One of my fondest childhood memories involves my mother digging the Halloween decorations out of the attic and decorating the house with all sorts of spooky (and goofy) decorations.
Most of them were things we’d bought from the store, but there were a few that we took some time to make.
For me, those homemade decorations were the best, and the DIY décor tradition is one that I’m looking forward to continuing now that I have a little one of my own.
But figuring out which decorations to make can be tricky (and not in a “trick or treat” kind of way).
If you’re working with kids and your craftiness skills are like mine – about a four on a scale of one to 10 – you’ll want to choose homemade decorations that are simple.
You’ll also want to make things that are relatively inexpensive … so you can spend more money on candy!
Here are eight super easy, super affordable, super spooktacular Halloween decorations you can make at home:
1. Spider Webs – They don’t get much easier and more kid-friendly than this. To make spider webs, take cotton balls and stretch them apart. Then tape them to windows, walls or wherever you need a little extra spookiness.
2. Halloween Tissue Ghosts – kids have a ton of fun making these using lollipops! Display them with a pumpkin or stick them in styrofoam and set around your house for frugal decor.
3. Scarecrow – The scarecrow is fun because he (or she?) is a fun way to recycle old clothes and you can keep him in the front yard long after Halloween ends. Also nice: you can stuff him with leaves. Leaves your kids will gladly rake up in the front yard!
4. Scary Ghost Craft – fun and frugal for the kids to make. Perfect for setting on a bookshelf or stairway as decorations.
5. Giant Pumpkins – To make these oversized yard ornaments, simply take orange trash bags and stuff them with leaves (again, your kids will never be so eager to do yard work). Then use a black marker to draw a fun jack-o-lantern face.
6. Ghost – There are many ways to make a ghost, but this is among the easiest. To make this ghoul, turn a punch bowl upside down on a broomstick (you can also try a 2-liter bottle or milk jug) and drape it with a white sheet. Then draw a ghost face on with a marker, stick the broomstick in the yard, and watch the neighborhood kids run away in mock fear.
Learn How to Save Big on Halloween Costumes this year!
Between the haunted houses, the creepy decorations and the spooky costumes, Halloween is one time of year that we all love to be a little frightened. Unfortunately, however, the scare doesn’t always stop there. If you go all out on all of your Halloween gear, the fright might extend to your bank account as well. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to. Here are seven ways to save big on your kids’ Halloween costumes this year.
1. Use Items that You Already Own
You might be surprised at the number of costumes you can make using items you already own. For example, if your child already has a toy tool belt and tools, he could go as a construction worker. If your daughter already owns a beautiful white flower girl or christening dress, she could go as a bride.
2. Choose Quality Costumes You Can Hand Down
When it comes to Halloween costumes, you often get what you pay for. If your child will only wear the costume once, going cheap is fine. If you have multiple children and you intend to hand the costume down, however, choose a timeless and quality costume that will last for years.
3. Make Your Own Costumes
If you are crafty, why not make your own costumes? You can make a poodle skirt by cutting a very large circle out of a piece of fabric, cutting a circle out for the waste, and sewing in some elastic. Pirate eye patches, ghost costumes and spider costumes are all super easy to make as well.
Instead of purchasing an entire costume, why not choose costumes that only require accessories? For example: Cat costumes only need black clothes, ears and a tail. Chef costumes only require a whisk and a chef’s hat. Artist costumes only require a set of paints and a beret. Ninja turtle costumes only need a shell, a weapon and a piece of fabric for a mask.
5. Watch for Great Deals
Whether you choose to purchase an entire costume or just pieces, be on the look-out for great deals. Many Halloween stores have coupons and promotions that allow you to get a great costume for cheap. You can often save big just by checking out the deals.
6. Buy Secondhand
Since most children only wear their costumes for one night before they are done with them, it is very easy to find like-new Halloween costumes for cheap. Check Ebay, Craigslist, garage sales and your local thrift stores or consignment shops. You never know what you might find! Your options will be a little more limited this way, but you are sure to get a great deal, so it is definitely worth a look.
If you can remember and afford to plan ahead, November is the perfect time to purchase Halloween costumes for the next year at great prices. Pick up a costume or two when they are severely marked down on clearance, and you’ll be all set well before the next Halloween rolls around.
Halloween is a ton of fun, but that doesn’t mean that it should cost you a ton of money. Use these seven ways to save big on your kids’ Halloween costumes this year, and save the frights for the haunted house. Your kids will have amazing and unique costumes that they will be proud to show off at a price that you can afford.
How much do you usually spend on Halloween costumes for your kids? What tips do you have for getting a great Halloween costume for less?
Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. The air gets cool, the leaves are beautiful, and the bin of sweaters makes its triumphant return from the attic. It’s also nice because there are just as many fun activities for families to do in the fall as there are in the spring and summer.
Here are six of my favorite things to do to pass the time during this time of the year.
6 Ways to Save on Family Friendly Fall Activities
Go Leaf Diving!
Can yard work be fun? If you’re going leaf diving, it can be! Just rake some leaves in a big pile and jump on it. It’s a classic fall activity that never goes out of style.
Visit your local pumpkin patch.
Pay a visit to your local pumpkin patch and pick out pumpkins together. If you’re getting more than one, pick out at least one pumpkin that’s a little on the deformed side. Ugly pumpkins need love too!
If pumpkin picking isn’t your thing (or you don’t have access to a pumpkin patch), a trip to an apple orchard is just as fun. Once you get the apples home, you can make some homemade applesauce.
Enjoy a hayride!
If you have access to one, a hayride is one of most fun fall activities there is. Just be sure to bring along a thermos full of hot apple cider to make the experience complete.
If you’re lucky enough to live near a corn maze, you should definitely pay a visit during the fall for a fun family outing. Most maze attractions also offer other activities, like petting zoos and obstacle courses.
What activities do you like to do during the fall with your family?
As the air chills and leaves change color, the anticipation of Halloween brings excitement to children and parents alike.
However, many families also face the fear of increased holiday expenses. If you’re looking for ways to save money this Halloween while still ensuring your family has a ghoulishly good time, look no further.
I’ve rounded up a list of FREE Halloween activities that are all treat, no trick!
DIY Halloween Costumes
Unleash the creative spirit of your family by crafting homemade Halloween costumes. Turning the ordinary into the extraordinary doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Old clothes, craft supplies, and a bit of imagination can transform your child into a fairy, superhero, or any other fantastical creature they desire.
It’s not just a money-saving tactic, but a fun family activity that cultivates creativity and bonding.
Curl up with your family for a spine-chilling storytelling session. You can borrow Halloween-themed books from the library or spin your own ghostly tales.
Younger kids will love classics like “The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything,” while older children might enjoy the eerie tales from the “Goosebumps” series.
This can become a cherished family tradition that costs nothing but creates priceless memories.
Halloween Movie Marathon
A Halloween-themed movie night at home can be just as exciting as a trip to the theater.
Classics like “Hocus Pocus”, “Casper”, and “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” are perfect for setting the Halloween mood.
Pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and let the family-friendly horror unfold.
Neighborhood Trick-or-Treat
Perhaps the most cherished Halloween tradition of all, trick-or-treating is a fantastic free activity.
Dress up in your DIY costumes and set out in your neighborhood for some candy collecting fun.
It’s not just about the sweets; it’s a wonderful way to engage with your community and revel in the Halloween spirit.
Pumpkin Carving Extravaganza
If you grow your pumpkins or can pick them for free, pumpkin carving can be a cost-free Halloween activity.
Sketch your designs and carve out your jack-o-lanterns as a family.
Remember to save the pumpkin seeds for roasting – they make a delicious, nutritious post-carving snack!
Host a Halloween craft party at home with materials you already have. Construction paper, glue, paint, and markers can turn into bats, witches, and ghosts.
Not only is this a fantastic creative outlet, but it also results in DIY decorations that can adorn your home.
Transform your backyard or garage into a home-made haunted house. Utilize your crafty creations, old sheets, flashlights, and maybe some eerie music to set the scene.
Family members can play the characters, ensuring a hauntingly fun experience for all who dare to enter.
Halloween Scavenger Hunt
Design a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt around your house or neighborhood. The list could include items like a black cat, a witch’s broom, or a jack-o-lantern.
This activity gets kids moving, engages their observation skills, and heightens the Halloween anticipation.
Bake Frighteningly Delicious Treats
Get together in the kitchen and whip up some Halloween-themed goodies using ingredients you already have.
Turn pancakes into ghosts, make jack-o-lantern faces on pizza, or transform pretzel rods into witch’s brooms.
Cooking together is not just free (considering you use what’s already in your pantry), but it also teaches kids essential culinary skills.
Online Costume Parade
In the digital age, celebrating can be as easy as logging on to a social platform. Organize an online Halloween costume parade where friends and family can showcase their creative costumes.
You can share photos, have a friendly competition, and enjoy the holiday spirit from the comfort of your home.
Community Halloween Events
Many communities host free Halloween events like parades, concerts, and festivals. Check out your local community calendar to see what’s happening in your area.
These events often have activities like face painting, magic shows, and costume contests that your family can enjoy.
DIY Halloween Games
Create your own Halloween-themed games at home.
“Pin the Spider on the Web”, “Pumpkin Bowling”, and a “Witch Hat Ring Toss” are all fun and easy to set up with items you likely already have around the house.
These games can keep your children entertained for hours and are a great way to engage their friends too.
Nature Walk Costume Parade
Organize a nature walk costume parade. Invite friends and family to dress up in their costumes and join for a walk in a local park or nature reserve.
It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp autumn air, take in the fall foliage, and show off those creative DIY costumes.
Halloween Dance Party
Turn up some Halloween tunes and throw a dance party right in your living room. From “Monster Mash” to “Thriller,” there are plenty of spooky songs that can get your family moving.
It’s an entertaining and energetic way to celebrate Halloween, and it doesn’t cost a penny.
Virtual Pumpkin Carving Contest
If you have family or friends who live far away, consider hosting a virtual pumpkin carving contest. Everyone can carve their pumpkins at home and then share their creations online.
It’s a fun way to connect with loved ones, share some laughs, and see who can come up with the most creative design.
Remember, the best Halloween activities are the ones that bring your family together and create lasting memories.
Whether you’re crafting DIY costumes, baking spooky treats, or dancing to “Monster Mash,” the goal is to enjoy each other’s company and have fun.
And with these free activities, you can do all that without straining your budget.
You can also paint the wood block white and paint on the eyes and the mouth.
Don’t have scrap wood blocks laying around? You can use cereal boxes, toilet paper tubes, pasta boxes, soup cans or anything else you may have lying around the house!
You could even do a mini-version using your kid’s juice boxes.
Creating these ghosts are a fantastic way to get in the Halloween spirit and decorate your house on a budget.
Not to mention that the kids can help, too!
These ghosts look great lining a stairway, placed on stairs, in windows, on tabletops and just about everywhere else, including the patio or front porch (just keep out of the rain!)
I placed my ghost craft along the stairwell in my kitchen and they just cheer me up when I walk in the room.
Track Your Way to Financial Freedom with a FREE Printable Savings Tracker!
Are you someone who thrives on setting financial goals and saving money? Do you find yourself daydreaming about that dream vacation, a new car, or even your first home?
Well, you’re not alone!
Many of us have specific savings goals and financial aspirations, but sometimes it can be challenging to stay on track. That’s where the FREE printable “My Savings Tracker” comes in handy.
In this blog post, I’ll introduce you to this fantastic tool and discuss how it can help you achieve your financial dreams.
The Power of Setting Financial Goals:
Setting specific financial goals is the first step towards achieving them.
Whether you’re saving for a down payment on a house, building an emergency fund, or simply trying to rein in your spending habits, having a clear goal in mind is crucial.
It gives you something to work towards and keeps you motivated.
Why Use a Savings Tracker?
A savings tracker is like a visual aid for your financial journey. It helps you keep track of your progress and stay committed to your savings goals.
The “My Savings Tracker” is designed to make this process easier and more effective.
Key Features of “My Savings Tracker”:
Goal Setting: The printable includes space for you to write down your savings goal. Whether it’s a dream vacation, a new car, or an emergency fund, you can specify what you’re saving for.
Start and End Date: Setting a timeframe for your savings goal is essential. The tracker allows you to note the start and end date, helping you stay focused and accountable.
Date, Amount, and Balance Columns: You can record the date you made a deposit, the amount you saved, and your total balance. This feature allows you to track your progress and see how much closer you are to reaching your goal.
Notes Section: Sometimes, it’s helpful to jot down any important notes or reminders related to your savings journey. The printable provides a dedicated space for this purpose.
How “My Savings Tracker” Can Benefit You:
Visual Savings Tracker: The printable serves as a visual representation of your progress, making it easier to stay motivated and committed to your goals.
Specific Savings: You can allocate your savings to specific goals, ensuring that your hard-earned money is working towards your priorities.
Tracking Spending Habits: By regularly filling in your savings tracker, you’ll also become more aware of your spending habits. It can help you identify areas where you can make small changes to save more money.
Emergency Savings: Building an emergency fund is one of the most important things you can do for your financial stability. Use the tracker to allocate funds and track your progress.
Budgeting Tool: The printable can be included in your budget binder or displayed on your bulletin board as a daily reminder of your financial goals.
Get Your FREE Printable Savings Tracker Today:
To get your hands on this invaluable tool, simply enter your email address into the form, and the free printable will be sent to your inbox as an instant download.
It’s the perfect way to kickstart your journey towards financial freedom, and it’s completely free!
Achieving your financial goals takes time, dedication, and a solid plan. The “My Savings Tracker” is here to help you on your journey.
It’s a fun and easy way to keep track of your savings, make every dollar count, and ultimately reach your financial dreams.
So why wait?
Get your free printable savings tracker today and start saving towards a brighter financial future!
Remember, small steps can lead to big changes in the long run, and your dream vacation, new car, or emergency fund might be closer than you think.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is a printable savings tracker?
A printable savings tracker is a downloadable document that helps you keep a record of your savings progress. It typically includes sections for setting goals, tracking deposits, and monitoring your balance over time.
How can using printable savings trackers save me money?
Printable savings trackers are a great way to keep you accountable for saving money. By visualizing your progress and setting specific goals, you’re more likely to save much money in your savings account.
Can I use printable savings trackers for personal use?
Printable savings trackers are designed for personal use, making them the best way to manage your finances and work towards your financial goals.
Are there any printable templates available for free?
The savings tracker in this post is available to you for FREE! Simply add in your email address in the form and it will be sent to your email.
How can a savings tracker help me prepare for a rainy day?
A savings tracker can help you allocate funds for unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs. By setting aside a little bit regularly, you’ll have a safety net for unplanned expenses in your bank account.
Can I use a savings tracker to save for specific goals like a new outfit or big purchase?
You can use a savings tracker to save for specific items or experiences. Simply set your goal amount, allocate funds accordingly, and watch your progress towards that new outfit or big purchase.
What are some fun things I can save for using a savings tracker?
You can save for a variety of fun things like vacations, Disney trips, or even a special night out. Printable savings trackers make it easy to set target savings and spare time while tracking your progress.
Are there printable savings trackers specifically designed for family budgets?
Yes, some printable savings tracker templates are designed with family budgets in mind. These trackers allow you to allocate funds for various family expenses and savings goals.
How often should I update my savings tracker?
It’s recommended to update your savings tracker on a regular basis, such as monthly or whenever you make a deposit or withdrawal. Keeping your tracker up to date helps you stay on top of your savings goals.
What is the importance of a starter emergency fund in personal finances?
A starter emergency fund is a small amount of money set aside for unexpected expenses. It’s a crucial first step in achieving financial stability and protecting your personal finances from unforeseen challenges.
Can printable savings trackers be used in combination with Dave Ramsey’s financial principles?
Yes, printable savings trackers align well with Dave Ramsey’s financial principles, such as the “baby steps” approach. They can help you track your progress as you work towards debt payoff and building your savings.
How can printable savings trackers make money challenges more fun?
Money challenges become much more enjoyable when you can visually see your progress. Printable savings trackers provide a fun way to track your savings and make each step feel like a victory.
How can I track unplanned expenses using a savings tracker?
While savings trackers are primarily for planned savings, you can use them to track unexpected or unplanned expenses by simply adding a new savings category for such occurrences.
What is the most important thing to remember when using a printable savings tracker?
The most important thing to remember is consistency. Regularly updating your tracker and staying committed to your goals are key to success in managing your finances and reaching your savings targets.
How can I use printable savings trackers for debt payoff or long-term financial goals?
Printable savings trackers can be adapted for various financial goals, including debt payoff. By setting a target savings amount and tracking your progress, you can work towards paying off debt or achieving long-term financial milestones.
Can printable savings trackers help me save extra money for additional expenses?
Yes, you can use printable savings trackers to save extra money for additional expenses or special occasions. It’s a flexible tool that can adapt to your specific needs.
How can I incorporate printable savings trackers into my monthly budget?
You can include your printable savings tracker as part of your monthly budgeting process. Allocate funds according to your goals and use it as a visual aid to monitor your progress.
Are there any digital downloads available for printable savings trackers?
This printable savings trackers is available as a digital download, making it convenient for users to access and use them on their devices.
Remember, using a printable savings tracker is not only a practical way to manage your finances but also a much fun and effective way to work towards your financial goals.
Whether you’re saving for a rainy day, a dream vacation, or simply aiming to build a stronger bank account, a savings tracker can help you stay on top of your savings game and take control of your personal finances.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.AcceptRead More
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
this year.
, he could go as a construction worker. If your daughter already owns a beautiful white flower girl or christening dress, she could go as a bride.
, you often get what you pay for. If your child will only wear the costume once, going cheap is fine. If you have multiple children and you intend to hand the costume down, however, choose a timeless and quality costume that will last for years.
by cutting a very large circle out of a piece of fabric, cutting a circle out for the waste, and sewing in some elastic. 
, 
and 
are all super easy to make as well.
only need black clothes, ears and a tail. 
only require a whisk and a chef’s hat. 
only require a set of paints and a beret. 
only need a shell, a weapon and a piece of fabric for a mask.
for cheap. You can often save big just by checking out the deals.
for the next year at great prices. Pick up a costume or two when they are severely marked down on clearance, and you’ll be all set well before the next Halloween rolls around.
for your house you simply MUST make some ghosts! 
spirit and decorate your house on a budget. 
