Author: frugal-nomics

DIY

Schermerhorn Throw Pillow Workshop




Now I’ve made throw pillows on my own (see them here), but I gotta admit that DIY’s are twice as fun with fellow lovers!  So I was truly excited when I got invited back to do a workshop with the folks over at the Schermerhorn (see my previous tassel bracelet and tshirt necklace workshops here and here.).  Ikat, bold colors, and camouflage….you name it, we tried….and what a beautiful job they did!  I think the pillows turned out awesome, and if these smiles are any indication….I think they enjoyed the workshop just as much as I did. Have any ideas for future projects? Let me know below.

BUDGET/SPENDING

5 Ways to Start Being Frugal, Pronto!

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Ever find yourself thinking, “if only I made more money, all my financial woes would be over?” Well, let me be the first say that you are totally not alone in feeling that way — not even close.

But along with that realization comes another somewhat harsh one — the truth is, if you were to continue your same spending habits past today, even with a bigger paycheck, you would soon find yourself in the same economic position, despite the fact you have more money.

Yes, sad…but oh so true. If you’ve been living beyond your means with the money you make now, and not earmarking anything for savings or tackling some of your amassed debt, your fate would have already been sealed.

So how do you change your outlook? Check out these five tips you can apply right away that will help you start being frugal, and help you free up some cash to save. Read more “5 Ways to Start Being Frugal, Pronto!” →

DIY

Frugal-nomics DIY: Gold Coins Necklace

A while back I came across a necklace called Loose Change made by Anthropologie — I was immediately taken by the piece’s simple construction and high potential for versatility. While their coins were textured, they were plain and I wanted my coin pendants to have a little more character. So, when I  came across these gold coins at Mood I knew I’d found just the foundation I needed to complete it. A few supplies, and a little suede cord and I was well on my way. Tell me what you think below.

SUPPLIES: some gold wire, a pair of scissors, (2) 1/4 in findings, pliers (2 pairs, help), wire cutters, 15 gold coin pendants, suede cord,
a few cocktail straws, packet of tiny findings, can a spray paint, and some newspaper for easy cleanup.

HOW-TO:
1. Ok, first you’ll take both sets of pliers and open up the tiny findings that will attach each of the 15 coins.
2. With your wire cutters, snip your cocktail straws into 1/2 inch pieces — I cut about 17.
3. Cut 2 pieces wire — one slightly longer than the other (about 1.5 inches).
4. Now attach the findings to the coins, and then close them back with your pliers.
5. I cut another long piece of wire and slipped all my pieces of straw onto it, and then sprayed them with gold spray paint.
(Note: I suggest letting them dry overnight).
6. Take your 2, 1/4 in findings and slip knot your 2 pieces of suede cord through them both.
7. Alternate gold coins and straw pieces on your 2 pieces of wire — 7 coins on shorter wire, and 8 on the longer.
8. With your needle nose pliers, bend the ends of the wire onto the findings.