For fall decorating, you could purchase a ready-made scarecrow-on-a-stick from a craft store. Or, you can make your own one-of-a-kind scarecrow mostly using materials you have at home.Here’s what you’ll need Safety pins and/or various lengths of ropeBurlap sack or pillowcase for … [Read more...] about Make a scarecrow from items you have at home
DIY
A complete guide to celebrating Halloween on the cheap
With more than 41 million potential trick-or-treaters knocking on 120 million doors, Halloween can become one of our most expensive holidays. But even if you don't want to spend a lot, there is no need to turn off the lights and pretend you aren’t home or try to persuade your kids that sweets are … [Read more...] about A complete guide to celebrating Halloween on the cheap
Make your own pop tarts and other DIY convenience foods
No one can argue that convenience foods are a huge time-saver. But some prepackaged foods can be expensive (frozen pizzas), available seasonally (Girl Scout cookies) or filled with artificial ingredients (fruit rolls and pop tarts).If you take a little time to make these items in advance, you … [Read more...] about Make your own pop tarts and other DIY convenience foods
12+ new ways to use old sweaters
What should you do with old sweaters?You bought those sweaters for ski slopes you no longer visit, holiday and ugly-sweater parties at offices where you no longer work, or for fashions and sizes you no longer wear. Now, they take up space in your closets and drawers. The wool sweaters itch; … [Read more...] about 12+ new ways to use old sweaters
Make your own 100-calorie snack packs to save cash — and your diet
As a registered dietitian, I believe a 100- to 200-calorie snack between meals is great way to achieve and maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. Clearly, others agree as grocery stores, gas stations and convenience stores sell countless numbers of 100-calorie packs of crackers, cookies, candy and … [Read more...] about Make your own 100-calorie snack packs to save cash — and your diet
30 easy, cheap home decorating ideas
If you’re trying to create a new look in your bedroom or living spaces, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on new furniture or a remodel. With a little bit of imagination and some effort, you can decorate a house on a tight budget by repurposing what you already own and making smart … [Read more...] about 30 easy, cheap home decorating ideas
16 life hacks using pool noodles and other summer clearance items
The bargainista part of me just loves all those end-of-season sales. I get bargain-priced holiday wrap, Halloween decorations and more. Summer's end brings similar deals — you know what I mean if you've ever walked through the pool/outdoor area of any Target, Walmart, Christmas Tree Shop, … [Read more...] about 16 life hacks using pool noodles and other summer clearance items
How to save thousands around the house
We are all looking for ways to save money, especially if you are a homeowner. Homes and their regular upkeep and maintenance can easily drain your wallet. In this busy world, there can still be ways to DIY that don't consume every second of your free time but still save thousands on home … [Read more...] about How to save thousands around the house
Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
It's summer, it's hot and you want the kids to get outdoors and be active. When all that running around builds up a thirst, ice pops are a great way to cool off and keep hydrated. With some popsicle brands costing nearly $5 for a box of six, store-bought treats can be a pricey option. Luckily, … [Read more...] about Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
18 cheap and easy DIY home improvement projects
You bought a new home, and the list of projects that need to be done is larger than your bank account. Or, the home you bought years ago is looking a little dated, and you don’t have the money to hire someone to give it that much-needed face-lift.Many easy do-it-yourself projects that will … [Read more...] about 18 cheap and easy DIY home improvement projects
How to get salon results from your DIY pedicure
I love the look of a pedicure. Be it a shiny color or a beautiful design, a pedicure makes me think of carefree, barefoot summer days. You may not be able to get out to the salon for a pedicure, but that's no reason to neglect your feet. They're still dealing with all the walking, running and … [Read more...] about How to get salon results from your DIY pedicure
11 best websites for kids’ crafts
When kids get bored, let them use their imaginations with fun craft projects. The internet is full of creative art project ideas that are easy for kids to do and don't involve fancy materials. Here are a few of my favorite kids craft websites that offer FREE instructions for games and crafts, as … [Read more...] about 11 best websites for kids’ crafts
Homemade cards and gifts for Father’s Day
Some dads are notoriously difficult to buy for, which can make Father’s Day stressful for their children. We want our gifts to show Dad how special he is in our lives. When budgets are limited, that can be a real trick, especially when dads are of an age where they really don’t need … [Read more...] about Homemade cards and gifts for Father’s Day
Giant backyard games you can build yourself
Game time is fun, but for bigger fun, you need bigger games. You may have seen those giant outdoor games made from ordinary board games. These are perfect for the kids to play with all summer or for pulling out for a summer party. But buying them can cost hundreds. Fortunately, you can … [Read more...] about Giant backyard games you can build yourself
Memorial Day Weekend freebies and deals 2023
Memorial Day is a day for parades and remembrance, picnics and barbecues — and lots of deals!Many restaurants and retailers are offering discounts and freebies over the Memorial Day weekend. Some of the deals are only for military personnel or veterans, while others are available to all. Some of … [Read more...] about Memorial Day Weekend freebies and deals 2023