One of my favorite items for 10-14 boxes back in stock

The Dollar Tree has been out of stock on this item for a long time while they changed packaging and the assortment. The old assortment use to have bird feeders, not a good Shoebox item.   I love these for boys. They can use markers to "paint". 

I have finished my boxes for 2015 but have already ordered for 2016 as I fear they won't be available. 

If you are working on boxes, you might want to hit your local store. 

COLLAPSABLE WATER BOTTLE and BOWL

I think it's nice to include a cup or bowl or both in a shoebox.  My big problem is they take up TOO MUCH room, even when I can stuff a beanie baby into a cup. I finally found something that met my price requirements (shoestring) and was gender and age neutral and was FLAT.

These were 35 cents each from Kole Imports.  When I ordered, there was a promo code for 10% off.  See my next post on Kole.  I don't want to muddy up this post.

This is also from Kole.  It solves the bowl space problem.  It is a collapsible bowl with a lid, 24 pieces to a box.  It fits perfectly in a go box.  It was 49 cent minus 10%.  See my post on Kole Imports here. 

Craft Or Creative items

I always like to include creative, crafty, items in my shoe boxes for both boys and girls. I think all kids need to express themselves in this way. 

I am particularly like this idea. I found these stencil at Oriental Trading ($1.88 for 12). I also got a jungle set for boys. These paper doll stencils should be fun for a long time. 

At Ollies, found a tablet of 200 sheets of construction paper for $3.69.  I have access to an industrial paper cutter and cut the pad into quarters. I split each quarter into smaller stacks. Ended up with 24 stacks at 15 cents each. 

You can check with your church or school as they often have paper cutters that can handle a big stack. I bet you could get print shop to do if for free. 

Put the four stencils and the construction paper into a ziplock sandwich bag. I had some small sheets of patterned cardstock already cut and stuck it in the bag. 

Cost effective:  .63 + .15

creative and long lasting

Something to share with friends and doesn't take up a lot of room in the box. 

2-4 Boxes: Preschool Items

I discovered a new store yesterday, I am sure I am "late" to the party. Ollies had a couple of good shoebox items. 

I want to talk about this one. Price is great at 29 cents, dry erase maker and number cards. Yes, the numbers are in English but I think still good for the 2-4 boxes. They can learn to count the animals and learn to write the numbers. There is also a doodle sheet in the set. 

My daughter in law taught a Title 1 school in Charleston and her kids often weren't prepared for school. I imagine shoebox recipients have very little preschool prep. I think if we try to include some items that have a dual purpose of fun and learning, it could go a long way to help a child be ready for school    

FOUND MONEY: OPEN STAPLES EMAIL

If you aren't a member of Staples Rewards, you should join and also sign up to get their emails as lots of deals may come your way. I think you also get a $25 coupon for copy and print center, great for your shoebox letters.

This is the second time in a week that I got a "free $10" offer.

This one was for an order placed on-line but picked up in the store.  Fantastic found money offer.

I needed some more dry erase markers to go with my wipe off boards, I got 12 assorted markers for FREE.  I double dipped as these markers are regularly $17.99 and had instant coupon savings making them $10.

MAKING SPACE: REMOVING PACKAGING

I love these mini erector sets from the Dollar Tree for 10-14 boys boxes.  I ordered a case (24) and had them delivered to the store.  The packaging states 6+, there are lots of fiddly bits and think 6-8 is a little young.  The on-line reviews stated that their 6 year old had hard time.

I have not an square millimeter to spare in terms of space in my Go Boxes.  I decided to shed the boxes.  I cut out the picture on the front.  I then scanned the assembly instructions and printed them two-up.  In case any of you bought these, I have uploaded the instructions:

 DOWNLOAD HERE

 DOWNLOAD HERE

DOWNLOAD HERE

DOWNLOAD HERE

I put the two sealed packages from the box, the cut-out picture of the model and the assembly instructions in a baggie.  I taped it closed with a piece of washi tape.  It seems like a lot of trouble but I will be able to add another item to the box now.

SHOESTRING: ORIGAMI KIT

 Use your 50% any one item at Michaels (in store as they don't carry on line) to buy the 300 pack of origami paper (6x6).

I dealt it out by color (16 colors) and ended up with 17 sets.  (.40 cents a set)

I used the 15 cent pocket folders from Staples BTS to make up a kit.  The package contained great picture instructions, in three languages.  I scanned and cleaned it up so it would fit on two pages (free copy paper).  On these, I took a dinner plate go round the flaps.  You can find tutorial on the folder here.http://shoeboxesonashoestring.blogspot.com/2015/09/shoestring-make-folder-for-stationary.html

You can download below.

DOWNLOAD

DOWNLOAD

So for around 55 cents you have something great for older boys and girls kits and since it is flat, doesn't take up a lot of room.

SHOESTRING: SOAP DEAL AT TARGET

As I have stated before, not a big couponer but when I know I will be buying a specific item.

Target has a deal this week, $5 gift card with $15 personal care purchase.  I need more soap for my boxes.

99 cents for 3 bars, I googled Ivory soap coupons and found a 50 cent coupon. I could print two on my computer and two on my husband's computer.
This isn't has confusing as it seems:

15 packages x .99 =  $15
Minus $2 total coupons
Total: $13
$13 divided by 45 bars = .289 cents per bar and $5 in FOUND MONEY (Target gift card)

OR IF you want to think of it this way....
$13 minus $5 gift card = $8  or .178 cents per bar

For last minute needs, this isn't a bad deal.


(If you have a Red Card, 5% more off, or 16.33 cents each)

MY 2CENTS ON WASHCLOTHS

i

I know most experience shoebox packers include a wash cloth.  I have three points to make.

1.  Use packaging to sew a hanging loop on the cloth.  Have you ever sent a kid to camp?  There aren't usually towel bars available, maybe a nail.  I imagine that this might also be the case for shoebox recipients.  I think it is a thoughtful thing to do.  It only takes a minute or so.  
I use the ribbon or twill tape that comes around the package.  I have always had enough.  See below.

2.  Do any of you live in the South and have boys?  When my boys were small, it was IMPOSSIBLE to keep their socks white. Back to the Summer Camp theme, white items were never a good thing to send with them.  This would also be true for shoebox recipients using well water or river water.

I try not to send white washcloths, a few sneak through when in an assortment.  Try to pick colors that won't be stained with mineral stains.

3.  Prices are all over the place.

Home Goods:  $4.99 for 8
Big Lots $5 for 9 (some packages have 8)
Walmart $3.47 for 18
Target on sale $3 for 8  ( I haven't seen these in person)

In the past, I used the Walmart ones.  I have given up even the price is soooo good.  These are cheap, thin, flimsy.  When my husband was doing his PhD research in Mexico, I remember how HARSH the detergent was.  Our clothes were in tatters when we left.  The Walmart washcloths just won't last.  Spend  few extra bucks and spring for a quality washcloth.  Does anyone have any feedback on the Target ones?  Other sources?

SHOESTRING: CVS BACK TO SCHOOL CLEARANCE 90%

Yesterday, CVS went to 90% off yesterday. DH went out this morning (on his own) as he knew I needed more scissors and pencil sharpeners. Look at the picture he just sent me. 

Glue sticks 2.5 cents each!  So much more. 

If your store hasn't marked down yet, try next Sunday morning. I talked to a store manager today, she said they get their work order/mark downs on Sunday morning (at least in the Atlanta area). 

School Supplies Pencil Sharpener

I always include a pencil sharpener but I am funny about them. Most of the cheapie ones don't work well at all!  The pencil gets chewed up and it would frustrate me. 

I don't pack any until I test. I found these at a different Dollar Tree than I usually shop at. They aren't the cheapest you can find but they seem to work well. They  are lidded which is nice and you turn the lid to "lock" the shavings inside. 

Unfortunately, I didn't see on the website. 

UPC CODE 6-3927798446-3

Item:  178446-033-061615 

SHOESTRING; FUN PRINTED DUCT/DUCK TAPE

I love to include Duck Tape but it is usually way too expensive.

13Deals.com has all these prints available for $1.50 a roll and only $1.25 if you buy 20 rolls (sold in two roll packs, so 10 packs of two gets the discount).  Shipping is only 99 cents.

http://www.13deals.com/store/products/42223-2-pack-of-duck-brand-designer-duct-tape-pick-your-favorite-designs-unlimited-99-cent-shipping-so-load-up


What can a shoebox child do with duct tape:

• Repair something in home
• Crafts (can include copy of how to make a wallet)
• Kids here use to make cardboard homes for stuffed animal
• Mark things that belong to them.  I put this tape on all my phone cords to make sure family members from wandering off with them

What else can you think of?

SHOESTRING: ANOTHER FOUND MONEY

Thanks to Hip2Save.com. 

Free $10 credit to JC PENNEY

HANDMADE: T-SHIRT YARN BALLS

T-Shirt balls for boxes!  I am kind of addicted to making these. Shoebox Shoppers on Facebook shared this project. 

I have made a bunch and have some tips and refinements. 

For your info:  I got seven balls out of a XL men's shirt, it was a South Pole brand that tends to be extra long. I had an old t-shirt pillow case tha needed to be retired. I made five balls. 

I cut my strips a little narrower than her instructions, around 1/2 inch. 

I cut the strips into four inch lengths vs. six inches. I use 120 strips and an 8 inch zip tie. I wish I had less robust zip tie. 

Once you have them zip tied, cut off the zip tie tail. I use the open edge of my scissors to shave off any sharp edges left. 

Now, if is time to twist and fluff. I grab a few strands around the middle and twist one way, grab a few more and twist the other way.   Fluff around the ball. 

Time for a Hair Cut.  I like the strands to be even. Have you ever made a yarn pompom?  This is just a t-shirt pompom. 

Finished Balls!  Think these are great, thanks Shoebox Shoppers 

SHOESTRING: TOYS INCLUDED WITH A $5 TARGET GIFT CARD

Target currently has this gift card available.  It comes with the free toy from Hex Bugs.  You can order with a $5 balance.  Since, I already shop at Target, I will use the gift cards for my regular shopping.

You can only get at Target.com.  Order 5, $5 cards and they will ship for free.  

Closer to Christmas, they will be offering more.  They have had some cute ones in the past.  I have kept the toys and put the gift cards in my grown kids' stockings

Use Ebates and get 2% back.

SHOESTRING: FOUND MONEY

One way I think about putting money aside for Operation Christmas Child expenses, is using what I call found money. It can come from a variety of places.  I really only do two things regularly. I know others do Swag Bucks and regularly earn Amazon gift cards.  I am just not that disciplined.  Just google it and I am sure you will find tons of tricks and tips to maximize your earnings.


As I said before, I'm not an avid couponer.  Since I am a Target shopper, I do look in their weekly ad for their $5 gift card promos.  You have to buy a dollar amount or a number of an item and you earn a $5 gift card at check out.  If it is something I need or use, I will try to match to a coupon.  There are many blogs that track the info.  I like Hip2Save.com

I will use the $5 specifically for Shoeboxes.


The other regular source of found money is Ebates.  They give you a small rebate back on most of your on-line purchases.  You just need to remember to start at Ebates before you go to a site to shop.  Frequently, they have double cash back.  They are doing it right now.  

I use Chrome and there is an app that puts an Ebates button on my toolbar.  It flashes in red when I go to a site that they work with so it is harder to forget.

Right now I have $27.24 in my ebates account.  They will mail me a check at the end of the quarter.  Again, it does help.  It is definitely found money as it comes from things I was buying anyway.

Here is my referral link, full disclosure, I will be getting rewarded if you sign up but remember, it goes into my found money shoebox account.  You can certainly set up you own referrals too   

One other way, Credit Card Rewards.  We charge everything, but pay our bill in full each month.     I use the credit card points to "buy" gift cards. I have $100 Walmart and $100 Target card due in any day now. Another source of "Found Money". 

What are your sources of Found Money?

HOMEMADE: STRATEGY GAME

Tic Tac Toe seems to be the go to game to include in shoeboxes.  I don't know about your kids, but the thrill wears off by the time they are three.

I searched for a little more challenging game and found TAPATAN.  Although this version is from the Philippines, there are variations around the world.  The game lasts longer than a game of Tic Tac Toe so I thought it would be better for older kids.

I have created several versions which I will share below.
1.  Gel Transfer to Wood
2.  Paint on Wood
3.  Self Stick floor Tile
4.  Laminated

You can download a PDF with four boards here.

You can download a PDF with instructions in English/Spanish/French here.

1.  GEL TRANSFER

I love using Gel Medium (artist supply) to transfer images to wood.  I am not as happy with this result as other projects I have done.  I think it may have to do with there isn't solid enough background or lines.  Gel Medium can be kind of expensive so be sure to use a 40% off coupon.  A jar will last a long time.

I will give a quick overview.

Cut scrap wood into 4 inch squares.  I used something I had laying around.  Thinner is better.

Print out PDF on a LASER PRINTER.  Cut out.

 Use your fingers, or a brush if you must and put a coat of gel medium on the wood.  Place the cut out FACE DOWN on top of the gel.  Smooth paper with your fingers, making sure you have burnished it well.

LET IT DRY OVERNIGHT.  I am not good at waiting but trust me, it will work better.

Get some wet paper towels and put down something thing to work on.

This is where the magic happens.  Let the wet paper towels soften the white paper.  Rub GENTLY with your fingers to rub off the paper.  The image should be left behind.  

As you can see, this needs more work getting the white paper haze off.

DONE or you can cover with a coat of Mod Podge.  Recently, I have seen 2 oz bottles at the Dollar Tree.

2.   PAINT ON WOOD.

I painted the same scrap wood with cheap craft paint.

I took the same PDF, put it on top of the wood and traced with a pen.  It made lines in the wood that I could follow.

I used a SHARPIE and a straight edge.

I had some hole reinforcements laying around and put these on.  Think it looks more finished.  Can also finish off with Mod Podge if desired.

3. SELF STICK FLOOR TILE

I am really pleased with this one.

Buy a self stick tile.  My DH found this one at Lowes for 53 cents. Makes NINE BOARDS, at around 6 cents each.

The cheaper and thinner the better.  We cut into 9 4 inch squares, using a straight edge and box knife.

Download and print the PDF on to card stock.  I used colored pages, Michaels has a pack of 50 sheets on sale this week for $2, making each board  1 cent each.  Trim to four inches.  Better to be a little bigger than too small.

 Fold down just a little of the liner paper on the back of the cut tile.  This will make it easier to line up the card stock.  You have ONE CHANCE to get it on right so take your time

Pull down the liner paper, pressing on the card stock.  Burnish the card stock, especially on the corners.

 If you have paper overhanging the edge, just sand it off to get a perfect edge.

4.  LAMINATE

Print the PDF and laminate.

Cut into game boards.

GAME PIECES

Each set needs 3 pieces of 2 colors.  I used glass marbles from the Dollar Tree.  I got enough for 20 games in each bag, so another nickel in cost.

I made tiny draw string bag for the pieces.  I think I will put the game board, instructions and the draw string bag in a cellophane treat bag to keep it together.

I almost forgot, you could also include a tic tac toe board too.