5 Ways to Start a Thrifting Fund

To shop, even in thrift stores, requires some cash.  Here are a few creative ways to stockpile a thrifting fund.

1.  Always break a bill.  When you're out buying groceries or supplies for your home when it comes time to pay at the register leave your change in your purse and  break some bills.  Each night, dump this change into a piggybank of some sort and watch the dollars add up.  My bank offers free change counting for customers so a quick stop at the bank before you set out for the stores will offer up some serious spending money.

My owl piggy bank.

2.  Use coupons.  Yes, I know, clipping, sorting, storing and using coupons takes time, but if you might want to give it a try. Deposit the savings you rack up from using coupons into your thrifting fund.

3.  Sell before you buy.  You'll be decluttering as well as bringing in some cash.  Have a first of the month yardsale to fund your shopping for the rest of that month.  Sell your gently used items through a consignment store.  Some pay as the items sale, others pay a set amount up front.  Advertise your unwanted items in local shopper papers.  These generally offer free ads to the seller.  Local swap shop type radio programs are a great place to call in your items for sale and is also a free service.  And, of course, there are the online resources such as ebay or etsy for vintage and handmade items.

4.  Give up something else.  Only you know what is okay for you to give up.  I really dislike when someone tells you to give up your Starbucks or soft drink or fill-in-the-blank habit.  I would never be the judge of that.  To some people, that expensive cup of coffee is a luxury that is totally worth it.  But whatever you do decide to give up, stash that money away for future shopping.

5.  Use the envelope method.  Figure out a portion of your budget that you can do without and put this aside in an envelope designated for thrifting.  It's not a bad idea to use this method for the rest of your budget, too.  So much in an envelope for groceries, household supplies, kid's clothes, etc.

Now that you've got some cashed stored up...let's go shopping!  Our first stop is a rummage store.

George Brand skirt, $2

Eddie Bauer skirt, $2

Four dollars for two skirts...not bad!  Let's check out the thrift store next! 

Gap, $3

Catos, $3

Crystal-Kobe, $3

Merona linen skirt, $4

Willie Smith, $4

Wooden beaded purse $4, Wood and beaded belt $2

Score...three tops, two skirts and we even found a matching purse and belt.  Love the 70's look of this set.  Now, aren't you glad you clipped coupons, sold stuff you didn't want, gave up a manicure, saved up your change and set aside a part of your budget?  I thought so...let's do it again next week!