Category: DIY

With winter coming to a close, it’s time to take off those sweaters and reveal the skin we wear underneath.

And unless you’re one of the less than 10% of women who loves their skin, I’d guess you’re contemplating how hard it would be to wear a sweater through the summer months.

Here, I’m going to give you some skin care tips that will leave you feeling confident and ready to shed those second layers and embrace the sun.

Skin Care Tips For Your Face

We’ve all been there: rushing around trying to make sure everything is in order and the kids have their homework finished all while trying to make sure you’ve met your deadline.

In the rush of a busy schedule, you may have forgotten to wash off your makeup before bedtime – again. No big deal, right?

Actually, wearing your makeup that long can cause your pores to become clogged and dry out your skin.

A great product people have been talking about is the Aztec Indian Healing Clay. This is a product with a huge bang for your buck that works wonders for your skin.

Looking for fragrance and oil-free products can also be beneficial for the health of your skin because it can help you avoid irritation throughout the day.

1. Moisturizing

The average human has about twenty square feet of skin on their bodies. That means it’s time to get moisturizing!

There are different moisturizers for different skin types and you can find them all at affordable drugstore prices.

The best time to apply moisturizer is in the morning because it prepares your skin to take on the day.

2. You Wear What You Consume

A great way to keep your skin glowing all year around is adequate hydration!

Women should drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep their skin healthy and pure and to wash out toxins.

A great way to motivate yourself to drink enough water is to infuse it with your favorite fruits overnight like strawberries, blueberries or even cucumbers for a crisp, fresh taste.

3. Sweat Makes Healthy Skin

Exercise is a terrific way to make sure your skin is healthy and glowing.

Dermatologist Noelle S. Sherber says it’s because you’re supplying your body with oxygenated blood.

Sweat also unclogs your pores and helps reduce acne.

But remember to rehydrate!

4. I Dream of Glowing Skin

As if we didn’t a reason to sleep in already.

According to a study from Alaska Sleep Clinic, lack of sleep physically alters the appearance of your skin through increased cortisol levels which in turn cause the inflammation that breaks down the proteins in the skin.

These proteins are responsible for the shine. Thus, your skin appears ashy and blotchy.

Apparently, sleep is also a natural moisturizer. Through the perspiration that naturally occurs during the sleep cycle, your body is helping to smooth wrinkles.

Lack of sleep can target stress in the body and affect collagen in the skin. When collagen becomes thinner, skin starts to show signs of aging.

With these simple skin care tips, you’ll never feel the need sweat it out in long sleeves during Summer again.

Visit our blog Thrifty Momma Ramblings and follow us for more useful tips, giveaways, and services!

Astonishingly, Star Wars: The Force Awakens made approximately $238 million during its opening weekend!

So it’s not surprising Star Wars is a favorite theme for parties! Whether you’re a die-hard fan, or you’re kids are- here are some fabulous star wars party ideas that we’re sure you’ll love.

Star Wars Invitation Ideas

It’s always best to start at the beginning, and there wouldn’t be a party unless you invited your guests!

If you have the time, we recommend making one of these fun star wars themed invites.

Lightsabers

For this design, all you need is an average size piece of white cardstock. Just cut it out into the shape of a lightsaber, and color the handle grey and the beam bright blue or green.

Then, print your party details using a silver marker on the beam. The silver stands out well against the bright colors and always fits in with sci-fi themes.

Picture Collage

Create a picture collage on a Word Document of your favorite Star Wars stills. On the second page insert, the details of your party.

Now, you can print your invites out- just make sure they’re double-sided.

This ensures your pictures are on the front and the party info is on the back!

Fun Masks

This one’s our favorite style of invite! Simply, punch a hole in the corner of your chosen form of invite and then attach it to a Star Wars-themed mask. This would also work for T-shirts.

For ideas, be sure to check out these t shirts for some inspiration!

Be sure to add on the invitations that your guests have to wear the masks to your party!

Star Wars Party Food Ideas

No party’s complete without food. Check out these on-theme delectables:

Edible Lightsabers

Grab a bag of large pretzel rods and cover three-quarters of each rod in either green, blue or red frosting. These look surprisingly authentic!

Jedi Jell-O

Make your favorite Jell-O flavor, once it’s cooled use Star Wars shaped cookie cutters to cut out your Jell-O. This treat always goes down well!

Ewok Food

This idea’s excellent if you’re short on time. Simply, rename trail mix as Ewok Food. Be sure to print out a label so your guests get it!

For more Star Wars party ideas, check this out!

Create Lightsaber Napkins

These are super easy to do, yet they’re really effective. All you need to do is to purchase block colored blue, green, and red napkins.

Then, Google ‘free lightsaber handle napkin printables’. When you find a design you like, print as many as you need. Cut them as required and wrap them around the napkin as necessary- secure with tape!

Then voila you have mini lightsaber napkins- super cute!

Did You Enjoy These Star Wars Party Ideas?

If you loved this article as much as we did writing it, then we’re confident you’ll enjoy the other features on my blog.

Be sure to type ‘party’ into the search bar, and then loads of other party ideas, hints, and tips will pop up.

Alternatively, if you have any questions or comments about this blog post, please feel free to reach out and contact me. I love hearing from readers- speak soon!

It may come as a shock, but some people pay up to $150 an hour for an interior designer. For families on a budget, that figure is out of the question.

Fortunately, the DIY approach to home improvement has caught on in recent years. People are now deciding to tackle jobs on their own instead of paying inflated prices for professional services.

The great thing about taking on design projects yourself is that you maintain total control. You’re able to express your creative side and transform your space exactly the way you like.

However, trying to pull off interior design on a budget can get out of control if you don’t have some techniques in mind. You may need to do a little homework first.

To help you out, we’re going over 10 tips for giving your home a makeover on the cheap.

1. Have a Game Plan

Lack of preparation is an easy and fast way to go over your budget. Before making any purchases, you need to figure out exactly what you’re going for.

You probably have an idea of what aesthetic you want, but it helps to pinpoint it. Look at interior design websites and magazines to fine-tune your vision. You can then start pricing items and materials you’ll need for the job.

It may help to break down your projects one at a time instead of trying to do everything at once. Working in phases helps keep your finances manageable and allows you to save up a little between each project.

2. Second-Hand Stores

Doing interior design on a budget means you’ll need to avoid high-end brands. The best way to do this and also get unique, stylish furniture and accessories is to visit second-hand stores.

Look at local thrift stores, antique shops and even estate sales for low-cost, used items. Just because it’s used doesn’t mean it’s low quality.

Keep an eye out for furniture with sturdy construction. Remember, you can reupholster an old chair or couch and turn it into a great looking piece.

A good tactic is to find a second-hand store you like and ask when they usually get new items in.

3. Paint is Your Friend

Painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to give a room a completely new feel. After you decide what furniture or accessories you’re adding to a room, choose a complementary color for the walls.

Take your time and go over some color palettes. Narrow your options down two or three of your favorite colors and get samples from your local home improvement store. Then, paint a small area with each color.

Paint color changes as it dries, so give it few days before choosing a winner.

4. Go Minimal

The minimalist aesthetic has been in style for some time, and it doesn’t show any signs of letting up. This is perfect when performing interior design on a budget.

Going minimal means cutting back on accessories and creating an open, clean environment. It also means focusing on neutral colors and natural fabrics and materials.

Instead of many pieces of furniture in a room, choose only a few items to decorate a space and accentuate them with good lighting.

5. Get Creative with Your Decor

Decor refers to items used to add style instead of serving a specific function. This is an area where you can really express your creative side.

If you like taking pictures, try framing your own photography. Or, a custom painting by you or a local artist is a great addition to a room.

Look for used rugs at second-hand stores to add a classic feel to your living area or study. You can also find interesting items like globes or vintage bottles to adorn shelves and end tables.

6. Keep Your Eyes Open for Sales

You can’t pull off interior design on a budget if you’re not constantly looking out for sales. After you find your favorites showrooms, ask when their next sale is. You may have to wait a little longer, but you’ll save money in the long-run.

You should also look for discontinued models of specific furniture. These can sometimes go for as much as half off.

Antique reproductions look authentic and go for much less. English Georgian American has a great selection, so check it out!

7. Buy Naked Furniture

A great way to save on furniture is buying pieces that haven’t been stained or varnished. Then, finish them yourself and get the exact look you’re going for.

When doing this, you’ll want to make sure and know what type of wood you’re dealing with. Certain woods take stains better than others, so ask the seller before buying.

You’ll also want to educate yourself on the finishing process. This means sanding and applying a stain or paint evenly. Do a little research and become an expert yourself.

8. Treat Your Windows

Another great design element that totally changes the look and feel of a room is window treatments. And there are actually inexpensive yet high-quality options.

Try to avoid buying curtains from an interior design store. Instead, look at fabric stores and choose quality materials, then have them cut. This saves you money and doesn’t look like you skimped on something cheap.

9. Transform What You Already Have

The best approach to interior design on a budget is making good use of what’s already there. This is where you really have to think outside the box.

An old chair that looks like it’s heading for the trash may just need a new finish. Slipcovers give new life to a worn out couch. Apply your cross-stitch talents to your drab throw pillows.

10. Mix it Up

Buying complete matching furniture sets is expensive. Instead, mix up your approach and create a compelling aesthetic using different styles. This gives your space an eclectic look and doesn’t break the bank.

You can also perform DIY updates like reupholstering chairs and applying paint to create a more uniform style with preexisting furniture.

Interior Design on a Budget: Wrapping Up

When making interior design renovations yourself, your biggest asset is your imagination. Don’t think of a strict budget as a limitation. Think of it as a way to get innovative.

Remember, always start with a plan. Then, pick and choose which of these interior design tips work best for your home.

If you’re renovating your home and are looking for more great DIY ideas, check out our blog today.

Nothing makes your house a home like some great decorating skills.

But, it can be hard to take on a remodeling project with a low bank account. You might be wondering whether it’s worth waiting to save more instead of adding a little beauty now.

Thankfully, affordable remodeling projects mean you don’t have to choose!

There are many simple, budget-friendly ways to take your home decor from okay to outstanding.

Here are ten ideas to pick from.

1. Add a Touch of Color

Affordable remodeling can be as simple as a can of paint.

Pick a room in the house to touch-up with a fresh color.

This might mean painting one wall of your living room to add some interesting contrast. Or, it could be taking on the entire master bedroom with a comforting, soft color.

Whatever you decide, skip hiring professional painters.

You can take on most painting jobs yourself with the help of a few extra hands. Get your family in on the project, or invite some friends over and get to work.

2. Reflect Your Style with Mirrors

Sometimes, a paint job helps make a room seem bigger and more inviting.

Another great trick is to buy and mount a big mirror. Mirrors aren’t just for checking your outfit as you walk out the door.

Their reflections suggest a room is bigger than it actually is. If you’re into hosting gatherings, or you’re not sure what to do about a tight space, don’t underestimate the power of this simple project.

3. Use Your Head(board)

Another easy and affordable remodeling idea is to get a new headboard.

No, we don’t mean shopping for something on sale. Instead, try making your own!

Headboards add a touch of character to any bedroom. You can make one to match the comfy, rustic vibes you have going on, or to treat your child to a mini bedroom makeover.

All you need are a few pieces of wood, screws and tools, and the time to bring your project to life. Maybe pick up a few extra items to create a stained wood look or fabric to make an upholstered headboard.

4. Make Your Own Pillow Covers

If you do decide to pick up some fabric for your headboard, grab a little extra to make matching pillows.

Fresh pillows change the atmosphere of a bedroom as well as a living room. They can be bold with bright colors and funky designs, or classic and elegant.

Such an affordable remodeling trick is the perfect way to have a small, yet significant, change in your decor.

5. Focus on the Small Details

There are many other ways to use small details around your home. Let’s take a look at the simple changes you can do in a few different rooms.

Bathrooms

This is probably the cheapest affordable design trick out there – a fresh set of matching towels and a carpet.

These look way more put together than using whatever is clean in the guest bathroom. You can find fairly-priced options at your local department store or shop online for even more cheap deals.

Not to mention, there’s a wide range of special linens for the holidays or just for the changing of the seasons.

Kitchen

The kitchen is another room that could use some fresh linens. Consider picking up some new placemats or hand towels to keep out.

Also, try mounting some hooks to hang your pots or get a magnet slab to reorganize where you keep your knives.

Garage

Hooks and shelves go great in the garage, too.

Affordable remodeling and a little bit of clean-up go hand in hand. Try changing how you store things in your garage to create more space and less clutter.

Who knows, this may be the first step in creating a workout space or a man cave further down the line when you have access to more funds.

6. Create More Shelf Space

Although shelves are an easy way to organize your garage, they can spice up pretty much any room in the house.

Use them in your living room to mount photos, candles, and other decorative items. Add a shelf above your toilet for common bathroom items. Or, put a shelf in your entryway as a designated place to drop your things.

Making shelves can be as simple as a few board pegs and some screws.

It can also be a fun way to let your creative juices out.

This affordable remodeling idea ranges from a few mounted slabs to leaning shelves to shelves made out of upcycled everyday items.

7. Hang More Frames

As you’re thinking about which walls to place your shelves, consider using frames, too.

Frames aren’t just for photos. You can let your inner artist out and paint decorative designs inside this space. Or, insert special quotes and sayings within them.

Consider leaving a few frames empty, and staggering groups of frames together for even more eye-catching designs.

8. Light up a Room

Just when you think you’ve tried all the affordable remodeling tricks in the book, don’t forget to look at your lighting.

Buying a new lamp or playing with curtains and smart blinds can do wonders to a room’s overall aesthetic. Light makes a room dim and cozy or bright and welcoming, whether it be artificial or natural light.

Such tricks help you focus while you work in your home office or enjoy a quiet dinner in a softer setting.

9. Buy Some Plants

Light isn’t the only affordable remodeling tool you can use in any room. Plants also go pretty much anywhere in the house.

A few succulents on your bathroom windowsill or a fresh bouquet in your living room really bring life to a room. Plus, many inside plants are fairly easy to manage.

You can also take this interest outside to start a home garden and do a bit of landscaping.

10. Get Crown Molding

There’s nothing like kicking your feet up to enjoy the room you’ve just remodeled.

Unless you finally notice your ceiling and realize it might need a bit of work. Not to worry, just get some crown molding to make it look much better.

Crown molding is used to line the intersection between the top of a wall and your ceiling. It’s a timeless touch of sophistication.

You can also use this trick along the half-way or mid-way point of some walls.

Some even help homeowners hide rewiring projects.

Although, this is not something you should take on without a professional. There are a few other renovation mistakes to avoid, and Holland Homes has the top ones to watch out for.

Affordable Remodeling and More Budget-Friendly Tips

Affordable remodeling can help you settle into your new home or make your current house more presentable to sell.

If you’re in the process of moving, though, there’s a more important budget to consider. On top of remodeling, you might have to hire movers, buy or get rid of certain items, and more.

Check out why it’s important to have a budget during this process.

So you’re the queen (or king) of DIY, but so far your projects have been limited to things in the garden or the kitchen. You’re not shy about using power tools, and you know your way around a workshop.

But have you ever thought about what it would take to build your own garage door?

Surprisingly, it’s not too big of a project to tackle! Armed with the right tools and a little DIY know-how, you too can manage to build your own garage door.

From selecting the right doors to stepping back to observe the finished product, there are a few important steps to building your own garage door. We’ll walk you through the project from start to finish with our guide. Read on.

How to Build Your Own Garage Door From the Ground Up

Of course, if you want to build your own garage door from scratch, there are ways to do that.

This process involves cutting wood, gluing it together, and quite a bit more time and effort. You’ll need access to an electric saw, plywood, and other heavy-duty materials.

If this sounds great and you are looking to build your garage doors from raw materials, you will need some in-depth construction knowledge. Most people do not have access to the tools and knowledge needed for this sort of construction.

Instead, the recommended way to build your own garage doors is to choose from doors that are pre-built and then do the installation yourself.

Then, you will end up with stylish and beautiful doors but still pay a fraction of the cost since you are opting to build them.

Choose What Type of Door You Want

If you choose to go the recommended route, the first step is a fun one. You must select the size, style, and color of door for your home.

There are many different garage door styles. The style you choose should reflect the overall look you are going for in your home.

You’ll also need to know the height, width, and depth of your current garage doors. If you do not have any yet, ask your builder what will fit in the space.

The four main styles of garage doors are carriage house panels, flush panels, long-raised panels, and short-raised panels. Each of these has a totally different character.

To get a feel for what will work for your home, you should look at plenty of pictures of each kind. Do this to figure out what style you prefer and what will make the best impression visually.

For example, short-raised panels look great on Victorian-style homes and colonial-inspired homes. Carriage house panels, on the other hand, lend more of a charming country vibe.

Depending on the design style you’re following for both the exterior and interior of your home, you should choose doors that go along with it.

You should also get a feel for the price range of each option so that you know what will fit in your budget.

Make Your Purchases and Get to Building

After you’ve decided on the style of doors, the next step to build your own garage door set is to make your purchases. Typically you can buy garage doors at home improvement stores or through a catalog.

Once you’ve ordered your doors and they have arrived, the real fun starts. Now, it’s time to get to building.

Installing garage doors yourself can save you quite a bit of money. You might first have to remove the old garage door, though. This is relatively simple and basically just involves unscrewing what needs to be unscrewed.

How to Install Your New Garage Doors

Once you’ve removed the old doors, you’re ready to put the new ones in place. First, you’ll need to do some measurements and attach the hinges and handles.

Measurements Are Key

You’ll need to measure the various points where the door will be installed, like the door-opening height and width. You’ll also want to measure from the top of the opening to the ceiling.

Then, with these measurements, you’ll need to attach stops to both sides of the opening. They must be flush with the inside of the door jamb.

Put the Pieces in Place

Then, you lay out the bottom piece of the new door and attach any hinges or handles that are meant to go with this piece.

You should use a level to make sure the bottom piece is perfectly placed. Otherwise, the rest of your door will not fit properly. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions at this point to ensure that all is going according to plan.

Next, the process looks almost like fitting puzzle pieces into place. Following the perfectly placed bottom piece, you’ll stack the next pieces on top of that and install them one by one.

Ta-Da!

You simply repeat this process for each panel until your entire door is built. After you’ve installed the rollers and secured the tracks, your job here is done!

Does all of this sound a little overwhelming? It might be tricky, but it’s worth a try.

What’s the worst that can happen? At the end of the day, if everything goes wrong, you can always call for garage door repair Arlington TX.

Looking for More DIY Tips and Tricks?

If you are on the hunt for more DIY projects, check out our posts. They contain all you need to know to take many kinds of household projects into your own hands.

Want more? We are here to help you find ways to live frugally, find great deals, tackle DIY projects, and more.

In short, we help you squeeze the most out of life. If you have questions, please leave them in the comments section below! We’d love to hear from you!