Crafting is a fun way to get in touch with your creative side, but it can sometimes become a pricey hobby. Crafting doesn’t have to break the bank though, because there are plenty of ways to save money while improving your crafting abilities.
Master the Art of Upcycling
Upcycling re-purposes discarded items. Some examples that can help to save major money when crafting include unraveling old sweaters to reuse the yarn, washing food jars for reuse or saving old clothes for fabric. Really, the only limit to the possibilities of upcycling is your own imagination.
Get Thrifting
Thrift stores are already popular for their great deals on clothes, but these stores are veritable treasure troves for the clever crafts-person. You can find plenty of ordinary craft supplies for a fraction of the regular retail cost, such as fabric, yarn and beads. You can also get loads of toys, dolls, unique paintings, frames and all sorts of oddities to utilize in your crafting pursuits.
Comb the Internet
There are plenty of websites, message boards, email groups and import websites to help you access low-cost, high quality materials. Importers with well-established reputations, such as Har-Man Importer Corp, carry huge varieties of materials and offer discounts for volume purchases. Many crafting groups alert their members to online coupons and deals as they occur at crafting stores. Connecting to the online craft community can become a valuable resource to learn about ways to save money as you create.
Look to the Library
Public libraries are wonderful community resources. Not only can you check out books for free on any craft you can imagine, but most libraries also have craft events and meetings. Check out your local branch for crafting classes, supply swaps, crafting groups or consider starting your own group if you don’t find one to your liking.
Browse Hardware Stores
Hardware stores offer a lot of crafting supplies in disguise. Look for brushes, sponges, twine and even bolts or washers to use in your crafting endeavors. You’ll save money and find many unique components most craft stores don’t carry. Thinking outside the box can save lots of cash.
Crafting is an art form based upon ingenuity and creativity. Saving money while you craft is part of the fun. The next time your craft closet seems bare, re-imagine mundane items and transform them into something spectacular!
