Resizing a Large Hat
Another method Ive used for stage work - take a piece of plain cotton or muslin about 12 inches wide and a little longer than the circumference of the hat, fold and stuff the band of material into the hatband, adjusting until the fit is rignt. Most of the time...
Inexpensive Sewing Supplies
Absolutely - when I think of what sewing notions and fabric cost retail I shudder. In our town we not only have 6 - 7 general purpose thrift stores, but we also have a special craft recycling shop which stocks donated thread, patterns, material, zippers, trim...
Going Rate for House Cleaning?
In my area, its about $15 an hour. Thats with the cleaner providing all materials and equipment.
Plantar Wart Coming Back?
These are just tough little dudes to get rid of. My sons plantar wart required 2 burn offs to be truly eradicated. Fortunately our doctor does it himself in his office and doesnt send us to the podiatrist (yay!) Call ahead to the doctors office to be sure they...
Removing Yellow Stains from Linen?
For antique linens, I suggest you consult an antiques dealer. I have purchased a locally produced soak product for heirloom clothes, LilyWhite, from an antiques dealer. I dont know if its still available. I am still hoarding my supply! It removes a substantial...
Cleaning with Rubbing Alcohol
Good share! I remember this suggestion years ago from a housecleaning manual, about how to freshen bathrooms quickly with a little rubbing alcohol on a pad of tissue. If the alcohol odor bothers some, try one of the vinegar based cleaning sprays instead. Try...
Can You Reuse Potting Soil?
Of course. I pool all my soil from last years annuals in a pile, add peat moss and fresh potting soil as needed, and find that I usually only buy one small bag of new soil each year. Make sure your pots stay outside all winter so they get nice and chilled to...
Make a Flannel Half Slip for Warmth
Right on! You can repurpose sheets for many clothing and craft projects, also tablecloths, shower curtains, etc. Sheets can make great curtains, pillow covers, costumes, stage props or playclothes. Look for good quality in the material if you plan to wear the...
Sewing Patterns Swap Groups?
Another good source for patterns, particularly craft or costume patterns, is thrift stores. Look for a section with fabric remnants, notions, craft supplies, and usually there is also a supply of patterns for 25 or 50 cents. This applies usually to the smaller...
Holiday Ice Candle
Wow, we made these as kids too. There used to be instructions on the GulfWax packages.
Homemade Pullout Shelves for Cupboards
Good thought! Sterlite has white plastic square storage baskets that have small square holes in them. I have one of those vertical closet organizer shelves that used to become a junky mass of stuff. Now I have added 4 baskets for underwear, socks, hose, etc...
Pay Off Your House
Absolutely the best financial advice. Additional thought: How much house do you need? Do you have too much? I have siblings who have deliberately downsized their homes as their financial situations changed (and not as empty-nesters), taking the initiative to...
Store Wipes Upside Down
I have just decided that Ive had it with these convenient cleaning wipes in plastic containers. The chemical agent in them makes my hands chap and peel unless I use gloves, which arent always handy. I tried the green version and it dried out much more quickly...
What is this plant?
ALL the varieties of Wandering Jew are great for the thrifty gardener because they are so easy to propagate and work well in semi-shady places. I usually get 3 - 4 of the hanging basket style Wandering Jew plants each season, pop off the hanger attachments...
My Frugal Life - Avoiding The Fast Food Life
Now that Im retired, I luxuriate in the time to shop and plan and prepare more home cooked meals. I enjoy trying new recipes and thinking of creative ways to use leftovers, new twists on old favorites, and other ways to stretch food dollars and enjoy our meals...
Craft Uses for Old Clothing
Once youve exhausted craft possibilities, separate the rest of your old clothing and recycle it 3 ways: first, take anything that is still reasonably current and not ripped or stained to friends (especially childrens clothing), church, Goodwill or a free clothing...
Sewing Machine Recommendation?
At the local sewing center, where they repair machines and take them in trade, they can steer you to the best used models they have in stock. These have been repaired and reconditioned and are generally an excellent bargain. On her recommendation, I got a 10...
