Use What You Have and Re-think the Rest

Frugal living, to me, means using what I have before buying something new. When I am in need of something, I first think about what I already have that might fulfill my needs, and try to use that first.

For instance, I wanted to make a patchwork quilt using only what I had on hand. Instead of buying quilt batting, I used an old, faded comforter for the batting. I sometimes pick up sheets at rummage sales that can be used for the backing. I made a duvet for the comforter by making the quilted top and backing into a cover for it. Buttons can close the open end of it. This way, if it gets dirty, I can just wash the cover.

Sometimes you really need to buy something, so make sure you consider all options before rushing into a purchase. So many times I have hurried out to buy something I needed, only to find it at a yard or rummage sale. Now I wait, if at all possible, for a rummage sale. Things at rummage sales are usually dirt-cheap. I got a set of heavy steel measuring cups for .25 after the numbers on a dollar-store set had worn off in a short time. I have bought garments at such sales, sometimes, only for the beautiful buttons on them, which are very expensive new.

When I was in need of an exercise mat, I went to a local discount dept. store to see what they had. In the fitness dept. I found a foam yoga mat for about $15. Kind of pricey and only 1/4 inch thick. An idea occurred to check in the camping section. They had camper's sleeping mats that were the same size as the yoga mats, but the foam was twice as thick. It was $7.98 so I got myself one and have been using it happily for a couple of months now.

Plant pots for starting seeds are a cinch. You can use small paper or plastic cups, yogurt or margarine containers, or other container that may be missing their lids, then poking 1 hole in the bottom of each. Place them on a tray or old baking pan to keep water from running out all over.

I manage to live very comfortably, even elegantly, on a small paycheck. I encourage others to think creatively before going out and buying something.

By Jennifer from Gilbertsville, NY