This weekend, I went to Hobby Lobby for the first time. The closest store (in West Bend) is about half an hour away, which is why I haven't been there till now. I was on a search for supplies for our next special issue (the theme: jewelry under $25). Even though I got distracted by Hobby Lobby's huge sale on Christmas ornaments, pillows, vases, and picture frames, I found lots of good jewelry-related stuff: 7-inch strands of coin pearls that I'll twist into a bracelet, sterling silver chains for charm bracelets, and glass bead mixes in spring-y shades of blue and green. My most triumphant buy: a one-pound tub of plastic beads in cute retro colors, which I picked up at the register. Everyone who comes into my office picks up the tub and points out their favorite shapes. Of course there are lots of puffy hearts; I can't wait to make something and bring the extras to a kids' class.
Putting together jewelry for under $25 can be challenging (especially because I like gemstones), but I'm up for it. Let us know if you've got any tips or tricks for saving money when you shop; we welcome your suggestions.