Apple snacks
Don't waste the apple peelings when you are getting apples ready to make apple sauce or stewed apple. Before you peel them wash them well. Then peel the apples, putting the peelings aside. Toss them in cinnamon sugar and bake on an oiled biscuit tray in a 160 degree oven until they are golden and crisp. They make a delicious treat to nibble on.
Tuesday, 23 June 2009
Monday, 22 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 22, 2009
Think outside the craft store
With the scrapbooking craze at the moment, tools can be very expensive but I've found a way to cut costs. I wanted a heat gun so I could give embossing a go, but to buy a heat gun from craft stores, was going to cost me between $60-$80 for the gun, so my hubby told me to try Bunnings (or any other hardware store), and I did. They were only about $30 for a heat gun (a big saving). But it didn't stop there, I ended up purchasing the tool from Kmart when they had 20% off tools, which saved me even more. I also wanted a pair of fine-tipped tweezers and to buy them from the craft store was going to cost $10-$20 a pair. I had a look in the beauty section at Big W and found a pair that would do the job for $4.50. The last saving I made was for paper storage (you end up acquiring a lot of paper) and again, to buy something to store paper in at the craft store was around $120+, way out of my budget. So again I went to Big W and bought a "Desktopper" (a plastic box that hold suspension files, make sure you get the ones without the lids), and it fits all of my paper in neatly, I can buy more suspension files when needed, it doesn't take up much room (it sits neatly on my desk top - hence the name) and it only cost between $11-$18. I hope this helps other crafters out there.
Contributed by Lisa, Nambour
With the scrapbooking craze at the moment, tools can be very expensive but I've found a way to cut costs. I wanted a heat gun so I could give embossing a go, but to buy a heat gun from craft stores, was going to cost me between $60-$80 for the gun, so my hubby told me to try Bunnings (or any other hardware store), and I did. They were only about $30 for a heat gun (a big saving). But it didn't stop there, I ended up purchasing the tool from Kmart when they had 20% off tools, which saved me even more. I also wanted a pair of fine-tipped tweezers and to buy them from the craft store was going to cost $10-$20 a pair. I had a look in the beauty section at Big W and found a pair that would do the job for $4.50. The last saving I made was for paper storage (you end up acquiring a lot of paper) and again, to buy something to store paper in at the craft store was around $120+, way out of my budget. So again I went to Big W and bought a "Desktopper" (a plastic box that hold suspension files, make sure you get the ones without the lids), and it fits all of my paper in neatly, I can buy more suspension files when needed, it doesn't take up much room (it sits neatly on my desk top - hence the name) and it only cost between $11-$18. I hope this helps other crafters out there.
Contributed by Lisa, Nambour
Sunday, 21 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 21, 2009
Whip up a home brew
Here is s a great way to brew up your own plant fertiliser at a cost of about 5 cents per 5 litres: add 2 teaspoons of plain household ammonia to 5 litres of water. Allow the mixture to steep for a full 24 hours. Use this liquid on plants instead of using costly commercial fertiliser.
Caution: If you use more than two teaspoons per 5 litres of water it will be too strong, and you will burn your plants. In this case more is definitely not better.
Here is s a great way to brew up your own plant fertiliser at a cost of about 5 cents per 5 litres: add 2 teaspoons of plain household ammonia to 5 litres of water. Allow the mixture to steep for a full 24 hours. Use this liquid on plants instead of using costly commercial fertiliser.
Caution: If you use more than two teaspoons per 5 litres of water it will be too strong, and you will burn your plants. In this case more is definitely not better.
Saturday, 20 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 20, 2009
Board games for free family fun
Board games are a great investment. If well taken care of, they can easily last a generation. You can often find them at garage sales for a dollar or two, even the new board games. Every family should have some basic games like Scrabble, Monopoly, cards, dominoes, chess, and checkers. You can add to your board game collection as your children grow. Start them of with Hungry Hippos (or similar) and move them up to more challenging and fun games as they grow up. Including a board game as a family present at Christmastime is a great way to build a collection. You can look out for them during the year to get the lowest possible price.
Board games are a great investment. If well taken care of, they can easily last a generation. You can often find them at garage sales for a dollar or two, even the new board games. Every family should have some basic games like Scrabble, Monopoly, cards, dominoes, chess, and checkers. You can add to your board game collection as your children grow. Start them of with Hungry Hippos (or similar) and move them up to more challenging and fun games as they grow up. Including a board game as a family present at Christmastime is a great way to build a collection. You can look out for them during the year to get the lowest possible price.
Friday, 19 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 19, 2009
Have a menu
Prepare your menu for the week around what you already have, and what's on sale. Use your junk mail to plan what you'll eat each week. For example, if chicken fillets are on sale plan to have apricot chicken, chicken cacciatore and fajitas that week. You could even make chicken soup if the weather is cool enough. Then fill out the other meals with whatever you have in the freezer or what's on sale.
Prepare your menu for the week around what you already have, and what's on sale. Use your junk mail to plan what you'll eat each week. For example, if chicken fillets are on sale plan to have apricot chicken, chicken cacciatore and fajitas that week. You could even make chicken soup if the weather is cool enough. Then fill out the other meals with whatever you have in the freezer or what's on sale.
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 18, 2009
Creative, Chic Cushion Covers
One way to achieve an individual look for your living room is to revamp old cardigans and turn them into stylish cushion covers. Cardigans with an Aran or cabled pattern look classy, or look for plain ones with unusual buttons and/or detailing on the front. All you have to do is cut off the sleeves and sew all four sides up. You already have the button up area for your opening. Simple, and very easy to do! For next to nothing, you get an individual, one-off cushion... much more satisfying than paying $35 upwards for mass-produced ones from Spotlight or Freedom. If you don't have any old cardies, check out your local Op Shop, Garage Sale or Swap Meet. Size doesn't matter either - you can make tiny throw cushions for a bed, or larger ones for the living room; your choice.
Contributed by Chris, Bakers Hill
One way to achieve an individual look for your living room is to revamp old cardigans and turn them into stylish cushion covers. Cardigans with an Aran or cabled pattern look classy, or look for plain ones with unusual buttons and/or detailing on the front. All you have to do is cut off the sleeves and sew all four sides up. You already have the button up area for your opening. Simple, and very easy to do! For next to nothing, you get an individual, one-off cushion... much more satisfying than paying $35 upwards for mass-produced ones from Spotlight or Freedom. If you don't have any old cardies, check out your local Op Shop, Garage Sale or Swap Meet. Size doesn't matter either - you can make tiny throw cushions for a bed, or larger ones for the living room; your choice.
Contributed by Chris, Bakers Hill
Tip of the Day June 17, 2009
Savings Incentive: Tuckshop or the Money?
Approximate $ Savings: $40 per year per child
Our school has canteen once per week. As a savings incentive both my daughters are given the option to spend their $1.00 on an ice cream or save it to buy something more important. My eight year old is saving to buy a new pair of jeans. Not only am I saving on dental work, but on my clothing budget for her. Another incentive for her is she gets more time to play as she isn't stuck in the playground eating an ice cream. We both win.
Contributed by Roxanne, Kingsley
Approximate $ Savings: $40 per year per child
Our school has canteen once per week. As a savings incentive both my daughters are given the option to spend their $1.00 on an ice cream or save it to buy something more important. My eight year old is saving to buy a new pair of jeans. Not only am I saving on dental work, but on my clothing budget for her. Another incentive for her is she gets more time to play as she isn't stuck in the playground eating an ice cream. We both win.
Contributed by Roxanne, Kingsley
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 16, 2009
Stovies
This recipe brings back memories of my childhood and Monday night tea. If we had a corned leg for Sunday lunch Mum would use the leftovers on our sandwiches on Monday and to make stovies for tea on Monday night. I agree with Jenny - very yummy.
Ingredients:
1 tin corned beef (diced)
1 large onion (diced)
3 med potatoes each (per person)
Method:
Boil potatoes and onion together with a pinch of salt until cooked. Mash all 3 ingredients together to make a hash. Season to taste and add a knob of butter at serving. I eat mine with brown sauce!! Yummy!
Contributed by Jenny Phillips
This recipe brings back memories of my childhood and Monday night tea. If we had a corned leg for Sunday lunch Mum would use the leftovers on our sandwiches on Monday and to make stovies for tea on Monday night. I agree with Jenny - very yummy.
Ingredients:
1 tin corned beef (diced)
1 large onion (diced)
3 med potatoes each (per person)
Method:
Boil potatoes and onion together with a pinch of salt until cooked. Mash all 3 ingredients together to make a hash. Season to taste and add a knob of butter at serving. I eat mine with brown sauce!! Yummy!
Contributed by Jenny Phillips
Monday, 15 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 15, 2009
Start a Button Jar
Approximate $ Savings: $5
Cut the buttons off old business shirts, polo shirts and pants before you use them as rags. Keep them for use when you sew new items of clothing or to replace missing or broken buttons. This works especially well for quality business shirts as the buttons are usually the first thing to go and they are usually the same few styles of button. If you're feeling lazy and don't want to button the long sleeves of business shirts to the buttons running down the centre (to keep the sleeves getting tangled in wash) try putting them in wash bags (for a load containing a lot of long sleeved shirts) as this keeps from having to sort thru a mass of tangled sleeves.
Contributed by Yun Si, Willoughby
Approximate $ Savings: $5
Cut the buttons off old business shirts, polo shirts and pants before you use them as rags. Keep them for use when you sew new items of clothing or to replace missing or broken buttons. This works especially well for quality business shirts as the buttons are usually the first thing to go and they are usually the same few styles of button. If you're feeling lazy and don't want to button the long sleeves of business shirts to the buttons running down the centre (to keep the sleeves getting tangled in wash) try putting them in wash bags (for a load containing a lot of long sleeved shirts) as this keeps from having to sort thru a mass of tangled sleeves.
Contributed by Yun Si, Willoughby
Sunday, 14 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 14, 2009
Extra potent bug spray
To make a terrific bug spray for your garden, mix 2 tablespoons flea and tick powder, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and 6 litres water. Pour into spray bottle and label. Shake to mix before each use. Keep out of reach of children. As with any pesticide, this is poisonous so treat it with due respect. Wear gloves and other protective clothing as necessary and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after use, and definitely before you touch anything else.
To make a terrific bug spray for your garden, mix 2 tablespoons flea and tick powder, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and 6 litres water. Pour into spray bottle and label. Shake to mix before each use. Keep out of reach of children. As with any pesticide, this is poisonous so treat it with due respect. Wear gloves and other protective clothing as necessary and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after use, and definitely before you touch anything else.
Saturday, 13 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 13, 2009
A birthday to remember
All kids love their birthday so make it a day to remember by starting the celebrations as soon as they open their eyes. Start the day off with a surprise for the birthday child (or grown-up). Once the birthday child is asleep the night before the big day, blow up a bunch of balloons and tie them to the end of their bed or to a door handle. Make a “happy birthday” banner and hang this up where they'll see it when they wake up, then give them a special birthday breakfast – try pink pancakes for a girl, blue for a boy. The pancake mixture can be made before you go to bed and left in the fridge overnight, ready to quickly cook in the morning. With such a special start to the day, it's bound to be extra special all day long.
All kids love their birthday so make it a day to remember by starting the celebrations as soon as they open their eyes. Start the day off with a surprise for the birthday child (or grown-up). Once the birthday child is asleep the night before the big day, blow up a bunch of balloons and tie them to the end of their bed or to a door handle. Make a “happy birthday” banner and hang this up where they'll see it when they wake up, then give them a special birthday breakfast – try pink pancakes for a girl, blue for a boy. The pancake mixture can be made before you go to bed and left in the fridge overnight, ready to quickly cook in the morning. With such a special start to the day, it's bound to be extra special all day long.
Friday, 12 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 12, 2009
No mess tacos
To keep taco fillings inside their shells, line the shell with a lettuce leaf before adding the meat and other toppings. The lettuce will hold the filling together, even if the shell starts to break when you're eating it.
To keep taco fillings inside their shells, line the shell with a lettuce leaf before adding the meat and other toppings. The lettuce will hold the filling together, even if the shell starts to break when you're eating it.
Thursday, 11 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 11, 2009
Hot chocolate anyone?
We are hot chocolate lovers in our house and the sudden blast of icy cold weather has had us running for the hot chocolate mix. I've had big mugs of hot chocolate waiting for the kids each afternoon when they've come in from school to warm them up and they've been having a mug each evening before bed.
Instead of paying $5 or more for ten single serve sachets (which are very nice indeed, but way too expensive) I make up a batch of Hot Chocolate Drink Mix for under $3 (using generic ingredients) that makes up around 30 serves of delicious hot chocolate.
Hot Chocolate Drink Mix
Ingredients:
2 cups skim milk powder
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup coffee whitener (I use Coles Smartbuy)
Method:
In medium bowl, combine milk powder, sugar, coca, and coffee whitener. To serve, place 3 teaspoons cocoa mix in mug. Stir in 3/4 cup boiling water. Store the mix in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
We are hot chocolate lovers in our house and the sudden blast of icy cold weather has had us running for the hot chocolate mix. I've had big mugs of hot chocolate waiting for the kids each afternoon when they've come in from school to warm them up and they've been having a mug each evening before bed.
Instead of paying $5 or more for ten single serve sachets (which are very nice indeed, but way too expensive) I make up a batch of Hot Chocolate Drink Mix for under $3 (using generic ingredients) that makes up around 30 serves of delicious hot chocolate.
Hot Chocolate Drink Mix
Ingredients:
2 cups skim milk powder
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup coffee whitener (I use Coles Smartbuy)
Method:
In medium bowl, combine milk powder, sugar, coca, and coffee whitener. To serve, place 3 teaspoons cocoa mix in mug. Stir in 3/4 cup boiling water. Store the mix in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 10, 2009
Keep your tax related stuff together
The end of the financial year is almost here and that means tax season. Soon you'll start to receive tax related information from your job, your bank, Centrelink etc. As they come in, keep all of these tax-related papers together in a labelled file folder. This way, when you're ready to do your tax return, you won't have to search for the papers you need. Once you've filed your tax return you can file this paperwork.
The end of the financial year is almost here and that means tax season. Soon you'll start to receive tax related information from your job, your bank, Centrelink etc. As they come in, keep all of these tax-related papers together in a labelled file folder. This way, when you're ready to do your tax return, you won't have to search for the papers you need. Once you've filed your tax return you can file this paperwork.
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 9, 2009
Lighting up the birthday cake
Getting all the candles lit on a birthday cake can be tricky - matches burn down so fast when you are trying to get all the candles alight at ones. If you don't have extra long matches, try lighting a piece of spaghetti. It will burn for a while and allow you to light multiple candles without burning your fingers.
Getting all the candles lit on a birthday cake can be tricky - matches burn down so fast when you are trying to get all the candles alight at ones. If you don't have extra long matches, try lighting a piece of spaghetti. It will burn for a while and allow you to light multiple candles without burning your fingers.
Monday, 8 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 8, 2009
Re-invent second-hand jewellery and save on new beads
The latest craze seems to be making your own jewellery. When buying beads, clips etc it can be very expensive from the bead shops. I now go to second hand clothing stores such as Lifeline, the Salvation Army etc and buy very cheap second hand jewellery. I then dismantle the items and reinvent my own fabulous necklaces, earnings bracelets etc. often for less than the price of one special bead.
Contributed by Robyn, Redland Bay
The latest craze seems to be making your own jewellery. When buying beads, clips etc it can be very expensive from the bead shops. I now go to second hand clothing stores such as Lifeline, the Salvation Army etc and buy very cheap second hand jewellery. I then dismantle the items and reinvent my own fabulous necklaces, earnings bracelets etc. often for less than the price of one special bead.
Contributed by Robyn, Redland Bay
Sunday, 7 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 7, 2009
A safer substitute for Round-up
Here is a great weed killer you can make for less than $4. Dissolve 2 cups table salt in 5 litres white vinegar (generic is ideal). Add 8 drops of liquid dishwashing detergent (this helps plant material absorb the liquid). Label and keep out of reach of children. Use this solution in an ordinary spray bottle. This non-toxic formulation acts quickly and is very effective, so don't spray near roots of trees, shrubs, or plants you'd like to keep. This is especially effective on edges, driveways, footpaths ... any place you don't want anything to grow.
Here is a great weed killer you can make for less than $4. Dissolve 2 cups table salt in 5 litres white vinegar (generic is ideal). Add 8 drops of liquid dishwashing detergent (this helps plant material absorb the liquid). Label and keep out of reach of children. Use this solution in an ordinary spray bottle. This non-toxic formulation acts quickly and is very effective, so don't spray near roots of trees, shrubs, or plants you'd like to keep. This is especially effective on edges, driveways, footpaths ... any place you don't want anything to grow.
Saturday, 6 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 6, 2009
A long weekend - the perfect excuse to bake a cake
No matter what you have planned this long weekend, take some time out to relax with a cuppa and a slice of this delicious, chocolate cake.
Boiled Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
1 cup water
2 tbsp cocoa
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
125g butter
1 1/2 cups SR flour
1/2 tsp bicarb soda
Method:
Place sugar, water, butter, cocoa and bicarb soda into a medium saucepan and stir over a low heat until butter has melted. Bring to boil and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. When mixture cools stir in beaten eggs and SR flour. Beat well. Turn into a greased and lined 18cm round cake tin. Bake in a moderate oven for 1 hour. Cool in tin 5 minutes before turning onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar to serve.
No matter what you have planned this long weekend, take some time out to relax with a cuppa and a slice of this delicious, chocolate cake.
Boiled Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
1 cup water
2 tbsp cocoa
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
125g butter
1 1/2 cups SR flour
1/2 tsp bicarb soda
Method:
Place sugar, water, butter, cocoa and bicarb soda into a medium saucepan and stir over a low heat until butter has melted. Bring to boil and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. When mixture cools stir in beaten eggs and SR flour. Beat well. Turn into a greased and lined 18cm round cake tin. Bake in a moderate oven for 1 hour. Cool in tin 5 minutes before turning onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar to serve.
Friday, 5 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 5, 2009
Easy firelighters
It is officially winter, time to light the fire and get cosy. For a cheap fire starter, save your cardboard egg cartons and fill each compartment with dryer lint (if you use your dryer) or the dried lint from the lint filter in your washing machine or shredded paper (let the kids do this). Carefully melt the stubs from old candles and pour the wax over each section to seal the lint in. Pull the carton apart into individual sections and use one starter with the kindling when lighting a fire. You'll have a cheery blaze going in no time.
It is officially winter, time to light the fire and get cosy. For a cheap fire starter, save your cardboard egg cartons and fill each compartment with dryer lint (if you use your dryer) or the dried lint from the lint filter in your washing machine or shredded paper (let the kids do this). Carefully melt the stubs from old candles and pour the wax over each section to seal the lint in. Pull the carton apart into individual sections and use one starter with the kindling when lighting a fire. You'll have a cheery blaze going in no time.
Thursday, 4 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 4 2009
Carry a floor plan of your supermarket and save time and money
Do you want to save time and money at the supermarket? Then ask at the service desk of your regular supermarket for a floor plan and laminate it to use as your shopping list. You'll save time and not buy the extra goods you do not really need. This also helps if you have kids with you as they tend to cause distractions-just stick to the list you have marked. Use a whiteboard marker when making your list and crossing your purchases off so it can be used from week to week.
Do you want to save time and money at the supermarket? Then ask at the service desk of your regular supermarket for a floor plan and laminate it to use as your shopping list. You'll save time and not buy the extra goods you do not really need. This also helps if you have kids with you as they tend to cause distractions-just stick to the list you have marked. Use a whiteboard marker when making your list and crossing your purchases off so it can be used from week to week.
Wednesday, 3 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 3, 2009
Balance your bank account regularly
In order for you to have a good idea of how much money is sitting in your bank account, what deposits and payments have cleared, and any errors that you, or your bank, may have made you must balance your bank account. It really doesn't take that long, if you balance your bank account the same day your statement arrives from the bank, each month or quarter. Keep all your banking paperwork (ATM receipts, deposit books, cheque books, statements etc) in the same place so it's easy to find and the job will be done in no time.
In order for you to have a good idea of how much money is sitting in your bank account, what deposits and payments have cleared, and any errors that you, or your bank, may have made you must balance your bank account. It really doesn't take that long, if you balance your bank account the same day your statement arrives from the bank, each month or quarter. Keep all your banking paperwork (ATM receipts, deposit books, cheque books, statements etc) in the same place so it's easy to find and the job will be done in no time.
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 2, 2006
Leftovers? No, they're meal stretchers!
When you are cooking, plan to stretch the ingredients to get at least two meals from them.You don't have to cook and eat big meat and 3 veg meals every night. Try having meat and 3 veg one night followed by stir fry, quiche or noodle soup using the planned for meal stretchers (commonly called leftovers by those who don't know any better!) meat and veggies the next night. Omelettes, poached or scrambled eggs are another great way to use up these meal stretchers. Add diced meat and vegetables to a thick white or cheese sauce and use this as a pie filling or to fill thick, fluffy pancakes that can be sprinkled with cheese and a sprinkle of nutmeg and baked for savoury pancakes. Create gourmet pizzas using meal stretchers - you'll never have the same pizza twice!
When you are cooking, plan to stretch the ingredients to get at least two meals from them.You don't have to cook and eat big meat and 3 veg meals every night. Try having meat and 3 veg one night followed by stir fry, quiche or noodle soup using the planned for meal stretchers (commonly called leftovers by those who don't know any better!) meat and veggies the next night. Omelettes, poached or scrambled eggs are another great way to use up these meal stretchers. Add diced meat and vegetables to a thick white or cheese sauce and use this as a pie filling or to fill thick, fluffy pancakes that can be sprinkled with cheese and a sprinkle of nutmeg and baked for savoury pancakes. Create gourmet pizzas using meal stretchers - you'll never have the same pizza twice!
Monday, 1 June 2009
Tip of the Day June 1, 2009
Social stitching
If you like to sew, embroider, quilt, cross-stitch etc start a Stitching Group. Gather a group of friends for a stitching session, you get to have an afternoon or night out for free (or for the cost of a homemade cake and coffee if you are the host for the session). Take turns hosting so it doesn't become a burden on any one member. The host is responsible for supplying a simple supper (a cake,slice or biscuits and tea/coffee) for refreshments. Everyone brings their own projects and supplies and gets on with the stitching. On top of that you can swap patterns plus ideas and get help all for free. You can even swap fabric that you are finished with for some you want. It's a great way to make new friends and get started on those gifts you are always going to make. You may even get some of those UFOs under control, we all have them hiding in the cupboard, just waiting to be finished. On top of all these great benefits, you get to chat and have fun with some friends. Savings all round.
You can expand this idea to other crafts and hobbies: scrapbooking, model making, woodworking, painting etc, it doesn't have to just be stitching crafts.
If you like to sew, embroider, quilt, cross-stitch etc start a Stitching Group. Gather a group of friends for a stitching session, you get to have an afternoon or night out for free (or for the cost of a homemade cake and coffee if you are the host for the session). Take turns hosting so it doesn't become a burden on any one member. The host is responsible for supplying a simple supper (a cake,slice or biscuits and tea/coffee) for refreshments. Everyone brings their own projects and supplies and gets on with the stitching. On top of that you can swap patterns plus ideas and get help all for free. You can even swap fabric that you are finished with for some you want. It's a great way to make new friends and get started on those gifts you are always going to make. You may even get some of those UFOs under control, we all have them hiding in the cupboard, just waiting to be finished. On top of all these great benefits, you get to chat and have fun with some friends. Savings all round.
You can expand this idea to other crafts and hobbies: scrapbooking, model making, woodworking, painting etc, it doesn't have to just be stitching crafts.
Sunday, 31 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 31, 2009
Budget Sandpit Sun Shade
Approximate $ Savings: $1,200
With an active toddler I built her a sandpit two years ago just off our back verandah. We then realised that every time she played in there she was getting an awful lot of exposure to the sun and her toys were getting trashed by the elements.
Rather than building a solid structure over the sandpit we invested a whole $30 in a standard gazebo that you can pick up at Reject Shop / Cheap as Chips et al. type outlets at anytime.
We have had the gazebo up continuously for two years now and it is only just starting to show some wear and tear. We secure the corners with very long tent pegs and bricks, and weigh the centre point of the gazebo down with a heavy weight off a chaff cutter. It has not taken off in the wind yet!
Once the kids are grown we will return this area to lawn or garden so we did not want a permanent structure. When the current gazebo wears out we will just buy another one for $30. Big saving and it looks remarkably good!
Contributed by Tracey, Tintinara
Approximate $ Savings: $1,200
With an active toddler I built her a sandpit two years ago just off our back verandah. We then realised that every time she played in there she was getting an awful lot of exposure to the sun and her toys were getting trashed by the elements.
Rather than building a solid structure over the sandpit we invested a whole $30 in a standard gazebo that you can pick up at Reject Shop / Cheap as Chips et al. type outlets at anytime.
We have had the gazebo up continuously for two years now and it is only just starting to show some wear and tear. We secure the corners with very long tent pegs and bricks, and weigh the centre point of the gazebo down with a heavy weight off a chaff cutter. It has not taken off in the wind yet!
Once the kids are grown we will return this area to lawn or garden so we did not want a permanent structure. When the current gazebo wears out we will just buy another one for $30. Big saving and it looks remarkably good!
Contributed by Tracey, Tintinara
Saturday, 30 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 30, 2009
Thimble in a Can
This is a quick and easy craft that even young children can help with. These little containers are a fun idea for a gift for the needleworker or sewer and because they are so quick and easy to make, and very inexpensive they make really good fete and stall stock too. Use up all those cute scraps of fabric and ribbon you have stashed and they will be even cheaper to make.
Materials needed:
Instructions:
This is a quick and easy craft that even young children can help with. These little containers are a fun idea for a gift for the needleworker or sewer and because they are so quick and easy to make, and very inexpensive they make really good fete and stall stock too. Use up all those cute scraps of fabric and ribbon you have stashed and they will be even cheaper to make.
Materials needed:
- 1 x 35mm film canister (or a pill bottle about the same size)
- 1m narrow ribbon (or desired length)
- Fabric (10.5cmX 5cm or size of your container)
- Glue
- 1 thimble
Instructions:
- Turn your film container upside down and centre the ribbon onto the bottom of the film container. Glue it onto the bottom and the sides only leaving the long ends hanging loose. Let glue dry.
- Run a bead of glue along the long edge of the container and glue the edge of the fabric down.
- Make sure the top edge of the fabric is lined up against the top edge of the film container. Continue to glue the rest of the fabric to the container and let dry.
- Clip the edges of the bottom of the fabric about every 1cm up to the bottom edge of the film container.
- Glue all these little pieces down towards the centre of the bottom of the film container.
- Draw a circle on paper the size of the bottom of the container.
- Pin the paper circle onto a little piece of fabric and cut it out.
- Glue this to the bottom of the film container to cover all the little edges you glued down. Let thoroughly dry.
- Knot the two loose ends of the ribbon together to make a necklace out of your creation.
- Put the thimble into the container, replace the lid onto the top of the container, and there you have a "Thimble in a Can" to wear around your neck.
Friday, 29 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 29, 2009
Where does it all go?
Have you taken a family spending inventory lately? Grab your last bank statement and categorise every cent spent in the last 30 days.
You may be surprised at where your hard-earned money is going. If one category seems particularly bloated (grocery, entertainment, and miscellaneous are typical budget busters), spend an hour brainstorming with your family to find ways to trim the fat.
Set a specific goal (ie. resolve to drop $50 off of your grocery bill), create a concrete plan, and review your progress weekly. Plan a special treat as a celebration when you meet your goal.
Next month, plan another family budget challenge. One that we always enjoy (we play this little ‘game with our kids two or three times a year) is to find ways to cut 20% off our electricity bill. It s a real challenge in our house and the kids really begin to appreciate how much utilities such as electricity actually cost.
This is not only a great way to save money, but a fun way to teach children about planned spending.
Have you taken a family spending inventory lately? Grab your last bank statement and categorise every cent spent in the last 30 days.
You may be surprised at where your hard-earned money is going. If one category seems particularly bloated (grocery, entertainment, and miscellaneous are typical budget busters), spend an hour brainstorming with your family to find ways to trim the fat.
Set a specific goal (ie. resolve to drop $50 off of your grocery bill), create a concrete plan, and review your progress weekly. Plan a special treat as a celebration when you meet your goal.
Next month, plan another family budget challenge. One that we always enjoy (we play this little ‘game with our kids two or three times a year) is to find ways to cut 20% off our electricity bill. It s a real challenge in our house and the kids really begin to appreciate how much utilities such as electricity actually cost.
This is not only a great way to save money, but a fun way to teach children about planned spending.
Thursday, 28 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 28, 2009
Take your time and decorate to your style
Let your decorating scheme evolve over time as you find treasures and deals that work. Not only will you spread out your spending over a longer period of time, your room won't look out of fashion next year. Use flexible decor. Find pieces you can decorate with that you can switch out or modify slightly with the seasons. Change florals, bows, pictures in frames, and candle colours. Reverse pillowcases, window treatments, quilts and throws. Search the classifieds and garage sales for bargains. There are a lot of people out there who redecorate every year or so and are happy to sell off decorator items at greatly reduced prices.
Let your decorating scheme evolve over time as you find treasures and deals that work. Not only will you spread out your spending over a longer period of time, your room won't look out of fashion next year. Use flexible decor. Find pieces you can decorate with that you can switch out or modify slightly with the seasons. Change florals, bows, pictures in frames, and candle colours. Reverse pillowcases, window treatments, quilts and throws. Search the classifieds and garage sales for bargains. There are a lot of people out there who redecorate every year or so and are happy to sell off decorator items at greatly reduced prices.
Wednesday, 27 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 27, 2009
Organize your expenses as you spend
Want to know how much you spend each month, so you can determine your monthly spending budget? As you spend, just record that expense. This can be called your Expense Summary. You can use a computer program for this purpose (do a Google search on "free personal budget software", or you can certainly do this with paper and pen and a small spiral notebook.
Want to know how much you spend each month, so you can determine your monthly spending budget? As you spend, just record that expense. This can be called your Expense Summary. You can use a computer program for this purpose (do a Google search on "free personal budget software", or you can certainly do this with paper and pen and a small spiral notebook.
Tuesday, 26 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 26, 2009
No more tears
If you hate chopping onions store them in the freezer. When you need one next, just zap it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds (just long enough to make it soft enough to chop, but the onion is still cold). No more tears, guaranteed. Chopping onions will now be a pleasure.
If you hate chopping onions store them in the freezer. When you need one next, just zap it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds (just long enough to make it soft enough to chop, but the onion is still cold). No more tears, guaranteed. Chopping onions will now be a pleasure.
Monday, 25 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 25, 2009
A Sewing Kit for Non-Sewers
Even if you aren't a great dressmaker, or mad keen on sewing, you will at sometime have to bite the bullet and actually do some mending. By keeping a basic but small sewing kit on hand, those emergency mending jobs can be done with a minimum of stress, time and cost.
This little sewing kit can be put together for under $10, and will fit into a small lunchbox (around 99 cents at discount shops). Keep it in the laundry, or the linen cupboard where it will be easy to get to in a hurry.
Basic Sewing Kit:
1 reel white thread
1 reel black thread
1 reel invisible thread (matches any colour)
1 packet of all-purpose needles, self-threading, or include a threader
4-hole white shirt buttons (usually come 5 to a card)
1 iron-on patch kit, lightweight
1 iron-on patch kit, heavyweight
1 pack of Velcro strips, white
1 pack of Velcro strips, black
Small pair scissors
Even if you aren't a great dressmaker, or mad keen on sewing, you will at sometime have to bite the bullet and actually do some mending. By keeping a basic but small sewing kit on hand, those emergency mending jobs can be done with a minimum of stress, time and cost.
This little sewing kit can be put together for under $10, and will fit into a small lunchbox (around 99 cents at discount shops). Keep it in the laundry, or the linen cupboard where it will be easy to get to in a hurry.
Basic Sewing Kit:
1 reel white thread
1 reel black thread
1 reel invisible thread (matches any colour)
1 packet of all-purpose needles, self-threading, or include a threader
4-hole white shirt buttons (usually come 5 to a card)
1 iron-on patch kit, lightweight
1 iron-on patch kit, heavyweight
1 pack of Velcro strips, white
1 pack of Velcro strips, black
Small pair scissors
Sunday, 24 May 2009
Tip of the Day May 24, 2009
Grow Your Own Garlic
When you get cloves of garlic that are too small to use, plant them outside in your herb garden or into a pot. As they grow you can use the tops like garlic flavoured chives and when they are larger cut them off at the base and use them like spring onions (don't pull out) to flavour dishes and meals and as green garnish for scones and pizzas. The flavour is a lot lighter than the actual clove and if you don't pick the whole clove again they will keep growing all year around. If you leave them in for a few years they will multiply and when the tops have died off and before they start growing again, the whole clove can be picked...but I leave mine down unless I'm desperate because I've run out. You will always have garlic for salads or anything you need without any waste and no cost.
Contributed by Silvia
When you get cloves of garlic that are too small to use, plant them outside in your herb garden or into a pot. As they grow you can use the tops like garlic flavoured chives and when they are larger cut them off at the base and use them like spring onions (don't pull out) to flavour dishes and meals and as green garnish for scones and pizzas. The flavour is a lot lighter than the actual clove and if you don't pick the whole clove again they will keep growing all year around. If you leave them in for a few years they will multiply and when the tops have died off and before they start growing again, the whole clove can be picked...but I leave mine down unless I'm desperate because I've run out. You will always have garlic for salads or anything you need without any waste and no cost.
Contributed by Silvia
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