Daily Thrifty Tips - August 25, 2008

I hope everyone had a nice weekend and all the Moms and Dads are surviving back to school time. If you are looking for Back to School tips be sure to visit our topic site here:

http://www.thriftyfun.com/Back%20To%20School_2.html

We have two new Saving Money On... topics this week. Do you have any advice to offer?

Saving Money on Shoes

Tips for saving money on shoes. Feel free to post you ideas below.

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Saving Money on Bedding

Tips for Saving Money on Bedding. Feel free to share you ideas below.

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Thanks for reading,

Susan

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Crafting for Fun and Money!

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Calla Lilies Photo for Wedding Invitations

These are my calla lilies. I used this photo to make my wedding invitations. They were lovely! I used the picture in black and white.

By Karen from Bolivar, TN

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Craft Project: Tile Word Art

A friend of mine gave me ceramic tiles she had left over from her bathroom. She knows I paint on anything that stands still! Word Art is so popular right now. I decided to make the tiles look like stones. They can then be hung individually or in groups.

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Reusing Zip Lock Foil Lined Product Bags

I love zip lock bags. And what better than one that is foil and pretty much moisture proof? Now, I am not touting any brand name "anything". But, I get these cat food bags at the dollar tree. They are great for keeping moist towelettes, emergency first aid items, pet treats, cds/dvds for the kids, and just about anything you don't want to get wet (or in the case of the towels, dry out).

You may want to cross out the names of the products, just so you know it's not trash. The thing I like about this pouch is that you can open the gusset on the bottom and it will stand up, or flatten it out for things that need to slide into smaller places.
Enjoy!

By Sandra from Salem OR

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Littles (Chihuahua/Shih Tzu)

Littles is 2 years old and is a Chihuahua/Shih Tzu Mix. I got him from a friend.

He likes to play and run with his best friend Schmedly. he is my best friend and like a kid to me.

By Myla from Independence, MO

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Frugal Faux Wedding Cake

My fiance Ken and I just pushed up our wedding date from November 1st to October 5th. So we don't have a lot of time and most definitely not a lot of money. We just found out that Ken's son has enlisted in the Marines and will be leaving on October 17th.

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Different Colored Baskets for Family Members

I like clothes baskets and I used to buy them all in white. To make it easier on my family and me, I bought different colored baskets for each person in the house. No more guessing which basket is mine. Here is a bonus, now each person can pick up his or her basket and put their clothes away.

Added tip: If you already have white baskets or same colored baskets, just tie different colored ribbons or paint a different colored dot of color to designate each family member's basket.

By Georgetta from Waterloo, IA

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Tips for Saving Money on Energy

Even though fuel prices have dropped a bit, I still save as much as I can. I live in a hilly area. Whenever I can, I put my car in neutral and coast. I seem to be saving a few gallons every month-it adds up!

Here in CT, heating season is right around the corner! In my home, I have a programmable thermostat to save on heat during the times I don't need it. I also have a wood stove which I use every day during heating season. I throw on a log when I get home from work, and keep a fire burning until I go to bed-it really keeps the furnace from coming on very often. I get most of my wood for free. I keep any rooms I don't use closed off so they don't take any of the heat, in A/C season, I do the same. This way, my home is comfortable, but I am saving fuel as well!

By Kathy

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Cleaning Oil from Your Driveway

There was a discussion on how to get rid of oil on bricks or drive way. Use turpentine and a hard brush. Pour some turpentine on the spot, use a hard brush and some elbow grease and there you go!

Source: I got this tip from Ronnie who helps me out in the garden from time to time. There is nothing he can't do and is always willing to give me advice on something.

By Charmain from South Africa

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Using Crumbled Deodorant

When my deodorant stick reaches near the end, it often crumbles and falls out of the applicator. I replace the broken pieces, slide a nylon knee-high over the top, twist it so it is snug and the lid can still fit on. It is now ready to use right through the nylon. It is still smooth to the skin and goes on nicely until it is all used up. That has given me an extra two weeks of use and a life saver if you don't have another new one on hand.

By Joyce from Regina, Sask.

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Birthday Party Idea - Gifts for an Animal Shelter

When my husband was turning 60, we decided that since he didn't really want the guests to bring gifts, we'd find something else to do.

So, on the invitations, I put: "The gift of your presence will be present enough. However, if you feel you would like to give him something, please bring any type/kind of pet food, to be donated to a local shelter in his name."

This was a huge success! All the guests brought an enormous amount of dog/cat food, cat litter and treats. When we loaded up my car's trunk with the items, we added up the pounds, as we went. Just for our own curiosity.

The next day, we went to our local Humane Society. We went inside and my husband told the receptionist, he'd brought pet items to donate. The young girl behind the counter, told him to just bring it in and sit it on a chair, across from the desk.

My husband said - I have a LOT of food, and will need help. She got a helper, and they went outside to my car. They brought in the first load, and the second girl told the receptionist, they have a lot; we will need another helper.

All in all, our generous family and friends gave my husband - to donate - an amazing 265 pounds of food/litter, and $58 in cash.

My husband, who loves animals, was very touched by the amount he was able to donate, in honor of his 60th birthday!

As they kept bringing in the food, I mentioned to those present, how he got the items. The Humane Society staff, and a few of the visitors, said it was a very cool idea, one they had never heard of before.

My husband received a very nice "Thank You" letter from the Director of the Humane Society.

I encourage others to do this for other special celebrations. It helps everyone.

By KJ from Gilcrest CO

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Reuse Pringles Can as a Foot Massager

I've found another use for a Pringles can. I recently injured my back and have nerve damage in my foot and leg. My foot burns constantly and the muscles in my lower leg are pretty well shot. I've found relief by rolling a Pringles can forward and back, from heel to toe. I can do this under my desk while I work. It feels like an incredible massage on the bottom of your foot. I believe it's helping to build my muscles back up in my foot and lower leg, as well. This is what you call "good and cheap".

By Artlady from Edmond, OK

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Product Review: GameWave System

Product: GameWave System

Model: GameWave Console

Manufacturer: ZapIt

Cost: $49.99

I think this is a great system full of family-friendly and child-safe games. Some of the games, like "Lock" are based on Yahtzee, others are based on compilations like the Veggie Tales game that has a bingo-type game, a "concentration" type game and 4 others, and puzzle games. The controllers are wireless and very easy to use. More like a simple TV Remote control, which makes it easy for me to use! There are board-games, trivia games, Sudoko, and other educational and just plain fun games available. It's great for a family night and is the one system that I actually feel good about letting my kids play on their own. No blood, violence, nasty language, or awful music! It's perfect for families trying to find a common activity, and definitely gets the kids more interested than they might be in just playing a board game; which is like pulling teeth at my house. For more info, go to their web site to find a store that carries it:

• http://playgamewave.com/index.cfm

By MeMee from Cary, IL

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Tips for Defrosting Chest Freezers

I have an easy, QUICK way to defrost my chest freezer. After defrosting and wiping dry, put about a tablespoon of glycerin on a cloth and run it around the side walls and the top of your freezer. Next time you defrost it, the ice will come off in sheets and no need to chip away. Just get a hairdryer set to its hottest setting and play it around the top rim of the freezer to loosen the ice. Last time I defrosted my freezer after about 8 months, it took me no more than 30 minutess from start to finish!

By Cett from Malta, Europe

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Book Review - 101 Things to Do with a Cake Mix

This is to the person who was looking for recipes to use her cake mixes. I bought a great little cook book titled: "101 Things To Do With A Cake Mix" by Stephanie Ashcraft

I think that I purchased this great little book at Cracker Barrel. They are very easy and really tasty!

By Robyn from Clemmon, NC

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8 in 1 Lightning Shredder

Instead of chopping potatoes and hard boiled eggs for potato salad, I use my cheese grater. What I have is called "8 in 1 Lightning Shredder". The largest shredder has holes almost 1/2 round. It goes very fast and all the potatoes are the same size, as are the eggs. I purchased the grater at a yard sale about 20 years ago. This would be great to use in nursing homes and for elderly people who have a hard time biting those large pieces of taters. And it's a lot faster than chopping.

Source: I thought of this because I didn't like the large size potatoes in my salad.

By Sandy P. from Yakima, WA

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Freezing Cooked Beef

Can you freeze cooked beef that has been refrigerated for 2 days?

Linda

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Homemade Recipes For Damaged Hair

I was wondering if you have any recipes that can make my hair less damaged. I have curly hair but I straighten my hair everyday! Thanks!

Tori from WV

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Finger Foods For Halloween Wedding

I need ideas for finger foods for my Halloween Wedding @ 7:00 p.m. I would greatly appreciate anyone's ideas. I had pumpkin muffins with ham at one wedding but need a recipe as well.

Tiffanie from Richmond, VA

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Who Should Pay To Have My Carpet Cleaned?

I went to Walmart for a gallon of paint, the guy mixed it up and when I got home I accidentally tipped the paint can. Well the guy who mixed the paint didn't seal the lid. Now I have a huge stain on my carpet. Should I try to get Walmart to pay to have to carpet cleaned or just let it go?

Evol from Las Vegas, NV

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Archiving Saved Greeting Cards

I am looking for some tips on "archiving" a ton of greeting cards my boss has received. I thought there might be a good suggestion on how to do this by those who scrapbook, which I have never done. Can you help?

Kack from Jefferson City, MO

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Detecting Entry Source Of Ceiling Leak

I have a wall across the washroom which has leaked since it was done. It only leaks when it rains. The leak occurs between a window on the north wall and the outside back door. I need to try to find where the water is coming in from. There is some flashing at the top of the wall outside that I suspect might be the source.

The water appears on the sheet rock low on the wall near the floor and heavy rain makes it go higher up the wall. The water stains are awful looking now. At times I thought it may be coming in from the window frame at the bottom. There is vinyl siding on the outside wall. The window frame is deteriorated and needs to be replaced.

The bottom line is: Is there a way to detect the water entry source? My husband was ill for some time before he died and did not feel like trying to repair it. I have no real knowledge of carpentry and a ear of high places.

At age 74 I am willing to see what it takes, and maybe find someone who would be willing to do the "high place" work. I have done many things on my own, just need guidance and a direction. Many of you have given me very good help in the past. I appreciate any advice any one may have. Thank you.

Oneta

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Using "Lovin' My Bags" On Pleather

Will "Lovin' My Bags" products work on sealed pleather? I have a dye transfer on a very expensive pleather bag! Thanks for the help.

Carrie

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Removing a Wall in a Basement

I'm planning to (cheaply!) renovate my basement, which is finished. I need advice on how (if at all) I can remove a small wall (made of fake/plywood wood paneling) without having to remove all or part of the suspended ceiling that is partially attached to this wall.

My plan is to prime and paint the wood paneling, install new lighting (track), and buy new designer ceiling panels. Is there a way for me to "cut" out this wall?

Terry from Washington, DC

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Resetting Printer Settings

A few years ago I set my printer so it would print using less ink. Every time I print something the print comes out smaller then the actual size that is shown on the page. Does anyone know how I can get my printer back to the way it printed when I first got it? Thank you so much.

Vicky from PA

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Nothing Has Worked To Get Rid Of Fleas

I have fleas in the house and have followed the advice on this site regarding Borax, salt, vacuuming etc. Nothing has worked, I am finally getting an exterminator tomorrow after finding a flea in my son's hair! Having a cat with fleas is costly, time consuming and making me go insane. I love her, I have had her for 8 years. Is getting rid of her the way to go? Please help.

Monique from Torrance, CA

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Pricing House Cleaning Jobs

How much should be charged for house cleaning for a 3 bedroom villa on Kiawah Island, SC?

Kristina from Kiawah Island, SC

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Halloween Craft Ideas for Orange Net Bags

I know there is a previous topic about uses for net bags, but I'm wondering if anyone has any suggestions for Halloween. The oranges I buy come in net bags that are the perfect Halloween-orange color. Every year we have a party at the office for employees' children. I thought I could save the bags from now until then, if only I could think of a use for them. Any ideas?

Jennie from Northern VA

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Strings Pulling Out Of Towels

Why do strings pull out on new towels so soon? Twenty years ago I kept towels for five years or more with NO strings. Now after just 1 year I have lots of strings, washcloths too.

Cheryl from Severn, MD

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Dog Has Smelly Feet

My 3 year old dog has smelly feet! When his feet gets warm even the sheets and blankets smell! I have taken him to two different vets. They tell me it's normal. I'm 50 and have had dogs all my life and never have I had a dog's feet smell so bad. HELP!

Kathy from Claysville

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Looking For Biz Color Safe Bleach Powder

Where can I buy Biz color safe bleach powder in my area? I cannot find it at most of the stores around me and really like this product.

Diane from Middletown, CT

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Does Sewing Your Own Things Save Money?

We have recently started living more frugally to reduce our debt load. I am very excited about our new life and visit this site for ideas and tips usually more than once a day. :) I am considering buying a beginner type sewing machine and learning to sew so that I can make things for our home instead of buying them at the store.

I am just wondering for those who sew, can making your own things really save you money in the long run? I just want to have the full facts before I invest the money and time in learning this new skill. Thanks.

Kristie from Clearfield, UT

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Removing Glitter From Clothing

I recently purchased a dress whose color and style are exactly what I've been looking for. However, there is glitters all over the fabric to make the fabric sparkle. I really hate it! It is the tiny silver kind that sticks to the fabric. When you handle the dress normally a very small amount will come off. Does anyone have a trick to completely remove the glitters without damaging the fabric? Thanks.

Nancy from Enterprise, FL

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Trouble Using TV Antennas

I am trying to get my TVs to work on old fashion rabbit ear antennas and it is not working. I purchased the least expensive Phillips at Wal-mart and then a better one for $29.00. I can barely pick up ABC, PBS is ok and NBC is very snowy. Can someone give me advice on the type of antennae to use in a rural town?

I live 72 miles from where the stations are located and I am surrounded by mountains. Also, I have coupons for the digital converter box but two Wal-marts that I have checked with are out of stock. I don't think this should make that much of a difference on reception at this time, do you? Thanks so much in advance for your advice.

Angela from Alabama

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Purchasing An Invisible Fence

I am thinking of getting an invisible electric fence for my dogs. (I have four lab/bull terrier mixes and a beagle). I would like any tips or advice on what kind to get, what to do and not to do, etc. I don't want to waste money, so any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

petitelavache from Baton Rouge, LA

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Recipes Using Deli Meat

I work in a local deli. Every week, I am able to bring home sliced deli meat (usually roast beef) that is perhaps a day or two too old to be sold to the public but is still good. Other than sandwiches, any ideas for using this meat for meals?


pizzamama from Oakley, CA

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Recipe For Casa Ole Green Sauce

Does anyone know the recipe for Casa Ole's Green Sauce?

Susan from Longview, TX

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Sanitizing Washing Machine

My father was admitted to an aged care facility recently and I pick his washing up every other day, some of which is soiled. I soak the soiled things and then put everything in my front loader. I am worried about cross contamination/infection. I was wondering if anyone had any ideas about what I could do to prevent this as I use the machine for my own washing, it needs to be something simple and inexpensive. Thanks in advance.

Sharyl from Adelaide, Australia

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Cleaning Algae From Pool Without Using Chlorine

How do you get green algae out of a above ground pool without using a chlorine system? Please help.

Navi from Long Island, NY

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Alternative Scents for Rainbow Vacuum

Does anyone know of any alternatives that can be used instead of the regular scents that you put into your rainbow vacuum cleaner? I don't have any stores near me that sell them and don't want to buy them online without being able to smell them first. I thought about putting liquid potpourri in it but I don't know if that would work and how much I should use? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.

Tiffany

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Uses for Calla Lily Seed Pods

My calla lily blooms form green seed pods inside. I was wondering if these can be planted or if they have any other use?

Hardiness Zone: 4b


Barb D. from St Cloud MN

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Removing Paint Stains from Clothing

The lady I work for does oil paintings. The other day she dropped and I caught it getting paint on my uniform. I sponged it with dish soap, but I think it has stained my uniform now. Any tips to remove this stain?

Ibolya from UK

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Uses for Jigsaw Puzzle Pieces

Does anyone have any idea what to do with puzzle pieces, other than a wreath?

Deb from Chippewa Falls, WI

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Uses for Small Styrofoam Ice Chests

How can I recycle small Styrofoam ice chests? Medication is delivered in these ice chests once a month and they are really piling up. Inside the ice chests are ice packets that I can't find another use for. Any advise on how to recycle the Styrofoam? Thanks for helping.

Satellite from Gainesville, FL

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Benefits of Almond Milk

I would like to learn more about almond milk and it's benefits. Is it better than drinking 1% milk or light soy milk? I recently made some homemade almond milk, but it was kinda gristly even after blanching. How do I make it smoother?

Aliesha

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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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Saving Money on Birthday Parties

Tips for saving money on Birthday Parties (Especially parties for kids) as suggested by the ThriftyFun community.

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