Identifying Metal Items?
When I first saw this I thought it was part of the clasp that is part of the clip/hook system used as fasteners for overalls. Then I noticed that the size and shape were wrong. Would be interesting to know what its identity is.
Unknown Farm Equipment?
That is what my dad identified it as- Manure spreader. They could be pulled by horses or tractor, depending on how they are made. We had one on a farm we purchased a long time ago. Dad is no longer with us, and the farm has long since been sold, but I know...
Identifying a Stuffed Animal?
I checked the Gund site. It is listed as a butterfly. I have no idea what its worth. Just wanted to ID it.
Fanny Pack for Clothespin Bag
Luv this. I am always looking for ways to reuse/repurpose my retired cosmetic bags, handbags, book bags, etc. Thank you for sharing your idea.
Identifying Lumps on Back of Dog's Neck?
This is something that really needs to be seen by a vet. It could be fungal, bacterial, allergy or something else. Without knowing what it is there is no way to know what treatment to do and the wrong treatment or no treatment could lead to something worse...
Organize Food Pantry With Craft Drawers
I discovered that the plastic drawers from my plastic wheeled storage fit my wooden cubbies. (Hold up better that the fabric bins you can buy to fit)
Organize Food Pantry With Craft Drawers
Question not directed to me, but I use my computer and printer rather than a label maker. I can make up a lot of labels on one sheet of paper. Then I can cut to size and attach in many ways, tape, ties, etc. If I want it to seem laminated, I use clear mailing...
Prevent Mold and Mildew on Shower Curtain Liners
I use a mix of white vinegar and dawn dish soap in a spray bottle on my shower regularly to prevent mold, mildew, and soap scum buildup. I find if I spray my shower area regularly I dont have to scrub very often. One caution is that the floor of the shower...
Shower Buddy for Shampoo Storage
I love your idea. I needed something to make it easy to take my shower accessories to the gym. Showers there have no space for bottles of shampoo, etc. I searched for a shower caddy and couldnt find any that worked well. I finally found a lanyard configuration...
Tidy Cord Saver
After seeing many uses of TP rolls, when my husband had several empty caulking tubes (plastic) to be disposed of, I took a couple for use as organizers in the same manner you would use the cardboard rolls. Not hard to clean up since most of the caulk is pushed...
Clean Serrated Knives With Brush
Dont forget that if you have a dishwasher you can put your old scrub brushes (toothbrushes), for a way to clean them for more use. I also use tape (duct tape, electrical tape, etc) on the handles for designating their purpose for cleaning.
Stop the Drip of Laundry Detergent
I make a drip catcher/lid holder from another bottle. The one I am currently using is a orange juice bottle.
Drying Shoes Without the Banging
If you sew, you could attach elastic to the bag to hold it in place. Then you could possibly use a smaller mesh bag that didnt have to hang out of the door to hold in place. The elastic would slip over the outside of the door. The elastic would probably be...
Pack with What You Have
It has been a long time since I last moved, and I dont plan to move again anytime soon. However, we recently needed to send a package to our son in basic training and didnt have any bubble wrap or newspaper. So, I grabbed a lot of the plastic shopping bags...
Drawer Organizing for Power Cords
I found that if my husband has an empty caulk tube, they are about the same diameter, can be cut to size with craft scissors, dont fall apart as easily as cardboard, and its another way to recycle plastic! (And are not hard to clean out since the caulk gets...
Never Lose Your Keys Again
For years I have done this. I have different keys on different rings but can put them all on one carabiner that is on my purse. I also keep my key fob for the gym on the key ring I use the most. On some purses (and crossbody billfolds) I have even sewn a loop...
Shipping Mugs
No matter how hard I try, we always have more plastic bags than we can use. (Yes, we do use recycle bags) I found that they can be handy when packing. They are light, so if mailing it doesnt add to weight. Unlike newsprint, they so not leave ink on what you...
Wipe Down Gasket in Washer After Use
I have a front-loading machine that I clean with several methods, depending, on time and energy. I use white vinegar in the fabric softener cup and run it through a rinse and spin cycle. I, too, wipe the rubber door gasket, sometimes with a rag, sometimes with...
Save Boxes and Packaging Supplies to Reuse
While my son was overseas, I kept extra boxes for shipping. To prevent having too many (and when he was scheduled to come home) I posted their availability on our neighborhood facebook page. One of the neighbors knew someone with an online business that shipped...
Top Not Staying Up on a Pop Up Camper?
We had a similar issue. Unfortunately we couldnt even get ours to go up. First time we used it (purchased used). Turned out the crank was broke. To replace would have been very costly. The alternate solution was to attach a type of spring loaded arm that folded...
Removing Roof Tar from Skin with Olive Oil
Im always looking for something I have handy for my needs. I happened to have a lot of Avons skin so soft bath oil (leftover after my mom passed, I prefer showers and have been looking for ways to use it up). One day when my hands were really covered with sticky...
Dyeing a Bridesmaid Dress?
If the color is not a good color for you but you like the dress, you could also find something that is a good color for you by adding some kind of trim, scarf, or enhancement near the face if you can. This dress may not lend itself to that, but I did that with...
Decorate Food Cans For Office or Craft Storage
I have used this idea many times. Not just with cans. One thing I would like to add is how to make subdividers. Many products come in oval type plastic bottles (shampoo, for example). I have cut these in half and used 2 (side by side) slipped into a slightly...
Using Coffee Tubs for Fabric Storage
I had been saving these for this purpose. Only instead of fabric I planned to use them for my shoes. My husband didnt grab the concept. Bye bye canisters. I am re-accumulating them.
Erasing Permanent Marker from Laminated Paper
I have used alcohol, sanitizer, and nail polish remover. Most of which I have on hand when I need it. Because I try to reuse plastic containers, I like to remove the print. So I keep Acetone on hand. It is the active ingredient in the nail polish remover, but...
Finding Your Own Frugal Business
Love what you said. I firmly believe that we live in a world of waste where it is easier to throw things away than to use what we already have to fill our needs. One of the reasons I like to craft and sew is because I can use things that may be considered useless...
Declutter with Coffee Cans
I saved a lot of the coffee cans as well. My intent was to put them on their sides and attach to each other, creating cubbies for my shoes. However, I have used them in so many other ways, I never seem to have enough to do this project. There is a picture of...
Organizing my Cabinets
For under my kitchen sink, I used shallow plastic pans that were labeled as kitty litter pans at the $ store for storing cleaners, etc. They happen to fit perfect front to back and can catch any leaks that may seep out of the dishwashing soap or other items...
Organizing my Cabinets
fyi on your bulletin board for keeping pens/paper handy, you can hang a pocket (jeans?) with push pins. Another thing to put pens in is the bottom of a shampoo bottle cut off and pinned to the board. There are many craft sites if you want to get crafty with...
Emergency Bag for Car Trips
I use adaptions to this idea for work. Having worked in temp office positions for several years, I have found that having basics in a bag to go with me when changing jobs is very helpful. Purchases at a thrift store (extra hole punch, envelope opener, etc.) can...
Outdoor Pillows from Pet Food Bags
I have seen many ideas for repurposing feed bags of all kinds. We get our dog food in the 40-50 lb. bags. To wash them, I turned them inside out and put them in my washer with a few towels and used a gentle cycle. Hung up to dry. I was amazed how they came...
Can Tabs for Instant Room in Your Closet
I sometimes use the plastic shower curtain rings that come with a new shower curtain. There are always plenty of them around and I keep them for reuse in many ways.
Storing Plastic Bags Using Football Fold
I put plastic bags to use many ways. I have done crochet with plarn(plastic yarn). I have rolled them in a way to pull one at a time out of a former wipes container. And I have folded many into the little footballs. The advantage of folding into footballs is...
Easily Remove Coffee Stains From Mugs
I was cleaning some really nasty cups in the breakroom at work. None of the usual kitchen items(vinegar, baking soda, etc.) Had some clorox wet wipes. Worked great. Since this is not a food safe cleaner, rinse extra well after.
Learning Frugality
I sew for a creative outlet. I never have liked sewing clothes. But, I dont like shopping either. I do not spend a lot on my wardrobe. I look in my closet. If something is not getting worn because it doesnt fit, is uncomfortable, or for any other reason, I...
Dog Pees on Own Bed and Sleeps On It?
Any time a pet pees or poops where it shouldnt regardless of house training, its time to make sure a physical problem doesnt exist. Could be anything from organ failure to a urinary tract issue. I find physical problems are easier to treat. If it is behavioral...
Boric Acid For Controlling Ants In Garden And Kitchen
Boric Acid is also known as Borax, as in 20-mule-team borax. In addition to ant killer, I use it in a homemade laundry detergent that i make.
Organizing for a Disability
I always read through all the previously posted tips before I post. I recently made a small cell phone pocket for a lady who was home bound temporarily (several months). She lives alone and took some falls. By making a cell phone carrier she could wear around...
First Day of School Photos
My daughter purchased a BIG tshirt when her daughter started kindergarten last year. They placed handprints on one corner. The intent is to add handprints and take a picture each beginning school year. I looked back and they got a picture 1st and last day of...
Stackable Gallon Milk Jugs for Storage
I have found they are just the right size to stack a small basket from the Dollar Tree (usually 3/pk). This worked really well for me inside my sewing basket, essentially giving me three tiers for organizing little things. 1-milk jug bottom, 2- little organizer...
Potholder for Patching Gardening Pants
I have mended many Jean knees. The one thing I started doing is ripping open the inside seam of the jeans before I begin. This makes the manipulation of fabric so much easier. Many things can be used for patches, but this one thing makes it so much easier. When...
Effect of Alcohol and Water Carpet Cleaner on Dogs?
Anytime you use a chemical around your animals it is a good idea to check with a vet. Alcohol has a very fast evaporation rate. From that standpoint I would think it ok to use. I have used white vinegar with cleaning many things around the house. It is a good...
Keeping Plastic Drinking Straw Clean
Great idea. I use a pipe cleaner, but sometimes it isnt thick enough to provide the friction to remove the stains. (I am a big tea drinker)
Help Pets Beat the Heat with Frozen Treats
This spurred a light bulb in my head. Recently we were given a number of bags of canned dog food. I hate that there is leftover that we end up putting in the fridge. We have 2 dogs-one 25 lbs., and the other 125 lbs. The big dog is now suffering through thunderstorms...
Uses for Large Plastic Coffee Cans?
I use the plastic coffee canisters for a variety of things, many of which are mentioned above. I also use them as organizers for crafts and sewing supplies. Since I do sew, I made a liner/apron with numerous pockets to hold supplies. I used directions I found...
Never Too Old to Learn to Crochet
I was taught by my grandma at a young age, but didnt do it, so forgot it. Several years ago, we had a major stockpile of plastic shopping bags. Saw the use of plarn on the internet. Used internet sites to relearn crochet and have made many bags out of plastic...
Smoke Detectors and Family Pets
I firmly believe IF you can desensitize you should. There are so many sounds that can upset our fur family members. Our sensitive dog even gets upset when the emergency broadcasting tests sound on the tv. He is 125#s, so having him sit in my lap is not practical...
Reusing Plastic Coffee Cans?
I have made a liner/apron organizer to fit mine by using instructions I found online for making basket liners. I keep it next to my sewing machine for easy access supplies (scissors, seam ripper, pins, clips, etc.). I have also made them for craft storage/organization...
Saving Instead of Scrapping Old Clothes
I subscribe to several email groups that posts things regarding refashioning, upcycling, repurposing. On one site I saw a suggestion where a sewist took material scraps and cut them into tiny pieces to use for stuffing pillows, toys, etc. This spurred a memory...
Desk in a Small Space
Excellent use of small space. I recently moved my sewing space to a corner of a bedroom. It is so important to be imaginative to make use of spaces and also using furniture items for more than one purpose.
Shelf Unit End Storage
I have similar shelf units. Like you, I have invented ways to use the area on the ends. Some of mine have vented shelves. So using S hooks can also be done along the front of the shelf. Because I always have recycle containers (cans, plastic bottles, etc), I...
Recycled Towel Holder
I did this with a plastic lid for using in my car. We have a habit of putting plastic shopping bags on the gear shift to collect the trash in the car. The problem I had when driving was finding the opening. I now take the lid (i cut the middle out), wrap the...
Darling Miss Emma (Great Dane/Lab)
I, too, have a Great dane/lab mix. He is really big. Looks like the lab, but the Dane size. He had been abandoned and the person that found him was looking for foster care. My daughter was going to take him on, but the older Danes were too grumpy to accept...
Craft Ideas for Used Medicine or Pill Bottles?
When traveling, I fill one with all the things I like to have ICE (in case of emergency). Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, Liquid dish soap, White vinegar, q-tips, cotton balls, bandaids, even shampoo and conditioner although I would place them in a ziploc tor protection...
Reuse Cat Litter Containers
So many uses! With simple DIY frame they can be stacked on their sides creating cubbies. Also, good for fishing equipment. If going to use to sit on it needs a board or cushion, but that can be addressed easily enough. I have them in my sewing area, husbands...
Shoe Shelf For Dog Dishes
We have a 1/2 and 1/2 Great Dane/lab. We happened to have a small bucket that was just the right diameter and height. We turned it upside down (top was a little wider, flipping made it more stable) and my husband cut the bottom to fit the bowl. Works great...
Bathing Small Dog That Hates Water
Had lots of dogs over the years, all different sizes and breeds. My current big baby likes the shower. (hes over 125#) Washing his feet could be a struggle, so I started taking him in the shower to do it. Works great. Have to have lots of towels for him to...
Disaster Preparedness for Dogs And Cats
Something I have witnessed with pet lovers is that most dont think about making a plan for your pets if you become physically disabled or die. I have had several pets I adopted after their owners were unable to care for them. We consider what to do with our...
Reusing Plastic Laundry Detergent Bottles
Since I started making my own laundry detergent, this is not an issue. But so many things are packaged in plastic these days, whenever I need any kind of holder I look to my recycle bin before making a purchase. I have cut bottoms off and used them to hold...
Wrap Presents in Reusable Totes
I love using totes for gifts for ANY occasion. I tend to accumulate the bags. I have also purchased some at thrift stores for less than $1. Some are heavy canvas and strong. If I dont like the logo on it, I have sewn decorative patches over them or used fabric...
Recycled Container As Toilet Brush Holder
I use this type of container to hold a plunger next to the bathroom toilet as well.
One Size Doesn't Always Fit All
Well said! I thought by the title it was going to be about clothing sizes. I especially like the response take what you want and leave the rest. Who comes up with standards?
Organizing Craft Supplies In A Small...
I have, and do, use these wire racks. Personally, I do not like the connectors. I use zip ties to secure them together instead. The ones I have, Ive used for years. I have reconfigured them in numerous ways. I have even put two together using spools for spacers...
Use Sock on Water Bottle
I have used this idea many times. I make a point to stitch close one end. Then I like to sew a small loop on the top area so it can easily be carried. (You could put a long carry strap on it to carry it cross body (no hands) for walking or other activities...
Use Paper Clip to Mark Tape End
My solutions kept disappearing between uses. I finally resorted to clipping a plastic straw to the size of the width of the roll. Works good and if it disappears there are more waiting to be put into service.
Make Steps from Cinder Blocks
When I was about 12, we moved into a new house my dad had built. Dad had a lot of cement blocks. We had both a front and back porch he built for temporary use. Although temporary turned into several years, he did ultimately get them replaced (using some for...
Use Spice Rack for Bead Storage
Since keeping medicines in the bathroom is discouraged because of heat and humidity, I have a spice rack hanging on the wall behind the bedroom door where I keep otc and prescription medicines.
How to (or Not) Administer Medicine to an Ungrateful Bird
So amused by this story. After working in 3 zoos, and for 2 vets, I can picture every move you describe. Currently retired, I could no longer do the wrestling I did in my younger days of animal care.
Pack Travel Basics In Advance
These are very helpful. I keep a small train case packed for overnights with the basics (i.e. toothbrush, toothpaste, a pair of undies, nightshirt, pocket sewing kit, etc.) I also keep an index card as a reminder of the last minute things to add-medicines, cell...
Using File Cards For Organizing Addresses
Always in search of a better way, I have done a combination of all of the above. I do use a computer list that I can enter (and change) information. I maintain one list of all contacts. Then I have short lists for frequent reference. One list is titled Medical...
Craft Table Organizer
I love pockets. I have a small rolling table I use for my laptop. I have pockets hanging on both sides. I use the pockets for pens, pencils, scissors, fingernail file and clippers, etc. To prevent things from poking holes in the bottom of the pockets I cut...
Craft Table Organizer
I love this idea. I have done something similar with my mobile laptop computer table. Using the pockets for things I am always reaching for: Pens, Pencils, scissors, nail clippers, etc. Made a special pocket to hang my box of kleenex. I also have adapted a...
Uses for Shoe Organizers
I use the shoe organizers for many things as well. Because I tend to purchase less expensive ones, one way I try to keep them from being overstuffed or poked with sharp objects is to cut the bottoms of plastic bottles (shampoo usually because they are oval...
Use It or Lose It
I agree wholeheartedly. I have started avoiding shopping because it is too easy to buy something that the price is low on. Instead, if I need something, I look around to see what I have that would work for the purpose I need something for. My husband likes...
Emergency Sewing Kit
This issue is near and dear to my heart. My youngest son is in basic training and was talking about his name badges were coming loose. (Velcro attached) I asked him if I had sent a sewing kit with him. (He forgot about that.) He was thinking of getting a whole...
Recycle Towel Pieces into a Quilt Beach Towel
I have a separate cabinet in the basement for the old worn towels. We use them for rags, cleaning dog paws, and whatever else we would not want to use the good towels for. I have a little saying on a card on the door of the cabinet to explain what the cabinet...
Buying Presents for Grown Children?
Although cash and gift cards make for a universal gift, I really try to find other things. One year I got a family membership to the Zoo. It came with monthly magazines, and reciprocation to many other zoos. With young children they have used it many times...
Using Storage Bins for Traveling
A few things came to mind as I read this. While a good idea, I was in a car accident on my return trip home once. It was a one-day drive, and many items were just loosely placed in my car. I ended up having to leave my car for repairs, fly home, and fly back...
Reuse Pillow Shams On Your Sofa
Although not air-tight to keep dust out completely, shams and pillow cases can be used for storing clean folded blankets in when not in continuous use.
Air Purifiers That Run on Sunshine and Water
When my husband and I were first married we moved into a new home. I had him install a number of hangers throughout the house to hang my plants. By doing this it kept them out of reach of the kids (at least until they were old enough to know better), the cat...
Recycling Plastic Bags?
You can google how to knit or crochet, also. I have crocheted plarn bags. They are very strong. I have even put them through the washer (cold). My husband borrowed one to take the crockpot (full of gravy) to his office on a pot luck day.
School Locker Caddies For The Fridge
I do this on my fridge, also. A related idea I use is Jean pockets. I decorate and put a ribbon or ring on it and hang from a door knob or sticky hook. I have also seen them with magnets glued on the back for the purpose of sticking to the fridge.
Saving Too Many School Papers?
Although we outgrew this method, I formerly used an accordian file for each year. I kept all my receipts in it each month. (Things like warranties and manuals I kept in a separate file to keep indefinitely). At the end of the year when I went to have my taxes...
Household Tool Box Tips
I have always had a few tools to call my own. I kept good track of them. When I remarried my husband had all his own tools. But the little tool kit I had was always handier. Wanna make a guess who didnt return tools to where they belonged? So I check it frequently...
Making a Bootie Bag From Jeans?
I have used many things when making bags of fabric that need stiffness. I have been known to use whatever I have on hand, instead of running out to buy something. Plastic bottles from my recycle bin can have parts snipped out with multipurpose craft scissors...
Using Styrofoam Blocks
I used a small block of Styrofoam to make a business card holder. I carved a notch across the top and then covered it with pretty fabric. I could have bought one, but I already had the things laying around to use that would otherwise be put in the trash. After...
Turn Trash Into Fully Functional Furniture...
yuppiesh neighborhoods??? Yes, sometimes true. Caution on the generalization. I have seen more expensive items (toys, commodity food, furniture, etc) next to the curb in impoverished neighborhoods. Toys I would not buy for my own children because of cost, a...
