How to buy craft supplies on a budget...

Maybe I'm crazy, but I love the op shop. You can get things in really good quality second hand, or even better, you might find something brand new. In fact, one great thing about consumerist culture is that there is always something donated to op shops all the time which is brand new.

Now, if you're anything like me, you might like being a little crafty. And no, I don't mean lying and deceitful and cunning. I mean, you like to make things. But unfortunately, that craft shop close by (which for me is Spotlight or Riot) is a little out of your budget - even on sale.

Put two and two together...and you get four (sorry, weird sense of humour). I meant, you get cheap craft supplies from an op-shop. And with very little guilt. So I have a few thrifty ideas for those out there who love to craft (and it may not even be op-shop related, so listen up!

1. BUY FABRICS FROM AN OP SHOP

When I go to an op shop and I have some sort of sewing craft on my mind, I will often look at some of their fabrics. Often times, all they need is a little cleaning, and their good as new. In fact, depending on the craft, you might be able to get away with using sheets for your craft. Again, a good clean might be all they need. Fabrics from retail stores are often so expensive, and I remember always only being able to afford buying remnants. But don't be afraid to do a little digging in a secondhand store.

2. SOURCE BRAND NEW PAINTBRUSHES AT OP-SHOPS OR TRADESMEN STORES

Honestly, I found some paintbrushes in a Salvos secondhand store for $2. Sadly, I didn't buy them, because I had just recently made a purchase in Bunnings (a Tradesmen shop), where I got a good set of six for $9. So I wouldn't be saving money, obviously in that case. But I once again prove my point - look in an op-shop. When fuel in your car equals more loss in money, maybe settle for the most quality at a cheaper price (eg Bunnings).

3. DOLLAR STORES CAN BE GREAT FOR SMALLER ITEMS

Dollar stores (eg. Reject Shop or Red Dot) often have craft items for quite cheap. For smaller things like stickers, or buttons, or beads, or string and everything in between, the dollar store can supply you with some of the smaller stuff. If you want good quality, the dollar store may not be for you. However, when buying frugally, it can be very easy to source materials here. Even some of their off-brand glues and sticky tapes are quite effective - so don't worry about them too much.

4. UTILISE YOUR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS

There are certain laws in many places where you shouldn't pick flowers or wildlife, because they may be protected species. However, nobody said picking some leaves off trees or some sticks on the ground was a terrible thing. And if you are going for the natural vibe in your crafting, then where else should you go but nature?

5. UPCYCLING

Upcycling is literally when you use what you originally deemed trash in a craft to make it a treasure. For example, tin cans that held evaporated milk, might be used a pots for your succulent. Old newspaper might be made into beads for that necklace. Words cut from magazines could make poems. There are so many repurposed treasures I have seen, so dig in for what could be used in your next craft.

6. VERGE SIDE COLLECTION

This is literally when the council comes by and collects furniture and other things that are too hefty to place inside the rubbish bin. In Perth, it usually happens about twice or three times a year, depending on the area you live in. Sometimes, there are pieces of furniture which can be upcycled quite well. It can become your next project, even if it is junk.

7. GUMTREE OR EBAY

Sometimes, your craft supplies can be sold very cheaply either brand new or secondhand on these kinds of community websites. And often times, depending on the popularity of the website, it can be very easy to find something, and cheaply. So don't be afraid to look till your hearts content. Who knows, you'll probably find something.

8. GROCERY STORES

Often times, there are aisles in the supermarket where you can find craft supplies, and often they are quite cheap. Matchsticks, straws, popsticks, twine, paper plates. Much can be found both in large supply and cheaply. So head on down to Woolies or Coles for your next craft project.

Sometimes, trying to find supplies for arts and crafts can be tricky. Luckily, I have just shown you the tricks of the trade. Hopefully they were helpful and will help you to be ready for the next project up your sleeve.