Painted CD WreathYou can achieve this wreath with just 6 CDs, acrylic paint, paper, and ribbon. Or, make your own twist and use the CD as a base as this craft is versatile!

 

Five Minute No-Sew Throw PillowThis quick and easy throw pillow was made from a pillow sham.

 

Scrappy Fun Fabric FlowersI made these pretty flowers from strips of fabric. I attached them to my Five Minute No-Sew Throw Pillow.

 

Mermaid Tail Cake Topper (Gumpaste)Here's an easy gum paste craft for those who like to have mermaid themed parties. This is very simple to make with only three ingredients and a knife as your craft tool.

 

Faux Antique Window ShelfI have seen a lot of old window panes used for wall decor, but since I didn't want to pay the price of purchasing an antique one, my husband made this one out of scraps of wood to make it look like an old window pane. I gave it a distressed look and added decor.

 

Heatable Rice Sack For Your NeckDo you ever get done with a long day of work and have an achy neck and shoulders? If so, then this is perfect for you! This heatable rice sack is quick and simple to make and it's also fun and relaxing to make.

 

Try Geocaching This SummerAs soon as I hear, "Hey, Gigi, let's go geocaching," from one of my grandkids, I'm ready to go.

 

Starting a Summer Book Club and Book SwapKeep your kids entertained and reading over the summer by organizing a book club and book swap. Consider one for yourself as well. This is a page about starting a summer book club and book swap.

 

Attend Free Summer Community EventsThis weekend, we attended Celebrate Hillsboro, an annual summer event provided by the businesses and city of Hillsboro, Oregon.

 

Almost Free Boredom BustersIn June the kids aren't bored yet; the thrill of summer vacation is still upon them. However, August is another story. With movie prices at $6 or higher and gas soaring in its price per gallon, how can you keep the kids busy and your budget happy?

 

Summertime Activities for Your ChildrenFrugal living is nothing new to us as I was raised in a family of 11 kids and many foster children. We may have struggled because money was tight, but we never seemed to lack for fun things to do and there was always something going on that held our attention.

 

Summer Crafts and Activities for Kids (and...If I do not make plans to keep my son busy this summer, he will be perfectly content to waste his days watching TV and playing with his DS. So I plan to set up a daily schedule for him.

 

Crafty Pea TrellisI'm a fan of sugar snap and snow peas. I've seen all sorts of trellises for vining plants like these. Most are some variation of cedar lattice or pipes and wires. I wanted something I could compost with the leaf matter at the end of the season. With a very few durable pieces I could disassemble and reuse. I came up with this design based on what I had in my garage and scrap wood pile.

 

DeKay's SnakeWhen you are digging in your flowers and grassy areas, you may run into this little fellow. It is a DeKay snake and quite harmless and appears to not mind being held, although, I don't want to hold it. I just take pictures.

 

New Plantings and Garden FlowersLast year my grandson and I cut down several forsythia shrubs along the northern edge of the side yard. The stumps still need to dealt with. This year I have focused on planting two lilac bushes further into the yard to ultimately help reestablish a green border between my yard and my neighbor's. There will also be a native mock orange placed along this same line, soon.

 

Toilet Paper Rolls for SeedlingsI had been saving all sorts of toilet paper rolls - I think mainly it was a habit from when we used to have a fireplace. This spring when I decided to start my seedlings I realized I could make life a lot easier for myself if I just started the seeds in the toilet paper rolls!

 

How to Hand Pollinate PassionfruitPassion fruit is very easy to grow. If you have a family member, friend, neighbor, or co-worker who has passion fruit save yourself $30, ask for some passionfruit cuttings. Hydrate the cuttings in water and plant in soil (preferable against the fence, wall, patio) so there is room for the passionfruit plant to crawl on, or an area where you could put a trellis up.

 

Cause of Multiple Sunflowers at the Top of a Single Stalk?I planted mammoth sunflower seeds and they turned out spectacular. The last few remaining blooms are on their last stages and I have one where the stalk's upper portion is enlarged and currently supporting 5 heads of flowers. Two are only 3/4 the size of the big ones and are opposite of each other. The 3 smaller ones are on top as the pictures show.

 

DIY Ear Saver and Mask ExtenderThese straps for your masks are great for many reasons. They relieve heavy strain on your ears from the mask loops pulling on them. They make your masks fit your face much better. They are also great for a little colour pop, working as accessories to potentially match with your outfits. :) I live in an extremely high COVID-19 rate area and always have my mask on.

 

My Life Since Being "Quarantined"I'm not complaining at all here! One thing I want to focus on is my attitude. That is, my attitude now. Oh, I was not very happy with all of this in the beginning! Oh no!

 

Make Your Own Hand SanitizerThis is our official recommended recipe to make your own hand sanitizer at home. This recipe follows WHO guidelines for maximum cleaning power.

 

Non-Pleated Face Mask With Filter PocketAs more of us are looking to make our own fabric masks to wear in public to help prevent the spread of the COVID19 virus, there are a couple of typical types. This page contains a tutorial for making the non-pleated style with a pocket for adding a filter such as a folded coffee filter.

 

Nine Layer No Sew Face MaskWith a square of material and two rubber bands follow these steps and have a fast face mask within a minute!

 

Non-Pleated Face Mask With Filter PocketThe most recent orders from our governor include wearing masks when in public so I decided to make a set of masks for my family. I found a free pattern online for a non-pleated mask with filter pocket.

 

Back To School Breakfast ScheduleWe use to struggle with what to have for breakfast. My children have come up with a breakfast schedule and they posted it on the fridge. They listed days of the week and the breakfast meal that will be served that morning.

 

Green Tips for Back to SchoolOther than the holiday season, back-to-school shopping offers consumers the largest opportunity to collectively vote with their dollars in support of environmentally and socially responsible products.

 

Buy Teachers' Gifts NowIt might be fall, but now is the time to purchase your child's teacher gifts. Teachers always appreciate tokens of student appreciation, especially those that are hand-picked by their students.

 

Saving Money on Packed LunchesWith kids going back to school soon, it's a good time to start looking for ways to save money on packed lunches. Here are some tips shared by the ThriftyFun community. If you have advice, please post it here.

 

Free FundraisersAs schools suffer through budget cuts, fundraisers become even more important. Yet everyone is cutting back, and purchasing wrapping paper, candy, or raffle tickets isn't in the budget.

 

First Day of School PhotosEvery year, since our kids were in Kindergarten, I have taken a photo of them in their cubbies. Looking back at them, they are so small those first few years.

 

DIY Foil Garden Pest DeterrentsFor several years, most of our big fruit trees were being attacked by squirrels, birds, rodents, raccoons, and insects. Deterrent sprays did not work. Hanging shiny CDs barely helped at all. Finally, we tried this foil method and we have all of our fruit intact and growing at extremely rapid rates. Anyone need nectarines? We can't keep up! :)

 

Plastic Bottle Fruit Fly TrapWe have tried many things to get rid of fruit flies in our home, and this is hands down the easiest, cheapest, and most effective way. One of the most important things in order to catch them is the bait you put out. Fruit flies can be more attracted to some things more than others.

 

Use Ammonia to Kill FleasAmmonia applied to carpets where your dogs and cats sleep can be effective in killing fleas. Be sure to let animals out while you do this. This is a page about using ammonia to kill fleas.

 

Mosquito Repellent RecipesMosquitoes are a problem in many regions. This page contains mosquito repellent recipes.

 

Natural Fly RepellantHere is a way to keep pesky flies and mosquitos away using citrus and cloves. Simply cut the citrus in half and insert the cloves into the lime. The scent keeps them away and it is a natural solution.

 

Getting Rid of Horse FliesHorse flies can be a menace to have around. This is a page about getting rid of horse flies.

 

Make Your Own Hand SanitizerLearn the step by step process of making your own hand sanitizer in this short video. This recipe makes a strong enough sanitizer to kill of the coronavirus. This is based off of the World Health Organizations' recommendations. This recipe uses rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and glycerine.

 

Removing Roof Tar from Skin with Olive OilRoof tar and other sticky substances can be gently removed from skin by using regular olive oil from the kitchen. Learn how to do it in this short video.

 

Butterscotch PuddingCreamy butterscotch pudding is easy to make at home with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Learn how to make it in this short video.

 

Swimming SnailThe other day as I was walking past our bog pond I noticed something moving. Upon closer observation I realized it was one of the resident snails swimming in the water. I just had to get a video so that I could show my 6 year old. He loved it and I hope you do too!

 

Halloween Mantel PennantsDress up a boring fireplace mantle with this decorative pennant made from Halloween themed fabric triangles. Learn how to make it in this short video.

 

Japanese Style Puff PancakesThese fluffy pancakes are a delicious alternative to traditional pancakes. Learn how to make them in this short video.

 

Italian Sausage StewI got this recipe from a friend and then tweaked it to my own tastes. Oh my, this dish is so easy and flavorful!

 

Sprucing Up a TV StandIt's easy to spruce up an old wicker TV stand with a few basic supplies. This adds a great deal of storage in an attractive way.

 

Savory Garden EggsUse the bounty from your garden to make a healthy breakfast. This nutritious recipe scrambles eggs with veggies and herbs for a savory start to the day.

 

Beer Battered Onion RingsWow these are soo good, lol. At first I thought, "hey I can go on the Internet and find an awesome recipe for these", but a lot of the recipes had buttermilk, or breadcrumbs. The catch? I did NOT have any of these things :( So I thought I might just wing it! And I am soooo glad I did, these are soo good and easy.

 

Will the Main Street Fairness Act Affect Me?As Congress debates whether or not to pass the Main Street Fairness Act, consumers are wondering what this means to them. In fact, customers have been wondering for years why they pay sales tax to some online and catalog orders and not to others.

 

Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar GummiesApple cider vinegar gummies are all the rage for health these days. Unfortunately, a month supply that comes in the form of one bottle costs about $20. You can make your own at home for a mere fraction of that. These gummies are awesome for keeping your gut in check and keeping you from always being hungry. I chew on one in the morning with a glass of water.

 

Who is the Artist of this Painting?This painting was actually found by a dumpster when moving out of an apartment in Florida. It was in great condition and I liked the scene. The canvas is on a wood frame that has an engraving that says "ARTISTS MATERIAL, Grumbacher, New York." The length of the wood is also stamped "30"or etched "36" onto the wood piece. Any help on the artist and value would be appreciated!

 

Value of Dixie End Tables?I am trying to determine the tables' age, value, and if their original color was white? They were purchased at a thrift store.

 

Identifying a Painting's Artist?Anyone know who this artist with signature "Dylan" is? And if the painting is worth anything?

 

Reactions to a DHLP Parvo Shot?My dog just had a parvo shot. He has been breathing heavily and is very antsy. He is also throwing up and constantly shaking his head. Could this be a severe reaction from the shot?

 

Rottie Isn't Eating or Drinking After Being Spayed?My 9 month old Rottweiler got spayed today and is refusing to drink water or eat out of her bowl. She does however seem to eat her wet food out of my hand. I even put the food up to her mouth, but she just won't eat out of her bowl or drink water. I don't know whether or not to continue hand feeding her or wait for her to eat on her own.

 

Raymond Waites Pattern #595587?I am looking for Raymond Waites pattern #595587. It is part of the Portfolio Collection. Book name Village. Pattern name Conservatory. Color Sage.

 

Finding Plumbing Repair Assistance for...This is a page about finding plumbing repair assistance for low income homeowners. Having working plumbing is a necessity. However, some families can not afford the cost of hiring a tradesperson to make the necessary repairs.

 

Finding Home Repair Help for Low Income FamiliesThere are times when household repairs just can not wait until you have the money to complete the project. This page is about finding home repair help for low income families.

 

Roof Repair for Low Income Homeowners?Low income homeowners often can not afford the cost of roof repairs. Searching for agencies or organizations that might help with the costs may be their only solution. This is a page about roof repair for low income homeowners.

 

Getting Financial Assistance for Roof...When your roof is starting to fail it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible. This page is about getting financial assistance for roof repairs.

 

Finding Roof Repair Assistance for Seniors?Many senior citizens are living on fixed incomes that often are insufficient to meet the maintenance needs of their homes. This is a page about finding roof repair assistance for seniors.

 

Finding Plumbing Repair Help for Low Income Homeowners?This is a page about finding plumbing repair help for low income homeowners. Plumbing repairs may be too expensive for many low income homeowners. However they are quite necessary for health and even safety. Finding a source of assistance to reduce the costs can help.

 

Selling Trees on Your Land for LumberIf you own acres or even a larger residential lot you may have trees that you would like to have removed and be able to sell for the lumber. This is a page about selling trees on your land for lumber.

 

Keeping Animals Out of Your GardenThis is a page about keeping animals out of your garden. Whether it is your neighbor's pet or some form of wildlife, keeping animals out of the garden can be difficult.

 

Identifying Small Black BugsHaving unidentified insects infesting your home can be annoying. It helps to know what kind they are when determining the best way to be rid of them. This is a page about identifying small black bugs.

 

Painting Over Varnish Without SandingIt is often recommend that you sand any surface thoroughly prior to painting it. Painting over varnish without sanding is not a best practice but it can be done.

 

Identifying Little Black Biting Bugs?Identifying biting bugs is the first step in trying to eliminate them from your home or to repel them when outdoors. This is a page about identifying little black biting bugs.

 

Making a Pinhole Solar Eclipse ViewerThis is a page about making a pinhole solar eclipse viewer. There are several ways to safely view a solar eclipse, one is the pinhole viewer.

 

Removing Nail Polish from CarpetNail polish can be difficult to remove from carpet, especially if it has already dried. Check out these tips for getting the nail polish stain out. This is a page about removing nail polish from carpet.

 

How Much is .925 Silver Worth?Sterling silver is a silver alloy containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% of another metal, usually copper. Sterling silver is commonly used for making fine jewelry. This is a page about how much is .925 silver worth?.

 

Tiny Black Bugs in the KitchenThe key to getting rid of tiny black bugs on kitchen floor is first identifying what they are. Check out what has worked for others in this page.

 

Getting Dental Work w/o InsuranceFor the many people without dental insurance, there are sometimes affordable ways to get the needed work done. This is a page about getting dental work done without insurance.

 

Pattern for Fitted Queen Sheets?Making your own bed sheets allows you to choose your fabric and perhaps get a better fit. This is a page about pattern for fitted queen sheets.

 

Getting Rid of Tiny Biting Black BugsMany types of bugs are small and black, if they are biting bugs they can be annoying and a health hazard. This is a page about getting rid of tiny biting black bugs.

 

ASPCA Pet Vaccination Truck ScheduleIn some places like New York City, the ASPCA has mobile vaccination trucks that service neighborhoods on a set schedule. This page has links and information about the ASPCA's mobile vaccination truck schedules.

 

Slipcovers for Reclining CouchesFinding slipcovers for your reclining couch may be difficult. This is a page about slipcovers for reclining couches.

 

Keeping Bees Out of a Hummingbird FeederBees and hummingbirds are often found in the same places in your garden. However, if you are putting out food for the hummingbirds it can attract an unwanted amount of bees. This is a page about keeping bees out of your hummingbird feeder.

 

Finding Help Getting School Clothing and...This is a guide about finding help getting school clothing and supplies. Getting your kids the clothing and supplies they need each year before school starts can be expensive. For the family on a very tight budget it can be overwhelming.

 

Organizations That Help Low Income Families Get Free Furniture?Buying furniture is an expensive undertaking. Families struggling on low incomes often are unable to buy or replace their furniture without some type of assistance. This is a page about organizations that assist low income families get free furniture.

 

Sofa Bed Frame ReplacementSometimes the frame for your sofa bed becomes damaged beyond repair. Finding a new replacement frame can be a challenge. This is a page about sofa bed frame replacement.

 

Repelling Gnats OutsideThis is a page about repelling gnats outside. Flying gnats outdoors are annoying and can spoil your relaxation in the yard or garden.

 

Getting Rid of Invisible Biting BugsWhen you are having trouble identifying what insect is biting you, they can be difficult to get rid of. This is a page about getting rid of invisible biting bugs.

 

Leaning a Ladder Against a Roof...This is a page about leaning a ladder against a roof without crushing gutters. When you need to make repairs or clean gutters, your ladder needs to lean on the house often against the gutters.

 

Is AARP Membership Worth the Investment?Although an inexpensive investment, this senior insurance company may not be exactly the membership you need. This is a page about is AARP membership worth the investment?

 

Removing Anti-Reflective Coating from Glasses?When the reflective coating on your eye glasses is damaged you may need to remove it. This is a page about removing anti-reflective coating from glasses.

 

Helping a Dog Gain WeightThis is a page about helping a dog gain weight. Dogs who have been ill or recently rescued sometimes will need to gain some weight.

 

Finding Glider Chair Replacement CushionsMany glider chairs have fabric upholstered cushions that may need to be replaced long before the chair itself. This is a page about finding glider chair replacement cushions.

 

Removing Rust from Well Water?Well water can contain rust. Not only does rust in your water make the water reddish, unappetizing, and possibly bad tasting it can also stain laundry and other items. This is a page about removing rust from well water.

 

How Do I Remove Black Mold on the Ceiling?This is a page about removing black mold on the ceiling. Black mold can be difficult to get rid of anywhere in the home, but the ceiling can be one of the most challenging.

 

What Agencies Give Laptops to Veterans?This is a page about finding agencies that give laptops to veterans. There are numerous services that Veterans can utilize after they are out of the military. The best way to find out more information is to contact the Veterans Administration.

 

Using AAA When Keys Are Locked In the Car?When your keys are locked in the car, AAA will call a locksmith to help you retrieve them. Hopefully there will be no damage to your automatic window. This is a page about using AAA when keys are locked in the car.

 

Free Computer Training for Senior Citizens?New technology can sometimes make an older person feel left behind. However, there are opportunities for getting free training to help you keep up with the latest computer hardware and software. This page offers some suggestions for finding free computer training for senior citizens.

 

Health Sciences Institute Reviews?This is a page about Health Sciences Institute reviews. Health Sciences Institute is a members only website that focuses on modern underground medicine.

 

Getting Rid of a Musty Smell in the BasementBasements are notorious for developing musty smells. This is a page about getting rid of a musty smell in the basement.

 

Buying Shower Power Cleaner?This is a page about buying Shower Power cleaner. Shower Power cleaner is a popular cleaner for removing soap scum in your shower. Find where to buy Shower Power near you.

 

Shot Glass Party Favor Sayings?I was wondering if anyone had ideas for a saying I could type up to put in my favors. We purchased shot glasses for favors, so I'd like to use the word "shot" in the saying somehow?

 

11th Birthday Party Ideas for GirlsTween birthday parties can be difficult to plan, they are getting too old for children's parties and are still not ready to move up to teen party activities. This is a page about 11th birthday party ideas for girls.

 

Buying Second Hand AppliancesThis is a page about buying second hand appliances. One way to save money on expensive home appliances is to shop for second hand ones in good repair.

 

How to Fix Damaged Surfaces of Wood FurnitureWood furniture can get damaged in a number of ways. This is a page about how to fix damaged surfaces of wood furniture.

 

Remedies for Pain from Wearing DenturesGetting your mouth accustomed to false teeth can be uncomfortable. This page is about remedies for pain from wearing dentures.

 

Selling Items on CraigslistThere are few or no fees when selling items on Craigslist, but there are other things you should keep in mind. This page is about selling items on Craigslist.

 

Identifying Insect Eggs?Identifying insect eggs, whether in your home or garden, can help you decide whether they are harmful or beneficial. This is a page about identifying insect eggs.

 

Preventing Mold on BreadIt isn't any fun to be making a sandwich and discover that your bread is moldy. There are a number of ways to prevent your bread from molding. This is a page about preventing mold on bread.

 

Buy Now, Pay Later WebsitesBuy now, pay later websites offer an alternative to shopping using a credit or debit card. This is a page about buy now, pay later websites.

 

Electric Smoke Detector Won't Stop BeepingIt can drive you to distraction, the constant unexplainable beeping of an electric smoke detector. Often it just needs the battery replaced but it may be a signal that it needs greater attention. This is a page about troubleshooting ideas when an electric smoke detector won't stop beeping.

 

Finding a Lost RelativeWhether you are trying to locate a relative you have never met or attempting to reconnect with some one you have lost track of, finding a lost relative can be a daunting task. This is a page to finding a lost relative.

 

I Want a Frugal Gazebo!Anyone have some money saving tips for building a gazebo for my backyard. We are heading into the summer and I would like to put something nice together that in relatively inexpensive. They have iron Gazebos at Costco for about 400 dollars. I would like to come in well under that. Thanks, Stan

 

What Type of Doctor to Consult for Muscle Spasms?When you have a pain in your muscles, it can be hard to know what is causing it. Certain conditions require different typesof specialists. This is a page about what type of doctor to consult for muscle spasms?

 

Restoring the Shine on a Formica CountertopOver time with normal usage and constant cleaning, your Formica countertops can look dull and worn. This is a page about restoring the shine on a Formica countertop.

 

New Era Medicare Supplemental Insurance...Determining what is the best medicare supplemental insurance for you requires some research. This page contains New Era medicare supplemental insurance reviews.

 

Cat Has Milky White Discharge from Eyes?I'm looking for help with my cat's eye problem. He is a 5 months old and every now and then his eyes start to discharge some stretchy, milky white goo that looks like mucus. If I don't clean them the goo starts to cover his eyeballs. First there's usually some tears from his eyes followed by an infection.

 

Scunci Steamer Doesn't Steam?A clog or a faulty heating element are the most likely reasons your Scunci steam has stopped steaming. This is a page about Scunci steamer doesn't steam.

 

Removing Denture Adhesive from Your MouthDenture adhesive can remain stuck to your gums and the roof of your mouth after taking out your dentures. This is a page about removing denture adhesive from my mouth.

 

Cleaning Buildup Off Hardwood FloorsCertain cleaning products can leave an unsightly buildup on your hardwood floors. This is a page about cleaning buildup off hardwood floors.

 

Blue Cross Blue Shield vs. MedicareThis is a page about getting additional health insurance coverage. If you need medical coverage the choice between Blue Cross Blue Shield and Medicare can be a tough one.

 

Nothing is Working to Get Rid FleasFinding the most effective product and diligence on followup treatments are absolutely needed to eradicate a flea problem. This is a page about nothing is working to get rid of the fleas.

 

Carpet Color to Coordinate With a Grey Couch?Frequently you decide to change your carpet after you have already purchased a couch. Finding just the right coordinating color is fun and occasionally frustrating. This is a page about carpet color to coordinate with a grey couch.

 

Finding a Veterinarian That Accepts PaymentsIt is very stressful to have a pet in need of veterinary treatment and not have the cash for the visit. Finding a practice that will accept payments can be difficult. This is a page about finding a veterinarian that accepts payments.

 

Selling BambooThis is a page about selling bamboo. Bamboo is an evergreen tropical or temperate grass that grows easily and spreads quickly making it a good choice to grow as a money making enterprise. There are many products made from bamboo.

 

Cleaning DenturesThis page is about cleaning dentures. It is important to find the most effective way to clean artificial teeth.

 

Posting Your Garage Sale on CraigslistPosting your garage sale on Craigslist is easy. Knowing the right things to say will get people coming your way. This is a page about posting your garage sale on Craigslist.

 

How Much Does House Cleaning Cost?Whether you are looking for a cleaner or starting your own business, determining the average cleaning rates is a main consideration. This is a page about how much does house cleaning cost.