I recently re-read all of the Tightwad Gazette books, making particular note of the tips, recipes, and information that were of particular interest to me at this point in time.  Then I sorted them.  I decided to do a series of posts here, for two reasons:

1. There are a lot of things that I already do to be frugal, which come so naturally to me that I don’t usually think about them.  It might be helpful for someone else to hear some of the things that we do (or avoid doing!).

2. I need some way to keep straight for myself the things I would like to look into doing to be an even better steward of what we’ve been given.

So, here you go.  I’m starting with the home office, and gifts (which were lumped together because things like envelopes and packaging overlap).

We/I Already:

• repurpose scrap paper for notetaking, etc.
• identify a few writing tools I really like, and use them until they wear out.
• reuse old file folders by folding them inside out.
• reuse file folders by cutting them up when heavy card is needed.
• buy generic sticky notes.
• stock up on supplies during back-to-school sales.
• don’t buy craft supplies often.
• use my craft supplies for gifts.
• make most gifts.
• give used, where it will be appreciated.  (Our extended family is frugal, so we often exchange used items, and they are appreciated.)
• buy as little wrapping paper as possible.
• reuse wrapping paper.
• buy ahead, when things are on sale or when I see a good “used” deal.
• save up the kids’ letters to Grandma and bundle them all in one envelope to send once a month.
• save shipping envelopes and reuse them.
• save rubber bands and reuse them.

I Would/Might Like To:

• make envelopes from scrap paper. (Use 7-1/2″ square for letter-size.  Turn it on the diagonal and fold around an envelope-shaped template.)
• redeem “stuck” envelopes by microwaving them for 20 seconds.
• redeem gunky white-out by thinning it with a few drops of nail polish remover.
• use 5×8″ index cards for cardmaking, instead of sheets of cardstock.
• learn to wrap with scrap materials and/or reusable fabric wrappings.
• try ink cartridge refills.

I Have Opted for the Investment/Other Values in These Areas:

• using “good” pens, and sticky notes.