Do Just One Thing

12/15/12

Ribbon is one of those gift-wrapping items you never have enough of that can also be very expensive. Instead of buying new, crack open an old VHS and use the shiny black tape inside to create fanciful bows for your gifts. Each VHS has hundreds of yards of tape, so you really need only one to wrap lots of gifts. To make fancy curls with your ribbon, simply run the blade of a pair of sharp scissors across the tape. If you don't have an old VHS tape to spare, visit your local Goodwill or Salvation Army to buy one.

12/14/12

A popular gift for all sorts of occasions is a fresh flower arrangement. If you're someone who has received such gifts, the kitchen cabinet under your sink may be full of old vases you've collected and stashed over the years. The next time you order flowers for someone, opt to send the bouquet without a vase. The reality is that most people have a container they can use, and they won't have the dilemma of what to do when the flowers fade but the vase stays.

12/13/12

It's that time of year. Once packages start rolling in, many households are inundated with packing peanuts. Instead of stringing popcorn as garland, think packing peanuts. Use a needle and thread to string each packing peanut one by one, then decorate the tree or mantel with your lightweight, free garland. Alternate white, green and pink Styrofoam peanuts to make interesting patterns.