Last week I hit the local thrifty bargain center, to see what I could find that would appeal to my readers. I had just two conditions: the items had to be cheap...
...and they had to be fun.
Is it just me, or do you find that people love talking about the great stuff they've picked up at garage sales and second hand stores? I remember a friend of ours, Ruth, regaling us with her early-morning yard sale finds, one time discovering a box of priceless drinking glasses for a quarter.
As a crafter you are aware of how much time your hobby involves, and how obsessed you can get over it. Some people spend a lot of money on products but end up finding the projects too difficult, too time-consuming, or they lose their initial momentum for the hobby. As a result they give away all of the products to stores that can raise funds for those who need it. Their loss can be your score!
Here's what my last trip to the second hand store brought for my sewing habit:
Sewing Patterns
Styles go in and out, but when you use your own pattern to make your clothes you can change the fashions as you desire. Bargain sewing patterns are great ways to learn new techniques and expand your pattern library. You can find children's dresses to make any girl into a princess, retro how to sew patterns from the 1960s and other eras, costumes and fetish wear created by famous costume designers, and nostalgic craft patterns to make and keep, or give away as gifts.
These patterns cost less than 50c each.
What to look for: Whatever catches your eye.
Silk Screens
I bought these silk screen patterns because I used to have the holder for them (although I think I tossed it before we moved). Nevertheless, a silk screen can be used for many different types of projects, and is re-usable. Think Andy Warhol! You can make a holder using cardboard and basting spray. These two patterns under 50c.
What to look for: If package has been opened, that the silk screen is in the package and clean.
Fabric
It's almost impossible to believe, but some people actually donate their fabric stashes! I found a two yard piece that I could not resist for less than $2.
What to look for: 100% cotton. Feed sack/flour sack/flour sack. Clean and unused, with selvedges uncut. Fabric that you will use, otherwise you'll end up donating it back to the same store.
I'll be visiting different cities and second hand stores to see what can be found for bargain prices, and sharing my finds with you. If you have a great second hand store sewing find, drop into the forum and tell us about it!
