HOW TO Spend Less On Your Craft Projects (Part III)

As I've already mentioned that I'm not an artist....I thought I should delve more into the subject of "getting ideas" for a craft project. The rule of thumb....as far as I'm concerned....if you see something you like, and it's either cheap or free....take it while the takings good!

If it ends up that you don't use it....you can do just like the people you got it from....sell it or throw it away!

An example: I found an old large wood box (yeah...it was at the Outdoor Market...i.e. curbside)....just the lid and the bottom, about 20"x40"x24"deep. All hardware had been removed and, if I'm not mistaken, the black grease in the bottom of it, led me to believe that someone had used it for storing tools. All in all, dirty, but the "bones" were good....no rot...and it was solidly put together.

I picked up that old box....cleaned it with PSP....painted it inside and out....added hardware and fence post finials for feet. It now sits in my living room as a storage chest and there isn't one person who has seen it that hasn't said they liked it....or wanted it! What did it cost me.....time....and fence post finials!

Where did I come up with the idea for this box? Quite frankly....it was something I saw in a furniture store that I liked....but definitely didn't want to pay the price for!!! Instead, I kept it in mind and crafted my own chest that is quite similiar, but will always be a "one of a kind". Will my daughter keep it once I'm gone...there's no doubt in my mind! Craft ideas can come from anywhere! Just look at what you like in any store...and then figure out how you can craft it yourself at a big savings!

You can also peruse magazines...they have a ton of them out there nowadays....directed right at the home crafter/decorator. Personally....I love them....and it amazes me that their are people out there that are that much more craftier than me :>) ! These magazines are great for showing you color combinations, etc., on walls, furniture...just about anything. I've saved pictures from magazines where a piece of furniture has been painted...and I like the color combination...but not the piece of furniture they used it on! It makes for a good future reference for projects I might start.

Now generally, you're going to pay $5-$8 for one issue of these magazines! Insane...isn't it?!!! Well....here's me....saving you some more money! From this site, you will pay that much for a whole year's subscription for this particular craft magazine....but check out some their others as well....I couldn't believe I could save this much money on the magazines I love to pick up at the drug store!