23Dec 2009 by holly

How to make a Stocking?

DIY, Sewing
I guess you can say I've always been frugal in some way or another.   I might not have used coupons as much as I do now and I didn't always reach for the lowest out of pocket expense but I loved to make crafts with scrap fabrics.  Did I mention that I like to quilt?   I haven't had much time since I have a little girl, but I do love to sew. You may have seen my post on - How to make a Baby Bib? A super easy project that you can make in about 15 minutes as long as all of your supplies are in reach. Today, I'm going to show you how to make a pretty stocking right before you need to set them up for  tomorrow…
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16Dec 2009 by holly

Making your own Holiday Envelopes!

DIY, general, Gift, Uncategorized
This last year I got Martha Stewart Living for free!   The magazine has a lot of creative ideas. This evening I was looking for Christmas labels and I found this creative idea for envelopes. Using the Martha Stewart method and you don't have to spend any money! Use some of the scrap wrapping paper from gift wrapping. Unfold a regular envelope. Choose patterned paper larger than the envelope (or stick mismatched pieces together with glue). Trace the envelope onto the paper, fold (use envelope as a guide), and secure with glue stick. If mailing, add a label. A couple years ago I found Floral Vintage Collection: Cards, Envelopes, Tags and I created cards and envelopes for peoples birthdays and other celebrations. Image source: MarthaStewart.com Note: I am an affiliate with…
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03Dec 2009 by holly

Calligraphy Project – Christmas Cards and Wedding Invitations

DIY, general, Uncategorized
Besides starting Christmas shopping and finishing up Thanksgiving turkey, in the evenings I've been working on practicing my Calligraphy for a family member's wedding invitations. Here is an example of my Calligraphy version of "Virginia".  It's funny how words look odd after you look at them for a long period of time.   As I practice, I'm also writing my addresses for my Christmas cards.  Might as well!  Practice makes perfect. I found to be really helpful if you are interested in learning Calligraphy to watch the following videos. Videos: Writing Complete Words in Cursive Italic Image: Discoverahobby.com
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22Nov 2009 by holly

How to make Liquid Foaming Hand Wash?

DIY, general, Recipes, Uncategorized
I'm a huge fan of Dial complete and other liquid foaming hand wash.  For several years I would buy the refills at Walmart.  Now, I look for good deals everywhere I go.   I've tried in the past to make my own but it would come out foaming for a day and then it would stop working.   The best deal I've found to buy it at Aldi I believe it is under $2 last time I was there. Then here is the recipe for refilling your container! 1. Find some gel like liquid soap.  I recommend gel form because it needs to dissolve.  The creme version will not dissolve and the pump will not be able to foam it.  You can get the gel form really cheap!  You could even try…
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12Sep 2009 by holly

Original Sewing & Quilt Expo – Chantilly, VA – October 1, 2 and 3

DIY, Sewing, Uncategorized
I'm super excited!  I've thought about posting this last month and then time flew by.  It dawned on my this evening that I had to post this before I forgot again. For the last couple years I've been going to the Sewing Expo in Chantilly, VA.  It is a blast!  I save up every year to go since I love to take classes.  I learn a lot about sewing. If you are at all interested in sewing or an expert seamstress this event is for you.  There are some frugal things to be had, however, this event has all sorts of expensive goodies to drool at! If you are interested in attending and haven't attended before, then I have a deal for you!    Email me at hollys.savings (at) gmail (dot)…
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10Aug 2009 by holly

Easy Chic Furniture! Black Antique – Old to make Old again!

DIY, Uncategorized
How do you make that old ugly 80's furniture look better? Yuck!  Most people would say throw-it away!  Or donate it! Or Freecycle it! I say reuse it! Make it better for about $5-$20 and your time! About 5 years ago my husband and I were doing our typical Walmart shopping trip which always included looking at clearance items.  This particular day this Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Kit caught my attention it was called Accents by Rust-Oleum Brand - Distressed Antique Black. I bought 2 kits for $5 a piece.   (Note: This was 5+ years ago.) At the time, we were living in a small townhouse that we had owned for a couple years and I was interested in painting picture frames black and maybe a couple other pieces as well.   I…
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