The Compact Challenge 2010 (formally "Need help for a challenge")

pink_numbers

Our vaccum is one of those bagless ones (now that we're doing this challenge, I am thankful for choosing this vac!)

luxor4t

I'm just wondering what will you do about presents & similar 'social obligations'- will you donate time/ skills or do you have productive hobbies?

(only asking as I'm scampering about trying to meet an older family member's Xmas expectations in an OS way)

bebee_2

Batteries for your smoke alarm/alarm clocks if that helps
and Good Luck Don't forget you could also use the recyling Groups for items as well as charity shops.

pink_numbers

I make most of my presents already, so I am hoping I can convert that to ALL presents next year. This Christmas, I have made everything except for two presents - I made crochet scarves that takes only one evening to make each and make your own kits (mineral make up for adults and soaps for the children).

I don't really think about what is expected of my gift giving. I give gifts that fits my budget & ethics.

Do you know any craft? Learning a craft really helps, especially if you can learn a craft that not many others have around you, because then whatever you make is something very special and unique, even if it is easy to make.

Seakay

pink_numbers wrote: »

I think I have enough threads, yarn, craft material for the year, but I guess it's one of those things that I will find out as the year goes along. I am worried about yarn (I crochet a lot) and not having the right yarn, but I guess that's also the art of this challenge!

Charity shops often sell yarn, and you might also consider buying second hand handmade knitware and unravelling it.

pink_numbers

Thank you bebee, that is a good point. I wonder how long those things last. I know we have two batteries still in their packets (we have two smoke alarms). I guess smoke alarms are something that you can't skimp on. Thanks for pointing this one out, I will have to think a bit more on this one...

Mrs_Thrify

I would panic if my washing machine broke down and I could not fix it! gosh all that hand washing...

thriftlady_2

pink_numbers wrote: »

I don't really think about what is expected of my gift giving. I give gifts that fits my budget & ethics.

Well done you:T There's nothing wrong with a second hand gift either.

If you haven't already, check out this US book The Tightwad Gazette. It is full of tips on how to make things last longer, homemade gift ideas, mending and generally consuming less. Although the book's main aim is to reduce spending the natural consequence of doing that is a reduction in consumption too. Amazon have used copies.

pink_numbers

Seakay wrote: »

Charity shops often sell yarn, and you might also consider buying second hand handmade knitware and unravelling it.

woooo I never thought of buying second hand knitware and unravelling it! thank you

julie_d: hmmm yes I would panic too... maybe we would have to find the local laundrette if that happens... or search for a second hand...

thriftlady: I L-O-V-E that book, it is known as "the bible" in our household! I'm about half way through it (probably reading about half the material), I just know I will be referring back to and reading it over and over again, it really was worth every penny!

laurel7172

What about a firesteel before you start (never run out of matches)?

My immediate thought was loo roll...but I see someone else had that covered.

Household repairs-have you got enough screws, filler, bits of wood, that sort of thing?