Plastic Easter Egg Lightning Bugs Craft

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May 23, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media 1 Comment

Recycle and upcycled your supplies with this Plastic Easter Egg Lightning Bugs Craft. Using a flameless tea light, create a DIY firefly that really lights up. This Summer craft idea for kids is perfect for small hands and makes a cute handmade night light for their bedside.

Plastic Easter Egg Lightning Bugs Craft

Anyone else STILL picking up plastic Easter Eggs off the floor. If I do not get the kids March Easter basket put away within the first 24 hours, these little suckers end up all over the house.

This year, we twisted it up. We actually kept our plastic eggs. By kept I mean “not put away” (insert finger quotation marks) in the Easter boxes. One child sprinkled a few mismatched in the toddlers room. Another child tossed a few in the toy box. Someone one hid some behind the bathroom toilet. The sprinkling, the tossing, the hiding was not agreed upon by me. Once my little monsters managed to fill the house with broken Easter Eggs, I reached my breaking point… in May.

Plastic Easter Egg Crafts

We moved this year and there have been new excitements watching this house go through different seasons. Bulbs have sprung out of the ground, the creek has risen and lowered, but one very exciting event has been the lightning bugs that have emerged in the evenings.

My husband’s and my bedroom is on the third floor. We are high up into the trees with green leaves in the tree tops right outside our window. The other night falling asleep my husband asked if I “saw that?” Don’t you love when someone says “that” over did you “see those lighting bugs in the tree?” I looked out the window and sure enough, the lighting buts were dancing outside our window. So beautiful and magical. I wanted to wake the kids, but as an outnumbered mother of five, I knew better.

I had been researching Plastic Easter Egg Crafts and decided I had a solution for our family. Upcycled Easter Egg Fireflies.

Why Do a Lighting Bugs Light Up?

Before we began our project, we addressed a few questions about lightning bugs like why does a lightning bug light up?

Fireflies, sometimes called lightning bugs, are a unique insect. They light up and this is seen clearly in the evening sky. did you know, according to National Geographic, this was a mystery for 60 years. In 2015, scientist discovered that the light of a lightning bug is from a chemical reaction caused by an organic compound in their abdomen.

This compound is luciferin. When air transfers to the inside of a lightning bugs’ belly, it reactions with the lucierfin causing a chemical reaction that gives up a fiery glow. The firefly can control the amount of airflow to their abdomen creating a pulsating pattern or flicker of light.

You can extend your lesson on insects with our Bug Booklet Insect Journal.

Lightning Bugs Crafts Materials

Multiply these crafts as needed. The supplies below create two fireflies Easter Eggs.

Supplies:

Savings tip: Upcycle old plastic Eater Eggs or look for Easter Eggs on clearance at craft stores. Michael’s Craft Stores offers shipping, same day delivery or curbside pick-up.

How to Make a Firefly

It is very easy and safe for small hands to help you make a firefly Easter Egg. Careful with the hot glue gun as that should be parent lead and can burn your skin. This summer craft for kids idea will be something they can keep beside their bed.

Instructions:

First, gather your supplies. Plugin your hot glue gun to warm.

You will begin by opening your plastic egg. Each side will be slightly different. One more rounded, one with a more pronounced point.

Take your rounded Easter egg halves and use a permanent marker to make a mouth. We made a small smile on one and a half smile on the other.

After you create your smiles, cutting two of your pipe cleaners into thirds for a total of six pieces.

Twist three pipe cleaners thirds together and bend to shape the legs. Repeat for the second set of legs. Put aside.

Once your glue gun is warm, hot glue 2 wiggly eyes onto each rounded egg face. Let dry.

While your eyes are drying, cut your antennas. Take your last pipe cleaner and cut it in half. These will serve as your two sets of antenna.

Take one set and fold it in half to form a V Shape. Curl your ends slightly to shape. Repeat for the second set. Set aside.

Take your pointy Easter egg half and insert your tea lights into both eggs. Turn on your tea lights.

Add the antenna in the egg and then and tightly close the plastic eggs halves together.

Glue on your pipe cleaner legs and let dry.

Take a 2 inch piece of Duct tape and fold it in leaving 1/4 inch uncovered so you can stick it to the edge of your bug.

Use scissors and round your folded Duct tape into wings. Repeat for the second bug.

Finally, stick on your duct tape wings.

To watch your firefly glow, simply crack open your egg and turn on your LED tealight. But make sure to seal it back up tightly! You can turn it on and off as needed.

We placed ours by our kids nightstand. A cute little nightlight but have backup lights because they can burn quickly if you get a cheaper set.

We hope you enjoy making these as much as we did.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final Lightning Bug & Firefly craft. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

Take all those old Plastic Easter Eggs and Upcycle into Crafts. Pin to Pinterest.

Love Bugs? Take look at this Insect Journal and Booklet for Kids. Pin to Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Get inspired this Spring with Dollar Store Easter Decor.

Also access our Free Frugal Coupon Living Printables to help you find joy through embracing the chaos of motherhood more easily!

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Inexpensive Backyard Landscaping Ideas on a Budget

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May 17, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Hacks, Home Improvement, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media 3 Comments

Create a beautiful outdoor living space with these inexpensive backyard landscaping ideas on a budget. Weekend project ideas for your patio and yard including lighting idea, inexpensive projects, garden hacks and outdoor design tricks.

Backyard Landscaping Ideas

When we moved, it was at the end of winter the beginning of spring. Every day our yard was showing a new sign of life. It was beautiful and I marveled at the surprises this backyard would unveil.

You see, our new home backs against the woods with a beautiful little creek that runs into the Potomac. Nature had done it’s own work and I was willing to let nature take care of itself. My husband saw this differently. He saw that heavy rains would bring high creek levels. He saw lower areas that would hold mud. He saw that the grass would grow uncontrollably, perhaps above the boys shoulder. I dismissed his warnings and told him the yard would take care of itself.

Woops. Two months into living here and the grass (in areas) is as tall as the boys shoulders. I have begged my husband to look into landscape help, ASAP. While he is looking for help, I am searching Pinterest for low-cost backyard landscape ideas to perfect our natural space.

So here we go… figured I would share with my frugal friends too!

Backyard Landscaping Ideas on a Budget

Create an instant backyard water feature with your downspouts. Lay down plastic trash bags on the ground as a liner. Pour over river rock and add plants and mulch. When the rain water travels down the spout and over the rocks, it provides a beautiful rock water feature. | Woo Home

This genius backyard hack mounts flower baskets on wooden posts. Doesn’t that beautifully line the walkway? | Cottage at the Crossroads

Set the ambiance with lights. This is a very easy tutorial on how to string lights from natural elements like tree limbs using galvanized buckets and concrete. (As seen in our Backyard Movie Ideas) | Ida klipper och klistrar (in English)

In our cheap patio ideas, we shared this cheap patio lighting idea. Even a small backyard can bet transformed by hanging string lights in potted lamp posts. Great a glow with pots of beautiful flowers. | I Should be Mopping the Floor

Take an ugly fence from drab to fab with this DIY Horizontal Slat Fence. Transforms your outdoor space on the cheap. | Fresh Mommy Blog

Create a beautiful backyard ambiance using Christmas Lights (even when it isn’t winter!) Shop Wayfair for Lights.

Transform your seating area and dinning area with this step-by-step DIY Patio String Lights Tutorial. | Place of My Taste

Tired of weeds? Did you know this newspaper hack will prevent any grass and weed seeds from germinating; the ultimate weed solution. Important to note that unlike WeedBlock Barrier fabric, it will decompose after about 18 months. | Rosemary on the TV

Transform your garden fence with this marble hack and cheap backyard landscape idea. Drill holes, insert colored marbles, and watch the light create a beautiful rainbow sun catcher. I get you will spend more and more evenings outside enjoying the colors of the sunset! | Garden Drama

Planters can be expensive. Did you know you can upcylce a Styrofoam cooler into a DIY Planter! | Salvage Sister and Mister

Don’t open your wallet, I bet you have everything to make these DIY Glowing Outdoor Orbs for about $1 to $3 (if anything!) | The Art of Doing Stuff

These DIY Fire Pit was only $60! Consider it a weekend project. You could later add a homemade fire pit bench. | Keeping It Simple Crafts

This couple took a $20 yard sale armoire and upcylced it to cover unsightly wires from a meter reader and electrical box. They turned the other half into a vegetable garden bed. | Shabby Glam

As seen in our garden hacks and tips, try this pot-in-pot method, so you can switch plants almost instantly. | Florida Friendly Plants

Patiently wait and watch this bean pole teepee plant grow. Such a fun and inexpensive backyard idea that also acts as the perfect DIY fort and hangout for the kids. | Artful Parent

Have an area of the lawn that is brown and isn’t growing? Hiring a landscape designer can be costly. Instead, replace dead grass with a DIY Rock Garden. Save money by replacing turf with rocks! | Home Talk

Transform your flower beds with this garden hack. Put your terracotta pots within the grown and assign each pot a different herb. | Town Mouse

Add charm and character to your area with rock wall edging against a colorful flower bed. | Pine and Prospect

Take an eyesore like a HVAC unit or garbage cans. Hide these ugly items with easy to install decorative fencing. | All Things Mama

Solve the problem of mud and dirt on your shoes with this frugal-friendly up-cycled wood pallet walkway. Such a beautiful garden idea and a stray from the traditional stone path. | The Homespun Hydrangea

Look at these DIY Midsummer Nights Backyard Lighting Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Save these Garden Tips and Hacks when creating your own perfect space. Pin to Pinterest.

DIY Mason Jar Canisters with Kitchen SVG Files

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May 16, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media 2 Comments

Create Homemade Mason Jar Canisters using chalk paint, drawer knobs and directions on how to create Rae Dunn inspired font in Cricut Design Space. Go a step further with Kitchen SVG files and more weekend DIY projects for your home.

DIY Mason Jar Canisters with Kitchen SVG Files

We have the cutest DIY weekend project for your kitchen. A little bit functional, a little bit fun, and a lot of Rae Dunn inspired farmhouse decor. These homemade canisters are made from 16 oz mason jars, knobs, chalk paint, and your vinyl cutter machine.

Kitchen SVG Files

If you have a Cricut maker, it is possible to get crafty and creative in the kitchen. We put together the best Kitchen SVG Files in Creative Market.

For this particular mason jar craft project you will not need to purchase your font. We show you how to get free svg files or Rae Dunn Style fonts for your baking canisters by stretching and pulling your font into a fun height.

However, if you are taking your kitchen crafts a bit further, there are kitchen and baking SVG cut files you can upload to more creative projects for your home and tackle more home decor projects with Cricut Maker.

DIY Mason Jar Canisters

For this DIY project you will need a few supplies to make these mason jar canisters. WE share ow to make your own Rae Dunn inspired fonts using a free farmhouse font available in Creative Market.

Materials

Beyond your vinyl cutter and Cricut tools, you will need more materials to create your Kitchen canisters.

Cricut Maker (or Cricut Joy) with Fine Point Blade
Standard grip mat
Cricut Premium Vinyl, Removable or Permanent in color of your choice (We used Dark Forest Green in the Vibrant Value Pack.)
16 oz Mason Jar with Lids
Cricut Joy™ Adhesive-Backed Deluxe Paper, Natalie Malan In the Grove
Cricut Weeder Tool
Cricut Transfer Tape * (optional)
Americana Chalky Finish for Glass in Everlasting
Paintbrush
Decorative knobs with screws and suitable sized washers
Drill and drill bit
Hot glue gun with clear craft glue
Scissors

For Circut tools, this Basic Tool Set will have what you need and more! You can also pick up your transfer tape, mat, vinyl and more at the Circut Store.

*If you do want to use transfer tape for this project, *consider using Duck Brand Peel Clear Laminate as an alternative to Cricut transfer tape. Some people prefer this brand more.

Directions

Gather your materials and supplies listed above.

Wash your mason jars with soup and hot water and allow them to dry completely before continuing.

Chalk Paint Mason Jars

First, apply a thin coat of chalky finish paint to each of the mason jars leaving the neck of the jars unpainted.

Put the painted mason jar to the side to dry fully.

Repeat with additional chalk paint coverage as needed.

Kitchen SVG Files in Design Space

Open a blank canvas in Cricut Design Space.

Next, select the text icon from the toolbar.

Type the word FLOUR.

To get a Rae Dunn Font for Cricut, change the font to “Little White Lies”. (This is not a font you have to purchase!)

With your word highlighted, change your letter spacing to 0.7.

Stretch the lettering by clicking on the lock symbol above the size section and adjusting the height to 1.7” while keeping the width the same. This will give you that DIY Rae Dunn inspired font.

Next, click on the unlock symbol and adjust the word height to 2”.

With the word highlighted, click on the “Weld” button. This allows you to join shapes/letters to create a single customized image.

Repeat these steps with the the word SUGAR and OATS or any other kitchen canister pantry item.

Select “Make It” in Cricut Design Space.

For cutting the words in your Rae Dunn farmhouse font, set the material type to Premium Vinyl.

Follow the prompts for loading the mat into the Cricut Maker or Cricut Joy and cutting the Premium Vinyl.

When prompted, unload the mat from the cutting machine.

Remove the Premium Vinyl from the mat.

Mason Jar Lids Inserts

To prepare you mason jar lid inserts, first measure the size of your mason jar lid.

Insert a circle shape on to the open Design Space canvas and adjust the size to measure the lid size.

Create another smaller sized circle with a 0.25” diameter and place it directly on to the center of the other larger circle. With both circles highlighted, click on the “Slice” button. This will create a small cut out. You can now discard the smaller circle shape.

Duplicate the circle shapes to cut one for each mason jar lid.

Color sync the images if needed to match the materials color.

Select “Make It” in Cricut Design Space.

For cutting your mason jar lid toppers, set the material type to Cardstock with adhesive backing.

Follow the prompts for loading the mat into the Cricut Maker or Cricut Joy and cutting the toppers. When prompted, unload the mat from the cutting machine.

Remove the adhesive backing cardstock from the mat.

Mason Jar Kitchen Canisters

To assemble your kitchen mason jars, first cut around each font word with a pair of scissors.

Using the weeding tool, peel away the excess vinyl around the cut images and discard.

Transfer one letter at a time by hand to the mason jar.

Alternatively, you could also cut a piece of transfer tape a bit larger than the size of the image.

Peel away the transfer tape backing but ensure the transfer tape is not overly sticky. Place the transfer tape on top of the cut font image.

Gently rub the vinyl to help it stick to the transfer tape. Peel away the vinyl backing, leaving just the image adhered to the transfer tape.

Position the phrase with the transfer tape on to the smooth side of a jar and press in place.

Press the vinyl phrase down with your fingers to help it to stick to the painted glass jar. Slowly and carefully remove the transfer tape leaving the vinyl image on the jar.

Repeat for the other mason jars.

Mason Jar Lid with Knob

First, in the center of the mason jar lid, drill one hole the same size at the screw size for the knob. Take extra care when handling sharp metal edges.

Peel off one of the cardstock circles from the backing and place over top of the mason jar lid.

If your mason jar lid is in two parts, glue them together using a hot glue gun with clear glue sticks.

Screw the decorative knob onto the mason jar lid.

Repeat with the remaining lids.

To finish, fill the containers with oats, sugar and flour.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final DIY Mason Jar Canisters craft. Leave a comment and/or add a photo of your mason jar craft here on Pinterest!

Turn your leftover mason jars into a craft for dad perfect for his birthday or Father’s Day. We give you free SVG files to perfect this gift. Make your own BBQ Seasoning with these free Cricut SVG files. Pin to Pinterest.

Also look at these free Cricut Tutorials with free cut files. Pin to Pinterest.

18 Creative IKEA BILLY Bookcase Hack Ideas

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May 10, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Hacks, Home Improvement, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media Leave a Comment

Eighteen Creative IKEA BILLY Bookcase Hacks and Ideas. Get inspired with these low cost IKEA home decor ideas for those with million dollar taste.

IKEA BILLY Bookcase Hacks

IKEA Billy Series

The IKEA Billy Series has been around over 50 years. Developed in 1979 by the Swedish designer Gillis Lundgren, IKEA has sold over 60 million units of the bookcases worldwide. Obviously it’s a popular series. Well the world has gotten more creative and the platform of Pinterest has been created. This media sharing has inspired many Billy Bookcase creative designs with an IKEA low-cost price tag.

IKEA BILLY Bookcase Ideas

We have found same amazing Billy bookcase IKEA ideas. Enjoy this list of the top 18 IKEA BILLY Bookcase ideas. Show us what you design after being inspired by these IKEA hackers.

If you want a floor to ceiling custom built in, get started with this BILLY Bookcases cheat sheet and stacking formula. Turn IKEA BILLY Bookcases with glass doors into the most perfect built in you’ve ever seen with this full tutorial. | Vintage Revivals

Turn your shelving unit into a craftsman dream by adding trim. Adding molding to IKEA BILLY bookcase makes it look like an expensive built in unit. | Blesser House

Get crafty for the kids! Turn a white bookshelf into a life size DIY dollhouse. Touches of paint, wallpaper, craft paper and dollhouse furniture and you have a complete home. | The DIY Village

This BILLY bookcase lighting hack adds illumination to any space! Best of all, Jamie doesn’t even have to flip a switch this this remote control lighting trick! | Southern Revivals

This BILLY bookcase hack closet idea is perfect for someone who lacks the IKEA closet PAX wardrobe space. Lauren has quite the experience with IKEA storage units too. Her entire room has intricate plans! | Blesser House

Make your book shelf pop with this DIY hack with billy bookcase drawers. Turn your BILLY book shelves into a colorful dresser. | Infarrantly Creative

This built-in day bed and reading nook transformed this playroom. The hidden gem is created form two different sizes of IKEA bookcases. | House Homemade (Also seen in our Reading Corner Ideas for Kids)

I gave my husband these plans and begging him to make this IKEA billy bookcase entertainment center for only $300! It would resolve our “no entertainment center” problem by 1,000s! | Amanda Katherine

Look at this home improvement hack! Cover an ugly AC Wall Unit with an IKEA bookcase hack. | Design Evolving

This BILLY Bookcase bedroom idea is perfect for a little girls room. Combining a dresser and IKEA book shelf and then paint for the most adorable pop! | Designer Trapped

Need more storage in the kitchen? Custom build a pantry with this IKEA bookcase idea. Compare the price! You can buy IKEA pantry cabinets for around $400 or buy a 15” BILLY bookcase (with a door) for just around $100! | Run to Radiance

Look at this great idea! Take an IKEA bookcase and install over a door or entryway! | The Accent Piece

Revamp your playroom with this painted IKEA bookcase storage unit. Perfect for organizing – so easy on the eyes. | Blesser House

Paint the background of your custom bookcase like this IKEA playroom idea. Love that pop of green! | Centsational Style

Think outside the box and transform your kitchen island by adding a billy bookcase island with IKEA butcher block. | Golden Boys and Me

Revamp your entryway or even your garage with this custom mudroom built ins From IKEA white bookcases for $300! | The Kim Six Fix

Find a similar IKEA mudroom hack using white bookcases with full design inspiration and links. | House homemade

This might be my most favorite BILLY Bookcase hack. It is so easy and really makes your shelf look like a million bucks. Hide the holes in your BILLY Bookcase with DryDex Spackling. Goes on pink and dries white. How satisfying! | Centsational Style

IKEA BILLY Bookcase Planner

Inspired? Become your own interior designer with the help of the IKEA Billy Bookcase Planner Tools. Create your perfect storage and home improvement solutions. Plan online at IKEA and you’ve completed your design you can add it to your cart and order it online – easy.

Visit IKEA Planning Solutions

Speaking of these IKEA BILLY Bookcase ideas, take a look at these Reading Corner Ideas for Kids. Pin to Pinterest.

Claim more home project ideas with these Older Home Improvement Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Quarantine Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas for the Mail

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May 5, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Back To School, Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media Leave a Comment

Quarantine Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas for the mail plus a free donut teacher appreciation printable gift tag that can be delievered via email, over USPS or with Restaurant delivery or pick-up. Plus Virtual teacher appreciation ideas for Zoom, Google classroom and more.

Quarantine Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas

Coming up with this Quarantine Teacher Appreciation Gift Idea took some time. I knew I wanted a punny teacher appreciation printable that could be used during Teacher Appreciation week or as an end of the year gift idea. Plus, currently we are in social isolation and many local restaurants and establishments are suffering, so I wanted to grab something would would give back to local organizations.

We came up with this easy Teacher Appreciation Week gift idea – DONUT you know how much I miss you printable gift tag for teachers. And for years, were we are not in social isolation, this teacher gift tag also comes with another quote that reads DONUT know what I would do without you.

Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas

Donut Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag

Get all of our free printables including our donut teacher appreciation gift tag. Subscribe and look for a link and password in our inbox. The password allows you to access and download all of our free printables.

1.) Enter your email address HERE.

2.) Confirm the email request in your inbox.

3.) Look for the link and passcode in your inbox.

By downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). It takes time, effort and money to put the freebies forth and I earn when you visit. Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

I have a video to show you how I print my PDF documents at Staples. You can sign in or create a Staples account.

Mail a Gift Card

For our donut teacher appreciation gift card idea, we went at it two ways. First, we picked up gift cards that teachers could use at their leisure. I privately emailed teachers and asked for their best mailing address (knowing well that I might be the school address.) It was a personal question and I know some teachers would want to keep that information private. I softened it by sharing my child wanted to send them a treat. This teacher gift card idea well because it’s a gift that is not perishable. They can get it immediately at their home or when they return to school to pick up materials.

If leaving the home is not convenient for you, consider shopping Amazon for gift cards. You can have them mailed to your home and then add our printable teacher appreciation gift tag before mailing to your child’s educator.

By purchasing from a local bakery or restaurant, you are supporting small businesses during social isolation. Consider it a win/win.

Online Restaurant Delivery

Another option using your donut teacher gift tag is restaurant delivery or pick-up. We used Door Dash to deliver donuts. In this case, you can swing the gift tag to the establishment and add it to the order.

If leaving the house is not an option, consider this electronic addition. You can email the gift tag separately with a sweet message that your great teacher is expecting a delivery.

Another creative idea is to take a photo of your child holding the printed gift tag and email it to your teacher after the Restaurant Delivery arrives (track it on your phone or app.) I think this is a cute idea because it’s personalizes the doughnut delivery with a cute smile from your child and a sweet punny teacher message attached.

For this Teacher Appreciation Restaurant Delivery idea you will need your teacher’s home mailing address.

Teacher Appreciation Printables

We have years and years worth of teacher appreciation printables. Use any of these ideas and using a flat rate shipping box from USPS fill your box with a teacher gift and send it straight from your mailbox. Never leave the home.

More Unique Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas

Get creative with your electronic and virtual teacher appreciation ideas too.

Host a Class Zoom Party. have all the kids dress up and surprise the teacher. During this time you can share memories of the year together.
Make a Video Message. Have all the students in the class send in a 10 second clip of the reason they love their teacher. Piece those together for a sweet video message. Such a unique and priceless gift idea.
Send an Books Gift Card. One of my favorite places to shop for books is Better World Books. You can buy used or new books. I love buying used knowing I am recycling older books and finding many of my favorite authors and books for less. This also allows teachers to fill their personal and classroom library.
Thanks a Lattee. Thank a teacher a lot with a printable coffee gift card! Print and mail.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final Donut Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

The end of the school year is new. Save these End of the School Year Acitivites and Printables. Pin to Pinterest.

Find creative Pun-Tastic teacher gift ideas for save these Punny Teacher Appreciation Printables too! Pin to Pinterest.

DIY Cricut Father’s Day Photo Frame

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May 4, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Father's Day, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media 7 Comments

Looking for an easy and Frugal Father’s Day gift from home? This DIY Father’s Day Photo Frame is a cute gift idea from the kids. Download these five funny Father’s Day quotes and puns. Upload your FREE SVG Files for Cricut Design Space, print, and create a rock picture frame for a dad that is a rock or rock star!

Cricut Father’s Day Photo Frame

Whether your dad sports a leather vest and rocks the guitar,or is a pillar of strength that your family leans on, we have some of the ultimate Father’s Day Quotes and crafts for your super dad! Using a Cricut Maker, make dad an adorable rock frame that he can display at the office or by his bedside, reminding him of his importance. This DIY Father’s Day gift is simple and uses supplies around the house.

If you are using your vinyl cutter to create easy and frugal Father’s Day gifts ideas, make sure you download this Father’s Day SVG File for Cricut to make Homemade BBQ Seasoning Mason Jars.

Father’s Day Puns

We put together five Father’s Day puns about rocks for your rock star, the rock you lean on, your dad.

Dad Quotes:

Have a rock’n Father’s Day.

Dad, you’re our rock star! (the one we used)

Dad, you rock!

Dad, you’re the rock our family leans on!

My dad, my rock.

You can use any of these quotes about rocks & dad in your Father’s Day picture frames.

Father’s Day SVG Files

For your Rock Father’s Day Picture Frame, you will need a few materials including our free Father’s Day SVG file.

Father’s Day SVG File Download

Pick up this file by signing up for our email list. Subscribe and look for a link and password in our inbox. The password allows you to access and download ALL of our free printables including our two Father’s Day Gifts – BBQ Mason Jars and Rock Picture Frame for Dad.

By downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions.

Once you have your Father’s Day Rock Quotes downloaded, you can begin this process of uploading a SVG file to Cricut Design Space.

DIY Photo Frame Craft Supplies

To create this Cricut Rock’n Picture Frame for Dad this Father’s Day, have the following materials…

Materials Needed:

Rock’n SVG cut file (downloaded from Frugal Coupon Living’s Free Printables)
Wide Wooden 3.5” x 5” Photo frame (painted with chalky paint, we used Americana Decor Relic)
Cricut Maker (or Cricut Joy)
Standard grip mat
Cricut Premium Vinyl, Removable or Permanent in color of your choice (We used Light Gray Cricut Premium Vinyl in the Vibrant Value Pack.)
Cricut Deluxe Paper (we used Hostess with the Mostess Winter Sparkle collection)
Cricut Weeder Tool
Cricut Transfer Tape
Cricut Scraping Tool
Small rocks/pebbles
Hot glue gun with clear craft glue

For Circut tools, this Basic Tool Set will have what you need and more! You can also pick up your transfer tape, mat, vinyl and more at the Circut Store.

Cricut Father’s Day Craft Instructions

Follow these easy directions to make your homemade Father’s day frame.

Gather all your supplies together. You can do this in many steps, over a few days or tackle it all immediately.

Prepare the Photo Frame

Disassemble the picture frame. If needed, paint the frame with 1-2 coats of charcoal chalk paint. Set aside the photo frame dry.

Once the painted frame is dry, heat a hot glue gun with clear glue sticks.

Begin in the corner of the picture frame and apply a dab of hot glue. Quickly, place one small pebble into the glue. Repeat this process until you cover the entire surface of the frame with rocks until finished.

Put the frame aside.

How to Upload your SVG File to Cricut Design Space

Open Cricut Design Space.

Upload Father’s Day Rock’n Phrases SVG File into design space.

On the right column, click Ungroup.

Click and drag over each of the phrases separately. With the phrase highlighted, click on the “Weld” button”. Repeat for all phrases or erase the phrases you do not want to print to vinyl.

Adjust your rock phrase sizes to fit inside the photo frame accordingly (we used 3.5 x 5 but you can use a similar size frame).

Insert one square shape onto the Design Space canvas to create the photo frame backing. Size the square to match the size of the picture frame, in our case it was 3.5” wide x 5” high.

Finally, using the color sync tab. assign colors to the images for different material types: Premium Vinyl and Cardstock (Deluxe Paper).

How to Cut Vinyl on Cricut

Once your work is complete in design space you will begin the process of cutting your vinyl using your Cricut machine.

First, select “Make It” in Design Space.

For the vinyl phrase(s), set the material type to Premium Vinyl. Follow prompts for loading the mat into the Cricut Maker or Cricut Joy and cutting the Premium Vinyl.

When prompted, unload the mat from the cutting machine.

Remove the Premium Vinyl from the mat.

For the paper photo frame backing, set the material type to cardstock, medium weight. Follow prompts for loading the mat into the Cricut Maker or Cricut Joy and cutting the Deluxe Paper.

When prompted, unload the mat from the Cricut maker cutting machine.

Remove the Deluxe Paper from the mat.

How to Assemble the Rock Picture Frame

You have crafted your rock picture frame, cut your vinyl, and cut your card stock mat. Next you will begin to assemble your Father’s Day Rock Picture Frame.

How to Put Vinyl on Glass

Take the glass from your picture frame and lay it on flat surface.

First, make sure your glass is clean and wipe free any dust or streak from the surface. Let dry.

Cut around the vinyl cut phrase with a pair of scissors.

Using the weeding tool, peel away the excess vinyl around the cut phrase and discard excess vinyl.

Next, cut a section of the transfer tape slightly larger than the size of the phrase.

Peel away the transfer tape backing and place the transfer tape on top of the cut phrase. Gently rub the vinyl to help it stick to the transfer tape.

Peel away the vinyl backing, leaving just the phrase adhered to the transfer tape.

Position the phrase with the transfer tape on to the glass and press in place.

Press the vinyl phrase down with your fingers or with the Cricut scraping tool to help it to stick to the glass surface.

Slowly and carefully remove the transfer tape leaving the vinyl phrase on the glass.

Place the glass back into the pebble picture frame. Wipe away finger prints.

Place the blue cardstock paper mat into the frame against the glass. Reassemble the backing into the frame.

Wrap this father’s day gift for dad. Gift and let him display and enjoy!

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final Father’s Day Cricut Picture Frame. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

Don’t forget our many Easy and Frugal Father’s Day Gift ideas using supplies from home. This includes our Father’s Day BBQ Mason Jar Craft. Pin to Pinterest.

Also save these Free Cricut Craft Tutorials throughout the entire year. Pin to Pinterest.

Care Package Ideas – Themed Gifts by Mail

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

May 3, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media 2 Comments

Take a look at these fun gifts to send in the mail including monthly and seasonal themes as well has punny phrases! Care package ideas for military members, care takers, college students, friends, girls, boys, and more.

Care Package Ideas

Do you want to send some happy mail to someone you love? Are you looking for care package ideas that are more than just random gifts in a box? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered 25+ care package ideas for nearly every occasion.

You’ll find care package ideas for college students, sick friends, caregivers, sick people, stressed out moms, and more. Basically, we have something here for everyone.

And don’t feel like you have to splurge, though you can if you want to. A care package can be a small package with two or three items, or it can be an all-out party in a box type of package with everything on someone’s wish list. It’s up to you.

Care packages are a great way to show someone you care. Why don’t you take a look at this list of great ideas for some inspiration!

Care Package Ideas

First of all, you don’t need a special occasion to send a care package. Send one out of the blue! There’s even a theme for that—a box of all blue items. Oreos, Rice Krispie treats, Jolly Ranchers, Cool Ranch Doritos, and Extra peppermint gum are just a few examples of what you can include. | My Inspiration Corner

This Just Add Water care package from my friend Kristin is brilliant! Fill the box with items that only require water to make. Tea, mashed potatoes, cups of noodles, lemonade, and oatmeal are just a few terrific examples.

Send a birthday care package when your loved one is far away. Just because you’re miles apart doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate like this collage care package party in a box! | Frugal Coupon Living

And here’s another option for a birthday party in a box. It includes candles, a tablecloth, plates, some party decor, and of course, a mug cake mix. | Almost Empty Nest

How about a new mom care package, perfect for a baby shower. Add cute items including onesies, baby accessories, but also add practical things like baby wipes, butt paste and more! | Finding Mandee

Sending a cold and flu care package in the fall or winter is such a terrific idea! You don’t even have to wait until someone’s sick; having things like cough drops, acetaminophen, cough suppressants or expectorants, Lysol wipes, and tissue on hand is just plain smart. | The TipToe Fairy

April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring a lot of smiles when sent in a care package like this one! It includes crocheted shower poufs, body wash, lotion, nail polish, and more. | Organized 31

Chemo Care Basket from Pink Fortitude: Dealing with cancer is a difficult task, particularly when you throw chemo treatments into the mix. A chemo care basket (or care package) will go a long way in reminding a friend or family member that you’re thinking of her or him during this time. | Pink Fortitude

Don’t forget a military care package for our service members. Creative ideas from The Military Wife and Mom including One Day Closer, One Day Stronger.

Send your daughter, friend, or girlfriend in college the perfect care package. You can’t go wrong with some candy, tampons or pads, lotion, razors, and more. You may want to also include perfume, lip balm, essential oils, and other “girly” things you know she’ll like. | Organized 31

And here’s another excellent care package for guys from Organized 31! It includes beef jerky, pumpkin seeds, outdoor toys, and study supplies, but add in whatever your favorite guy likes.

Make a get well care package for someone’ who’s sick or just had surgery. Tissues, hand sanitizer, juice, and snacks are just a few of the things you could include to make them feel a little better. | Mod Podge Rocks

Teens, college students, or anyone with a new car will so appreciate a car care package. You can include so many fun things here, like a travel mug, ArmorAll wipes, an air freshener, a mini first aid kit, and even some snacks (that won’t melt in a hot car) to grab on the go. | Sweet Parrish Place

This fall care package for a friend is so cute! The tag reads, “Thank you for bee-ing such a great friend,” along with Burt’s Bees hand cream and lip balm. It’s simple but thoughtful. | About a Mom

Midnight Munchies strike us all at sometimes, but this is especially true for college students staying up late to study for finals. (Or students who are up late and out with friends, let’s be honest.) From Cheese Nips to JIF on the Go to Monster Energy Drinks, it has everything a starving student needs. | Creative Art Room

Send a space-themed gift basket like this one from my friend Kristin to someone you love to the moon and back! Include a space-themed shirt and some fun meals or snacks. You could even theme the snacks after space, such as Milky Way bars, Mars bars, Moon Pies, Starburst candies, Cosmic brownies, and more.

Do you know someone who’s a caregiver for a terminally ill or severely disabled family member? They have hearts of gold! Let them know that you’re thinking of them with a caregiver basket with some goodies, gift cards, lotion, wipes, and drink mixes. You’ll also want to include crossword puzzles, coloring books, colored pencils, pens, Sudoku, etc. to help them pass the time during some of the quieter hours. | Cook Eat Go

Frazzled moms everywhere would love a stress relief care package that includes a heating pad, Epsom salts for a good soak, brownie mix for a sweet treat, and a stress ball to help work off some of that stress when the moment strikes. Add face masks too. | Cutefetti

But don’t feel that you have to go all out on an expensive care package. It’s the thought that matters. Any friend would find this Tickled Pink package delightful! Fill it with all things pink, such as notebook, hand sanitizer, gum, nail polish, pens, etc. | Life Anchored

Send some sunshine in a box to brighten anyone’s day. Include yellow items (yellow like the sun) such as Twinkies, apple juice, Lemonheads, and other snacks, drinks, or gift cards with yellow packaging. | Creative Art Room

Encourage your college student to “stick with it” with a stick-themed care package. Include pretzel sticks, beef sticks, sticks of gum, Pocky sticks, Chapstick, etc. Anything that looks like a stick is fair game! | Michelle Paige Blogs

For St. Patrick’s Day, you only need to stick with the usual theme—all things green, gold, or rainbow. In addition to gum, candies, and the usual fare, send some Lucky Charms cereal and a shamrock charm or necklace for good luck. | My Inspiration Corner

Who wouldn’t love this Easter care package with eggs filled with money, yummy baked treats, and delicious candy? What a fun gift! | Wondermom Wannabe

Give someone a spooktacular Halloween surprise by sending an unexpected care package. This one from Kristin reads, “We Miss You a Skele-ton.” Isn’t that adorable? There are so many great Halloween snacks and candies that you can easily find some to go with the theme, but don’t forget a shirt and/or mask just in case your recipient would like to dress up for the occasion.

Here’s another idea for Halloween in a box! Include caramel apples, candy corn, Pop Rocks, and all your other Halloween favorites. | Smashed Peas and Carrots

College students or anyone who just moved out on their own in the past year could probably use a holiday decorating care package with a candy wreath, ribbon, jingle bells, a decorative wreath, and a few other bits and bobs to make a room look special. Don’t forget to add some cards from family and friends as a surprise. | Organized 31

We miss you snow much! How adorable is that message from Kristin for a Christmas or winter-themed care package?

Who Do You Send Care Packages To?

While care packages are often sent to military and college students, there are so many ways to branch out to someone who may need a little cheering up from a friend, relative, or even a friendly stranger looking to brighten someone’s day.

Here are some people you may want to consider sending care packages to:

Military – All branches need a little extra love throughout the year, particularly on holidays that they’re spending away from family.
College Students – Send them at exam times or holidays when they can’t come home.
Caregivers – Taking care of others is hard work. Let them know you appreciate their sacrifice.
Nursing Home Residents – It would be especially nice to send a package to someone who doesn’t get mail or packages from family.
Family/Friends Who’ve Moved Away – This is self-explanatory. Let them know you miss them and are thinking of them!
Prisoners – You’ll need to check with the facility first to see which items are allowed in an inmate care package. When it comes to a care package for jail, you need to make sure you follow the guidelines strictly!
New Moms – It’s a wonderful and stressful time, so make sure the new mama has a few things to take care of herself. Most of the gifts she’s received lately will be for baby, after all.
Sick Friends or Family – If you know anyone who’s facing an extended stay in the hospital or recovery at home, a care package is a fantastic way to show you care.
Someone Who’s Grieving – Grief takes a lot out of a person. You may consider things like a book of prayers for those who are grieving, gift cards to restaurants, so they don’t have to cook for a while, etc.

What to Put Inside Care Packages

Snacks (popcorn, chips, crackers, cookies, nuts, protein bars, jerky, dried fruit)
Powdered drink mixes
Gum or mints
Scented candles
Books and bookmarks
Gift cards
Lotion
Shaving cream
Razors
Soap or body wash
Shampoo and conditioner
Hand sanitizer
Meds like acetaminophen or cough drops for Get Well packages
Air fresheners
Laundry detergent pods (for college kids)
Homemade baked goods
Easy prep foods
Small, inexpensive toys for kids
Lip balm
Tissues
Nail polish or manicure sets
Scarves/hats/gloves in winter
Photos
Phone accessories
Puzzles
Entertainment books like Sudoku, crosswords, word searches, adult coloring books, etc.

There’s so much more you could include, but those items will get you started with some fantastic care package ideas.

Other Care Package Tips

Here are a few more tips to make your care packages extra-special.

Wrap each item individually if it’s a package full of gifts, especially for Christmas or birthdays.
If you don’t want to wrap each item, adding printable tags with fun notes makes each piece a little more thoughtful. | Skip to My Lou
Try to create a theme around the snacks, the color, or the decor for the care package box.
Adhere to any guidelines that the organization or facility may have for incoming care packages.
Include a handwritten note—it’s just more personal that way!

Where Can I Buy Care Packages?

If crafting care packages is not your forte, it’s okay. There are plenty of places where you can buy care packages. Look on Etsy for a number of Care Package ideas, many that ship quickly and directly to the receiver!

Are you sending a care package to someone you love? Which one will you make?

Visit our Family Birthday Celebrations & Ideas – you might even see a birthday care package there! Pin to Pinterest.

FREE BBQ Seasoning Father’s Day SVG File for Cricut

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

May 2, 2020 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Father's Day, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Recipe, Social Media 12 Comments

It’s a good year when you find Father’s Day Gifts Ideas from the Kids that are actually used by dad. This June, download this FREE BBQ Seasoning Father’s Day SVG File. Upload these free Cricut files to Design Space, print to vinyl, make your mason jar craft and fill with your favorite BBQ Seasoning Recipes. Gift, use and enjoy!

DIY Father’s Day SVG Gift Idea

Buckle up because this DIY Father’s Day Idea supplies you with a lot of content including Barbecue seasoning recipes ideas, a free Father’s Day SVG file for Cricut Design Space, and directions on how to create a homemade father’s day gift using supplies from home!

Father’s Day SVG File for Cricut

To begin this process, you will need a few materials including our BBQ Father’s Day free SVG file.

Download Free Father’s Day SVG File

By downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions.

While you are in our free printables files, don’t forget to also download our free SVG Files for this Rock Photo Frame for Dad this Father’s Day!

Once you have your Father’s Day SVG File downloaded, you can begin this process of uploading a SVG file to Cricut Design Space.

You also might want to pair this Father’s Day Gift idea for the barbecue lover with BBQ Cupcakes.

DIY Father’s Day Gift Materials

Father’s Day SVG File (downloaded from Frugal Coupon Living’s Free Printables)
Cricut Maker (or Cricut Joy) with Fine Point Blade
Standard grip mat
Cricut Premium Vinyl, Removable or Permanent in color of your choice

We used Light Gray Cricut Premium Vinyl in the Vibrant Value Pack.

How to Upload a SVG Pattern to Cricut Design Space

First, gather your supplies.

Upload Father’s Day “Grill Master” SVG File into Design Space.

Once uploaded, click Ungroup.

Click and drag over each of the images separately. With the image highlighted, click on the “Weld” button”. You will repeat this for all Father’s Day seasoning phrases and clip art images.

Adjust image sizes to fit your mason jars accordingly. Measure the height and wide of your jar. For example, the largest “Grill Master” design image was sized to 3.5” high on the Design Space canvas to fit an 8 oz mason jar.

Color sync the images if needed to match the vinyl color. We used Light Gray from Vibrant Value Pack.

Once everything is prepared, begin the the Circut cutting process.

Cutting Vinyl on Cricut

You will want to begin the process of cutting your final product.

First, select “Make It” in Cricut Design Space.

Next, set material type to Premium Vinyl.

Begin to follow prompts for loading the mat into the Cricut Maker or Cricut Joy and cutting the Premium Vinyl. When prompted, unload the mat from the cutting machine.

Finally, remove the Premium Vinyl from the mat.

Mason Jar Father’s Day Gift Idea

When you have your final cut, you will want to begin the process of making your DIY Mason Jar Father’s Day gifts to hold BBQ seasoning mix.

BBQ Seasoning Mason Jar Father’s Day Gift Materials

Mason Jars with lids (we used 8 oz)
BBQ Seasoning Mixes of your choice (see below for ideas)
Twine or ribbon (optional)
Weeder tool
Cricut Transfer Tape*
Cricut scraping tool
Scissors

For Circut tools, this Basic Tool Set will have what you need and more! You can also pick up your transfer tape, blade, mat, vinyl and more at the Cricut Store.

*Consider using Duck Brand Peel Clear Laminate as an alternative to Cricut transfer tape. Some people prefer this brand more.

Assembling BBQ Seasoning Mason Jars

You can pre-wash jars with soap and hot water and let them dry completely before using. Do not begin the next step until your jars are completely dry.

Michael’s has 8 oz Mason Jars for $1 each. Free shipping when you spend $50.

First, cut around each image with a pair of scissors.

Using the weeding tool, peel away your excess vinyl around the cut images and discard.

Cut a piece of transfer tape a bit larger than the size of the image.

Peel away the backing of transfer tape and place the transfer tape on top of the cut image. Gently rub the vinyl to help it stick to the transfer tape.

Next, peel away the vinyl backing. Leave just the image adhered to the transfer tape.

In a straight position, place the phrase and clip art with the transfer tape on to a smooth area of the mason jar and press into place.

Press your vinyl image down with your fingers or with the Cricut scraping tool to help it to stick to the mason jar.

Finally, carefully remove the transfer tape leaving only the vinyl image and phrases on the glass mason jar.

Repeat this process for the the rest of your mason jars and free cut files.

To finish, fill the mason jars with your favorite BBQ seasoning mixes and tie a piece of ribbon or twine around the jar lid.

We used Natural Jute Twine from Michael’s. Free shipping when you spend $50.

BBQ Seasoning Recipe Ideas

If you are looking for a good BBQ seasoning recipe, we found some barbecue spice rub ideas to create the best summer recipes.

From brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, Cheyenne pepper, smoked paprika and chili powder. These grill master’s know their flavor.

Homemade Blackening Seasoning from Chili Pepper Madness
BBQ Spice Rub Recipe from Dinner at the Zoo
DIY Sweet and Spicy Barbecue Seasoning from Take Two Tapas
Copycat Trader Joe’s Smokey Coffee BBQ Spice Rub from Balanced Bites (as seen in our Trader Joe Recipes)
Homemade BBQ Seasoning from My Forking Life
Chicken Dry Rub from Seeking Good Eats

Store your mason jar gift in a cool, dry location.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final Mason Jar BBQ Spice Rub using your Cricut Maker. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

I am happy to share printables and SVG files. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). It takes time, effort and money to put the freebies forth and I earn when you visit. Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Don’t forget our many low-cost DIY Father’s Day Gift ideas using supplies from home. Pin to Pinterest.

Also save these free Cricut Tutorials throughout the entire year. Pin to Pinterest.