15 Money-Saving Tips for Frugal DIY Enthusiasts
DIY projects can be the cheaper option when looking for a unique piece of furniture, a functional storage solution, or even renovating that room in your home that you want to start fully utilizing. It’s no wonder why many have started trying DIY projects lately, which is the perfect hobby for any handyman or frugal homeowner. However, you probably spent a pretty penny on DIY tools and materials, so here are 15 helpful hacks that helped us save a ton of cash and time during DIY builds:
1. Cardboard Sawhorses
For those who love to tackle projects themselves but are always on the lookout for budget-friendly solutions, creating sawhorses from cardboard can be a game-changer. Not only does this approach save money, but it also recycles materials that might otherwise end up in the landfill.
Crafting your own cardboard sawhorses is surprisingly simple and effective for light-duty tasks around the home or workshop. They’re perfect for supporting small projects or as an extra set of hands when you need them most. This ingenious solution demonstrates that with a little creativity, even the most mundane materials can be transformed into something incredibly useful.
2. Pie Plate Dustpan
Ever find yourself in need of a quick clean-up but can’t locate your dustpan? Try repurposing an old pie plate. Simply cut a flat edge on one side, and voilà, you’ve got yourself an improvised dustpan that’s as effective as it is ingenious.
This DIY hack not only saves you a trip to the store but also promotes recycling. It’s a perfect example of how everyday items can be given a second life, proving that frugality and creativity can go hand in hand in maintaining a tidy and efficient home.
3. Bread Tabs for Labeling Cords
Ever find yourself tangled in a mess of cords, unsure which plug belongs to which tool? Here’s a simple yet brilliant solution: repurpose bread tabs as labels for your cords. Just write the name of the tool on the tab with a permanent marker and clip it onto the corresponding cord.
This not only saves you the hassle of guessing which cord goes where but also helps in keeping your workspace or workshop area organized. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to reuse those little plastic tabs that often end up in the trash.
4. Cardboard Drop Cloth
For your next DIY project, consider utilizing cardboard as an effective and economical drop cloth. Not only is it readily available from recent deliveries or local stores, but it also offers a sturdy barrier against spills and splatters. This approach not only saves money but also recycles materials that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
By embracing cardboard for floor protection, you’re making an eco-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on functionality. Its ease of deployment and disposal, coupled with the added benefit of cost savings, makes cardboard an ideal option for savvy DIY enthusiasts looking to keep their workspace clean and their budget intact.
5. Tin Can Glue Bottle Storage
Transform empty tin cans into a clever storage solution for all your glue bottles. By mounting them on a board or directly onto your workshop wall, you create a dedicated spot that keeps your adhesives organized and within easy reach.
This approach not only recycles materials you already have, but it also makes use of vertical space, freeing up valuable room on your workbench. Plus, it’s a visually appealing way to keep your workspace tidy and efficient.
6. Dish Soap Glue Bottle
Ever find yourself in a sticky situation with a clogged glue bottle? A simple yet ingenious solution lies in your kitchen! Swap out the clogged cap with a dish soap bottle top if it fits, or even better, fill up the soap container with glue. This nifty swap ensures a smooth, controlled flow, making your DIY projects a breeze.
Not only does this hack save you the hassle of dealing with stubborn glue caps, but it also repurposes something you already have, aligning perfectly with the frugal DIYer ethos. Plus, it’s a quick fix that keeps your creative momentum going without skipping a beat.
7. Grocery Bag Shoe Covers
Keep your floors spotless while tackling indoor projects by repurposing those extra grocery bags into makeshift shoe covers. Simply slide them over your shoes and secure them with a bit of tape to avoid tracking dirt and debris through your home.
Not only does this hack save you a trip to the store for specialized gear, but it also gives new life to those plastic bags cluttering up your space. It’s a win-win for both your wallet and the environment, especially if you are planning a big DIY project in your garage or basement workshop.
8. Oil Change Trough
For those who prefer to handle vehicle maintenance at home, crafting an oil change trough can make the process cleaner and more efficient. By utilizing a large, shallow container, you can easily catch old oil with minimal mess, ensuring an eco-friendly disposal.
This DIY approach not only saves money but also encourages a deeper understanding of your vehicle’s workings. With a homemade trough, oil changes become less of a chore and more of an opportunity to connect with the mechanics of your car, promoting a hands-on, sustainable lifestyle.
9. Six-Pack Shop Organizer
Transforming a simple six-pack holder into a nifty shop organizer is not only clever but also eco-friendly. This hack allows DIY enthusiasts to keep small spray cans and chemical bottles neatly sorted and within easy reach, demonstrating how everyday items can be repurposed into practical solutions for a clutter-free workspace.
By employing this innovative approach, one not only saves money but also contributes to reducing waste. It’s a perfect example of how frugality and creativity can go hand in hand, turning what might have been trash into a treasure that enhances efficiency and organization in any DIY project area.
10. Grass Seed Broadcaster
Turning your yard into a lush, green oasis doesn’t have to break the bank. With an old plastic jug, you can create a DIY grass seed broadcaster. Simply poke holes in the bottom, fill it with seed, and shake it gently over the desired area. This homemade solution ensures even coverage and promotes optimal growth, all while keeping your wallet happy.
By reusing materials you already have, you’re not just saving money; you’re also contributing to a more sustainable planet. This grass seed broadcaster is a perfect example of how ingenuity and resourcefulness can lead to effective and eco-friendly gardening tools. So, next time your lawn looks a little sparse, remember this simple trick for a beautiful, cost-effective revival.
11. Rx Bottle for Earplug Storage
Transform those empty prescription bottles cluttering your medicine cabinet into nifty earplug holders. Not only does this repurpose something typically thrown away, but it also keeps your earplugs clean and handy for when you need them most.
It’s a simple yet effective way to organize small items that are easily lost, but make sure to clean out the container. Plus, carrying your earplugs in a sealed container can extend their life by protecting them from dust and moisture, ensuring they’re always ready for use.
12. Egg Carton Painting Props
Transform your painting projects by repurposing an old egg carton as a convenient paint holder. This nifty trick will save you money while also contributing to reducing waste, making your DIY endeavors more eco-friendly.
Moreover, the carton’s lightweight design allows for easy movement around your workspace, ensuring your paint is always within reach. This simple yet effective solution exemplifies how everyday items can be creatively adapted for your crafting needs, blending sustainability with convenience in your artistic projects.
13. Recycle Peanut Butter Jars
Embrace the eco-friendly approach by repurposing peanut butter jars into versatile storage solutions. These clear containers are perfect for organizing small items like screws, buttons, or beads, making your workspace both tidy and visually appealing.
Transforming these jars into mini-greenhouses for seed starting is another innovative use. Just poke a few holes in the lids for air circulation, and you’ve got a sustainable way to kickstart your garden, proving that frugality and creativity can go hand in hand.
14. Tin Can Water Bottle Holder
In a creative twist on recycling, transform your empty tin cans into functional water bottle holders that you can attach to the handle of a lawn mower. This not only gives those cans a second life but also offers a unique, homemade solution for carrying your water bottle. By attaching a handle made from materials like old belts or fabric strips, you create a personalized accessory that’s as practical as it is stylish.
This project is perfect for those looking to embrace eco-friendly practices. It’s a simple yet effective way to merge sustainability with convenience, ensuring your hydration needs are met in a uniquely crafted manner. Plus, it adds a touch of personal flair to your daily essentials.
15. Paper Towel Cord Storage
In a twist of creativity, consider using empty paper towel rolls as a solution for tangled cords. These cardboard tubes are perfect for keeping each cord neatly coiled and separated, making it a breeze to store and retrieve them when needed.
This method not only tidies up your space but also repurposes items that might otherwise end up in the trash. It’s a win-win for those looking to declutter on a dime, proving that sometimes the simplest solutions are right under our noses.
Related Articles:
- Stripped Screw Hacks – Effortless Solutions for Stubborn Screws
- 13 Beginner-Friendly Outdoor Woodworking Projects
- DIY Outdoor Bar Ideas to Elevate Your Backyard Entertainment
Although those 15 hacks are a great way to save money, you can find many other projects, guides, and how-tos on ManMadeDIY that will surely test your skills and give you the satisfaction of creating something truly unique and useful. So make sure to sign up for our newsletter today to be the first to receive future tips and tricks for not only improving your DIY projects but also saving you money along the way!
June Steele
