16 Mistakes Frugal Crafters NEVER make that NO ONE talks about 😱

Frugal crafters know that times are tough, and we are all looking for ways to stretch our craft budgets. It certainly isn't hard to over spend on craft supplies if you're not watching your pennies. In today's video I'm sharing 16 mistakes frugal crafters never make, mistakes I wish I knew sooner!! You can save on craft supplies by avoiding these top 16 mistakes every frugal crafter knows.
++++++++++ ✂️ In this video
0:00 - Intro.
0:45 - Waste NOT, Want NOT
1:12 - Don't buy THIS!
1:49 - The PROBLEM with online shopping.
2:31 - Let's talk TRENDS.
3:15 - Preloved supplies and where to find them.
3:58 - How to save on Craft Room STORAGE.
4:48 - Quality matters.
5:41 - Paid v FREE Content.
6:55 - How to buy EXPENSIVE craft machines and tools.
8:06 - INVEST in these essential tools.
8:31 - Let's talk Subscriptions.
9:57 - Accountants LOVE spreadsheets and so should you!
10:31 - Why Digitals are AMAZING!
11:11 - NEVER pay full price.
11:55 - Frugal Crafters love to DIY.
13:08 - Learn from your mistakes!
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[@deannahogue3713]

I have tried to be a mostly frugal paper crafter. I have held on to things for years because they still work great! (I still have my making memories tool kit I got for Christmas in 2005) I have learned the hard way to use what I have and not get sucked into trendy things. I did spend way to much when I was with CTMH, but I know I will use many of the products for my craft projects moving forward, and getting to mix and match with stuff I already have is awesome. I do purge my stash from time to time and have either sold what I don't use, or donate what I don't need anymore to my work ( We are a non profit organization that provides services to adults with disabilities). Oh.... and if I do need something, ALWAYS look for sales. Great video Gwen! You brought up some great points.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh wow!! Proof buying quality things means things last a long time! So glad you found it helpful, but it sounds like you were already doing so much right! Glad too that you can pass along those extras to a worthy cause 🙌

[@collettemendenhall8058]

Thank you for this video. I do quite a few, but so guilty of a couple. It took me sitting down and purging my supplies to realize what I liked and what I didn’t. My mistake as a beginner 20+ years ago was I had to have everything. Fast forward years later and I found that most of the things i bought in the beginning I didn’t care for at all. It was not my style. Now I’m an older and wiser crafter and I buy only what I really like and can use multiple times, especially stamps, dies etc. I wasted so much money on stamps and dies that I later purged because I knew I’d never use them or only use them once. I’m in my happy place now with my craft supplies. Tfs, til next time!!!! Have a fantabulous day💕💕

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ohh yes, I totally agree. Purging supplies tells you A LOT about your buying mistakes and shows you what you really love and use. We all learn as we go don't we 😊 Thank you so much for sharing your experience here with us all. xo

[@ChelleStamps]

Welp, today I learned I definitely have not been the most frugal crafter. I need to work on a few of these things. Like not being influenced by trends. And not buying full sets. I do practice a lot of them, but I am guilty of some of these.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I was the worst at the full set thing, I used to only ever buy the full collection!! Lesson learnt and I’m happy to say I am much better at that now days 🌸 Glad you found this one insightful 🥰

[@mystichris1543]

We can all learn from you, Gwen. When looking for something in my craft room the other day, I discovered yet another "stash" that I'd totally forgotten about...very sad. BUT now that the "archaeological dig" was successful, I'll remember to use some of that stash in the very near future. So much ephemera, so little time...

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks so much lovely!! You've made me giggle with your description lolol 'archaeological dig' lol I'm sure we all have spaces in our craft room filled with things we have forgotten about, I know I sure do!! The things I've found with this move 🙈 🙈 🙈

[@oricle81]

I am certainly not as bad as I used to be, especially when it comes to full-set syndrome! Plus- with the cost of everything going up, sometimes it's physically impossible to buy everything! Thanks for sharing and glad to see you've settled into your new temporary home!

[@CreatedByGwen]

🙈 🙈 🙈 I used to be SO BAD at full set syndrome... so bad 🙈 Some collections are so big it's impossible to buy everything too! I have a new video about this space which is coming very soon.

[@pineapplepapercrafts]

As long as you can make a basic rainbow with your colours you are pretty set. At least that's what I did. With my inks I got my base rainbow. And then get the extra colours i like.

[@pineapplepapercrafts]

I wanted a cricut when i first started crafting heavily. Like 2018. I finally got one. At Christmas. So ya i highly recommend making sure you know what you want.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey lovely!! So true! Research those bigger items, you'll never regret it.

[@elizabethstewart1701]

Bless You, you're right on.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you Elizabeth 🌸

[@debbiesykes5491]

I think that I am on the border line of being a frugal crafter most times but doing better thanks for these tips

[@CreatedByGwen]

Good for you Debbie!!! No-one is perfect, sounds to me like you are on the right track.

[@tammytrio5061]

YES…spot on…I am proud to say I am a frugal crafter! Thanks Gwen! I am more a card maker but when I start back on my scrapbooking….you are #1 on my list😊 thanks for your content!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Well done Tammy!!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 Let me know if I missed any tips, I’m always happy to add to my list of ways to be frugal 🙌🏻

[@michelel3372]

Thank you for doing this video. It's always a good reminder to use what we have. I have certainly fallen into the trap of "I'm tired tonight, I won't craft but I'll look at what's new in supplies." That often leads to buying. Retirement has put me on a different budget, so I must be very mindful of my purchases.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh yes... I've done that!!! Shopped instead of actually creating. 🙈

[@marybethcully5883]

A great reminder…great to see you back❣️

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you! 🌸 I have a video update about my space coming very soon ☺️

[@raeraesma]

It’s so nice to see you, Gwen! Yes, I’ve made all of the same mistakes, and more! I’ll be going to a convention at the end of the month, so I hope to make some good purchases.😂 Thank you for the tips. As always, it was a wonderful video. 😊

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey Kim 🙂 Yes, we all have made them lolol.. A convention sounds FUN, let me know what you get!!! Thanks for popping by today!

[@sallys8335]

Excellent advice. I learned the hard way. But, I learned.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hard lessons yes 🙈🙈🙈

[@user-zv7gm2pw1c]

All good advice. I have invested a bit the past two years as I will be retiring soon and will be on a much restricted craft budget.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I totally understand... Glad these tips have helped and thank you for popping by the channel today 💗

[@merrilynjackson1895]

How many of us have bought the kits & been left with the ugly papers. Gesso & stencils are your friend to change those suckers up so you will use them OR use them for practice sheets.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I actually created a video with 20 ideas for using up ugly papers, it's been a popular one so I'm guessing many of us have been stuck with them, that is one of the problems with kits. For anyone wanting more ideas on using up UGLY papers here is a link to that video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nafWdqGIaqt2bc0si=vzqyMrhrWsFbZHWt

[@Lisa_Stevanovic]

Thanks for this.. as a new crafter it's nice to know you don't have to have everything. I have started my collection buying a second hand Cuttlebug and only a few Distressed Oxides that can be mixed and matched. I have a list of what I want that suits my needs and sticking to that, buying when I can.

[@CreatedByGwen]

So glad you found this helpful... absolutely, you do NOT have to buy a full set of anything. Sounds like you are already doing so great with what you are getting and what you are not. 🙌

[@margarethanson8330]

once I bought 10 Elmer's tape runners because they were so much cheaper than any other tape runners. Years later, I look in the scrapbooks that had things stuck down with that cheap tape runner...everything fell off the pages! Lesson learned.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yes this!! Unfortunately, I have had this happen too. 😭 😭😭

[@mzp6620]

I can assure you it's not just Elmer's tape runners! Unfortunately. I use to always use tape runners on my scrapbooks and cards. Now I'm strictly liquid glue, nothing else seems to hold up to time. and humidity. ;)

[@CreatedByGwen]

I tend to agree... I think in really humid climates, the only way to go is a liquid adhesive. That's also why I stitch on my projects... it's a great way to secure everything, I know the stitching is not going anywhere.

[@margarethanson8330]

@@CreatedByGwen I've never had any trouble with Creative Memories adhesives.

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@margarethanson8330 That's so good to know! 👌

[@juliecurtis9517]

Welcome back!😊

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks!!! I’ve missed everyone 💗

[@tamaraallan9397]

I have to disagree with you on buying the cheaper metal dies (stamps, inks and glue is a bit different) , the quality of the ones I have purchased on cheap sites has been excellent (equal to the branded alternatives) and at AUD$3 ish who can pass up that kind of saving.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I have found these dies to be hit and miss... some don't align properly with the stamps and others have not lasted very well. The stamps I've used have not been good either. I'm glad you've had some success though! I guess it could be worth the 'risk' and no doubt they are much cheaper, if you can get good ones. I have done TEMU haul videos in the past and there is also the ethical factor to consider with these kinds of stores and I've always said that's a personal decision we each get to make. 🎀 I appreciate you stopping by today and sharing your thoughts! xo

[@denisejames855]

Great Tips, most of which I haven't fallen into or stopped. One I can't take advantage of is digitals so I am very choosy with my dies and stamp purchases.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I agree, dies and stamps are great investments IF you choose the right kinds of things... I always go for classic styles, things I think will stand the test of time. Sounds like you already are a frugal crafter

[@michelegourd5742]

Yes, I have made those mistakes!! But not anymore!! I have put a freeze on buying for now!! I am from the US and love your accent!!! Looking forward to seeing you again!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Love that you have learned from the past and welcome to the channel!! I'm an Aussie which you may have guessed 🦘 I love hearing the US accents too.

[@jsheldon9735]

Just found your site. Love the tips. Somethings I have learned already - some the hard way. Other tips you've shared are very helpful. Thank you for sharing.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Welcome lovely!! So glad you found this helpful and that you found me 🌷 🌷 🌷

[@SuseFishburne]

Love these tips, thanks Gwen!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh hey Suse!!! So nice of you to pop by the channel today 💗 I just saw your video of your daughter's prom and I can't believe it!!! I remember seeing her pics in videos from what feels like yesterday and she was still such a little one. 😱 Where does the time go hey??? xo

[@SuseFishburne]

@@CreatedByGwen oh gosh, absolutely! :) I sometimes wish I could have her back to that small person, just for a day or two - I get so nostalgic for those younger years! Sending so much love, dear Gwen xxx

[@mzp6620]

What is this mythical creature you speak of? 🤣😏

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ahhh the "frugal crafter" rarely seen in the wild... often spending hours alone in her craft room 🤣

[@mzp6620]

@@CreatedByGwen 😂

[@Lainers2000]

I have not been a frugal crafter but I’m trying to be better. I agree with you about the monthly kits. I always end up with items I don’t use or are redundant. I try not to get sucked into sales because I’ve been collecting supplies for 20 years and I really don’t need anything. I did succumb to a full set of Oxide Inks. I’m a sucker for Tim Holtz anything. The one big purchase I will be making this year is a new die cutting machine. I’ve been watching videos and asking questions and I think I have it narrowed down. Keep telling us we don’t need everything. and to use what we have. Are you in your new house?

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey lovely! So many creatives have the full set of Oxide Inks, they are SUPER collectable 🤣 Agree that you do end up with extra things from kit clubs that you would never normally buy, sometimes that's a good thing, other times not such a good thing. You're learning and growing and that's what matters I think! xo I have a house update coming on the channel VERY SOON so stay tuned for that. (This video was recorded in my new space) 🌸

[@artbyyuna337]

I LOVE a good digital and have thousands now - I can use them again, and again, and again.

[@CreatedByGwen]

So so true!! 🙌

[@sharonpimento3257]

I just embossed about 30 pieces of packaging for card toppers.

[@brendaelainewaddell1682]

Wow, great idea. 😊

[@CreatedByGwen]

Love this!!!! Recycling and saving $$$ 🙌

[@sama.scraps]

Impulse is my middle name! Echo Parks Warehouse’s fault.😂😂😢. It’s hard to pass up collections at $5.25 a kit. But I’m pretty good about the rest.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Those Echo Park sales will get you every time 🤣🤣🤣 It’s hard to resist a screaming deal, I totally understand!

[@SuzeMc]

Rats! I'm watching Gwen's video on how to be a frugal crafter and I see ECHO PARKS WAREHOUSE? I love Echo Park so I had to look this up. Thanks a lot. Now I have another source for cute craft supplies I probably don't need.

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@SuzeMc 🤣 🤣 🤣 That was not the intention lolol.... the do have amazing deals I will say!

[@brendaelainewaddell1682]

Hi Gwen. What a great video (as usual). Let's just say I've made lots of those mistakes bit i AM improving. ❤ 🇨🇦 😊

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks Brenda... I think we all have at one point or another. I appreciate you popping by today 🌸

[@ChelleBeeby]

💜💜💜tfs💜💜💜

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for popping by today lovely! 💗

[@kfowler193]

Great video but looking for the link to the video you mentioned about supplies for your craft room. I'm not finding any of the links you mentioned.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey lovely! There are a lot of links in the description box (not sure how easy they are to see on mobile either) - Here it is for you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXqae4WdgLx4j5I I also have a full playlist of organisational videos you might want to check out.

[@tammyb6497]

Hello lovely! It’s nice to see you! I have definitely not been very frugal lately. 🫣 But a lot of what I have been buying are things that I can use with things that I already have. I’ve also gotten into the habit of thinking about a purchase and then rethinking about it and then thinking about it again before I commit. Sometimes you realize that you don’t really need that thing after all! 🇨🇦

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks Tammy!! Well, you have been in some ways, building on what you have and making 300% sure you will use those bigger purchases. 👌