If you’re a crafter like me, I’m sure you know your way in and out of Jo-Ann’s, Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, A.C. Moore and any local craft store. If you’re a newbie, you’ll learn the ways, don’t worry 🙂

Here are some tips and tricks to save money for your next big craft:

• Store Websites- ALWAYS check the store’s website before actually going to the store. All of the big retailers offer coupons. You can almost always find a 40% off regular price item on their home pages. (Tip: I always like to find at least 2 Jo-Ann’s coupons, because they usually run sales and you can never use your 40% off on a sale item).
• Apps- Download their apps! Having the app on your phone is handy when you are standing in line and realize you forgot your coupons. Gasp. But then you realize you have the app, which allows you to access their coupons, their weekly ad, and nearest location.
• Retail Me Not- Another friendly, money saving app is Retail Me Not. I keep my location turned on for this app so it knows what stores I’m nearby.
• Clearance section- This is a given. Repeat after me, always check the clearance section.
• Craigslist-I’ve had little luck with Craigslist but I thought I would include it because I know people who have found good deals. My biggest tip is to use it with caution.
• After Holiday Sale- I actually don’t participate in Black Friday shopping, but the day after Christmas I woke up early to run to Target for discounted Christmas decorations. This mainly had to do with the fact that I was moving and would have zero decorations, but I also found some good deals that I could use for my crafts. I found discounted tissue paper, big ribbon, and small ribbon I use daily. The longer you wait the bigger the discount. I got all my stuff for 50% off the day after Christmas. I went back to Target weeks later and prices were 90% off. I managed to find more ribbon for 10 cents.
• Flea Markets- The biggest tip I have for flea markets is, don’t overlook small tents that you think will have nothing. I find ribbon for 50 cents at flea markets compared to $3 and up at stores.
• Facebook Pages- I love finding my town’s Facebook yard sale page. People are close by and prices are right. Even better if you can find a page solely for crafters in your area. I’ve managed to find free wood from a person who works at a cabinet store.

Bonus: If you are looking for wooden pallets go to Lowe’s or Home Depot. I’ve gone there several times and I’ve always walked away with a free pallet.  You might also have luck with grocery stores or just local shops trying to get rid of them. I’ve also seen postings on Craigslist. Again, you just have to make sure it’s not a scam and you’re safe about it