Crafting is a full-blown love affair for some of us. There’s something magical about taking a handful of supplies and turning them into something beautiful, useful, or just plain fun. But let’s face it—crafting can also get EXPENSIVE. If you’re anything like me, you want to stretch those craft dollars so you can keep creating without guilt.
Thankfully, my years of thrifty living (and crafting) have armed me with some killer strategies to save money while keeping the creativity flowing. Let’s dive into the best tips for thrifty crafting that won’t cramp your style!
1. Hit the Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are treasure troves for crafty folks like us. Look for fabrics, buttons, jars, frames, or even secondhand craft kits. Check out old clothes for unique textiles—you can cut up a lace shirt for embellishments or a wool coat for felting projects. And don’t forget the books! Old books with beautiful fonts or illustrations can be perfect for decoupage or junk journaling.
2. Estate Sales = Craft Goldmines
Estate sales are where I’ve found bags of yarn, embroidery hoops, and even unopened paints for pennies. Pro tip: Go on the LAST day of the sale, when everything is often half off. And don’t be shy about bundling—ask if you can get a better deal for buying several items.
3. Host a Craft Supplies Swap
Gather your crafty friends and have everyone bring supplies they no longer need. One person’s leftover fabric or beads might be the exact thing someone else is looking for! You can even make it a party—because nothing goes better with glitter and glue guns than snacks and laughter.
4. Check Out Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing Groups
Local Facebook Marketplace listings are full of people offloading craft supplies. Add checking the listings to your morning coffee routine—you’ll be surprised what pops up. Also, look into Buy Nothing groups in your area, where people give away items for free. I’ve scored unopened packs of scrapbook paper and bags of ribbon this way!
5. Upcycle Everyday Items
Before you toss anything, ask yourself: Can this be crafted into something amazing? Glass jars, cardboard boxes, wine corks, and even old magazines can be transformed into crafty masterpieces. Upcycling is not only budget-friendly but also eco-friendly—a win-win!
6. Shop Clearance and Coupon Apps
Never, EVER buy craft supplies at full price. Most big-box craft stores like Michaels, Joann, and Hobby Lobby run sales regularly, and their apps are loaded with coupons. Look for end-of-season clearance racks too—last season’s craft kits or holiday decor items can be repurposed.
7. Buy in Bulk and Split Costs
Buying in bulk often saves money in the long run, but what if you don’t need 500 popsicle sticks or a massive skein of yarn? Team up with your crafting besties to split the costs. Everyone saves, and you all get what you need.
8. DIY Your Tools and Supplies
Sometimes, you can make your own crafting tools or supplies for a fraction of the cost. For example:
- Use cookie cutters as stencils.
- Make your own stamps with foam sheets or potatoes (yes, potato stamps are awesome!).
- Create homemade mod podge by mixing equal parts glue and water.
The possibilities are endless with a little creativity!
9. Save Those Scraps
NEVER throw away fabric scraps, leftover yarn, or even tiny pieces of paper. Those small bits can become the star of your next project! Organize your scraps in jars or bins so they’re easy to access when inspiration strikes. You’d be amazed what you can create with what’s already in your stash.
10. Embrace Digital Designs
Instead of buying endless supplies for physical projects, explore digital crafting. With free design tools like Canva or low-cost options like Cricut’s design software, you can create and print your own stickers, labels, or artwork without needing piles of physical materials.
You can get a ton of free printables here too!
11. Get Creative with Nature
Nature is the ultimate free supply shop. Collect pinecones, sticks, stones, shells, or pressed flowers to use in your projects. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly before crafting, and double-check local rules about collecting from parks or beaches.
Crafting doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be fulfilling. With these thrifty tips, you can save money AND keep your creative spark alive. So go ahead—grab your glue gun, unleash your imagination, and craft away without breaking the bank.
What are your favorite thrifty crafting tips? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear how you save while creating!
