Giveaway — The Frugal Girl’s “Reuse, Refresh, Repurpose” eBook

by Katy on September 12, 2011 · 124 comments

I have a very fun giveaway today, which is your very own personal copy of The Frugal Girl’s “Reuse, Refresh, Repurpose: 20 Ways to Breathe New Life into Old Clothes.”

“Reuse Refresh Repurpose” is a 57 page inspirational collection of crafty yet practical ideas. Written in The Frugal Girl’s appealing friendly style, (and including tons of her fantastic photos) this eBook is packed full of ideas for both the beginner and the expert. And as a PDF, it can be read on any regular ol’ computer.

To enter to win this book, write your name in the comments section, and maybe even share a little frugal tip. I will randomly choose a winner on Wednesday, September 14th at 9 P.M. Pacific time. As this book is an eBook, this giveaway is open to international readers. One entry per person.

Good luck!

Katy Wolk-Stanley

“Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without”

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{ 124 comments… read them below or add one }

Barb @ 1 Sentence Diary September 12, 2011 at 4:04 am

My currently used best frugal tip: meal planning. It has made a huge difference in my level of relaxation as well as my budget. I’m not normally much of a plan-ahead type of gal, but I am a convert to menu planning.

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Jill September 12, 2011 at 2:15 pm

All recipes.com has wonderful meal planning options. It takes time but saves money.

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Laura September 12, 2011 at 4:15 am

Only clothes shopping as needed and with a list. I have a sewing machine to do small mending, and I aspire to sew clothes again. It is not necessarily cheaper but it is a good project.

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gretchen September 12, 2011 at 4:28 am

I have a vegetable garden that I expand a bit each year. We eat a lot of veggies so we get inexpensive, organic produce which I ‘ve also learned to can for year long enjoyment!

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Jackie September 12, 2011 at 4:46 am

I always check Freecycle or Craigslist for items I need, and unless the need is urgent, I just wait till it comes up on there instead of buying. If I do need to buy things, I try very hard to buy from a thrift store instead of retail. I also shop at a food co-op instead of the grocery store whenever possible. For clothing, I host an annual clothing swap for all the women in my life.

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Jen September 12, 2011 at 4:49 am

I’m trying to be frugal with my laptop shopping since my old one is shot. I called ahead Sunday to make sure the store had the on sale + clearance priced model in stock after the branch I had stopped in Saturday did not. I bought it, brought it home and after turning it on and installing anti-virus and Office, it is making awful whirring and hissing sounds like there is a rattlesnake inside. This morning I’m planning to be frugal by calling ahead before making yet ANOTHER trip to find out 1) if they have a replacement and 2) how they are going to refund me for the software I already installed. Since I live at least an hour away from any such store, I’ve got to be careful with my time and gas money! (both of which I’ve spent too much of already) Argh!
p.s. sorry for the negative comment…sometimes being frugal is rough!

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Sarah September 12, 2011 at 4:50 am

Ooh! Oooh! Pick me! Pick me! I love sewing and love the challenge of making something new out of something old. I recently made myself a top from a thrift store dress, a skirt for my daughter out of thrift store sheets, a dress from old sheets, etc. If a garment is so far gone that it has to be thrown out, it usually still makes great dusting rags and I always check to see if there are buttons or other trims to be harvested from it. Stained clothes often have elements that can be used on other projects, like the stained t-shirt someone gave us in a bag of clothes. It had a tiny white on white embroidered flower front and center, which I cut out and put on a child’s slip made from (again) old sheets.

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Crystal September 12, 2011 at 5:00 am

Always check the thrift store first. Most of my household furnishings and clothes come from the thrift store. They are much cheaper than buying new and typically have a longer life as well. My mom is always excited to see a box of thrift store sweaters for the holidays and my sister think shopping there is fun.

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Ellen September 12, 2011 at 5:00 am

Oh, winning would be wonderful!

I just try not to buy things on impulse. Instead, I have a list of things that I’d love to have, which is perfect for my birthdays and Christmas. (And after not looking at that list for weeks, I usually cross out loads on that list.)

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Jamie J. September 12, 2011 at 5:03 am

Making a list for each errand that I *have* to run and then sticking to it. If I find an item not on the list that is not something I absolutely need, but left off, then I have a 2 day waiting period before I allow myself to go back to get it. Most of the time the urge passes!

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Jackie September 12, 2011 at 5:06 am

My favorite frugal tip is to wait a set amount of time before buying someting. I often find that I have created a work around solution, someone has the item and they no longer need it, or I decide I can live without it.

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Cate September 12, 2011 at 5:14 am

I would love to win this! I can do basic mending, but aside from cutting old clothing into rags, that’s about the extent of my capabilities in this area.

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Anne Weber-Falk September 12, 2011 at 5:27 am

Anne Weber-Falk hopes to make new things out of old.

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Alyson September 12, 2011 at 5:48 am

I grocery shop once a week. During the week, if I find that I’m missing an ingredient, I find a substitute or do without.

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Melissa September 12, 2011 at 5:48 am

My frugal tip is to stay home…unless necessary. A friend living in another large city once said, “It’s hard to move about the city without dropping money” and I have found that to be true in every place I live. The cheapest place anywhere for me is home. 🙂

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AnnDenee September 12, 2011 at 5:51 am

What’s helped the most in being frugal is to surround myself with like-minded friends. Non-frugal people just don’t get it!

AnnDenee Leach

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Dusti September 12, 2011 at 3:16 pm

that is so true! My husband is from a comfortable Southern family and his parents just don’t get that I would buy my kids clothes from a thrift store. Some of them are brand new. Nor so they seem to care about waiting to find a better deal on something that is not an absolute necessity. I didn’t even attempt to explain the Compact to them.

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Edamommy September 12, 2011 at 6:23 am

Oh, this is right up my alley right now! I’ve been trying to figure out what to do with damaged garments, old cloth. (With 3 boys and a … busy … husband, I end up with a fair bit of the former.)

I always look to Craigslist, Freecycle and my local thrifts when I’m in need of something. I also ask my friends – some of them know a lot of folks, and networking can be really helpful!

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Christine S September 12, 2011 at 6:27 am

I make almost all my own cleaners, and I’ve even converted a lot of my friends to do the same. Green and frugal!

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Dusti September 12, 2011 at 3:19 pm

will you please share your sources. I’ve looked in the library and not found books on this subject. My last online search didn’t result in what I was looking for. I know the info is out there. I’m just not looking in the right places.

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leezcheez September 12, 2011 at 6:31 am

First, I want to say that I wish you had a way to “like” someone’s comment on this reply board, because I usually find at least one person who says exactly what I’m thinking…I guess that means we are like minded. My ability to repurpose my son’s jeans into shorts has been a money saving thing for us…he grows like a weed and is very against wearing the “high-waters”. Thrift stores have been esp. helpful for my 11 year old “fashion plate”. And I love the bargain fabric prices (as well as repurposing old sheets, Sarah!)

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Jens September 12, 2011 at 6:50 am

90% of my clothing and my husband’s comes from thrift shops. I buy only what I need–unless it’s something remarkable that I fall in love with! And I get lots of compliments on what I wear, too.

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Jackie September 12, 2011 at 6:52 am

Hmm…frugal tip. Don’t buy stuff.

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Kelly September 12, 2011 at 6:54 am

Hi, I’m Kelly. I installed a shower rod above my washer/dryer and hang clothes there to air dry.

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Sara Tetreault September 12, 2011 at 7:03 am

I’m a big clothing mender – and re-purpose-r (is this a word??). It’s amazing all of the clothing people get rid of because of a simple hole, missing button or a hard to clean spot. My tip? Don’t be afraid to tackle a project, shorten something, add a stylish patch or upgrade the buttons.

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Mary Ann September 12, 2011 at 7:12 am

I never buy mulch for my beds. I live in a neighborhood with a lot of trees. As my neighbors are raking/blowing their leaves to the street for city pick-up, I’m taking them out of the street to chop up for mulch.

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Margaret September 12, 2011 at 9:49 am

How do you chop them?

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Eleanor September 12, 2011 at 7:16 am

Look online at catalogs for clothing ideas that you can re-style yourself. A “watercolor” cardigan selling for $59.99 inspired me to spend $6 at Goodwill and create my own. Stylish and frugal!

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Ann September 12, 2011 at 7:37 am

I’m with Jackie. Don’t buy stuff…or….at least buy stuff thoughtfully.

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Debbie September 12, 2011 at 7:43 am

When I was young, poor, pregnant and energetic I altered my wardrobe in such a way that it could be realtered after the baby was born. A bonus was that I got to keep wearing my favorite clothes while pregnant and knew when I was back to pre-baby size when I realtered.

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Margaret September 12, 2011 at 9:51 am

Please elaborate! How on earth did you do this?

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Renee September 12, 2011 at 7:58 am

Would love the book! There are a ton of yard/garage sales in my area each week, which I have only recently been checking out (I stick to areas nearby). Cheap entertainment. Best buy – Elmo, for a granddaughter who is in LOVE with him, $1, (he went through the washer just fine). Also picked up some large plastic bins, with lids, to start my worm composting bin, $1 each, and a pair of hardly worn, expensive, comfy shoes for another granddaughter, 75 cents! Haven’t found the spatula I need yet. I used to just run to the store and buy new. Even grandmas can change!

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Beth S September 12, 2011 at 8:08 am

Craiglist is my best frugal friend. 🙂

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Leslie September 12, 2011 at 8:17 am

My best frugal activities right now are making the majority of our food and laundry detergent. I’m trying to find a good thrift store in our area now.

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chppie September 12, 2011 at 8:23 am

I get so many frugal ideas from you that it’s hard to think of one that’s my own. I suppose that in itself is a modern frugal tip: read blogs that encourage frugal actions.

Thanks for featuring this ebook. I also enjoy the Frugal Girl’s blog for tips and actually replaced my yogurt recipe with hers (but I modified it a bit) and really enjoy saving money by making my own yogurt. I also make my own bread which saves a ton when you like the “fancy” whole grain breads.

By the way I also appreciate that you point out the frugality is not the end but a means to it and that you spend where it’s important and save where you can.

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Carolyn September 12, 2011 at 9:03 am

Always shop with a list! Organizing and decluttering begin in the store!

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Margaret September 12, 2011 at 9:52 am

AMEN!

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Amy September 12, 2011 at 9:07 am

oooh, oooooh, ooooooooooooh – I’d love to win this book!

This might sound crazy, but I use the water I use for rinsing dishes to water my plants and garden. Yes, it takes more time, but the plants love the grey water and I don’t have to run the hose as much – this equals some pennies saved and really happy plants!

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Rachel in Portland September 12, 2011 at 9:13 am

So many great frugal tips in the comments so far! Overall, I have found that frugality requires constant attention, something I am still working on. I’d also like to add it’s really fun and satisfying to use old thrift-store cashmere sweaters to create new little bags, hats, scarves, and pillows.

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Margaret September 12, 2011 at 9:56 am

For me, the most important action is having a budget that my husband and I agree on. After that, meal planning, cooking from scratch (especially The Frugal Girl’s w.w. bread and yogurt,) buying and selling on craigslist. As Rachel said… constant attention. I like to think of it as my 100% commission job… every penny saved is like a commission.

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Kate B. September 12, 2011 at 9:57 am

I’d love to win this. Lately, I’ve been making my own veggie stock (hubby is a vegetarian) using veggie scraps I throw into a designated bag in the freezer. I hate buying broth and was just composting the veggies, so when the bag was full I threw the veggies in the crockpot, covered them with water and cooked them on low overnight.

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Anki September 12, 2011 at 10:20 am

My frugal tips, I repurpose my kids jeans by really intensive use 🙂 . First my son wears them and when he has outgrown them, I pass them along to my daughter. When she has outgrown them I just cut of the legs and it’s back to my (skinny) son who wears them as shorts.

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maria September 12, 2011 at 10:33 am

Ohh I want this! I make sure to plan/attend a clothing swap/naked lady party! I love the time spent with girlfriends and always leave with some new gear!

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Donna September 12, 2011 at 10:34 am

Pick me! My tip is to take the ads with you to Walmart. They price match which means I can buy all my stuff in one location. I save time, money and gas.

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Melissa September 12, 2011 at 10:51 am

My frugal tip is whenever I feel like shopping, I go vacuum or dust all the stuff I already own. The thought of adding to that chore usually keeps me from acquiring more.

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Carpet Cleaning Harrisburg PA September 12, 2011 at 10:53 am

I’ve never attempted to be frugal. I just always was. Think it was how I was raised.

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Rebecca B. A. R. September 12, 2011 at 11:45 am

I make my own dry laundry detergent, that the recipe is easy to remember and is very cheap to make. Two parts grated bar soap, one part borax, and one part washing soda–use one heaping Tablespoon per load. What is nice about this recipe is you can make as little or as big of a batch as you want.

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Leslie K. September 12, 2011 at 11:59 am

While I occasionally make impulse purchases, I make a point to really think about things I *want* vs. need. Sometimes want wins out, but at least I’m making a conscious decision.

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Chrissy September 12, 2011 at 12:11 pm

I missed the chance to buy this book on the frugal girls website for half off. I would love to win a copy. I have been turning old pillow cases and duvets into dog bed covers. This helps keep the beds clean and I’m able to wash the covers with ease.

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Linda September 12, 2011 at 12:49 pm

I would love to win this book. Kristen is inspiring and always has wonderful tips. Plus, I love that she shares her faith.

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Mindy September 12, 2011 at 1:23 pm

If I need something for the kitchen or bath, I always shop at thrift or resale shops first to see if I can find it there. I love to hunt for the bargain!

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Alice September 12, 2011 at 2:10 pm

I’d love a copy! My main frugal tip is almost too simple to mention – I try not to rush. If I feel like I need to rush through a decision, I try to put it off for another day, so that I minimize the amount of buyer’s remorse that all too often follows impulsive spending!

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Carie T. September 12, 2011 at 2:50 pm

Also thrifty with the occasional splurge on something new. Nothing escapes my sewing machine, either.
I am curious, however, to see how you are going to wear a snow globe.

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Santhi September 12, 2011 at 2:50 pm

Santhi could do wih the e-book to turn the current stash of no-longer-in-use clothes into useful items. Craigslist is my fave ‘shopping’ site too. $4 value box of baking soda and $3 bottle of vinegar (5lires) are my best purchases for household cleaning!

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Madeline September 12, 2011 at 3:05 pm

It’s MADELINE ,hoping to win!

Frugal fun tips: ALWAYS shop AT HOME FIRST!

Clothes: the closets are probably full of separates you can pull into snappy outfits in new ways..hey! I’d add the Laurel Burch scarf I found last year at Goodwill for $1.00. Raid spouse and kids closets too.

Decor: move stuff around. Take ALL your pictures,etc. off the walls and all your knick knacks into a pile. Then redistribute in new ways. (This can take a week or so!!!) I turned an old pitcher into a vase, tucked in some dried flowers I had in a “junk”closet! Turned a colorful Chock Full o”Nuts coffee can into a craft room storage container for colored pencils.Moved the art in the hallway into the living room and moved the living room stuff into a bedroom…

Set a mismatched table: Never worry again about breaking dishes since they don’t need to match! I LOVE mixed up place settings! Varied colored plates and glasses, forks, etc. Odd water or wine glasses and a nice candle to top off a romantic dinner of Rigatony (50 cents on sale) and broccoli (gift from neighbor.) I enjoy cloth napkins I have purchased on sale or at yard sales over the years.

Make your own greeting cards!!!! Cards are often 5 bucks or more! FInd one small set of rubber stamps, a black ink pad and buy some blank cards with envelopes–all with coupons at Michaels, or at goodwill–I ALWAYS see rubber stamps at our thrift stores..Get friends together ,make a pitcher of lemonade (or margaritas..??) and make 10 cards o have stockpiled.Don’t put greetings inside till you need them. Use your kids colored pencils, chalks, whatever you can find to decorate them. I like to glue on old buttons!

FOOD: My frugal trick is not new. Have one to two (or THREE??) vegetarian nights per week.We have a SOUP night with a loaf of homemade bread. The other night is often a bean or grain dish,and then I have a meatless pasta night too.

ENJOY! Hope I win!!!!!!!!!

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Madeline September 12, 2011 at 3:14 pm

Have to comment on the other tips..great! Melissa, staying at HOME works for me too.I am a homebody by nature and I also read some good advice somewhere.It was simple: “Don’t shop.” LOL.

Kelly– I have an old spring curtain rod I am now going to hang over my washer as a clothesline.

Alice: What a reminder– NOT RUSHING saves TONS of money. When I am more,relaxed, enjoying my home, cooking from scratch at a leisurely pace, I have less need to “de stress” by shopping, traveling, or browsing amazon or ebay!!!!!!

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Lindsie September 12, 2011 at 3:24 pm

My greatest frugal tip for clothes is garage sales! I rarely buy clothes for myself ( it is one of the things I sacrifice to be able to afford spending money on my kids). I frequent community yard sales and this summer got two bags stuffed full of clothing for myself for only $2!! It was a real treat for me and didn’t hurt the budget at all.

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Dusti September 12, 2011 at 3:27 pm

I quit taking my younger two kids to the store unless absolutely necessary. My husband and I disagree on whether it’s acceptable to get something each time we go to a store. He remembers wishing he could get just a little something and I remember thinking it would be great to have that new doll house and going home and making a mansion out of moving boxes. An old pencil case was a combination couch/toddler bed and clothing storage for my 12 in. ‘fashion dolls’.
I find my kids deciding on anything just so they don’t have to leave the store empty handed. Hubby and I finally agreed that if they used their allowance, they could get something with the understanding that when the allowance is gone, it’s gone.

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Dusti September 12, 2011 at 3:30 pm

I also try to encourage them to save it for ‘something big’ and emphasize that that could be an immaterial thing such as a trip to someplace special.

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rachael s September 12, 2011 at 3:35 pm

It sounds so obvious, but the most effective way I have found to stay within my budget is to take out the cash that is allocated for my various budget items. The goal is to have some leftover by next payday. When I can actually see what I have left it forces me to decide if I really need to buy whatever it is. The answer is often “no” and any leftover money gets squirreled away for a rainy day. I feel rich with my stash of cash at the end of a pay period!

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Jessie September 12, 2011 at 4:32 pm

This is an all to easy frugal tip, but I refuse to shop without a grocery list! I was in a position this past weekend that I was in town and decided to go without a grocery list. I felt completely lost! I didn’t know what meals I was going to make, and I didn’t know what exactly I needed. That definitely won’t be happening again!

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anne September 12, 2011 at 4:44 pm

a frugal tip: try trading/sharing baby/kids clothes with friends!

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Amy September 12, 2011 at 5:20 pm

My frugal tip is to buy clothes a season in advance at end-of-season clearance sales. With 3 kids under 4, this trick has saved me TONS of money -and often I can find new clothes this way cheaper than those at thrift stores (not that we always buy new, but sometimes new is nice).

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Pam G September 12, 2011 at 5:35 pm

My frugal tip: Don’t go to the mall!

Pam Gotcher

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Jessica Wolk-Stanley September 12, 2011 at 5:37 pm

My name is Jessica Wolk-Stanley and my special tip is to buy used, trade with friends and hand down to friends. And teach your kids by example that used is good.

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namastemama September 12, 2011 at 5:38 pm

Drink water from the tap:)
Regina

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Amy Dunn September 12, 2011 at 5:47 pm

Don’t just live within your means, live BELOW your means. We just downsized, paid cash for our new home and are loving the financial freedom. Thanks for the opportunity to win Kristen’s e-book. Love the Frugal Girl!

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Carol September 12, 2011 at 6:05 pm

We don’t buy new, unless it’s on sale (except food and undies, of course). For example, today at Goodwill, I paid $4 for a Coldwater Creek sweater (probably $100 retail). It was size 2X and I’m size med, but thankfully, I’m good at altering clothes and will be able to remake this cute sweater into my size. For $4! 🙂

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Holly September 12, 2011 at 6:05 pm

I would LOVE to have a copy of that book! I have recently changed sizes and have been altering what is salvagable to wear again once it get to small to alter I have started turning everything into rag rugs but I would love to get some fresh ideas. I love your blog BTW and am so glad that you continue to write it is one of my favorite parts of checking my email 🙂

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Jennifer September 12, 2011 at 6:08 pm

My frugal tip is to think of alternate uses for things. Reuse containers food or other items come in to store items or create games for kids.

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Jamie Hilliard September 12, 2011 at 6:10 pm

I am always looking on freecycle sites around our area no cost for anything and you can also post what your looking for.

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tory September 12, 2011 at 6:23 pm

A quick frugal tip is to hang dry your clothes! Indoors or outdoors, you’re saving electricity and your clothes will last longer. Thanks for the opportunity!

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Linda September 12, 2011 at 6:27 pm

I already have the book and I LOVE it Frugal Girl is great,

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Jo September 12, 2011 at 6:35 pm

Join a time bank, which is a community organization that serves as a way to exchange services without spending money– folks just share their time and talents. For example, I offered to teach others how to sell items online. For that I am paid in “hours.” I then can use those hours to “pay” someone else to give me a ride to the airport, repair my bike, or any number of other services for which I would normally have to pay money. Check the Membership Directory of Time Banks USA to see if there is a time bank in your area. http://timebanks.org/

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Carla September 12, 2011 at 9:17 pm

My favourite frugal tips:
– Only go shopping when you know exactly what you want to buy. Don’t go window shopping to new stores. Do your research.
– Don’t look at flyers just to look, they make you want-y. Look at them when are trying to find a sale for something specific (see point above).
-Buy what you need, when you need. Buying extras can tie up your money in goods you will not use months from now when you may need the cashflow now instead.
– Be patient in waiting to pick up what you want at a thrift shop rather than buying new (example: just bought a gorgeous brown betty teapot for $3 that normally goes for over $35, after about 2 months of looking, and using the bodum to make tea).
-ALWAYS pack food/snacks/energy bar when you go out, so you are not tempted to buy something because you got delayed, etc.
– Have faith that God/the Universe/Creator/whatever-you-believe-in will provide. It does!

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Jane September 12, 2011 at 9:40 pm

Shop with an imaginary friend. If I find myself debating whether to buy, say, a $20 skirt, I imagine an imaginary shopping buddy standing there with the skirt in one hand and $20 in the other, offering me my choice of the two. Usually I choose the $20 and put the skirt back on the rack.

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Jenny September 12, 2011 at 9:42 pm

Buy nice quality hardly used king size sheets at garage sales (sometimes even in the package!) and sew them into queen size duvet covers. Easy straight sewing saves a lot of $$$$!

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Sophie September 12, 2011 at 10:05 pm

My mum converted old cotton diapers (just square pieces of cotton) into washing gloves – we hardly ever use any disposable wipes to clean baby’s bottom! And old also means super soft…

wee! open to international readers!

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karin September 13, 2011 at 2:16 am

Think laterally as to how you could use charity shop buys. I have used blankets and sheets as curtains, repurposed duvet covers into cushion covers for cane seats etc. I’m not so good on adapting clothes, so maybe if I could win this book that would help in that direction.

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Patricia Nannini September 13, 2011 at 2:25 am

I’m a big fan of yours and The Frugal Girl. I’ve learned alot, and this ebook will help me even more!

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Raf September 13, 2011 at 2:45 am

I like TFG! This e-book *has* to travel to Pavia, Italy. 🙂

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Shannon Breen September 13, 2011 at 4:41 am

What a great idea! I always hate posting frugal tips in the comments. Mine are so minor and obvious compared to the wonderful things everyone else comes up with. 🙂

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Susie Clark September 13, 2011 at 4:59 am

Best frugal tip: follow http://www.thefrugalgirl.com Ive been a follower for 2yrs now, while I was employed to now being a “homemaker”. Using her tips has allowed me to now be home w/ my children & husband full time. I will be forever greatful for her tips and wise thinking!!!

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Roxanne Heard September 13, 2011 at 6:10 am

These days I do my clothes shopping in my own closet. It’s amazing the great outfits I can devise for nothing!!!!!

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Monica September 13, 2011 at 6:40 am

I’ve switched to using henna + indigo to color my hair. It costs a little less than using boxed color and is much cheaper than having it done at a salon. The condition of my hair has improved and I’m no longer letting questionable chemicals seep into my scalp.,

I make my own chicken stock using the leftover carcass and bones from a roasted chicken. Just cover the bones with water and simmer on low for several hours. Throw in carrots, onions and celery for added flavor, but I usually don’t bother. Freeze the stock in ice cube trays and then transfer to freezer bags for later use.

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Deborah Hall September 13, 2011 at 6:47 am

My tip is to grow your own veggies. Even if you don’t have space for a garden you can grow a lot of food in a wine barrel. You can extend your harvest into the cold weather by covering your beds or containers.

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judyyy September 13, 2011 at 6:53 am

garage sales!

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clickclackgorilla September 13, 2011 at 7:02 am

My latest frugal habit has been not to get rid of any of my clothes. It’s a bit out of line with my dislike of clutter, but when I get tired of something, I pack it up in a box that I keep under my bed. Then about once a season I open up the box. Usually I have forgotten about all the stuff that’s in there, and then I go “shopping” in my stash of clothes that I was previously tired of and eventually would have replaced with a new purchase. Even though I generally only buy clothes from the fleamarket, every penny counts!

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Robyn Quaintance September 13, 2011 at 7:18 am

I am thankful you are open to international readers! Thanks! My frugal tip is to avoid eating out at all costs! My husband makes his ‘tuna salad’ for his evening shift meal and stores it in an old margarine container. One day, he grabbed the actual margarine, instead of his meal and when he realized his mistake at dinner time, he just went without. He didn’t run out and buy something else. I know this sounds crazy – but do we really need to eat so much anyway? Staying slim is important for your health too. Not eating out has saved us big bucks!

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Karen September 13, 2011 at 7:23 am

This is a great frugal tip, and not just for clothes. Consider everything before you get rid of it – can it be reused or repurposed somehow? I’ve been able to revive a few pieces of clothing this way – would love the chance to win this book! At the very least, you’ve turned me onto yet another great blog to follow. Thanks!

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Margaret September 13, 2011 at 7:35 am

I make bread pudding from left over dry bread. I eat it for breakfast instead of grabbing food on the way to work.

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Lauren September 13, 2011 at 8:00 am

Looks like a great book!

I like scrounging materials such as shipping palettes and large flower pots to serve second purposes as display towers or bedroom trash cans. No need to hide their form or their original purpose – it makes them even more interesting and attractive in their new function!

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bonnie September 13, 2011 at 8:19 am

My favorite frugal clothing tip is to use dye to make clothes that have been stained usable again! It can also change up your wardrobe for very little money…used dark green dye and transformed an old, cream colored, stained Lands End barn coat into a new looking green fall coat!

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Vicki September 13, 2011 at 8:29 am

Sounds like a great read!
My frugal tip has to do with breastfeeding (which is super frugal itself): Instead of spending a fortune on nursing pajamas, I just cut the neck out of old t-shirts and pop a boob out of the top. My 8 month old likes it so much, he has figured out to pull open my shirt and stick his head in. 🙂

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Maureen September 13, 2011 at 8:51 am

Working on teaching the husband to shop from his closet. It’s working for me.

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WEFA September 13, 2011 at 9:27 am

I love Kristen she writes great articles, and I would love to win a copy of her book. Thanks for the chance!

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Katie September 13, 2011 at 9:39 am

This sounds like such an awesome resource. Even if I don’t get picked to win, I’m going to give it a read.

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Sara September 13, 2011 at 9:41 am

If you need to buy something, try to buy it second hand – check thrift stores, garage sales, and free cycle – ask your friends/family. If you cannot find what you are looking for second hand, keep looking. Chances are either it is out there waiting for you to find it and use it OR you don’t actually NEED it in the first place.

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Steady Plodder September 13, 2011 at 9:49 am

Would love a copy of TFG’s e-book!

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Katherine September 13, 2011 at 10:15 am

all of our dust rags are worn-out kids’ clothes. repurposing!

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Annie September 13, 2011 at 10:19 am

My frugal tip is to stay organized. When my stuff is organized I find myself buying a lot less things that I already own plenty of such as hair ties, bobby pins, pens, pencils, paint, nail polish, etc.

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Eleanor September 13, 2011 at 10:39 am

My frugal tip is when shopping at Goodwill, consider items your size or larger. Many times I find a dress I like, it’s just too big. I bring it home, make a few alterations, and voila! A custom fit!

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Diane September 13, 2011 at 11:23 am

Diane Crowley says thank you, Katie. You see, she forgot to order the book during the introductory half-off period, so she’s grateful to you for giving her a chance to win a copy!
A favorite tip is to make friends with serial upgraders. I was just offered a huge flat screen TV by someone who just bought {insert scream} a 3-D TV! Gads! Not sure if I’ll do it, but it is a crazy good deal.

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Ellie September 14, 2011 at 6:06 am

LOL!

I’m not, shall we say, “close” to many of my (very materialistic) inlaws. But you just made me realize why I should try and appreciate my brother-in-law a little more – he’s a “serial upgrader”, and sometimes we get there “garbage”! Every in-law cloud has a silver (or flat-screen tv 😉 lining!

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Tami -- Teacher Goes Back to School September 13, 2011 at 12:04 pm

my favorite frugal tip is to get my clothes from clothing swaps. we’ve got at least 2 in my town each year. for a $5 (going to charity) entry fee and one item of clothing, i can take as much or as little as i’d like. it has seriously helped the budget.

we’ve also gotten the word out we’re excited about hand-me-downs for our new baby. wow! we’ve got clothes, toys and stuff coming out of our ears.

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Indy September 13, 2011 at 2:08 pm

Adult cloths are always hard to find in my size (I’m a tiny guy at 5’3 and 115) and I can’t wear teenager gear clothing to my job as a high school teacher.

I check in with the local dry cleaners when they are clearing out forgotten clothing. Amazing how many folks forget their laundry at the cleaner for over a month. I picked up a couple of Croft and Barrow shirts for under $20 last time and they tailored them in for another $2 a piece, still a steal.

If something at the thrift story that is structurally sound and natural fiber, but I don’t like to color, I pick it up anyway. A quick dip in a dye bath can transform it into my favorite in no time.

I learned how to do a lot of simple alterations myself, from hemming pants to changing up buttons and zippers, it saves you a lot because paying someone else to do it or replacing jeans due to a faulty zipper.

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Beth September 13, 2011 at 3:16 pm

My frugal tip is to declutter. After you get rid of a bunch of junk, you’ll be much more selective about what you buy and bring into your now clean and clutter-free home.

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Cathy Simon September 13, 2011 at 4:24 pm

My frugal tips are to cook from scratch, bake my own muffins and cookies to pack in lunches, pack lunches not buy them, make my own yogurt, and faithfully stick to the grocery list when shopping. Thanks for the opportunity for international readers. Cathy Simon

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Jennifer September 13, 2011 at 4:59 pm

I just found a cool blog post that showed a unique way to patch kid’s knees on jeans. You basically patch the hole with a different color underneath then add eyes and teeth to make it look like a monster! I cannot wait to try this out on the multiple pairs that are awaiting mending! This will make mending fun!

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Kimber Starling September 13, 2011 at 5:40 pm

Kimber wants that book!

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Nina Nelson September 13, 2011 at 7:36 pm

Nina! Frugal tip: Use alcohol to take crayon and markers off of walls, rather than painting over it.

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Amy September 13, 2011 at 8:17 pm

Please enter me for Kristen’s book!

Frugal tip: you don’t need nearly as much laundry soap or fabric softener as they suggest. Use half the recommended amount of detergent and cut your fabric softener sheets in half.

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Melinda September 13, 2011 at 8:51 pm

Katy-
There are a couple of ways I have learned to save some money. I cook for other families besides my family. I have the other people buy the food and I do all the prep, ccoking, clean-up and sometimes even deliver the meals. I get our groceries paid for, I try new recipes, and or trade for dog sitting ( for my dogs). I have tried to buy things at the thrift store in great condition and make it last. I freeze meals ahead and eat mostly at home or eat lunch out instead of dinner.

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Carrie September 13, 2011 at 9:04 pm

Hi,
I’d love to be entered into the draw for this book. I really enjoy the Frugal Girl blog. My biggest tip for frugality is to know where you spend your money. I like to budget and track my spending using a program called You Need a Budget (YNAB). I did purchase this program, but there are also lots of free programs you can use, as well as just a pen and paper.
Carrie

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Diana September 13, 2011 at 11:27 pm

That bottle of laundry or dish soap is not empty until you add some water to it, swirl it around and dump the contents to your next load.

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Ellie September 14, 2011 at 6:19 am

I don’t know if this was mentioned already, but it’s a little different than some of the other comments (all of which are great, BTW!).

My frugal tip: Sometimes, it’s more frugal to pay a little MORE for better quality that will last longer!

My favorite example is my furniture, which I’ve mentioned before. I paid a little more than some of my friends and aquaintences did, not for new furniture, but to repair and reupholster old stuff that I’d inherited, garbage-picked, or thrifted/Craig-listed. Nothing beats well-made, real wood furntiure for endurance. I dropped some money for repairs and reupholstering on stuff that was anywhere from 50 to over 100 years old – and with a little care, I expect it all to outlive me. I feel it was worth it.

Ditto certain DIY things around the house. I don’t spend money just to spend it, but sometimes it’s worth buying the better paint or stain, or getting exactly the right kind of screws or other DIY supplies, so that your project will be done right and last longer.

Even second-hand, better clothing can cost a little more at my local thrift stores . But I’d usually rather spend the extra $2 for the GOOD stuff at the thrift – it will look nicer and get more use, and last longer than just picking the chapest.

I know that my tip is kind of a departure from the others, but I also think that sometimes, it’s worth asking, “will spending a little more now help me save more in the long run?”, rather than just going with the very cheapest option!

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andrea September 14, 2011 at 7:50 am

I do want to learn more.

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Maddy Dams September 14, 2011 at 8:32 am

My hubby and I compete to see who has the smallest credit card bill at the end of the month. Maddy Dams

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Laura September 14, 2011 at 8:41 am

I am a big proponent of homemade laundy soap. My family has sensitive skin and I am not a big couponer. Fels Naptha, Borax, and Washing Soda do the trick for us!

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Martine September 14, 2011 at 9:57 am

I would love to win a copy of Kristen’s book. With growing kids I am sure there are ideas in there I could use. Thank you for the giveaway.

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Linda September 14, 2011 at 11:06 am

I love the Frugal Girl blog. In fact, her blog and your blog are the only two I read. I would love to win her new book.

I reuse many containers for other purposes. I just took a nice cookie tin from my basement and put it into my livingroom to contain all the cords for cell phone chargers, ear buds, and Zunes that seem to always be littered around the house. If we put them in one designated place, maybe we can find them when we need them. I got the cookie tin from my local Council on Aging. Someone donated cookies and the council did not want the tin. They and I knew it would be put to good use at my house.

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bloggymommy September 14, 2011 at 3:53 pm

Yay! Thanks for the cool giveaway! My fave tip (at the moment): don’t go to the mall :-).

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Hilary September 14, 2011 at 5:33 pm

Hilary! An easy tip idea is to keep an empty tissue box near the dryer for saving dryer sheets. I then re-use them several times. When they no longer work in the dryer, I use those sheets one last time to sweep cat hair off upholstery. I am working on my last box of sheets, because to be even more frugal, I made three woolen felted dryer balls, so I won’t have to purchase those dryer sheets anymore!

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Deb Flowers September 14, 2011 at 6:58 pm

I love reusing/repurposing! I am teaching my teenagers that making and/or making do is more interesting that simply going out to the mall to buy new. I think they are catching on! I also love The Frugal Girl blog. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.

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