Plain or Self-Raising?
If you get your self raising flour and plain flour mixed up, put a spoonful of flour in a bowl and stir in enough vinegar to make a thin smooth bend. If the mixture foams and thickens, then it is self raising, if not and the mix remains smooth and thin, it is plain flour.
Tuesday, 8 September 2009
Monday, 7 September 2009
Tip of the Day 7 September 2009
The advantages of online shopping for Christmas
It's not too early to start thinking about Christmas shopping, especially if your budget is tight and if you have to send Christmas (or birthday) presents interstate, it pays to check out the prices of online shopping sites before you hit the shopping centres.
The advantages include:
1. often lower freight charges than the postage you would pay
2. some offer free gift wrapping
3.they have specials which regular shops can't beat because of the lower online overheads
4.you don't waste petrol and wear and tear on your vehicle driving to the shops and post office
5.you can shop any time of the day or night without having to find a park or stand in a long queue
6.you can bookmark the sites where you find the best deals so you can compare with shops and find them again if you need to
7.if you've left your shopping to the last minute they usually guarantee delivery before Christmas.
8.most have a free newsletter which tells you about their latest specials
It's not too early to start thinking about Christmas shopping, especially if your budget is tight and if you have to send Christmas (or birthday) presents interstate, it pays to check out the prices of online shopping sites before you hit the shopping centres.
The advantages include:
1. often lower freight charges than the postage you would pay
2. some offer free gift wrapping
3.they have specials which regular shops can't beat because of the lower online overheads
4.you don't waste petrol and wear and tear on your vehicle driving to the shops and post office
5.you can shop any time of the day or night without having to find a park or stand in a long queue
6.you can bookmark the sites where you find the best deals so you can compare with shops and find them again if you need to
7.if you've left your shopping to the last minute they usually guarantee delivery before Christmas.
8.most have a free newsletter which tells you about their latest specials
Sunday, 6 September 2009
Tip of the Day 6 August 2009
Natural Bug Spray
Add sprigs of Rosemary to boiling water in a spray bottle and let it cool. You can then use this spray to deter to rid ants and other bugs from benchtops, cupboards etc. Spray the item with the rosemary water and wipe over. Keep a pot of Rosemary growing by doors and windows that don't have flyscreens to keep flies out of the house. It works when you're camping too. A little pot of Rosemary outside the tent flap will keep the flies away.
Add sprigs of Rosemary to boiling water in a spray bottle and let it cool. You can then use this spray to deter to rid ants and other bugs from benchtops, cupboards etc. Spray the item with the rosemary water and wipe over. Keep a pot of Rosemary growing by doors and windows that don't have flyscreens to keep flies out of the house. It works when you're camping too. A little pot of Rosemary outside the tent flap will keep the flies away.
Saturday, 5 September 2009
Tip of the Day 5 September 2009
Make moving house simple
When moving house, save loads of time and money by planning ahead. Gather up anything that hasn't been worn in recent months or any item that you don't absolutely love, sell the things that are in excellent condition on eBay and get rid of the rest by garage sale. What's left might go to someone needy. The money you make will help pay for the move, it's cheaper and easier with less to move and you move into your new place with more space and only items you love. What a great feel! We made $3000 doing this last time we moved and are doing it again now for a future move.
Contributed by Ronnee Russell
Do you have a great money, time or energy saving tip? Click here to share your tip with us
and then check Tip of the Day each day to see if your tip is featured!
When moving house, save loads of time and money by planning ahead. Gather up anything that hasn't been worn in recent months or any item that you don't absolutely love, sell the things that are in excellent condition on eBay and get rid of the rest by garage sale. What's left might go to someone needy. The money you make will help pay for the move, it's cheaper and easier with less to move and you move into your new place with more space and only items you love. What a great feel! We made $3000 doing this last time we moved and are doing it again now for a future move.
Contributed by Ronnee Russell
Do you have a great money, time or energy saving tip? Click here to share your tip with us
and then check Tip of the Day each day to see if your tip is featured!
Friday, 4 September 2009
Tip of the Day 4 September 2009
Truly Gentle Scrubbers
For scrubbing around the house, such as bathroom or kitchen, don't throw away used socks and stockings that have holes. Roll the sock up, put into the stocking and tie around to make a ball. Use it to scrub bathroom (or anywhere). It's better than any of the mops or cloths from supermarket. It's particularly good for stubborn stain as the stocking can break down the stain and yet is gentle in texture so it won't scratch delicate surfaces.
For scrubbing around the house, such as bathroom or kitchen, don't throw away used socks and stockings that have holes. Roll the sock up, put into the stocking and tie around to make a ball. Use it to scrub bathroom (or anywhere). It's better than any of the mops or cloths from supermarket. It's particularly good for stubborn stain as the stocking can break down the stain and yet is gentle in texture so it won't scratch delicate surfaces.
Thursday, 3 September 2009
Tip of the Day 3 September 2009
Safe Stain Remover
Besides absorbing odours in refrigerators and freezers, bicarbonate soda makes a good scouring powder because of its mild abrasiveness. It removes light soil and stains on sinks, bench tops and stovetops. A paste of bicarb and water onto stained Tupperware type containers will miraculously remove the stain. Mixed with water it makes an all around, light-duty cleaner.
Besides absorbing odours in refrigerators and freezers, bicarbonate soda makes a good scouring powder because of its mild abrasiveness. It removes light soil and stains on sinks, bench tops and stovetops. A paste of bicarb and water onto stained Tupperware type containers will miraculously remove the stain. Mixed with water it makes an all around, light-duty cleaner.
Wednesday, 2 September 2009
Tip of the Day 2 September 2009
Buy treats in bulk
Save a small fortune on your morning and afternoon tea treats and snacks by planning ahead and buying them in bulk from the supermarket. Why pay $1.80 for one chocolate bar from the local milk bar when you can buy a pack of 3 for $3.60 from the supermarket? And you’ll save on multi packs of chips, mints and lollies too. At the same time if you don’t bake, pick up your muffins and cakes from the bakery department and freeze them. You’ll still have your treats and desserts and you’ll be saving money.
Save a small fortune on your morning and afternoon tea treats and snacks by planning ahead and buying them in bulk from the supermarket. Why pay $1.80 for one chocolate bar from the local milk bar when you can buy a pack of 3 for $3.60 from the supermarket? And you’ll save on multi packs of chips, mints and lollies too. At the same time if you don’t bake, pick up your muffins and cakes from the bakery department and freeze them. You’ll still have your treats and desserts and you’ll be saving money.
Tuesday, 1 September 2009
Tip of the Day 1 September 2009
Fresh Muffins in Minutes
Muffin batter can be frozen and baked from frozen at a later date, saving you time and energy if you prepare a double or triple batch. Line the muffin tin with the papers, add the batter and put the tin in the freezer until the batter has frozen. Take the papers out of the tin, store in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Simply place the filled paper cases in the muffin tin to bake.
Muffin batter can be frozen and baked from frozen at a later date, saving you time and energy if you prepare a double or triple batch. Line the muffin tin with the papers, add the batter and put the tin in the freezer until the batter has frozen. Take the papers out of the tin, store in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Simply place the filled paper cases in the muffin tin to bake.
Monday, 31 August 2009
Tip of the Day 31 August 2009
Greeting Card Bookmark
Recycle the greeting cards you have received!
You will need:
Used greeting cards , poster board or cardboard
Crayons, markers or paint
Glue
Instructions:
Cut a strip from the poster board or thin cardboard, about 8 inches x 2 inches. Cut out the picture on the front of a greeting card. Glue the picture at the top of the strip. Allow the glue to dry. Write a message on the strip if you want. If the bookmark is a gift, you can simply write "to:" and "from:" To make your bookmark more durable, cover it with clear contact paper or laminate it.
From the May 2002 Cheapskates Journal
Recycle the greeting cards you have received!
You will need:
Used greeting cards , poster board or cardboard
Crayons, markers or paint
Glue
Instructions:
Cut a strip from the poster board or thin cardboard, about 8 inches x 2 inches. Cut out the picture on the front of a greeting card. Glue the picture at the top of the strip. Allow the glue to dry. Write a message on the strip if you want. If the bookmark is a gift, you can simply write "to:" and "from:" To make your bookmark more durable, cover it with clear contact paper or laminate it.
From the May 2002 Cheapskates Journal
Sunday, 30 August 2009
Tip of the Day 30 August 2009
Everything's Rosy with Buckets as Budget Pots
I bought 20 bare rooted roses when on special for $5.50 each. I looked at pots and it was going to cost a minimum of $4.80 for each pot to pot them out until we move house. Rather expensive until my husband came up with the idea of buckets. We bought them at 79 cents each drilled 5 holes in the bottom of each one and hey presto they have turned into brilliant pots and saving us at least $80.00
Contributed by Maureen Newman
Do you have a great money, time or energy saving tip? Click here to share your tip with us and then check Tip of the Day each day to see if your tip is featured!
I bought 20 bare rooted roses when on special for $5.50 each. I looked at pots and it was going to cost a minimum of $4.80 for each pot to pot them out until we move house. Rather expensive until my husband came up with the idea of buckets. We bought them at 79 cents each drilled 5 holes in the bottom of each one and hey presto they have turned into brilliant pots and saving us at least $80.00
Contributed by Maureen Newman
Do you have a great money, time or energy saving tip? Click here to share your tip with us and then check Tip of the Day each day to see if your tip is featured!
Saturday, 29 August 2009
Tip of the Day 29 August 2009
Playdough
All kids love playdough, even the big ones. It’s very simple and extremely cheap to make and lasts for ages. This recipe makes a small tub of playdough, you can easily double or triple it for larger batches. Store it in a container with a lid or in ziplock bags to keep it from drying out.
Ingredients:
1 cup flour
1/4 cup salt
1 tablespoon oil
few drops of food colouring
1/2 cup boiling water
Method:
Mix all together and knead until reaches dough consistency.
Play dough is a great party favour too! It’s easy and cheap to make and kids really love it. Save your take away style containers to store it in. These can be personalised with each child s name and the date of the birthday party, all ready for them to take home.
All kids love playdough, even the big ones. It’s very simple and extremely cheap to make and lasts for ages. This recipe makes a small tub of playdough, you can easily double or triple it for larger batches. Store it in a container with a lid or in ziplock bags to keep it from drying out.
Ingredients:
1 cup flour
1/4 cup salt
1 tablespoon oil
few drops of food colouring
1/2 cup boiling water
Method:
Mix all together and knead until reaches dough consistency.
Play dough is a great party favour too! It’s easy and cheap to make and kids really love it. Save your take away style containers to store it in. These can be personalised with each child s name and the date of the birthday party, all ready for them to take home.
Friday, 28 August 2009
Grocery Tracking Spreadsheet
The hardest thing when sticking to a grocery budget is knowing when you’ve reached it! I have a simple spreadsheet with all the usual grocery items I buy listed and how much each costs, and before each shop I mark off each item I need and then check the total. This gives me a good idea of how much my shop will cost before I even get to the store. I also print the list off each shop and this becomes my shopping list. It takes a little time to get it started but is a great help once it’s up and
running.
Contributed by Mirella
Platinum Members can download the Cheapskates Grocery Tracking Spreadsheet from the Member's Centre.
Thursday, 27 August 2009
Tip of the Day 27 August 2009
Ironing Aid
I have found the best ironing spray is to mix 50 - 100ml of fabric softener (I use a sachet that makes up into 2 litres) in a spray bottle. A few squirts on the garments before going into the dryer for a few minutes to simply soften them before ironing saves a lot of time and hard ironing effort. Clothes are much easier to iron if they are still barely damp so that the ironing finishes the drying process.
NOTE: This does not stain or mark any fabrics, nor does it leave that crust that some ironing aids leave.
Contributed by Christine
I have found the best ironing spray is to mix 50 - 100ml of fabric softener (I use a sachet that makes up into 2 litres) in a spray bottle. A few squirts on the garments before going into the dryer for a few minutes to simply soften them before ironing saves a lot of time and hard ironing effort. Clothes are much easier to iron if they are still barely damp so that the ironing finishes the drying process.
NOTE: This does not stain or mark any fabrics, nor does it leave that crust that some ironing aids leave.
Contributed by Christine
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
Tip of the Day 26 August 2009
Take your lunch to work
Pack your lunch each day. Sounds simple enough, and should just be common sense, but it's one of those money and time saving tips that tends to get ignored for those very reasons. Pack your own lunch and you’ll save time and money and have a much more appetising meal. You can prepare sandwiches, bread rolls, roll-ups, bagels, leftovers, fresh salads (and you’ll know it’s fresh) ready to pull out of the fridge and go. By taking your lunch to work just 3 days a week you can save approximately $700 (or more) a year!
Pack your lunch each day. Sounds simple enough, and should just be common sense, but it's one of those money and time saving tips that tends to get ignored for those very reasons. Pack your own lunch and you’ll save time and money and have a much more appetising meal. You can prepare sandwiches, bread rolls, roll-ups, bagels, leftovers, fresh salads (and you’ll know it’s fresh) ready to pull out of the fridge and go. By taking your lunch to work just 3 days a week you can save approximately $700 (or more) a year!
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Tip of the Day 25 August 2009
Turn an overcooked cake into a gourmet delight
If a cake is over cooked and dry, make a lemon or orange syrup and pour over. Let it soak into the cake, then cut into squares and serve with a dollop of cream. To make the syrup mix 3/4 cup sugar, juice of 3 lemons or oranges and 4 tablespoons water over a low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to the boil and stir constantly for two minutes. Pour over the cooled cake; let it rest about 30 minutes before serving.
This works for any cake, plain or fruit. Try an orange syrup over a fruit cake, sheer bliss. Or lemon over a buttercake, orange over a chocolate cake is delicious too.
If a cake is over cooked and dry, make a lemon or orange syrup and pour over. Let it soak into the cake, then cut into squares and serve with a dollop of cream. To make the syrup mix 3/4 cup sugar, juice of 3 lemons or oranges and 4 tablespoons water over a low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to the boil and stir constantly for two minutes. Pour over the cooled cake; let it rest about 30 minutes before serving.
This works for any cake, plain or fruit. Try an orange syrup over a fruit cake, sheer bliss. Or lemon over a buttercake, orange over a chocolate cake is delicious too.
Monday, 24 August 2009
Tip of the Day 24 August 2009
Cheap cards
Save money on greeting cards and postage by sending an e-greeting (electronic greeting) instead. There are several sites on the Internet that provide the service for free! There is a large selection of greeting cards to choose from and you can personalize the card with your very own message too. There are some great websites out there, with absolutely wonderful, free e-cards you can send. There are birthday cards, get well cards, mother’s day cards, bon voyage cards, friendship cards, even condolence cards. These sites have some of the best e-cards I’ve come across:
http://cards.123greetings.com
http://www.2000greetings.com
http://www.bluemountain.com
Save money on greeting cards and postage by sending an e-greeting (electronic greeting) instead. There are several sites on the Internet that provide the service for free! There is a large selection of greeting cards to choose from and you can personalize the card with your very own message too. There are some great websites out there, with absolutely wonderful, free e-cards you can send. There are birthday cards, get well cards, mother’s day cards, bon voyage cards, friendship cards, even condolence cards. These sites have some of the best e-cards I’ve come across:
http://cards.123greetings.com
http://www.2000greetings.com
http://www.bluemountain.com
Sunday, 23 August 2009
Tip of the Day 23 August 2009
The veggie exchange
In my family we have a lot of green thumbs. Every summer in particular, there's a competition going on to see who will grow the biggest tomatoes, best cucumbers, larges watermelons etc., all of them organic. I seem to grow the best tasting pumpkins and lots of potatoes, my sister the most delicious tomatoes. Last year I came up with a solution. One person grows four things only. My sister grew tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini and watermelon, my father grew herbs, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower and I grew pumpkin, corn, potatoes and beans. Then we exchanged. So the whole summer (and winter) we all ate free veggies. Now our veggie exchange has grown with other family members and neighbours joining in. We also have a 'saucing day' where we all get together (byo jars) and make sauce for the upcoming months. Everyone helps, including all the children and not only do we have fun, but we all save a bundle!
Contributed by Maria, Kinglake West
In my family we have a lot of green thumbs. Every summer in particular, there's a competition going on to see who will grow the biggest tomatoes, best cucumbers, larges watermelons etc., all of them organic. I seem to grow the best tasting pumpkins and lots of potatoes, my sister the most delicious tomatoes. Last year I came up with a solution. One person grows four things only. My sister grew tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini and watermelon, my father grew herbs, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower and I grew pumpkin, corn, potatoes and beans. Then we exchanged. So the whole summer (and winter) we all ate free veggies. Now our veggie exchange has grown with other family members and neighbours joining in. We also have a 'saucing day' where we all get together (byo jars) and make sauce for the upcoming months. Everyone helps, including all the children and not only do we have fun, but we all save a bundle!
Contributed by Maria, Kinglake West
Saturday, 22 August 2009
Tip of the Day 22 August 2009
Be entertained for less
*Use your local library to plan your holiday. They have free to use travel guides that can sometimes be pricey.
*Look out for free preview deals and test-runs. Local papers are great for deals during the holidays – everything
from the movies through to local restaurants and cafes and even venues like mini-golf, 10 pin bowling.
*And look for deals from your video library for those rainy days and have a latest run movie marathon at home.
*As the kids like to eat-you-out-of-house-and-home at weekends and during the holidays, stock up on food items in bulk. Initially it costs a little more, but you save in the long run.
*Pay cash and ask for discounts.
*Use your local library to plan your holiday. They have free to use travel guides that can sometimes be pricey.
*Look out for free preview deals and test-runs. Local papers are great for deals during the holidays – everything
from the movies through to local restaurants and cafes and even venues like mini-golf, 10 pin bowling.
*And look for deals from your video library for those rainy days and have a latest run movie marathon at home.
*As the kids like to eat-you-out-of-house-and-home at weekends and during the holidays, stock up on food items in bulk. Initially it costs a little more, but you save in the long run.
*Pay cash and ask for discounts.
Friday, 21 August 2009
Tip of the Day 21 August 2009
Quality Shopping
When considering the cost of an item, take into account how long it will last and how many uses you will get out of it.
* For example a pair of runners for $60 might last twelve months while another, cheaper pair at $35 will only last nine months. At first glance it would seem that the more expensive shoe is better value because it lasts longer. In reality the cheaper shoe is better value. Here’s how to work it out: calculate the cost per month i.e. divide $60 by 12 = $5 per month, while $35 divided by 9 months = $4 per month. The cheaper shoe is better value per wear.
* Look for quality in construction: zippers, buttons and button holes, seams and hems should be checked in clothing to make sure they item will stand up to being worn.
* Keep track of how long things last and their original prices so you can then compare when it’s time to replace them.
When considering the cost of an item, take into account how long it will last and how many uses you will get out of it.
* For example a pair of runners for $60 might last twelve months while another, cheaper pair at $35 will only last nine months. At first glance it would seem that the more expensive shoe is better value because it lasts longer. In reality the cheaper shoe is better value. Here’s how to work it out: calculate the cost per month i.e. divide $60 by 12 = $5 per month, while $35 divided by 9 months = $4 per month. The cheaper shoe is better value per wear.
* Look for quality in construction: zippers, buttons and button holes, seams and hems should be checked in clothing to make sure they item will stand up to being worn.
* Keep track of how long things last and their original prices so you can then compare when it’s time to replace them.
Thursday, 20 August 2009
Tip of the Day 20 August 2009
Washing for 8 Cents Per Load
If you haven't tried Cheapskates Washing Powder yet or are looking for a simpler way to get your washing clean, then give this simple tip a try.
Don't like the chemicals in laundry detergent? Use pure soap instead without breaking the budget. I buy a 6 pack of soap cakes for as little as 95 cents. For a full wash in a 5kg washing machine I grate half a cake in hot water. By the time the machine is filled with water the soap has melted and is ready to be poured in. It also saves on fabric softener as the
soap has a softening effect as opposed to harsh detergents. This means a load of washing can be done for as little as 8 cents.
Contributed by Julieanne, Mansfield
If you haven't tried Cheapskates Washing Powder yet or are looking for a simpler way to get your washing clean, then give this simple tip a try.
Don't like the chemicals in laundry detergent? Use pure soap instead without breaking the budget. I buy a 6 pack of soap cakes for as little as 95 cents. For a full wash in a 5kg washing machine I grate half a cake in hot water. By the time the machine is filled with water the soap has melted and is ready to be poured in. It also saves on fabric softener as the
soap has a softening effect as opposed to harsh detergents. This means a load of washing can be done for as little as 8 cents.
Contributed by Julieanne, Mansfield
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
Tip of the day 19 August 2009
Household cleaning
Just a few basic products will clean almost anything around your home for minimal cost. Bicarb soda, washing soda, cloudy ammonia, borax and white vinegar will not only save you money and the environment but by using these inexpensive
ingredients the potential saving for the average home is $270 a year (based on 1 spray n wipe style cleaner, 1 shower cleaner, 1 bathroom cleaner, 1 toilet cleaner, 1 floor cleaner and 1 all purpose cleaner per month).
Extra Strength Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Cost: $0.62 for 4 litres cleaner
1/4 cup bicarb soda
3/4 cup household ammonia
1/2 cup white vinegar
4 litres warm water
2 drops of food colouring (optional)
Mix all ingredients and store. Label bottle and as with any cleaner, keep it in a safe place away from children and pets. Pour into spray bottle when needed.
Just a few basic products will clean almost anything around your home for minimal cost. Bicarb soda, washing soda, cloudy ammonia, borax and white vinegar will not only save you money and the environment but by using these inexpensive
ingredients the potential saving for the average home is $270 a year (based on 1 spray n wipe style cleaner, 1 shower cleaner, 1 bathroom cleaner, 1 toilet cleaner, 1 floor cleaner and 1 all purpose cleaner per month).
Extra Strength Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Cost: $0.62 for 4 litres cleaner
1/4 cup bicarb soda
3/4 cup household ammonia
1/2 cup white vinegar
4 litres warm water
2 drops of food colouring (optional)
Mix all ingredients and store. Label bottle and as with any cleaner, keep it in a safe place away from children and pets. Pour into spray bottle when needed.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Tip of the Day 18 August 2009
Reduce the Use of Eggs
Reduce the use of eggs in cake making. One egg and one tablespoon of vinegar is equivalent to two eggs. Also, for each egg over three, use one extra teaspoon of baking powder or one teaspoon of cornflour.
Contributed by Lynette, Montrose
Reduce the use of eggs in cake making. One egg and one tablespoon of vinegar is equivalent to two eggs. Also, for each egg over three, use one extra teaspoon of baking powder or one teaspoon of cornflour.
Contributed by Lynette, Montrose
Monday, 17 August 2009
Tip of the Day 17 August 2009
Fleece Warmmy
I have one of these and it is so cosy and warm. And it was so easy to make, no sewing! Just a fold and then a careful trim and the wrap was made. Oh, and my daughter named it warmmy when she was little and wanted it to wrap herself in. It took me a few minutes to figure out what she wanted, and the name has stuck. You will need 2 metres of polar fleece. Polar fleece is readily available at craft shops and fabric stores such as Spotlight and Lincraft. You can usually pick it up for around $7 a metre and it comes in a myriad of colours and patterns. Fold in half lengthways and mark the middle of the length. This will form the neckline of your wrap. Now, carefully with a tape measure and a piece of tailor s chalk, starting at one end of the length, measure in 5 cm from the fold and mark a line with the chalk up to the middle of the length. Using the edge of a saucer, round off the line, drawing towards the fold. You should now have a line drawn from the bottom edge of the length to the middle, curving out towards the fold. It only needs to be a gentle curve. If you are happy with the curve (it forms the neckline of your wrap) you can now carefully cut along the line. And your fleece wrap is complete! And shouldn’t have cost more that $15!
From the May, 2004 Cheapskates Journal
I have one of these and it is so cosy and warm. And it was so easy to make, no sewing! Just a fold and then a careful trim and the wrap was made. Oh, and my daughter named it warmmy when she was little and wanted it to wrap herself in. It took me a few minutes to figure out what she wanted, and the name has stuck. You will need 2 metres of polar fleece. Polar fleece is readily available at craft shops and fabric stores such as Spotlight and Lincraft. You can usually pick it up for around $7 a metre and it comes in a myriad of colours and patterns. Fold in half lengthways and mark the middle of the length. This will form the neckline of your wrap. Now, carefully with a tape measure and a piece of tailor s chalk, starting at one end of the length, measure in 5 cm from the fold and mark a line with the chalk up to the middle of the length. Using the edge of a saucer, round off the line, drawing towards the fold. You should now have a line drawn from the bottom edge of the length to the middle, curving out towards the fold. It only needs to be a gentle curve. If you are happy with the curve (it forms the neckline of your wrap) you can now carefully cut along the line. And your fleece wrap is complete! And shouldn’t have cost more that $15!
From the May, 2004 Cheapskates Journal
Sunday, 16 August 2009
Tip of the Day 16 August 2009
One $14 Ad Saves Hundreds of Dollars on Plants
We have nearly 4 acres and the house garden is nearly an acre alone. That means a lot of plants to find and you can't always strike or grow enough. I put an ad in the local paper asking for people with overcrowded agapanthus to contact me. I would help them thin them if I could take the thinnings. Four people contacted me and they even offered extra types of plants when they knew I wasn't a landscaper looking for stock. The ad cost me $14 and the first load alone would have cost hundreds to buy.
Contributed by Louise, Willaston
We have nearly 4 acres and the house garden is nearly an acre alone. That means a lot of plants to find and you can't always strike or grow enough. I put an ad in the local paper asking for people with overcrowded agapanthus to contact me. I would help them thin them if I could take the thinnings. Four people contacted me and they even offered extra types of plants when they knew I wasn't a landscaper looking for stock. The ad cost me $14 and the first load alone would have cost hundreds to buy.
Contributed by Louise, Willaston
Saturday, 15 August 2009
Tip of the Day 15 August 2009
Great Internet deals for holidaymakers
Before you spend a fortune on holiday accommodation and travel take a few minutes to get online and do some hunting for the best deals. You can save upwards of 50% on your holiday costs if you take advantage of the deals that are offered online.
*Wotif.com.au is perfect for spur of the moment deals. You can pick up fantastic weekend packages and
often great mid-week packages in fabulous hotels for a fraction of the regular room rate.
*Lastminute.com has flights, accommodation , car hire, restaurants, etc. A saving of $237 was made on LA flights
Before you spend a fortune on holiday accommodation and travel take a few minutes to get online and do some hunting for the best deals. You can save upwards of 50% on your holiday costs if you take advantage of the deals that are offered online.
*Wotif.com.au is perfect for spur of the moment deals. You can pick up fantastic weekend packages and
often great mid-week packages in fabulous hotels for a fraction of the regular room rate.
*Lastminute.com has flights, accommodation , car hire, restaurants, etc. A saving of $237 was made on LA flights
Friday, 14 August 2009
Tip of the Day 14 August 2009
Unit Pricing – the magic way to find the true cost
Knowing how to work out the unit price of items can save you a lot of money. Carry a small calculator with you or better still the Cheapskates How Much Does It Cost calculator to work out the unit price of goods. To do this divide the cost of each item by the number of grams, kilos, milliliters or litres. This will give you the cost per unit and you can compare them to find the cheapest product. In some cases, bigger is not always cheaper.
Knowing how to work out the unit price of items can save you a lot of money. Carry a small calculator with you or better still the Cheapskates How Much Does It Cost calculator to work out the unit price of goods. To do this divide the cost of each item by the number of grams, kilos, milliliters or litres. This will give you the cost per unit and you can compare them to find the cheapest product. In some cases, bigger is not always cheaper.
Thursday, 13 August 2009
Tip of the Day 13 August 2009
Eliminate laundry pre-treatments
If you add 1/2 cup bicarbonate soda to your load of washing and 3/4 cup white vinegar to in the fabric softener dispenser you'll be able to almost completely eliminate the use of pre-treatments like Preen etc. I've never come across anything that was ever harmed by this baking soda/vinegar treatment, it doesn't make your clothes smell like vinegar, and it also often gets rid of colours that have bled onto other clothes. When I use this treatment on the washing it gets it all clean. In fact, it seems to get all the clothes a lot cleaner for a lot less.
If you add 1/2 cup bicarbonate soda to your load of washing and 3/4 cup white vinegar to in the fabric softener dispenser you'll be able to almost completely eliminate the use of pre-treatments like Preen etc. I've never come across anything that was ever harmed by this baking soda/vinegar treatment, it doesn't make your clothes smell like vinegar, and it also often gets rid of colours that have bled onto other clothes. When I use this treatment on the washing it gets it all clean. In fact, it seems to get all the clothes a lot cleaner for a lot less.
Wednesday, 12 August 2009
Tip of the Day 12 August 2009
Save money doing the laundry
Wash in cold water and line dry. Make your own washing powder and for under $10 a year you’ll have clean clothes.
On wet days hang it over the clotheshorse instead of putting a load through the dryer. If you have ducted heating put the clotheshorse over a duct and let the warm air dry the clothes.
If you are drying heavy things such as jeans or bath towels, put them over the clotheshorse, place it over the duct and put a dry sheet over the lot tent fashion. It will create a nice little hot house effect and those wet, heavy things will be dry in no time and your house will still be warm.
To dry clothes when you don't have ducted heating, hang them over a clotheshorse and sit them under a ceiling fan turned to the lowest speed. You can do this even in winter, the fan will not only dry the washing but help circulate the warm air. Some ceiling fans have a reverse switch so they will spin backwards, forcing hot air down.
Wash in cold water and line dry. Make your own washing powder and for under $10 a year you’ll have clean clothes.
On wet days hang it over the clotheshorse instead of putting a load through the dryer. If you have ducted heating put the clotheshorse over a duct and let the warm air dry the clothes.
If you are drying heavy things such as jeans or bath towels, put them over the clotheshorse, place it over the duct and put a dry sheet over the lot tent fashion. It will create a nice little hot house effect and those wet, heavy things will be dry in no time and your house will still be warm.
To dry clothes when you don't have ducted heating, hang them over a clotheshorse and sit them under a ceiling fan turned to the lowest speed. You can do this even in winter, the fan will not only dry the washing but help circulate the warm air. Some ceiling fans have a reverse switch so they will spin backwards, forcing hot air down.
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
Tip of the Day 11 August 2009
Jigglers
Jigglers are popular at tuckshops and canteens around the country. These are a yummy treat, and kids just love them. These wobbly little morsels are very easy to make and extremely cheap.
Ingredients:
5 cups water
1 cup lemon juice
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp gelatine
food colouring (if desired)
Method:
Heat the water, add the lemon juice, sugar and gelatine and stir until dissolved. Add food colouring of your choice. Pour into moulds and set in fridge. Egg cups make neat, half-egg shaped jigglers when they are set. You can pour the mixture into a slice tray and set cookie cutters into it. When the jigglers are set, lift out the cookie cutters to have lions, stars, flowers, cars or whatever shape your cookie cutters are. Or you can use ice cube trays. Or set them in icy-pole moulds and give the kids a frozen jiggler! Just be sure to make your jigglers big enough to be bitten a couple of times and not small enough to be swallowed whole and pose a choking hazard. As with any finger food for children, always supervise them while eating.
Jigglers are popular at tuckshops and canteens around the country. These are a yummy treat, and kids just love them. These wobbly little morsels are very easy to make and extremely cheap.
Ingredients:
5 cups water
1 cup lemon juice
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp gelatine
food colouring (if desired)
Method:
Heat the water, add the lemon juice, sugar and gelatine and stir until dissolved. Add food colouring of your choice. Pour into moulds and set in fridge. Egg cups make neat, half-egg shaped jigglers when they are set. You can pour the mixture into a slice tray and set cookie cutters into it. When the jigglers are set, lift out the cookie cutters to have lions, stars, flowers, cars or whatever shape your cookie cutters are. Or you can use ice cube trays. Or set them in icy-pole moulds and give the kids a frozen jiggler! Just be sure to make your jigglers big enough to be bitten a couple of times and not small enough to be swallowed whole and pose a choking hazard. As with any finger food for children, always supervise them while eating.
Monday, 10 August 2009
Tip of the Day 10 August 2009
Sleep well on a scented pillow
My lavender bushes are stunning at the moment, so many flowers and the scent is just beautiful. I love my lavender pillows and sachets and looking at the bushes the other day reminded me to get out the sewing machine and make some more. They are really easy to do and are a great way of using up scraps of pretty fabric, old doileys and serviettes, even scarves and handkerchiefs.
Take two pieces of fabric measuring 15cm by 22cm each (scarves are lovely). Pick a pretty fabric that’s not too fragile. Sew the pieces together inside out, leaving a 2.5cm opening on one of the sides. Turn the pouch inside out and fill with 1 cup small grain rice. Add scented flowers like lavender and chamomile and a drop of your favourite essential oil or perfume. Sew or glue up the opening. You can vary the size with different sized pieces of cloth, to make it square, really big for a head, round for a seat or back, etc. It’s a great way to relax with your favourite scent.
From the May, 2004 Cheapskates Journal
My lavender bushes are stunning at the moment, so many flowers and the scent is just beautiful. I love my lavender pillows and sachets and looking at the bushes the other day reminded me to get out the sewing machine and make some more. They are really easy to do and are a great way of using up scraps of pretty fabric, old doileys and serviettes, even scarves and handkerchiefs.
Take two pieces of fabric measuring 15cm by 22cm each (scarves are lovely). Pick a pretty fabric that’s not too fragile. Sew the pieces together inside out, leaving a 2.5cm opening on one of the sides. Turn the pouch inside out and fill with 1 cup small grain rice. Add scented flowers like lavender and chamomile and a drop of your favourite essential oil or perfume. Sew or glue up the opening. You can vary the size with different sized pieces of cloth, to make it square, really big for a head, round for a seat or back, etc. It’s a great way to relax with your favourite scent.
From the May, 2004 Cheapskates Journal
Sunday, 9 August 2009
Tip of the Day 9 August 2009
Seedling Swap Group
Starting and keeping a veggie going can cost a bit so I have just joined a friends group that swap seedlings/plants. Everyone raises different seedlings that we then swap for other types. It is a great way to try growing different veggies or species while getting to know what grows best in your area by talking to other gardeners. It also means that you don't have to outlay on all different seedlings or seeds.
Contributed by Tracey, Gympie
Starting and keeping a veggie going can cost a bit so I have just joined a friends group that swap seedlings/plants. Everyone raises different seedlings that we then swap for other types. It is a great way to try growing different veggies or species while getting to know what grows best in your area by talking to other gardeners. It also means that you don't have to outlay on all different seedlings or seeds.
Contributed by Tracey, Gympie
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