Hardiness Zone: 8a

By Peggy from Little Rock, AR

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf60337713.tip.html

My Dog Has Colitis

My dog Maggie has been diagnosed with colitis. Every so often this results in bloody diarrhea and it is wrecking havoc on my checking account and carpets. We have limited the dog to dry dog food only. Occasionally she has prescription food as well. She is a house dog and doesn't have the opportunity to eat anything that could disagree with her.

She is an 11 year old Golden Retriever mix. Can anyone provide any advice on how to limit her symptoms? She is currently on an anti-spasmodic and antibiotic but once she is off the meds. She has a reoccurance about every 3 weeks. Thanks in advance for any help you can provide. She is just as sweet as can be. She never cries, but I am sure she is in pain!

By Diana from Prospect, KY

My Dog Has Colitis

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf55058948.tip.html

Cabinet Colors for Kitchen With a Yellow Range

We have ordered a bright yellow Bertazzoni range. What color cabinets would you recommend? We want to go with wood. The only style we do not like is painted.

By Rbishop from NJ

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf95127755.tip.html

Storing Capsicums in Oil

How do I freeze Capsicums without them going soggy after defrosting? I just bought Capsicums in bulk. I bought carrots in oil and they were crisp. Will this work for my Capsicums if I put them in oil. What is the most frugal way to keep them?

By MelanieRocky from Warners Bay, NSW

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf13384792.tip.html

Rabbit Ate My Burning Bush

A rabbit ate my Burning Bush down to nothing. Will it grow again?

By Aliciadiane from Buffalo, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf25737126.tip.html

Car Seat Smells Moldy

I cleaned my car seat (not baby seat). It has been rather unseasonably cold so the seat, not being able to dry, is now smelling a bit moldy. Any suggestions as to how to get the moldy smell out?

By Tina from Orange County, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf42498783.tip.html

Keeping Cut Roses from Losing Their Petals

What's the best way to keep roses from dropping their petals after they're cut?

By Vguy from Earle, AR

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf63854927.tip.html

Rooting Plant Cuttings

How do I root a Camellia?

Hardiness Zone: 8a

By rvgranny from Columbia, SC

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf770288.tip.html

Adopting from the Animal Shelter

I am looking for a small dog to bring into our loving home. Anyone know where I could adopt one?

By JLyn09 from Allegany, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf534636.tip.html

Removing Ink From Clothing

How do I remove permanent ink from cotton pants?

By CarolineBK from Cathedral City, CA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf913397.tip.html

Great Dane Needs to Gain Weight

We have a German Shepherd called Tia who is 1 year old. We rescued Tia when she was around 5 months old. She had a terrible start to life and was badly mistreated.

Tia is also very skinny, showing her ribs and backbone even though she is extremely fit. We have visited the vets on numerous occasions, having blood tests done and she is now being treated for EPI (even though the tests were inconclusive). Her poo samples have improved (less smelly, better consistency, and normal in colour) but there isn't much change to her weight. Any advice will be grateful.

Many thanks.
Diane H

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf79519253.tip.html

Painting Laminate Countertops

I am interested in painting my laminate countertops, the pictures here are so fantastic. I am unsure about the Enviro Tex, however. How durable/tough is it? If I set a plate from the microwave on it will it hurt it? (I know not to put a pan from the stove, I don't do that anyway.) I also use cutting boards, but other than that, does it scratch easily? I have a cat that refuses to stay off the counter tops, I even tried tape sticky side up, but she's stubborn and just walked on it!

I want to make sure that this stuff will hold up to regular wear and tear, using hot pads and cutting boards. Is there any other damage anyone knows about that I should be aware of? I appreciate the help!

By diamond3573 from Milford, MA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf999197.tip.html

Removing Candle Wax From Furniture

I accidentally spilled hot wax (from a candle) on my dresser and wall. How can I clean this up and not leave a mess? Thanks.

By CNL from New Creek, WV

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf803282.tip.html

Mysterious Grease Stains on Clothing

I have a Maytag Neptune front-loading washer that is about 4 years old. In the past 2 years, I've noticed greasy/oily looking spots on some of the darker colored clothes coming out.

I've been through every possible remedy, even the ridiculous tablets Maytag said I should use-to no avail. I only use detergents for HE machines, and the smallest amount possible. I do not use liquid fabric softener at all.

I have run the machine empty with hot water and bleach, with hot water and vinegar, even done 2 cleanings in a row, even though the thought of wasting that much water totally did not sit well with me. But at the same time, I have some articles of clothing that don't get worn, just washed over and over because each time I wash, old spots might go away but new ones appear.

Anyone else have the same problem? What are some other solutions? I'm really at my wit's end with this stupid machine.

By Valorie from Arlington, WA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf445070.tip.html

40th Birthday Party Ideas

I am planning a 40th birthday party for my mom, and need help with ideas. I want it to be a dressy occasion, something fun and very memorable. I have a color scheme (teal and purple, her favorite colors).

I've hired a DJ, and have a location with a dance floor, tables and chairs, but I'm not sure what else to do, such as games, and how to make sure everyone has fun and stays interested. I'm obviously not 40, so I'm not sure what would be especially appealing to this age group. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

By Blue06 from Portland, OR

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf101176.tip.html

Softer Line Dried Clothing

I like the feel of linen shirts that have dried in a clothes dryer with fabric softener. But to save money, I dry them on an outdoor clothes line. Unfortunately, line drying leaves them stiff, with wrinkles. What can I do to get them soft again?

By AmnesiaWes from Hawaii

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf504295.tip.html

Moving a Stove

I want to clean under and behind my stove. What is the best way to move the stove out of the way? I don't want to tear the vinyl floor.

By laurel from Port Orchard, WA

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf31448389.tip.html

Cleaning Mildew and Moss Off a Tarmac Driveway

How do I clean the green mildew and moss off my tarmac driveway?

By gerrymc985

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf41458301.tip.html

Looking for Ground Beef Recipes

My dad loves hamburger, anything hamburger. We're getting a bit tired of hamburgers, chili, stuffed peppers, etc. Anymore suggestions?

By ivorylov from Ocala, FL

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf27008544.tip.html

How Do I Thicken My Hair?

How do I thicken my hair? I have thin, gray hair. So, I would like to know how to get black and thicker hair.

By girish_ambali from Delhi

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf70270434.tip.html

Fixing the Heating Element in a Coffee Maker

My year-old coffeemaker no longer gives me a hot cup of coffee. Is it worth the trouble to replace the heating element? Can the heating element be replaced?

By dotzz24 from Johnson, NY

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf22007560.tip.html

Decorating for a Mediterranean Food Festival

I need help on the decor for a Mediterranean Food Festival at a five star hotel. We have this festival happening next month, and need details on what decor is required outdoors and indoors for the festival.

By gpavankumar from Hyderabad, India

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf69990593.tip.html

Planting Canna Lilies

I have planted some Canna Lilies bulbs on a partly shaded hill in my backyard next to some Norwegian spruce. There is some evening sun there though. I planted them March 15th and planted them 6 inches deep. Do you think they will make it? Thanks.

Sandi

Post Feedback: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf63722959.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

The Eco-Scoop On Dog Poop
By Ellen Brown

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the current U.S. dog population tops out somewhere near 80 million. When you consider that a musher with an average-sized kennel of 20 sled dogs generates more than 2 tons of dog feces annually*, the waste generated by 80 million dogs must equal a Mount Everest-sized pile of manure. Doggie dung is harmless, even useful, if disposed of properly.

The Eco-Scoop On Dog Poop

Looking At Everyday Household Energy Usage

I am such a creature of habit that I often do not think of the things I do that use expensive energy and climate changing fuels.

Looking At Everyday Household Energy Usage

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 - April 22, 2009

Feedback

Related

Post Feedback

Browse Topics

Popular Now

Ask a Question

Subscribe to ThriftyFun Newsletters!