The Christmas Tree Grinch
We always had real trees growing up even though we werent rich or anything. Christmas was a big deal at our house.My Mom decorated to the hilt and baked cookies and made candy.We always had presents under the tree. I have such wonderful memories of those times...
Uses for Mint Tins
I have used the Sucrets tins for my sewing pins for years. I think I will start keeping the mint tins too.
Use Gravel for Cleaning Bottles
That is a great idea. I have one particular jug that I make refrigerator ICED TEA in and residue seams to stay around the inside bottom of the jug. Im hoping this will do the trick!!!!
Mother's Day Meal?
I think it depends on the type meal that is being served. If it is a sit down dinner, then it is dinner. If it is less formal it is a late luncheon. Usually with family things arent that formal.
Sewing Machine is Wadding Up Thread Under Fabric?
I agree that it is the tension. Most likely on the bobbin. when you turn the tiny screw on the bobbin case you can tighten or loosen the tension. Ina sewing class one time we were told that you should be able to hold your bobbin by the thread without it sliding...
Lingerie Bags for Keeping Track of Socks
Great idea! I had 4 boys that were close in age, therefore wore the same size socks. The answer I found was Sock Rings. Each boy had their own color. My husband even used them. In case anyone doesnt know what Im talking about, Ill describe them. They are plastic...
Removing Black Scuff Marks On Floor?
I came by this method of getting those nasty scuff marks off my kitchen floor purely by chance.Boy, does it work,and with hardly any elbow grease! I sprayed Goo Goneon the scuff marks and let it set just a few minutes,then rubbed it off with an old rag. Thats...
Add Vinegar to Steam Cleaner
Sounds like a good idea. I think Im going to try it the next time. Judy in Al.
Saving Buttons
You have brought back memories for me as well,only my fondest memory was when we went to visit my Aunt. She collected the most unusual and beautiful buttons I had ever seen as a child! She sewed them to a hanging tapestry which made them even more amazing to...
Recycled Garden Totem
I dont even have a garden and I want one!!! Your Totem is awesome.I used to live in the Northwest and have seen real totems, Yours is right up there with the best of them! I think Im going to make one for my Daughter-in law. She loves this sort of thing.
Making Yarn Necklaces?
I dont know if this is what you are looking for,but I will give you the directions just in case. You will need a large bead with a pretty good sized hole in it, and optional other beads to attach to the bottoms of both sides.Get yourself 5 or 6 varieties of...
Making Tote Bag Handles?
If you want a more sturdy handle with a little cushioning,here is the way I make handles for my nicer tote bags and for purses: Cut your fabric strips 4 inches by the length you want for a narrow handle(1 inch.)For a wider handle cut it 6 inches by the length...
Ideas for Crafts Kits?
This may not be too profound,but I thought it clever. Why not call it Finish This, or Finish This by Sandi? Good luck! It sounds like fun. Judy in Alabama
Theme Ideas For Church "Trunk or Treat"?
Since its being held at your church Im assuming you dont want scary things like witches or vampires and the like. Our church has done this for several years, but they left the theme for the trunk decorations up to the individuals. Were you wanting an idea for...
Ranch Dressing Mix
Here is my recipe for ranch salad dressing; Mix together thoroughly 1 cup mayonaise,1 cup buttermilk, 2 tsp. instant minced onion, 1/4 tsp. garlic powder, 1 Tbs. dried parsley flakes and 1/2 tsp. salt. Chill.( may add 1/8 tsp dill weed OR 1/2 tsp. mustard seed...
Paper Craft Gift Set
Maricel,This is such a pretty set. I am definately going to make them! --- I have a friend with teminal cancer,and we are planning a special Tea for her. I think those little baskets would be perfect for favors for the Tea. Thanks for your sharing. Judy
Advice for Making Apple Pie?
Mary, Here is my recipe for Apple Pie.(I use Granny Smith apples)--8 cups pared,cored and thinly sliced apples---1/3 cup packed brown sugar--1/3 cup granulated sugar--1 Tbs. cornstarch(or 2 Tbs flour)--1 tsp, cinnamon--1/4 tsp. nutmeg and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix...
Making Clothing for a Premature Baby?
I just typed in free sewing patterns for preemies and got all sorts of results. Give it a try. Usually you can download the patterns. Judy
Recipe For Straw Jello?
Donita, I have a recipe for a strawberry Pretzel Salad. I wonder if that is what you are looking for. Pretzels kind of remind me of straw. Any way, I will give it to you and you can try it or not. 2 cups crushed pretzels 1 stick butter, melted 3 Tbsp. sugar...
Craft Projects to do While Watching TV?
How about trying your hand at ribbon embroidery? It is very easy, and very pretty. You can do it on clothing, pillow tops, baby onsies, handkerchiefs, and even make wall hangings. I love it. Its very relaxing.
Apple Card and Tag
I really like the idea of the apple card and tag,but when I tried to print out the patterns they were huge. Any ideas on how to get the correct size would be helpful. Judy
Making A Travel Craft Basket?
Amanda,I too like to take something to do with my hands when on trips. I first descide what project I want to do,then take what is needed to complete that project. I try not to take a large project. That would be too much! I do like to take embroidery projects...
Rag Quilt Hand Bag Pattern?
Marian,I had a pattern for a diaper bag made the way your quilt is. Ill bet if you are a sewer at all you could alter it to make it a tote bag. I dont remember which pattern company. Just look through the pattern books at your local fabric store. Be sure to...
Affordable Dental Work
At present my husband is going to the University of Alabama dental school for dentures.It will be a LOT LESS expensive than going to a local dentist. He is very pleased with the young man who is taking care of him. I like the fact that he has the same student...
Shirts With Frayed Collars and Cuffs?
I think buying new ones would be less expensive.Seamstresses arent cheap. I know, because I sometimes sew for people. If you cant afford all new shirts at once,buy one or two a payday. Judy in alabama
Attaching Pressure Gauge to Pressure Cooker?
I read your previous post and disagree with her directions. There should be a round postthat sticks up in the middle of your lid to hold the gauge. The gauge has 3 different Pressures depending on what you are cooking. You are to put the gauge on immediately...
Should I Use Blue Painter's Tape When I Paint?
Priscilla, I have seen on the home improvement shows to use the blue tape,then put a fine line of clear varnish along the edge to seal it. They claim their edges come out perfect when they remove the tape. Another hint would be not to leave the tape on for...
Food Christmas Gift Ideas?
How about making your own hot chocolate mix and putting some in a tin or jar as gifts. My recipe makes a large batch. Judy from Alabama
What to Write to Tell a Girl You Like Her?
Vincent, It would depend on several things. You really didnt give us enough information to give you a good answer. How old are the two of you? How long have you been friends? How do your parents feel about the idea ? Give us some more information to go on,OK...
Let Your Friends Help You Find Bargains
Good idea !!!! I have a son and daughter-in-law who loves thrift stores,yard sales and swap meets. I will sometimes let them know what I am looking for. They seem to have a knack for finding the best bargains !!Even my 3 grandaughters love to go along and get...
Toothpicks for Glueing Small Projects
Great idea!! I do the same thing. Its not as messy either. Judy in Alabama
Print Preview to Save Paper
This post is for Josh. Since I am bsically computer illeterate, I didnt understand a word you said!! If you should check out thrifty fun again, I would love a clearer explaination. Judy in Alabama
Uses for Mint Tins
One more idea for used tins;use for storing Artist Trading Cards. They are 2 1/2 X 3 1/2 inches in size, so every tin wouldnt work.
Saving Money on Buttons
I always ask at yard sales if they have any buttons. Most people dont think to try and sell their old buttons, but when I ask, those who have a button Collectionwill go inside and bring it out for me to buy.
Move Food In A Trash Bin
Great idea!! I doubt if I will ever move again, but will pass this on to others I know of that are moving. Judy in Alabama
Picnic Table Decorations?
Reading one of the previous entries about the placemats being plain white with ants drawn on them made me think of something you might consider doing along that same line. How about a plain white placemat decorated to look like a recipe card? I think its a...
Emergency No Slip Mat for the Bathtub
Holly, We have done the same thing. I wonder why the hotels dont get a clue! Judy in Alabama
Securing Buttons With Nail Polish
I use Fray Check on the back threads of buttons Ive sewn on a garment. I also use Jewel-it especiallly for attaching things( not just buttons) to my projects. It takes a little while to dry but is worth it!
How Do I Contact A ThriftyFun Member?
I have often wondered how to contact different members. Thanks for the information. I will give it a try. Judy
Recipe For Boxed Cake Frosting?
Joan, This is my recipe for quick and easy chocolate frosting: 2 2/3 cups powdered sugar, 1/3 cup cocoa(I use 3/4 cup for a darker flavor),1/3 cuo softened butter, 3 to 4 Tbs milk and 1 tsp vanilla. Cut butter into dry ingredients, add liquids and mix until...
Look For Giveaway Dishes For Food Gifts
Jane, I have done the same thing! I didnt have the neat poem, though. I just told the person to pass it on. Ill use the poem next time. Thanks
Old Fashioned Soda Fountain Treats (Part 4 -...
Here is another mouth watering recipe for an icecream topping.Hot Chocolate/Marshmallow Topping.---In a large microwave safe bowl place 1( 12 oz. )pkg. simi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup evaporated milk. Microwave on high for about 3 minutes. Stir. If chips...
Hand Mixer Tips
My hand mixer was handed down from my mother-in-law,so was very old. It just gave out on me a few days ago. I couldnt live without it,so Ive already replaced it!!! I too mash my potatoes with it and have no problem. I do warm my milk before adding it to them...
Brown Paper Bag Wallpaper
My daughter-in-law is quite the seamstress. When my son added on to their house,he made her a sewing room over the garage(still attached to the house) Any way, she used old pattern peices and instructions to cover the floor. Then she used polyurithane to seal...
Making Crochet Hooks Easier to Handle
Veronica, You could also wrap the crochet hook or any handle with a rubberband! Judy
Making Your Own Baking Mix?
8-1/2 cups all purpose flour,1Tablespoon baking powder,1 Tablespoon salt, 2 teaspoons cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon baking soda,1-1/2 cups nonfat dry milk and 2- 1/4 cups vegetable shortening. In a large bowl sift all dry ingredients together. Blend well. With...
Glue Gun Pan While Working
Misty, My husband made a stand for me for a small glue gun. He glued an empty and cleaned tuna can onto the end of a 2 1/2 inch by 8 inch board. He dented the edge of the can to hold the tip of the glue gun. He then glued two pieces of very thin plyboard on...
Easy To Reach Food Storage
I have arthritis pretty bad. One thing I use is a grabber. I got it at the drug store for around $10.00. It is a heaven send.I think WalMart may have them too.
Help With My Grocery Budget?
I have friends who use the Angelfood ministries and swear by it for savings and quality food.
Jell-o Strawberry Pie Recipe?
I have a delicious strawberry pie recipe. for the crust cut 1 stick softened butter into 1 1/4 cups flour. Press into pie pan or baking dish. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes,then let cool. For the filling; place 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tbs clear Karo syrup, 3 1/2 Tbs cornstarch...
Frugal Household Tips
Good idea to save partially empty glasses of water to use in my iron and water my plants! We here in Alabama are in a bad drought right now. We really need to conserve water every way we can! Thanks for the idea. Judy
What Do You Splurge On?
I read through all of the splurges and was surprised that no one splurges on fabric!! I guess Im strange LOL I also love ice cream and Sonics steak burrito minus the green peppers.
Stitches Skipping on Sewing Machine?
All of these suggestions are great! I have just one more. Your may need to purchase a roller foot. It will glide right over that leather and even vinal.
Consider The Advantages Of Bartering
I agree with you about bartering(exchanging favors),but wouldnt it be difficult over the internet? Judy from alabama
Q-Tips For Cooling Hot Glue
Barb, Good idea. I think Im going to start useing your idea the next time I use my glue gun. Judy from Alabama
Substitute for Powdered Sugar
Roberta, What a smart idea!!! I am going to try it. I see a couple other ladies do it too ,but add corn starch. Would you know how much to add? Judy from Alabama
Substitute Bread For Stuffing In Recipes
Years ago I purchased a cookbook calledMake-A-Mix Cookery. It is awesome! Here is the recipe for Herbed stuffing Mix: ( this works well as croutons also) 30 slices firm-textured bread cut into 1/2 -inch cubes,1/3 cup cooking oil,3 Tbs. instant minced onion...
Cut Tubes In Half For Every Last Drop
Good ideas, girls. I am going to start tomorrow morning with my Avon Anew ultra cream cleanser ( in a pump bottle that I just couldnt bring myself to throw out) Judy
Boycott Gas On May 15th
I will not buy gas on the 15th even though I know most people will buy their gas the day before or the day after.I wish someone who knows would tell us what we can do to reallly make a difference! My husband and I are already cutting back on our trips to the...
Chicken and Macaroni Salad Help?
Lots of good ideas!! One thing I would say from my years of experience is Dont use store brands for mayo or Miracle Whip .For my maccaroni salad I add some frozen petite peas(uncooked),chopped onion and celery. I also cut up small cubes of cheddar cheese and...
Apartment Building With Shared Laundry?
I know youve gotten all sorts of advice already,but I was wondering how hot your dryer gets. I can remember when I used the Laundromat I had a problem because the dryer was much too hot! Back then you couldnt adjust the temp. I dont know about todays dryers...
Old Fashioned Hard Boiled Eggs
Well, I have a really different way of cooking hard boiled eggs. I have a small appliance called Eggs Everyway. I dont think they have sold these for years now, but I love it. You can use it to make any type of eggs you like including fried and scrambled. The...
What Cleaning Products Do You Use?
Boy , there are a lot of ideas out there!!! I have tried a lot of cleaners,but keep coming back to my favorites. I use Fantastic for just about everything, including floors. Its a wonderful degreaser, as well. I use Windex for glass and mirrors. For the bathroom...
Phone Safety: Telephone Number Search
What is this world coming to? I couldnt believe my eyes as I was reading about reverse phone books. On the removal page for Google, they tell you of 6 other sites that does the same thing. I think that should be against the law. Im going to tell everybody I...
Marbleized Easter Eggs?
Karen, I saw a project on Martha Stewart some time back ( probably last Easter) on how to make marbled eggs using silk ties like you mentioned. I havent tried them yet. Go to Marthas web site and Ill bet you can find the project. It was called silk tie Easter...
Coin Sock Craft?
Jean, I have seen what you are looking for at Hobby Lobby. It may not be in the section with purse supplies. It seems to me I saw it in the needlework section. I have a pattern for a sock bank called Sock It Away. It is similar, only you make it your self. The...
Chinese Food Recipes?
Here is a recipe I have been using for years. I always get compliments when I serve it. Fried Rice 6 slices bacon, 2/3 cup long grain uncooked rice,sliced mushrooms(I sometimes leave out),2 1/2 ounce can,1/2 cup Green onions with tops, sliced,1 cup chopped...
Paint Color Advice - Painting Over Peach Wallpaper?
I disagree with the green idea. I dont think an additional color is the best idea. I think you need to play off the colors you have. I would suggest the color of clay pots. It would look really sharp against the peach counter tops. bjpyl (Judy)
Modern Cooking With The Microwave
I have been cooking in Microwave ovens for years. I dont like to cook meat in it except for browning ground beef for a recipe. Meats that normally take a longer time to cook in the oven seems to get tough in the MW. I like cooking casseroles, potatoes, vegetables...
Avoiding the Temptation to Spend
My husband and I are retired, so we live on a limited income. We only have one credit card which we pay off in full every month so there are no intrest charges. We do keep a budget and are pretty good at sticking to it. My husband is more of a spender than...
Rain-X For The Shower
There are at least a couple of products out to protect your shower from accumulating scum. They work very well . One is called Shower Shine.Another is called Tilex fresh shower. Once you have cleaned your shower very well, then you spray it with the product...
Saving Too Many School Papers?
Some people are just naturally pack Rats.They really have a hard time throwing anything out. Since you are in such a small place, you have no choice but to limit the amount of papers your child keeps. I liked the idea of the clothes line across the wall. I...
Easy Potluck Idea: Crockpot Roast Beef Sandwiches
Estella, I have a recipe with a little zing to it, but is nearly the same as Robins. Here goes;I buy a 3# lean pot roast. The added ingredients are,1 pkg. onion soup mix, 1pkg. Good Seasons Italian salad dressing mix (or equivilant) and 1/3 cup water. Mix together...
Leave Pillowcases Inside Out
My sister-in-law showed me this trick. She is a nurse and says that is how they do it too.
Pennsylvania Christmas Charities?
I am not from Pa., but Im sure the Salvation army would help out. Also, many churches would help. You just need to let them know of the need. Project Angel Tree has a ministry to children of a parent who is in prison. Also check out Toys for Tots in your area...
Direct Foam Refills?
I do the same thing for washing my hands, only I use Soft Soap or a similar product. I use a ratio of 1 part soap to 6 parts water. I have one pump that is marked just for that purpose. I got it at a Pampered Chef party of all places. I just love it. Judy in...
Easy Holiday Recipes?
Here is my recipe for Impossible Pumpkin Pie 3/4 cup sugar (part brown),1/2 cup Bisquick,2 Tbs. soft butter or margerine, 1 (13 oz.)can of evaporated milk, 2 eggs, 1 (16 oz. )can pumpkin ( not pumpkin pie mix),1 Tbs. pumpkin Pie Spice, 2 tsp. vanilla and 1...
Cupcakes With No Mess
Great idea !! Im going to do that next time. I cant believe I didnt think of it.LOL. Thanks for the suggestion. Judy in Alabama
Buying Boas?
I have seen them at Hancock Fabrics and other fabric stores. It seems like they were between $8-10. One should do more than one purse,though. Judy in Alabama
Spiral Shaped Wire?
I have done this before. I used 20 guage wire. You can get it in silver,gold and even in colors at any craft supply store. Just wrap it around a long dowel or knitting needle then slide it off. You can wrap it close together or a little ways apart depending...
Fashion Question
THESE DAYS ANYTHING GOES! SINCE THE ARE HEAVY ENOUGH FOR YOUR WINTER WEATHER I WOULDNT WORRY ABOUT IT. JUST WEAR THEM. JUDY
Shortening the Sleeves on a Robe?
Since you dont have a sewing machine, you could hand sew a wide bias double fold tape to the edge of your sleeves. Use the same color or a complementory color.The bias tape will encase the edge of your sleeves when finished. Sew the inside first. You will find...
Christmas Decorations For Needy Neighbors
I say God bless you abundantly for your thoughtfulness I think I will try something like that myself now that you have inspired me !! Judy in Al.
Homemade Recycled "To-Go" Cup
TOO MUCH WORK FOR ME!!! I DO SAVE THE FOAM SOFT DRINK CUPS FROM THE FAST FOOD PLACES. I KEEP THE LIDS TOO. I WASH THEM OUT AND RE-USE THEM SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE THROWING THEM AWAY. JUDY
How can I stop my nails from splitting?
SOS-I have had this problem for years and years. I tried all sorts of things,some of whitch I found on Thrifty Fun. The one that has worked for me is a product by Sally Hansen. Its called NAILGROWTH miracle (salon strength) It comes in a metalic gold bottle...
Looking for Purple Satin Christmas Balls?
Last year K-Mart had purple satin Christmas balls. Of course, thats no guarantee they will have them this year. Good luck finding them. Have you tried eBay or the internet? Judy
Eating on a Limited Income
My husband is 73 and has just lost his part time job(2 days a week) I am turning 65 Dec 1st and am physically unable to work. This puts us in a bind financially,as he has diabetes and I am full of arthritis.We are not sure how we are going to fare, but feel...
Ants In Stored Cereal?
weevils hate peppermint or spearmint. Get rid of everything that is infested,then buy peppermint chewing gum. Take only the paper wrapper off the sticks of gum, tear them in half and spread them around inside your cupboards.( especially the ones that contain...
Keep Your Purse Out Of Sight
Those are all good ideas !!! I have another suggestion. When you go grocery shopping or anywhere that has carts, lock your purse in the childs seatbelt. Still dont venture far from the cart,as someone could just take the cart and all!!!. Judy(bjptl)
My Froggy Crossing Pond
It looks professional to me. Great job!!!! Its good to hear when husband and wife can work together.
Non-Prescription Sleeping Aids?
auBois, I use Melatonin, and it works great! No side effects because it isnt a chemical but a natural product. It is very inexpensive too. It comes in 1mg and 3mg. Because I am a large person I take the 3mg. If you are unsure, get the 1mg to begin with. That...
