There’s something nostalgic about trading store-bought Valentines with cute pictures and candy-heart messages. They’re also cheap, and if that’s the way you want to go, we’re OK with that. But if you can’t find the “just-right” box of cards or you want to add a little personalization to your … [Read more...] about Cheap, quick and easy homemade valentines
DIY
15 non-food uses for Glad Press’n Seal
When Glad Press’n Seal first appeared on the market, I saw it as an expensive version of plastic wrap and couldn’t see how it would be worth the extra money. (Walmart sells a small roll -- 70 square feet -- for $2.54.) After seeing it in action at a friend’s house and finally purchasing my own box, … [Read more...] about 15 non-food uses for Glad Press’n Seal
Top 10 DIY kids’ activities for a rainy or snowy day
We love ideas for cheap kids' activities and homemade toys. The creativity used to make handmade toys is fun in itself. Plus, using household items is a good way to reuse and recycle stuff you already have. Here are 10 DIY toys, games and kids activities suitable for indoor play. The simplest kids … [Read more...] about Top 10 DIY kids’ activities for a rainy or snowy day
No sled? No problem. 17 DIY ideas
If you're in the south, or another place where snow is a rarity, you may find yourself in a conundrum the next few days. Lots of snow, no sled. Maybe you're one of the lucky few with a store-bought sled. You'll be the envy of the sledding hill crowd this snow day. But if not, don't … [Read more...] about No sled? No problem. 17 DIY ideas
Homemade gifts: 11 easy ideas for drink & sweet mixes
There is nothing more heartfelt than a one-of-a-kind gift you make yourself. So many different types of gifts lend themselves to being handmade — candles, soaps and, of course, edibles and drinkables. Most folks on the receiving end of such gifts appreciate the thought and time it took to create … [Read more...] about Homemade gifts: 11 easy ideas for drink & sweet mixes
12 cheap, easy Christmas DIY decor projects
Ho-ho-homemade is the key to cheap, but pretty, holiday decorations. I mean, have you seen the prices on real Christmas wreaths? Here are some ideas we gleaned from various sources to help you put some sparkle into your holidays without busting the budget. Bonus: Most of these ideas are easy … [Read more...] about 12 cheap, easy Christmas DIY decor projects
15 quick and easy handmade Christmas gift ideas
Looking for DIY and handmade Christmas gift ideas? We found tons of handmade gifts that are easy to make and special to give. From edibles to handmade bath products, all of these Christmas gift ideas provide an affordable way to celebrate the holidays and to give gifts that are unique and … [Read more...] about 15 quick and easy handmade Christmas gift ideas
Make your own easy holiday wreath
As a traditional part of decorating for the holidays, we adorn our walls and doors with pine wreaths and garlands. The stores are full of wreaths with sensors that start music for passersby, simple plastic-pine wreaths embellished with bells and bows, and natural pine garland wreaths that fill the … [Read more...] about Make your own easy holiday wreath
Make your own pop-tarts and other DIY convenience foods
They're called convenience foods for a reason. But take a little time to make these items and enjoy the convenience of ready-to-eat foods with a cheaper price tag — and, sometimes, a healthier result. Some prepackaged foods (such as frozen pizzas) can be expensive, available seasonally (Girl Scout … [Read more...] about Make your own pop-tarts and other DIY convenience foods
Frugal Halloween decor: Create a haunted wedding
As Halloween approaches, witches, ghosts and zombies are starting to appear in front yards. For an entirely different approach to decorations, one that is elegant but eerie, consider the Haunted Wedding. The materials are inexpensive, but it will take some time and creativity. At night, the clothes … [Read more...] about Frugal Halloween decor: Create a haunted wedding
Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
It may be mid-summer, but for many, the hottest days of summer are just beginning. You want the kids to get outdoors and be active, but running around can build up a thirst. Ice pops are a great way to cool off and keep hydrated. Still, with some brands costing nearly $5 for a box of six, … [Read more...] about Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
How to build and grow your own salad table
Do you love vegetables and salad, but can't plant a regular garden? A salad table is a portable, waist-high table just deep enough to grow salad greens, herbs and other shallow-rooted plants and vegetables. The shallow wooden box frame has a large surface area and a mesh bottom that … [Read more...] about How to build and grow your own salad table
