Easy Ways to Save Money On Your Hobby Expenses

by Dana Joseph on January 12, 2010 · 2 comments

in Saving Money

More than likely you have a favorite hobby you enjoy. For me, I enjoy scrapbooking and crafting. I love to create new things but being the budget minded person I am, I have had to find ways to save money while still enjoying my hobbies. Here are some methods that have worked for me:

1. Stock up on supplies when they are on sale. I frequent Joann’s Craft Store looking for sales and clearance on scrapbooking supplies. More than likely you can find hobby supplies on sale at a store you frequent. Learning to watch the sales ads for stores that cater to your hobby will allow you to purchase the things you need to pursue your hobby at a lower price.

2. Find supplies for your hobby in unexpected places. I use odds and ends and sometimes unexpected items in my scrapbook projects. Some of the best woodworking projects are crafted from discarded scraps from other projects. Clothing articles that are past their prime can still be useful; quilters can incorporate their fabric into their handiwork. Utilizing found or repurposed materials into your hobby saves money and allows you to recycle things that might have otherwise ended up in the trash.

3. Shop for your hobby supplies during their off-season. I never purchase my scrapbooking supplies “in season”. I’ve been able to save a substantial amount at end of season clearances where I buy for the next year. Gardeners will find that their supplies are often deeply discounted as the summer days turn to fall. Hunters will find their gear for coping with the cold during winter can also be found much cheaper towards the end of winter. Learning to plan ahead for your hobby’s projects for next year, will allow you to get ready and save money.

4. Organize friends who share your hobby for a supply swap. Over time, chances are that you’ve accumulated some hobby supplies that no longer appeal to you. Your friends likely have, too. Get together for a night of themed fun that’s focused on your hobby. Everyone can bring the supplies that they are willing to share and take home some that they like.

So what ways do you save on your favorite hobby?

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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Katrina January 12, 2010 at 8:48 pm

I became a consultant for Close to My Heart, my favorite scrapbooking company! I get a discount, but don’t make much money. I only have to sell/buy so much stuff a quarter to remain active. Let me know if you would be interested in sharing in my discount! We fellow scrapbookers and frugal ladies gotta stick together! :)

2 David@ yourfinances101 January 13, 2010 at 6:25 am

My first reaction to this post was going to be…if you’re trying to save money, then just eliminate your hobby!

However, I’ve come to realize that they are limits not worth crossing.

Everyone needs an outlet in life, and eliminating something that brings you pleasure in life, and probably helps control your stress, is a good thing and much needed.

So better to just try to do it as frugally as possible.

Great post

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