The winner: I mail lots of items via the post office and am always looking for inexpensive lightweight shipping supplies. I also like to “rescue” usable items.
I was recently very lucky to rescue an end roll of TYVEK woven plastic house wrap from a construction dumpster. I cut it into standard mailing envelope sizes and sewed up the sides using regular sewing thread and a wide zigzag stitch. I then turned it inside out so the blue and red print doesn’t show and used a piece of double stick carpet tape to secure the end flap.
I did check with a rep of the USPS to be sure the TYVEK is okay to use for mailing. When you price bubble envelopes or even the new poly bags, plus factor in saving the TYVEK from being buried, it’s a great cost saving mailing solution! Debby Thomas, Charlotte.
Diaper pail for doggie
As a responsible dog owner I pick up and bag my dog, Hogan’s, waste. My family hated the smell of it in the garage household garbage bin. To solve the problem, I repurposed an old step open diaper pail and put it outside the garage. Now the smell is contained outside and the diaper pail even has a built in spot on the lid for a deodorizer! I think dog owners will love this clever tip! Kim Maxwell, Charlotte
Share your ideas
Win a $10 Observer Deal Save credit with your smart or frugal tip. Send your tip, name, address and phone to clever@charlotteobserver.com or Home Section, Charlotte Observer, P.O Box 30308, Charlotte, NC 28230-0308.
