Today on Biblical Womanhood, it’s Anti-Procrastination Day! I needed this today! My camera is on the blink, so I don’t have pictures, but here’s what I did.

*Finally started sewing a new diaper bag. I’ve had the fabric for months and I really need a new diaper bag! I’ve got it all done but the handles, which are cut out, I just have to attach them. I even did a pocket on the inside, which was an accomplishment, because I’ve had trouble with pockets for some reason.

*Replaced a light bulb in the closet. This may sound small, but because I have a toddler it’s a pain to do, especially since I have to stand on a chair to do it. We’ve been putting it off for over a week. Unfortunately, there is some kind of wiring problem, so we still don’t have light in the closet. Luckily for us, though, my dad is an electrician, so this can be fixed soon.

*Fixed a stopped up drain in the shower. Well, actually Curly Haired Husband did this, but it still got done. It’s been slow running for a while, so this was really needed!

*Cleaned up the yard and trimmed some shrubs. Also treated the ant beds in the yard.

This might not sound like a lot, but it’s all stuff we’ve been putting off, so I’m glad to get it done!

Sewing can be a very expensive hobby, especially if you’re just starting out. Here’s some ways I’ve saved money as I learn to sew:

*Borrow a machine. Often a friend or relative will have one they no longer use. If you’re lucky, they might give it to you. If you do buy, try the machine out at the store to be sure you’re getting what you want.

*Buy pattern paper for tracing and “share” patterns with friends or relatives. That way, you won’t have to cut the pattern. Just trace off the size you need.

*Hobby Lobby has patterns for $1 or $2 pretty often. Check and see. Sometimes it’s an unadvertised sale.

*Use remnants when you can. Our local Wal-Mart still carries fabric, so I go through the remnant bins every time I’m there. For small projects, it’s great. Often there will be up to a yard of fabric in each remnant.

*Some community or extension centers offer free or low-cost classes. Sometimes a tech school will do the same. Or if you have a friend who sews, trade off and teach her a skill in exchange for sewing lessons.

*Check out the library for books before you buy.

 Frugal Fridays are sponsored by Crystal at Biblicalwomanhood.

First off, let me say that I’ve only been sewing for about a year. And my practice comes in between caring for a toddler, so I usually have to sew in short bursts of time. This book is great for that. It’s got tons of info and is very user-friendly. I was able to sew several of her projects right away, with no trouble and they came out looking great. I’ve tried several do-it-yourself sewing books and most were boring or unhelpful. “Sew Everything Workshop” by Diana Rupp is not.

This book comes with pattern pieces which are supposed to have more info that the usual patterns, but honestly, I haven’t made it that far yet. (Sorry.) I’ve just been doing the non-pattern projects. If you’ve never used a machine, this might be a little too advanced, but I’ve only had a few classes and felt it was right at my level. (For reference, I can easily read and follow a pattern, do buttonholes, and put in a zipper. Sleeves and collars give me more trouble. What does that make me, intermediate beginner, maybe?)

I will warn you, though, the author is a little unorthodox. I’m not wild about the “What Would Martha Do?” references, and some of the language could be cleaned up. The project names aren’t exactly to my liking, either. (Naughty Secretary Skirt, for example.) So be aware of this. That said, the info and explanations of projects are excellent.