Crafting is a great way to save money on gifts, especially around Christmas time! Crafting supplies can get expensive though. I know that a lot of people love to do all kinds of crafts but they just don’t have the budget for all of the supplies they need. I’ve figured out some ways you can save big on craft supplies & classes. Get prepared for gift giving season and still stick to your budget!
1. Coupons
First and foremost is to use coupons. You can get them in the weekly circular, newspaper, or even print them out online. Make sure to sign up for your local craft store’s emails to get them sent directly to your inbox. I know that you can usually save 40% off an item at places like Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, A.C. Moore, and Joann’s Fabrics. Most of the major craft stores, except for Hobby Lobby, will price match another competitor’s ad and accept their coupons. This way you won’t waste gas driving all around town for the best deals. You can also check out Retailmenot.com for any coupons you can use.
2. Freecycle & Craigslist
People get rid or unused stuff all of the time. Check out your local Freecycle groups and the Free section on Craigslist. You may be able to find a lot of supplies you can use for crafting. You may have to get creative, but it is there for the taking.
3. Thrift Stores
You can find a lot of good crafting supplies at the thrift stores for a fraction of the cost of a craft store. You can use old sheets, clothes, blankets, and table runners for fabric. Buy old stuffed animals if you need stuffing. They usually have a good selection of picture books or magazines that you can use for scrapbooking. Just use your imagination and you can save a bundle.
4. Amazon
Amazon actually has some really good deals on craft supplies. This is a good place to start if you are looking for something specific. If you are an Amazon Prime member, you will also get free 2 day shipping on your purchases!
5. Yard Sales
You can find a bunch of good bargains at yard sales. There are usually old photo frames, books, sheets, ribbon, and so much more. You can even find old furniture to repurpose. Most things are only going to cost you around $0.25-$1. If you are lucky and find a fellow crafter just getting rid of their stockpile, you can really score a deal.
6. Craft Swaps
If you have a lot of friends that like to craft or scrapbook, you may want to host a craft swap party. Everyone can bring the supplies they aren’t going to use and let others have them in return. It’s a great way to get together and get some new ideas and inspiration too. You save money, get to socialize, and nothing goes to waste. You could even start this at a church and make it an event.
7. After Holiday Sales
A great time to stock up is after a holiday, even a minor one. The best time is of course, after Christmas. You can get stuff up to 70-90% off! Stock up on red and green supplies and you can use them during Valentine’s and St. Patrick’s Day and vice versa. You might find some red and white silk flowers on sale after July 4th that can be reused during the Christmas season.
8. Back To School Sales
Back to School sales aren’t just for students. It’s a great time to stock up on pens, markers, glue, colored pencils, crayons, stamps, etc. for your craft stockpile. You can’t beat $.25 for a pack of markers! You can read more about How to Save on School Supplies for even more ideas.
9. Dollar Store
Did you know that the Dollar Store carries craft supplies? You can get some great deals on ribbon, baskets, scissors, etc. Shop before a holiday to get the best selection. Everything is already a dollar so they won’t lower it much after the holiday is over. Also, check out the Dollar Spot at your local Target. They usually have some really cute things that you could use for crafts. They will even have a Cartwheel offer that you can use every once in a while. I have seen one for 30% off Dollar Spot so you could get things for only $.70!
10. Reuse What You Have
Go around your house and see what you already have that can be used for crafts. Save gift bags and cards for scrapbooking. Old baby clothes can be turned into blankets. Old sweaters can be used for their yarn. Old sheets can be used for fabric. The list goes on, just be creative. Also, take note of and organize all of the supplies you already have so you don’t waste money when you out to buy more.
11. Free Classes
If you aren’t very craft but you want to learn how or you just want to learn another hobby, there are free classes available. Many craft stores like Michael’s and AC Moore offer free classes at their stores. Just look under the Classes and Events section on their websites. Some even offer free classes online!
You can also check your local library as a lot of them offer free classes. Mine offers classes on photography, woodworking, knitting, beading, and more. Take advantage of these free classes, they sound like a lot of fun and a great way to meet like minded people.
Lastly, you can check out Craftsy. They have some great classes that you do have to pay for but they also offer free mini courses. As of this posting, they are offering 44 free courses that cover a wide range of topics. You can’t beat free!
I hope that some of these tips will help you save while still being creative. I wish that I was crafty but I’m just not. Maybe I will take one of the free classes and give it a go. How do you save big on craft supplies? Leave your tips in the comments below.
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