Saturday, February 8, 2014

Making Quilts Vs. Buying From The Quilt Store

By Jerri Perry


In this age of convenience, you can buy or pay to do almost anything. However, in many cases, you save money when you make or do these things at home. Additionally, you feel a greater sense of ownership when you create something. For instance, a quilt that you buy from the quilt store will have much less personal value than one you make on your own from old clothing or other cloth scraps.

Learning to make and do things at home definitely requires more time and effort than purchasing them from outside. However, the added time may be worthwhile when you add up the amount of money you can save. Here are some things you could consider making instead of purchasing.

1. Cooking. We eat so many extra calories and spend so much more money when we are in the habit of eating at restaurants or getting take out. Making food at home means tastier, cheaper, healthier options. Cook in bulk when you have the time, and freeze the leftovers. You will be amazed at the money you save, and surprised at how convenient it can be.

2. Clothing. In the olden days, almost everyone wore homemade clothing most of the time. However, making our own clothes is a skill that most people have lost. If you can already knit or sew, you are ahead of the game. If not, you can learn. Knowing how to make you own clothes will not only save you money, it will help you develop a more unique look. While four other people are wearing the same shirt from H&M, you will have a unique outfit.

3. Jewelry. Take a look at most of the fashion jewelry you see in, for instance, the mall. It is made from beads and stones that you could probably purchase at several craft stores. For a fraction of the price, you could buy your own beads and things, and create unique necklaces and bracelets. You could even sell your creations.

4. Create your own picture frames. Rather than paying twenty dollars for a simple frame, buy some raw wood at a craft store. Stain it, make it into a picture frame, and either wood burn it or decorate it with meaningful objects.

5. Exercising. People often sign up for a gym membership in a burst of motivation, and then rarely use it. Or, they ignore all of the complicated weight lifting equipment and simply walk or run on the treadmill. Save your money, and walk or run outside instead. You can purchase handweights for less than the cost of one month at some gyms. Working out outside is better for your mental health, too.

These are a few ideas of things to make or do in your home. There are many, many more. Obviously, you won't have time to always make everything yourself. You have to pick and choose. For instance, make one weekend meal at home instead of going out. Learn to quilt and stay out of the quilt store, even if you still buy all of your clothes. You will be surprised at the money you save, and every little bit helps.




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