Category: Re-Use Stuff

DIY Shelf Made With Recycled Wood and Hemp Rope

Hello Everyone!

Happy Friday! Today I want to share a DIY shelf made with recycled wood and hemp rope. I’m planning to use this in my bathroom to store all the small samples of beauty products that I seem to collect.

ShelfShelf up close

We had a small pile of wood sitting around and I suggested to my boyfriend that we make something with it.  He is better using the tools than I am– I’m more of the idea person. Which means– he did the actual work.

I found a couple of ideas on Pinterest and we went to work. Well, I should clarify– my boyfriend went to work. It took him about two hours to make this shelf from start to finish.

Original shelf

The photo above was our inspiration. And the pile of wood we used was originally going to be used for a pool cue rack (there’s no longer a pool table in our house so why not use the wood for a bathroom shelf?).

Not only that, the shelf looks great in my bathroom and we repurposed something that was just sitting around.  I did purchase the hemp rope for approximately $6.00.  And there is enough of that left to use in future projects (a kitty condo/cat scratcher is next on the list).

Happy Friday everyone! Remember to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Cheers, Jody 😃

Living Frugally

This blog post is so great I just had to share. Cheers & Happy New Year!
Remember — reduce, reuse, recycle.

thrift shopper for peace

frugalWhen you think of a thrift lifestyle, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it shopping at a thrift shop, looking for great deals on things you need or things you simply want? Is it about looking for new uses for old things – repurposing items in your house? Is it about getting the most out of the things you already have so that you’re not simply consuming for the sake of it?

When I think of my parents and my grandparents’ lifestyles, I think of thrift in a different way. Their lives were marked more by reducing waste than they were by reducing consumption. It had more to do with frugality than anything else. This was borne out of necessity – both my parents and all of my grandparents lived in need and sometimes outright poverty. When you had stuff you used it completely, you didn’t waste…

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Tips and Tricks for Selling on Consignment

I’ve been busy recently down-sizing and trying to get rid of excess “stuff.” (Don’t we all have too much stuff anyway?)  I found a box in my closet filled with handbags– many of which I hadn’t carried in more than a year. So…. I decided the best way to get rid of them was consignment. Especially since they were in good condition and name brand items. True, it was hard to part with my old favorite Coach bag– but since it was just hanging out in a box I decided to sell.

Getting rid of clothes and accessories has been an emotional experience at times. This box of stuff for consignment sat in my car trunk for close to a week (yikes).  Anyway, the stuff is gone now and I’m now waiting for my money!  The good news is- the place I’m using has been successful for me in the past. I had close to $100 on my account. Which means now I can shop for FREE!

Are you ready to clean out your closets filled with outdated clothes and accessories? Here are some tips to get started:

  1. Find a Specialty Store. You’ll make more money if you zone in on a specialty store for your goods. For instance, a sports equipment store will pay more for your used football pads than a general consignment shop. When I wanted to sell my stuff, I focused on a store specifically for women’s clothing and accessories to help me score a better price on my handbags. General shops are better for knick-knacks and stuff that can’t be categorized.
  2. Know What Sells. Consignment shops specifically look for stuff that sells quickly and easily. A nearly unworn pair of designer jeans or clean shoes? Perfect.  Before you take your stuff over, consider whether you’d buy the same item used or not.
  3. Clean Your Items. You’ll get more money for each of your items if they’re in good shape and freshly washed.  If you’re missing buttons, parts, laces and pieces, it’s best to donate instead. Check over your items for stains and other marks, since consignment shops will probably decline worn-looking items. (There were a couple of my things that were consignment rejects- these go to Goodwill)
  4. Read the Contract. If you decide to sell using the profit-sharing method, you’ll receive a contract. The contract gives you information about the percentage for sharing, how the items are priced, how long your items will sit on store shelves, and when you can arrive to collect your money. It’s important to know the details so you aren’t disappointed.

Discovery Shop: A unique resale experience in Point Loma

Need something flashy and swanky for the holidays? This place is awesome for just that! There’s plenty of sparkly jackets and spiffy dresses.

I had a great time this weekend at Point Loma’s American Cancer Society Resale Shop. Located at 3609-C Midway Drive, this shop is easy to find with plenty of parking.

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Definitely– lots of sparkle here! Most important this shop is clean and neat and extremely well merchandised.  Clothes were pressed (not all wrinkled!) and the racks were colorized too.  For someone like me that is a good thing since I’m really trying to break out of my “uniform” of wearing black all the time.

I found some shoes for work and a fantastic selection of jackets.  Pictured below is an awesome fur jacket I found. It was in great condition. Prices here were reasonable and the clearance racks had a sizeable selection of items priced at $2– you read that right– 2 Bucks!!

Upcoming Events:

Friday & Saturday December 13 and December 14: Semi-Annual Sale 50% off Storewide Savings

Sunday December 15: Prepare for the new year or finish your holiday shopping. A variety of unused merchandise with original tags will be featured (I got a sneak peek– it’s all good stuff!!)

 

 

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DIY: Two Button Statement Earrings

Hello everyone! I found this fabulous DIY project for “two button statement earrings.” Looks to be a fun and creative project and definitely appeals to my thrifty side. I can see myself wearing these to a holiday party for sure. I’m going to a few thrift shops this weekend so will keep you posted if I find some sparkly materials to make my earrings. Cheers and Happy Tuesday!

IT’S STATEMENT EARRING TIME!!!! No seriously… it’s time! The holiday’s are around the corner and it’s time to start updating our jewelry collections with a few gorgeous sparklers for the season. Using the same technique as my DIY button ring tutorial, here’s an easy breezy project to help you bring a little bling to those earrings!

Materials: 4 Buttons, 4 Earring Findings With Post and Hoop, Jump Rings, Earring Backings

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Pawn Shops! Economic Barometer?

Hello Everyone! Earlier this week I had the pleasure of going on a “pawn shop” trip in San Diego’s North Park area.  It just so happens I had a birthday earlier this week too– so I was in search of an opal ring– my birth stone.

How do pawn shops work?  A pawn shop gives customers a place to sell their personal items for cash. The  pawn broker looks the item over and determines how much money he can obtain for it.  He then makes a lower offer to the customer. The pawn broker makes money when he  sells the item at a higher price.  (I have a feeling the pawn broker made some money off me…)

Read more:  How Do Pawn Shops Work? | eHow.com

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Pictured above is the opal ring I found at CashCo Jewelry & Loan for $90.  Lucky for me the jewelry was 30% off the day I was there.  This was my first serious trip to a pawn shop. I was surprised at the fantastic quality goods I found.  Since I’m still in search of diamond earrings– looks like I’ll be cruising by the pawn shops when I’m ready to buy those.

Which brings me to my next question– pawn shops as economic barometers?  Why is the pawn industry generating so much buzz as a “barometer of  the economy”? Reports show the three publicly traded pawn  companies reported significantly increased earnings during the last two  fiscal quarters. An increase in gold value and the “Cash for  Gold” craze have both shown record numbers of people trading in old jewelry  and coins for cash. Perhaps the perception could be based on speculation  that in hard times, people pawn. However, there is a larger, more  compelling story about the pawn industry.

The National Pawnbrokers Association reports there are over 30 million pawn store customers per year and they appreciate this unique form of credit and tend to borrow only what they need, as evidenced by the relatively low national average loan amount of $80. NPA President and pawn shop owner Dave Crume says, “Pawn customers repay their loans and redeem their collateral at a correspondingly high average national redemption rate of 80 percent. These parameters appear to be holding constant, despite the current economy.”

  • CashCo Jewelry & Loan #1
  • 4502 University Avenue #103
  • San Diego, CA  92105
  • Web: www.cashcopawn.com

I’m not sure what to make of all this, but I’m really glad I stopped by CashCo last Monday and found my lovely opal ring. I’m pretty sure it was “pre-owned” and that is fine.  (Now if I could just find some “pre-owned” diamond earrings….)

Under-consumption is more in-style than ever, right??!  (why buy new?)

Cheers!

 

Under-consumption is More In-Style Than Ever!

Frugality is all about having choices, right?  With millions of people looking for ways to save money in tough times, a growing number of people have turned to resale shops and thrift stores to find their clothes, furniture and household goods.  Statistically about 20% of people shop in thrift stores regularly, compared with about 14% in 2008.

The fashion-conscious set is more comfy in the thrift store setting now since place like Goodwill and even local church-affiliated nonprofits are now likely to boast racks organized by color and size, as well as (surprisingly!) newer, seldom-worn clothes. Thrift shoppers these days are reaping the benefits of “overconsumption”– donations often come directly from the stuffed closets of the rich.

Since its start in 1902, Goodwill Industries has expanded into 2,700 stores in 15 countries, said Jim Gibbons, CEO and president of Goodwill. The total donated goods revenue for
the Goodwill network is more than $3 billion, he said.  Shoppers are also flocking to The Salvation Army’s more than 600 stores. In the last five years, there has been about a 4% increase in sales. There is expected to be a 1.5% rise in sales this year compared with 2011, said Maj. Mark Nelson, secretary for business at the company.

At some point during the recession and its lingering aftermath, Gen Y, the youth demographic burdened with huge student loans and an awful job market, realized that perhaps paying $30 for a new T-shirt at Gap was unwise. It certainly was not sustainable. Young shoppers may have first turned to thrift stores out of necessity or desperation, but by now, they’re more likely to view secondhand shopping as sensible—even cool.

Read more: http://moneyland.time.com/2012/07/10/the-thrift-store-not-just-for-penny-pinching-grandmas-anymore/#ixzz29Wh67JLH

Upcycling. Reuse and Recycle

I love the idea of Upcycling things. I found this awesome blog post and felt it was so awesome I just had to share with my own readers. I’m a big believer in “trash to treasure” in furniture– and life in general. You never know when you’ll find that diamond in the rough, right? Cheers everyone and keep me posted if you have any good Upcycling stories! –Jody

thrift shopper for peace

My tagline says “reuse, refresh, rethink, repeat.” Upcycling, I believe, is a great example of reusing, refreshing and rethinking. Today’s Vancouver Sun has an article titled “Upcycling hits the home show”, all about a number of designers who were challenged to find an item at a Habitat for Humanity ReStore and upcycle it to something else. The challenge also raises funds for Habitat for Humanity, which makes it even cooler.

Some of the projects are quite unique – like Tazim Damji’s clever use of an old police stretcher, which she turned into a carry all with pockets for magazines, pencils and pens, etc. that leans against a wall. I don’t like the way it looks but it’s an awesome example of creative thinking.

I also did NOT like what Maria Killam did to a gorgeous, hardwood end table that looked like it was in great shape. She painted it…

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Thrift Trader. Everything $5.99 or 4/$20

Once again, I found myself rummaging thru stacks and racks of stuff at the Thrift Trader in Ocean Beach. This all happened the same afternoon sipping my Vanilla Latte.

You can’t go wrong at this place with things priced 4/$20.  They have a great selection of men’s clothing and I totally messed up and didn’t take any photos of menswear.

  • Thrift Trader
  • 4879 Newport Avenue
  • Ocean Beach, CA  92107
  • Phone: (619) 222-5011
  • Web: www.thrifttrader.org

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More hats, more long skirts.  All easy items to mix and match for Fall season.  Sometimes you need a little retail fix and getting a low cost treasure in a thrift store is awesome. Just remember, it isn’t a good deal if you don’t use it and it sits in your closet!!

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And I found these really fabulous black heels.  Halloween costume-worthy maybe?

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And, a big shout out because there’s even a section for the Curvy gals. With cute stuff too!

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Cheers everyone!

My Secret Thrifting Tips

Ever wonder why every time you go thrifting, you end up with a big pile of novelty items and some mom jeans? Check out my secret tips on finding your next major thrifting score.

1. Context:   It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the hideousness that engulfs the racks- you know, like the muumuus, Christmas sweaters and stretched out bicycle shorts. In a hurry to sift through it all, you might accidentally skip over your new favorite piece so try to make a day for thrifting when no one is waiting for you and you can take your time.  That crazy ’80s sweater could look hip with an edgy haircut and designer ankle boots.

2. Consider Alterations:    Don’t abandon the perfect vintage cocktail dress only because it’s a size too big. Maybe you love the color and cut of that blouse, but the sleeves are overwhelmingly puffy? For the $3 you’re probably spending, it could be worth it to visit a tailor.

3. Shop Off-Season:    Think ahead and shop for summer items in winter. You’ll find the best deals and have a better selection. Winter coats are plentiful and purchased for pennies in August. The same would go for vintage sun dresses during January.

4. Find Your Local Thrift Outlet:    Most well-established thrift store “chains” like Goodwill and Salvation Army will have outlets.  This is the magical land where all clothes are $1-$3. The ladies at the Goodwill Outlet told me their clothes only get one week at full-price store racks before they get bundled up and shipped to the outlet. My favorites include Thrift Trader and $2 Thrill— you know where I’m going with this….

5. Wear Your “Thrifting Uniform”:    Be prepared for long fitting room lines (or possibly no fitting rooms) by wearing something that is comfy and easy to try things on over. I like leggings and slip-on flats. Throw a flexible sewing tape in your bag for taking measurements if you are so inclined.

6. Don’t Confine Yourself to only the Women’s Clothing Section:   For petites, check out the kids section for a shrunken blazer look or possibly a dress you can wear as a top. Maybe head over to the men’s section where you can find oversized cardigans or a colorful necktie.  Make a necktie headband.

7. Gravitate Toward Thrift Shops That Are Off the Beaten Path:   Look for thrift stores near ritzy retirement communities and small suburban towns.  This is your best chance to find a hidden gem.

8. Get a Rapport Going With Your Cashier:   Most thrift stores don’t have a set-in-stone pricing structure.  Striking up a conversation with the cashier can’t hurt, especially if you visit on a regular basis. If the employees get to know you, they may be willing to set aside that elusive Kate Spade tote you’ve been on the hunt for.


9. Go Thrifting Off-Hours:    If you don’t thrift on a regularly, you’re just asking to miss out on stuff. Thrift stores get new stock daily, so be vigilant. Better yet, find out which days the “new” merchandise gets put out. Arrive early and be ready for the hunt.

Cheers Everyone & Happy Thrifting! Let me know how you all are doing.   -jody-