Growing an Easter Egg Plant?
Hi, I have one. It has flowered several times(beautiful delicate purple flowers) but mine have never turned to fruit. I assume this is my fault, for not watering consistently. I have had it for a year and its 1-2 feet tall. My cats have also snacked on the...
Hair Dye on Clothing?
I often get hair dye on my counter, tub and skin! The dye I use stains worse (but less toxic). I love funky hair colors. The best cure I have found is LAVA soap! It is found at hardware stores, usually for cleaning up after working on your vehicle. Buy the...
Gluing Photos Onto a Glass Vase?
Mod podge: brush on vase, apply decor, brush on another coat to seal it.
Craft Ideas For Used T-shirts?
I dont know anything about crochet/knitting(it confuses me). But for reusing tees with sewing(hand or machine) I highly recommend Generation T, 108 ways to transforn a t-shirt by Megan Nicolay $10.37 on amazon.
Transfer Paper for Dark Fabric?
Yeah, the carbon paper is what I suggest too. I found mine at a yard sale, but they must sell it at the craft store (and definitely online).
Lightening Body Hair at Home?
I havent tried this on body hair but it works on my hair. Lemon juice and sun. AKA=sun in No need to purchase it at the store, just apply and then sun bathe.
Recycled Mosaic Mirror
Great idea! I am given gift cards. Once they are empty, they ask me if I want it, or to throw it away. This is a great way to reuse those! thanks!
Making Tote Bag Handles?
Have you checked my tote bag directions? Daisy pattern fabric. It was posted in april-ish: http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf37762756.tip.html Its super easy, just takes time to stitch. Write me if you are confused. good luck!
Making Tote Bag Handles?
Dont bother turning the handles inside out. Sew them right the first time. Use wide strip and fold raw edges in pin and sew shut. I stagger seam as photo shows, but this comes with a price. I sometimes miss the under fabric and must seam rip. Best wishes. Heres...
Getting Rid of Walnut Trees?
I am sorry to hear you are trying to kill them off, walnut wood is the most valuable and sought after. It can be a pain to grow a garden when shade trees are everywhere though....just about everything needs full sun!
Making a Fake Campfire?
Have you ever seen those torches? They hang from the ceiling, a black bowl with a small fan/light that blows flickering fabric flames up. I remember seeing them on clearance everywhere and at yard sales cheap. Just remove the hanging chain(pliers) and set in...
Craft: Yarn Dog
One word...awesome! I love it when the directions are thorough! A couple pics of the body in pieces would have been cool. But what an awesome retro project!
Paint to Coordinate with Navy Couch and Grey Carpet?
Bring in a pillow/carpet cutting to a home decor store(that sells paint) and they will know whats best. All they charge for is the paint. You will pay for that somewhere. Good luck
Inexpensive Feltable Wool?
Yeah, Im with Jilson...thrift shop! You can get wool sweaters for $2.00 or less, or check garage sales!
Planning a Wedding and Reception for $1500?
State parks are great. you pay per person, but they have facilities there and are always beautiful. I did my wedding on mt philo (vemont) I think it cost $140.00. There was use of a large cabin (or small hall) tables/chairs and tables outside. Best wishes!
How Long Should I Wait to Re-dye My Hair?
Did you use permanent or washout? Wash out: I suggest washing most of it out before re-dyeing (kids shampoo usually rinses the color out fast). Permanant: Uh-oh...tricky. I have found lightening your hair doesnt always work out. I dont want to worry you but...
My Husband Has Bad Breath?
SEE A DENTIST. My sweetie had bad breath and it turned out his wisdom teeth were rotting. Once they were removed, the smell went away. Good luck!
Craft: Green Totes
Looks nice! Did you use my pattern? They are so fun to make! I have another bag pattern that I will post to re-use the furniture swatches. Did you zigzag stitch around the leaf so it doesnt fall off in the wash? Keep up the creativity. I may try the leaf thing...
Canvas Bag Project
Its so easy and you can make them any size! Neat Idea to try it with the skirts. You can use just about any fabric as long as you use good thread!
Planting Crops on Earth Day?
It might be where you live. In Vermont our last frost is usually late April/early May so we plant on Memorial Day (late May).
Retro Starburst Mirror
I LOVE that! I saw one at tjmax for $75.00(on sale). Id rather make one for practically nothing! I can get the mirrors at the re-store, and the dollar store.
Rejuvenating a Featherbed?
I have a ralph lauren feather topper too, and it got flat. I finally decided to wash it, in the washer. I crammed it in. When it was done, I was a little scared. I then put it in the dryer until it was mostly dry. I then laid it out on my bed. Adjusting/fluffing...
Restuff Sofa Cushions With Batting
I did this...sort of. My brother gave me his expensive couch when he moved. It had about 6 throw pillows (large to medium) n addition to the couch pillows. We got a beagle, and as it usually goes. He chewed of some corners on the throw pillows and laid on the...
Check Receipt Before Leaving Store
IT IS WORTH IT TO CHECK YOUR RECIEPT!! I have been overcharged at least a half dozen times....making the price such that I dont want it any more...or they give me the price advertised. Each company has different rules. Hannafords grocery will not only correct...
Use Old Bowling Ball for a Garden Globe
my sister did this with my moms bowling ball....it was marblized blues... no need to paint it. Looked great and got alot of compliments. The meaning behind garden globes: They are traditionally mirrored because it is thought to keep away negative energy.
Saving Money on Bicycles?
Check with your school for special bike helmet programs. I just found out that my school offers bike helmets in all sizes for $5.00, including adult sizes! And for $20.00 at walmart you can get a kids logo helmet, knee and elbow pads.
Discontinued Wallpaper: Dark Floral Pattern?
Did you search ebay or online with discontinued wallpaper sites?
Locating a Septic Tank?
My husband said the dye works, but it shows where your leech lines are, and in turn you septic tank. I would borrow a metal detector and hope your septic is made of concrete(and rebar), or has some metal in it. We couldnt find ours and paid $40.00 to have them...
Losing 20 lbs. in Two Months?
Exercise! Diet without exercise is practically meaningless. You will just gain it back. A good thing to remember. 1/2 plate of veggies, 1/4 lean protein (chicken), 1/4 carb(rice etc.) Drink WATER instead of soda, juice or any other calorie filled drinks you...
Inexpensive Styrofoam Beanbag Filling?
When you buy new appliances and electrontics, save the styrofoam(ask friends and family). tie it up in a clear garbage bag. When you are sitting in front of the TV, gently break it up in the bag. Then its free! p.s.Make sure it is the pressed pellet forms!
Having a Mohawk With Curly Hair?
Curly hair will still work. Just maintain it with the right straightening gel. One of my chicas from high school had a mohawk. She said the key was to use elmers glue(waterbased, washes out) and to sleep on your side, so you dont need to restyle every morning...
Bag Your Own Groceries to Save Time at Home
I love to bag my own groceries! I make my own canvas bags and know how much I can squeeze into them. I actually look for the cashiers without baggers, it just complicates things. Not to mention, how many times have you ripped your plastic bag on a box corner...
Do Without Garbage Pick Up
See if there is a local drop-off center. It is cheaper than having it picked up. Here in Vermont you can hire private co. to pick it up but we prefer to drop it off at about $3.00 a bag and free recycling. And then we bring the garbage when we have the cash...
Bamboo Stalks Are Yellow?
Is it in dirt or water? Mine are in a wide vase with pebbles and water. It is good to take everything out and rinse off the pebbles from any dust annually. If in dirt, make sure no pets are getting in. You may need to repot. The quick fix to save most plants...
Making Children's Dress-Up Costumes?
Start at yard sales. I once bought 3 boxes of dress up clothes for $8.00 at a yard sale(was a daycare). Dollar stores are good too. To make costumes, look at what you have (that you will never wear) and deconstruct and make your own pieces by cut and glue or...
Inexpensive Church Mother's Day Project Ideas?
I posted a canvas cross project a while back. It would be a great gift. Make into a bookmark or glue a pin on back to wear. Just search crafts for cross, I think. Good luck!
Decorating an Apartment Refrigerator?
Ive got it! Have you ever seen wall stickers? They come in all different designs. I did this to my fridge with powerpuff girl stickers. I have seen the wall stickers at the dollar stores: Hawaiian flowers, hearts and kiss lips. Or you can pay about $10-$20...
Disputing an Electric Bill?
This hasnt happened to me, but this sounds fishy! Expecially if they are getting actual readings! Is there a way someone could plug into your system? Stealing your power? I know people have done that with phone lines. If you dont use electric heat or portable...
Installing Porcelain Tile?
I know people that use one neutral tile throughout, but I personally would make the bathroom a different color. The hall to kitchen etc. would be nice as one color as if to lead guests into your home. Bath should stand out, so people notice it(to find it) and...
Installing Porcelain Tile?
PS. Leave cabinets wood, re-stain if you must. I painted my last kitchen white and the cabinets looked nice and brightened the area, but within the year paint would rub off and chip: falling onto clean dishes. Plus: with the green movement the natural wood...
Making Potholder Looms?
Its pretty easy to make. Take a square of wood (the size you want the pot holder to be) and hammer in nails along the edges, evenly spaced(about 1/4 inch). And its done. Also remember you can make the loops from old t-shirts!
Go Through Coupons Before Entering the Store
When I get the weekly sales flyer I go through my coupons and pick out the coupons for things on sale and separate them. That way I buy the sale items dirt cheap. I ALSO keep an eye out for clearance items or discountinued mark downs and use coupons for those...
Getting Empty Wine Bottles?
Do you have a local RESTORE? They may have them. Also you could ask at the recycling/waste drop off center. They might put some aside for a small fee. I like the freecycle idea, also try craigslist. Post a wanted in the free section. Good luck.
Food Container Ideas?
Sherbert Containers are great! But my favorite is a circular container I got from a chinese food restaurant. It is black with a clear lid and only a few inches tall. At first I thought it was so odd shaped, but it soon showed to be perfect for COOKIES, deviled...
Use Baggie as a Glove When Using Shortening
YES! RE-USE THE BAGGIE! LESS WASTE! my mom taught me to use a paper cupcake cups and leave it in there. works great. Either Paper or plastic: Whats important is Less waste! With reuse there is less money spent. Live thrifty!
Getting Replacement DTV Converter Coupons?
Yeah mine expired too(for my upstairs tv with attic antenna). I saw a show on CNN about this! The funding for this RAN OUT! Its a huge problem because only half of the coupons promised were sent out before they were empty on funds. They set aside some amount...
Mismatched Sock Solutions
I will say I have a sock basket in the laundry room, where they await their mates arrival from the dryer. But I am extremely thrifty and green so I also throw the one that has a huge hole and keep the other. So ALOT of my socks just dont have a mate. I simply...
A Green Guide to Hair Dyes
I will say this: PUNKY COLORS is so safe. It is more like a stain than a dye. There is very little odor(as with most temp colors) and lasts a long time. Their color selection is exotic and you must find a salon/store that sells it. I found mine on ebay. I love...
Mop Made from Recycled Plastic?
Sorry I dont know either but I am a green freak and I just love my Starfiber mop. It cleans so well, and quick too. And then you take the mop top off and throw it in the wash. It came with a dry mop head too(white) but I wasnt as pleased, I ruined it in the...
Tie Door Wreath
Thats awesome! Now I have something to make for the men! They are the hardest to shop for! I have always collected ties at yard sales for cheap, never knowing what to do with them! THANKS!
Chocolate Cookie Crumb Pie Crust?
The recipe is simple. You need to buy (Nabisco)Nilla Wafers...they are with the other cookies at the grocers(round, flat cookies). They have the regular nillas, as well as rainbow and chocolate. (It sounds like you want chocolate). Then you just add melted...
Slicing Glycerin Soap?
Hello. Buy(or find) some heavy wire, usually used for making wreaths. take 2 short dowels, just big enough for your hand. Wrap wire around one and twist to lock and have a gap in space(more than bar) and then wrap and lock to other dowel. It is important to...
Prenatal Vitamins For Hair Growth?
Is it Vitamin E? Take pre-natals anyway.. they are cheaper and are just multi-vitamins with extra folic acid. If you eat poorly...take vitamins. I have always drank alot of milk and I have always had thick hair(grows fast) and long nails(fast too) So maybe...
Recipe for Hummus Without Tahini
Thank you everyone so MUCH. These recipes sound great, and easy with ingredients I own! I wish I could contact you but you didnt SIGN IN! So I hope you read this! Thanks a million! You are so helpful. Thanks for helping me feed my family. Sometimes I look at...
Use Paint Swatches As Bookmarks
Yes, when I am trying to find the right color I always REUSE my old paint chips for bookmarks. I had the same idea to just go in and take them, but my husband(whom I taught to be green) reminded me that it can be wasteful since they wouid have to refill the...
Dry Wall Vs. Sheet Rock?
Hi there :-) I just asked my husband(handy man Joe) and he said that dry wall and sheetrock are the same thing, just different names.
Cat Keeps Bringing Me Her Kittens?
It sounds like she needs more attention than she is getting. I know its hard but try and find time everyday to pet all the kittens and mama and tell them how wonderful they are and what a good mother she is being. Remember to feed mama LOTs of food. The queen...
Ideas For Small Quilting Projects?
If you do indeed make the fabric into crazy quilt patches....it is limitless. I pride myself on making usefull crafts. If you make squares you can make: -Coasters(one square)-throw pillow(4 square on each side?)- placemats(6 squares)-fabric bag -quilts, if...
Does Sewing Your Own Things Save Money?
Sewing needs to be learned. I have taught myself and you can too! You dont need to buy a cheap sewing machine. There are plenty of quality machines at yard sales and craigslist(my favorite). Fabric and patterns can be bought at yard sales for little $$$ or...
Looking For Simple Zucchini Bread Recipe?
This is sortof easy...enjoy COMBINE: 3 cups grated zucchini 1 cup oil 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 eggs beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla SIFT IN TOGETHER, AND STIR TO BLEND: 3 cups flour 1 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp salt 1/2 ginger ADD...
Feline Pine Kitty Litter Cuts Down Odors
Confused? I have a hard time believing that there is a product(thats been around for years) hurting animals and still being sold. It is only dangerous when inhaled on constant basis. Cats get in and go. Softwood(pine, cedar) shavings are dangerous for critters...
Reduce Chaos to Save Money
GREAT ARTICLE in theory. Dont buy art makes little sense...that is something that becomes valuable(not reproductions of course). Living simply and thrifty should NEVER mean to set yourself up for poverty for life. Art (oil painted canvas)is often found at yard...
Starting a Crafting Business?
First: Lynda...You rock. Thank you for your words of wisdom. And sign in!! We need members like you. second: Teaching people to make crafts is very profitable. More so than making them. There is a place that teaches sewing nearby and they get $16 to teach a...
Uses for Plastic Protein Powder Jugs?
My husband goes through these too. The uses I have found so far: One year I cut them in half and made 2 flower pots. I do use these for storage as well. I use them to store odds and ends used for crafts, or whatever you want to stay clean....and stuff somewhere...
Buying Scrapbooking Supplies on eBay
Ebay is nice for shopping at home but the best way to save lots of money is to buy scrapbooking stuff at big lots! you get 20-50 sheet packs for $2.00. All the stickers embellishments, stamps, templates, scissors, paper punches are $1.00. They also have full...
Save Hardware From Old Purses
I do this too. It is so great, and affordable too. It is always a good idea to look for parts to re-use before you throw it away! :-)
$10 Dinners: Chicken Stir Fry
Hey, starchild here to help make a cheap meal cheaper. Sorry, I cant help myself. You can buy a bag of frozen stir fry vegetables,for under $2.00(1.79) and there is a large variety of veggies without all the prep! I usually but the store brand, with 5 different...
Products Being Thrown in the Garbage
Whatever! It could have turned rancid and killed the next kid that used it. In corporate america, companies do what is best for the masses. I understand not wasting, I have expired stuff, that I CHOOSE to risk using....but thats a chance I take. I know the...
What is the Best Mop?
This is going to sound silly. A while back I was watching a TV infomercial for StarFiber mop(with dusting head and washingcloths). I was sold! It showed how these microfiber washcloths cleaned up bacteria that others didnt, they sell these microfiber cloths...
Spaghetti and Meatballs ($10 Dinners)
even cheaper, and faster, buy: frozen meat balls(I buy them when they are buy 1 get 2 free, at 4.59), can of hunts spaghetti sauce(.99), spaghetti(.99 or less), and if you want to splurge make garlic bread from italian bread(.99). In this day and age making...
3 Drawer Rolling Cart For Storage
I buy alot of beauty items on sale with coupons, but I put mine in small clear stackingshoetubs($1.00 at big lots), label them(make with pretty paper and clear shipping tape), and store under sink...one less thing to kick or dust! I am a clutter bug too! but...
Turn Off Water When Brushing Teeth
I saw the 20/20 earth day show, and it said to shut off water while brushing....and I realized how silly the idea of having the water on while brushing. What would the purpose be? I just hope other people can realize this too.
Cheap and Easy Window Cleaning
Save even more money...just re-use an empty spray bottle! You will be more earth friendly, and no one will know you dont have the name brand. GREAT IDEA!! p.s. for those who change their own motor oil: put used oil in empty windsheild wiper fluid bottle to...
Gazing Ball
My sister did it with my moms bowling ball. It was blue swirl design, looked nice. Bowling balls can be found cheap at yard sales. The story about gazing balls: They are supposed to be mirrored(you can get paint at hardware store) to keep evil spirits away...
Turn Off Water When Brushing Teeth
Hey Doc, I think you may be living with blinders on. It doesnt surprise me that those simply silly words were submit by guest post so that no one can write you and you dont have to be accountable for your unintelligent remarks.
Can Humans Catch Worms From Dogs?
Chances are low, they must be ingested alive. I personally worry about my baby, but my vetrinarian told me there is no need.
Feeding an Overweight Cat?
Hello! My cat gains weight in winter(we dont let him out in the snow, less exercise), and we give him wet food when its time to lose weight. Someone told me dry food is full of corn (or other filler types) and its harder for them to process. It works every...
Painting a Metal Door?
I can only give you an example since I am no pro at the rules. My mom has a metal door and it is green on the outside and white on the inside(to go with her house). She is very into interior design so I imagine that is how it is done. I hope that helps you...
Saving Money on Gas
HAVE YOUR KIDS TAKE THE SCHOOL BUS!! Taxes go (in part) to deliver your kids safely to school. Think of the time and money you spend so your kids can hang out at home for a couple more minutes. Riding the bus is a great way for kids to learn important social...
Preparing for a Baby?
1)Baby clothes are usually free in the newspaper. --Cheap at a yard sales(never pay more than .25 for a piece, or .50 for suit). --go to the local thrift shop.--ask co workers/friends: there is always someone looking to get rid of their bags of kids clothes...
Remote Control Tips?
on that invention show..someone attached a wide ribbon to the back, leaving a length of a couple feet...that way if it slips in between the cushions...you can still see the ribbon. or if you want to be fancy: get one of those car key finders...glue it on and...
Saving Money on Gas
Is there a cumberland farms near you? I used to work at one and my boss had to call every gas station in the area (every morning)and lower our price to the lowest. Its company policy.
Wintergreen, Spearmint or Pepperminte to Repel Insects
I use lavendar body wash and lotion, that works too. Mint oil is very expensive and effective. I have also heard of washing your clothes with a few drops of peppermint. I just put some drops of oil on the bottom of my shirt. Oils to keep the pests away: mint...
Wintergreen, Spearmint or Pepperminte to Repel Insects
Peppermint is what you want, I am 80% sure the others are poison. and never apply oil direct to skin, this dilution method is good. :-) oh, and mint grows very well, comes back every year like a plague. Great plant to have.
Proactiv Alternatives?
Hi. I dont have suggestions about alternative cleanser, sorry. But I will say stress can trigger acne. I always break out soon after I get myself worked up. Deep breaths..this too shall pass. I hope you find what you are after.
Vacuums That Last?
I own a Dyson animal. I LOVE IT. Not only is it beautiful, but it works great. I vacuumed my floor once I got it, and it was full before I finished. I vacuumed it again, another full canister. It has made me a vacuum snob. I help cleaning at friends/familys...
Being Frugal Is Fun
I agree, frugal is fun. But like everything: it is up to you on how you choose to see it. If you have a good attitude, and get excited about every dollar you save: it fuels you! Those who see organizing coupons and reading sale fliers a chore, will not bother...
Helping Someone With Hygiene Problems?
Stridex pads are perfect, quick to use anywhere. Teens often need more sleep than they give themselves. These alcohol-based wipes can even be kept beside the bed! Now that I am through my teen years: I cut mine in half, works the same. I am curious as to how...
