Looking For Discount Craft Supplies Websites?
Teachers know almost everything. Why not ask your sons teachers for some good websites - the boys can learn and have age-appropriate fun at the same time.
Reducing Spring Weather Damage
What excellent advice. I hope everyone reads this and does as much as they can for themselves. Kids too can be very helpful if they understand what to do. I think its especially important to avoid downed power lines. Some years ago I remember reading about...
Freezer Maintenance Tips
I think part of being thrifty is doing the best you can with what youve got, and this seems to me to be a pretty good idea. Nobody loves cleaning out the freezer, and this ensures that it gets done at a convenient time and without throwing out good food. I...
Homemade Hand Dish Detergent
Search thriftyfun.com for Octagon soap. Apparently its sold more in southern U.S. at Piggly-Wiggly, Winn-Dixie, etc. and online.
What a Kid Wants for Gifts
I enjoyed reading your tip, Becca, and I think its true for a lot of kids. But a lot of other kids do like a gift card because they can choose their own gift that way, and they dont have to carry cash around. Youre certainly right that its difficult for grownups...
Teaching Toddlers To Read
How wonderful to hear about parents who spend lots of quality time with their kids. I work with small kids. They of course soak up attention like little sponges. Some like to sing, some like to talk, some like to make up stories, some just like to laugh. Whatever...
Will Birds Use Old Nests?
Nothing is easy any more. Believe it or not, apparently in some states its illegal to remove certain bird nests, those of endangered birds, I imagine. Id call the local extension agent or DNR (Dept. of Natural Resources) office and ask them, just to be sure...
Link: Using AOL Computer Check Up
I also use their Active Security Monitor each time I sign on, just to make sure my security systems are working. AOL is not my internet provider, but thats ok with them.
Leave Your Camera Case at Home
What a good idea. For years I drove a hatchback, and there was no place to hide stuff.
Old "Washing Clothes" Recipe
Years ago our next-door neighbor used to tell us stories about living on a farm. They had a windmill for water and newspaper for insulation in the house walls. They got paid once a year when Pa took the crops to market. The rest of the year they lived off their...
Replacement Filter for My Coffee Maker?
Its most likely activated carbon, which is the same as activated charcoal. For your purpose, it will have to be food-grade. A water-conditioning store sounds like the best place to find it.
Gas Tips
Thanks for these tips. A couple of the details are new to me. I think the thriftiest way to drive is Very Carefully. They used to call it defensive driving - drive as if everyone else out there is crazy. Accidents are expensive.
Alternative to Commercial TV Viewing
What a wonderful idea. I work with small children, and find that all too soon they become good consumers of everything they see in tv ads. They deserve a better childhood than that, and your idea is a wonderful way to protect them from greedy advertisers.
How To Get A Dog To Like You?
Sign up for a dog obedience course, just you and the dog, and then go to it, even if the dog already knows commands. Hell learn something new - to respect you. Obedience instructors say they are training the owner as much as the dog. You sound so discouraged...
Guard Your PIN From Other Eyes
Youre a smart cookie. We should all be so careful about our personal info and identities.
My Organized Life
Diana, youve written a wonderful essay. I especially love your wish list - you gotta have a dream. Thank you for your inspiration.
Resolving a Consumer Complaint
Thanks for the nudge. I have to write a couple of letters - recently the telephone company dumped a ton (literally) of snow in my back yard so they could dig up their easement across the street. I called and called them, and was repeatedly told they wouldnt...
Hide Emergency Cash in a Lipstick Container
Good idea. And I think Id make a little note of the location in my address book, in code, so I wouldnt forget where the cash is.
Using Flannel As A Winter Drape Lining?
Yes, I cover my old windows with layers in the winter - plastic over the windows inside, then heavy hand-crocheted curtains, then long drapes. Next year I may make simple quilted drapes to keep the drafts out. It all helps, and I think white flannel will be...
Always Check Postal Rates
Thanks for the info. I was just wondering what the exact date of the next increase is. I have to mark my calendar.
Silky Scrub Bath Salts
Sounds like a wonderful gift, and you can custom make it for different allergies and skin problems, like winter-dry skin.
Some Stores Banning Plastic Bags
I love re-using plastic bags to store all sorts of things, and even though I love the environment, I dont know what Im going to do without plastic bags.
Book Lights for Kids During Power Outages
I love these little lights. Theyre handy for a lot of situations, at home or when traveling. I keep one in the car and one on the front porch, in case I forget to leave a light on in the house.
Washable Place Mats for Dog Dishes
Good idea. I used to put my doggies food bowl and water dish on a boot tray that had a 1-inch lip around it. It kept everything off the floor. I also bought a round plastic cloth that goes under the Christmas tree (for $.25 after Christmas), for the future...
Paying Back Insurance Benefits When Getting SSDI?
How about asking the lawyer who won your appeal and got you the money in your checkig account? He or she should know who can help you.
Establishing Credit With A Credit Card?
Two things: first, you probably wont get a regular credit card with an income of $200/month. The usual minimum is about $15,000 per year, or about $1,250 a month. Second, you might be able to get a secured credit card through your local bank. You put $500 or...
Getting Rid of Weeds with Salt?
Since its from WW II, Id guess its hemp, not the kind of marijuana that some people smoke. But apparently its not legal to grow any of it in the US. Id call the county ag agent. They know everything about plants. Then Id talk to the sheriff. Id be wary of salt...
Goodie Bags as Presents
Good idea. Kids often love small gifts. And it works both ways. Just this morning, an 11-year-old friend gave me a handmade braided keychain that she and her sister had made. Its a sweet gift, and Ill think of her every time I use my keys.
Inventive Clothes Line and Post Straightening
Youre a clever lady. In the winter I sometimes hang wash in my upstairs hallway. Its out of the way and warm. I wish I could hang wash outside in the summer, but I get too much dust and dirt from the road.
Coffee Grounds for Icy Sidewalks
Ive been doing without salt because its so hard on the environment, but this I can do with a clear conscience.
Appraising Inherited Rings?
I used to work in a retail jewelry dept. and we could usually size rings up or down 2 sizes. More than that, the stones might fall out or the design ruined. Be sure you check on that. You might also consider removing the stones and having it all re-made into...
No Gardening Yet in Maine!
Im been checking all week for my snowdrops to bloom in Wisconsin - nothing yet. The rain will wash away the remaining dirty snowpiles in the next few days, but itll be 2 months before things can be planted outside. Still its fun to dream.
Have a UPS to Protect Your Computer from Power Surges
I have often wondered how much protection my regular surge protector provides. Thanks for the info. During a thunderstorm, I just pull the plug out of the wall, to protect my computer and printer.
Masking Tape for Picking Up Small Items
Thank you for a good idea. Makes me wonder if I can do this the next time I drop a hard (not soft) contact lens on the floor.
Consumers Beware Of Quicken Loans
Wow. I just heard an ad for them on local radio this a.m. I hope you notified the Better Business Bureau too. On their website, you can check any company. People need to be warned about them. Good luck to you.
No Snow Boots?
What a sweet idea. I hope she remembers when she gets big how grandma and grandpa made boots for her so she could play outside in the snow.
Meals That Can Be Prepared in Advance?
Go to Goodwill and spend $5 to get a bread machine. Then go online and download the manual if it didnt come with the machine. Make whole-wheat bread or half-white/half-whole-wheat, or add nuts or raisins or cranberries, whatever you like. Its delicious, loaded...
Walmart Will "Price Match" On Sale Patterns
Thanks for the idea. I used to work at Walmart and knew they match sale prices from other stores, but I didnt think to use it on patterns. It often helps to talk to a manager, usually an assistant store manager. Theyre trained to follow store policies, and...
My Frugal Life: Message In A Bottle
Yes! A bread machine is so easy to use and the bread is so delicious. I think everyone should have one. And you can be as creative as you want to be. Great invention.
Glycerin in Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap?
According to hyenacart.com, Natural Living Forum, glycerin causes buildup when used to wash clothes, so you wouldnt want it as an ingredient in laundry soap.
Behind The Lines Of Time
Your photo is wonderful. I hope you take lots of pictures of your dad. I still enjoy the photos I have of my dad. My dad died 20 years ago a few months before his 90th birthday. He used to say that when he closed his eyes, he still felt like a young man.
Cleaning a Diamond and Pearl Ring?
Yikes!!!! Dont use anything stronger than mild soap and water on your pearls. Anything abrasive, like toothpaste, will take the luster off of them and you will not get the shine back. Clean the diamond with mild soap and water also. Ask a reputable jeweler...
Hanging Lightweight Wooden Carving?
How about screwing a long L-shaped metal hook into the window molding, to support each end of the board? If the board is 12 wide, youd put the hooks 12 from the top of the window molding. You could use some velcro to secure it.
Information on Machine Quilting?
Try your public library. Theyll have quilting magazines like Quilters Monthly Newsletter and Quilting, with lots of ads and info.
Take Care Of Yourself When Handling Old Patterns
Ok mom! I love all those old books and magazines and patterns too. Cant get enough of them. I have Workbasket magazines from the 50s that I love to go through - how did women have time for all that intricate work back then? Youre right. We should be careful...
Frugal Sightseeing in San Francisco?
You might search Google street view cities before you go - it gives you photos of street scenes in San Francisco (and other places).
Easy Knit Glasses Case
Thanks. This is a neat idea. I love ideas that let you use your own imagination to create something unique to you.
Quilting Frame to Use With a Sewing Machine?
At the public library you can find a copy of any monthly quilting magazine (Quilters Newsletter, Quilting) and youll find ads with photos of the frames youre looking for.
Frangelico (Jack Russell?)
I too was concerned that you adopted her at 3 weeks. Thank goodness you knew how to take care of her so young. And good for you for giving a Katrina pup another chance. Shes adorable.
Using Empty Oatmeal Canisters?
Ive used them to store rolls of wrapping paper on end, rolled up paper intarsia patterns for my knitting machine, and long tools for my knitting machine.
Hot Tang Is Soothing For Colds
Check out the Wikipedia entry for Tang. Itll make you laugh through your cold. Tang to clean your dishwasher?
Covering a Glassed Paned Door?
On mine, I put a curtain rod at the top of the window and one at the bottom of the window and hung gathered curtains, attached top and bottom.
Saving Money to Buy an Expensive Item?
I hope you think about saving money for your future. Buy a used treadmill from a secondhand sports shop or Goodwill, and save the rest. In fact, set up a regular savings plan for yourself. Youll be glad you did.
Planting an Apple Tree?
Your extension agent can give you the best advice for your area. You probably want to plant 2 trees of different kinds, and at least 10 or 15 feet from your neighbors lot line. Id be happy about getting bees, as long as they arent the africanized ones. I dont...
Pedestrian Safety Tips
What a tragedy for that little girls family. And even though it sounds as if the bus driver was not responsible for the accident, Im sure he was devastated. School bus drivers are trained to repeatedly tell the kids to be very careful crossing the street. Some...
Amazing Deals On Outdoor Fabric at Walmart
I used to work at Walmart, across from fabrics and crafts, and I remember the crowds that those $1 fabric sales caused. I got some myself. The only thing that concerns me is that all or most of that fabric is made in China. I worry about formaldehyde on the...
Always Buy the Same Brand of Socks
You dont just darn the sock? I keep a needle threaded with white thread so I can mend a hole in a sock when I first notice it. When they get too worn out, they become rags for dusting and polishing.
Spending Money on Things You Don't Need?
If youre still snowed in, you could use the internet to design your dream garden. It wont be long before we all have to get out and dig in the dirt again. Or check out Bibliomania.com for free online books - try a few chapters of an author new to you, then...
Keeping Side Mirrors Clear of Ice
What a good idea. It sure beats trying to clean those mirrors early in the morning when you have to get to work.
PatternReview.com Sewing Website
Thank you so much. I look forward to getting some tips on altering patterns. Ive gained weight and havent been sewing because my old patterns no longer fit. And when I finally lose the weight, Ill know how to alter the patterns again.
Bargain Hairstyling At Adult Education Classes
Isnt this a wonderful bargain. We have a local technical school that offers inexpensive haircuts and other services, and just this week a new beauty school opened here offering $5 haircuts and big discounts on other services. Its all by appointment, so you...
Use a Heavy Rubber Band on Your Toothpaste Tube
Thanks. I have several tubes (toothpaste, antibiotic cream, etc.) that deserve this.
Plant Onions To Keep Cats Out Of Your Yard
This is almost too good to be true. Can it work? You could plant onions around the bottom of your bird feeders too. I want to try this if and when spring comes again.
Is .925 Silver Worth Anything?
Sterling silver (regardless of country of origin) is 92.5% pure silver. Thats why its marked 925. Sterling silver may also be marked SS instead of 925. All silver and gold that is sold has to be marked to show its precious metal content. Pure silver and gold...
Seasoning Veggies and Beans?
Big Lots has a large seasoning section in my local store. I especially like the cajun spice and the no-salt seasoning (garlic, onions, etc.). Theyre about $.60 each for a 4 - 5 ounce shaker.
Inovisio Eye Drops for Cataracts?
I asked a similar question here last year about Nu-Eyes eye drops. They are also sold under the name Can-C. Theyre all the same thing, I believe, N-acetylcarnosine. I never got a good answer, but if you search Nu-Eyes cataract eye drops in ThriftyFun, youll...
Wedding Gift Bags to Hold Bottled Water?
You might try papermart.com in California. They also carry plastic and cloth gift bags. I ordered small boxes last year and got excellent service from them. They were more highly recommended by the Better Business Bureau than U.S. Box. U.S. Box had some complaints...
Inovisio Eye Drops for Cataracts?
Ive done a little more online research on this, and have found a list of nutritional supplements that are mentioned in various places as helpful in preventing or even improving cataracts - glutathione, N-acetylcysteine, alpha lipoic acid, vitamins A, C and...
Creative Description for Someone Turning 80?
If and when I get to be 80, I want to be called an Oxygenerator. That is wonderful.
Grow Cuttings To Give Away
This is such a wonderful thing to do for people. I have neighbors who grow cuttings and give the plants as door prizes at their churchs senior citizens monthly meeting. Even if it dies by next month, it still gives real joy to someone for a little while. If...
Esprit Cabane - French Craft Site
What a great idea. Another way to translate: click on Settings on your Google bar (at upper right of your screen). Then click on Options, then on Translate. Hope it works for you.
Add Acid When Making Stock
I have loved Adelle Davis books since the 60s when I bought all of them in paperback. Her nutrition has been updated some since then, but she still, after all these years, gets it right most of the time. She was to American nutrition what Julia Child was to...
Jack (Irish Glenn of Imaal Terrier)
Hes gorgeous. I love terriers too - theyre smart, very hardy and healthy, excellent companions, and about as cute as a dog can get.
Garden Arch For Protecting Plants
What a good idea. I really like the look of the arch and cascading plants.
Crocheted Alphabets?
I googled alphabet in crochet and the first one was the crochet.about.com library where they have individual letters you can print out and then crochet. You are an ambitious crafter to do all of those. Good luck to you.
Hanging Ball Made With Old Cards
So thats how these beautiful decorations are made. I wondered how many hands it took to make them.
You CAN Save $5,000 This Year! - Tips From Woman's Day
Thanks for the website. I used to buy Womans Day magazine every month at the grocery store. It always has a lot of good ideas. I hadnt realized that they had a website too.
Speeding Up a Knitting Project?
Bigger needles and thicker yarn make a project go faster, of course, but the best old-fashioned advice Ive read is to do a 4-inch-square swatch first to determine your gauge. It may seem a waste of time, but its really a must if you want your project to fit...
Decorated Ceramic Lamp
Very creative idea. Every time I go into Goodwill I see lots of lamps, just waiting for a designers sponge or brush.
Sir Eeagads (Giant Green Iguana)
This is the most unusual photo Ive seen on Thriftyfun. Thanks so much for sending it in. Eeagads is a very beautiful creature. I really hope people who think they want a pet like Eeagads will pay attention to what you say. He needs lots of proper care.
Mark Your Gas Cap With Your Address
Phone number is a good idea. I worry about this every time I stop to get gasoline. Some car models used to have the cap attached to the tank with a chain. And the new models probably have a sensor that goes off if the cap isnt on when you re-start the car.
Free Entertainment Ideas?
The library is my top choice. Books, movies, music, tapes and lots of free local brochures and information. And you could update your resume for your next job. Learn something new or update some skills that will help you get a good-paying job that you will...
Safe Air Fresheners for Cockatiels?
Be sure to check out the Related Links that Thriftyfun lists just above and to the right of our feedback.
Is the Job on Craigslist Legitimate?
Ive found its really hard to find a legitimate work-at-home job on the internet. The last one I had was a research job that paid so little I couldnt afford to keep it. Id suggest you make something creative and sell it on ebay. Or call your local technical...
Trace Patterns Off Computer Screen
Ok, so you put window glass or a piece of thick see-through plastic over the screen. I think its still a good idea, maybe because my printer needs ink.
Denim And Pink Recycled Quilt
What a beautiful quilt. I like the pastel pink and blue colors together. And the denim must make it very warm and cozy.
How I Save Money By Keeping a Clean House
Wow - this is a wonderful essay and you inspired dramatic comments. You should be out on the lecture circuit with all those other great motivational speakers. I am a little curious, though, to know whether youd give it all up to work full-time outside the home...
Creative Crafting with Cookie Cutters
Ive been waiting for these ideas. Ive collected a couple of dozen cookie cutters from after-holiday sales and I knew Id eventually find ideas on what to do with them. Thanks.
Sizing Charts For Making Clothing
Thanks for such a helpful website. It makes me want to dust off my knitting machine and get knitting.
Cutting Fabric Strips?
Joann Fabrics sells a clear plastic board with slits in it that you use with a rotary cutter. Its called a June Tailor Shape Cut board. You can fold the fabric and cut 1/2-inch or wider strips. Its in the quilting notions, maybe $15 now. Mine is 10 years old...
How Do I Sell My House to My Son?
I believe Louisiana state laws are a little different than those of other states, because they are based on the French system of law, not the English system that other states use. Ask your local banker or a local realtor for the name of a good real estate attorney...
Making Needlepoint Heirlooms?
If I were collecting needlepoint in the future, I think Id look for (1) unique, original designs, (2) signed and dated by the maker, and (3) top-quality materials. After all, it wont last long enough to become an heirloom if its not made of top-quality fabric...
Home Remedies for Dog Joint Pain?
Glucosamine/chondroitin helped my dog right away. Walgreens brand is one of the least expensive and comes in gelatin capsules (check the label), so you can just open it and sprinkle it on the dogs food. It has a sweet and salty taste, not bad. I used one capsule...
Quilting With Foil Snack Bags?
This is such an interesting idea. I hope you will tell us more about it. And thanks to your son for his service to our country. You must be very proud of him.
Keep Track Of Guest's Beverage Choices
Regina, you are an angel. I have food allergies and of course take responsibility for my own well-being, but its so kind of you to take care of your guests to this extent, and wonderful that you do it without fuss and bother.
Feathers Coming Out of Down Jacket?
How about making a flannel lining for it? I dont think feathers would work through flannel.
Making Crafts for Money?
How about selling your crafts on ebay? Think of something original and clever and itll sell.
Cleaning Plastic Bead Curtain?
This might be a good way to find a younger person who can help with chores. Maybe theres a friend, relative or neighbor who has a son or daughter who can help you out once in a while. Try one out on this chore; see how she or he does. You ll want your helper...
Speech Ideas for Receiving an Award at Work?
Congratulations on your award. You have a good employer who recognizes good people and obviously wants to keep you. How about something like Thank you for this award for ______. Im very pleased and honored to win it this year. It means a lot to me. Thank you...
Sewing Helpers
I love Sewing with Nancy and watch it often. Ive been sewing for many years, but she comes up with new ideas that are really worth trying.
Starting a Discount Canned Food Grocery Store?
How about Diamonds? Because Diamonds is a girls best friend.
Doggie Biscuits That My Dog Won't Choke On?
It isnt hard to make your own doggie biscuits, and there are plenty of recipes online. Most of them are edible for people too, and you avoid all the chemicals they have in the store-bought ones.
