A great way to get low-priced craft supplies is to search thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets (sometimes referred to as "swap meets.") Near, or even totally, complete craft kits can be found, as they are sometimes given as gifts to adults or kids who either aren't interested in them, or try them and give up quickly. I found this pristine Ronco Rhinestone-and-Stud setting kit for $2.99 at a local thrift store. If I want an embellished apple cap or bell-bottoms, I'm all set!XD Another great find was at a garage sale, where I bought two boxes, one stuffed with craft instructions, the other packed with plastic beads and kits, for a total of $40. Some of the instructions were from the Seventies, and great for the camp-value alone. Many craft instruction books and magazines can also be found for sale for a low price at some libraries. Use caution with older craft books and supplies, as safety standards were lower then, and craft materials may have undergone chemical decomposition (especially true with paints and adhesives.) Some older craft books have questionable methods, including one I have that shows how to make styrofoam egg carton animals using a heat pen, which looks like a wood-burning tool. My friend told me about old craft instructions she saw that made things from old plastic prescription bottles melted in the oven! Many craft gizmos, such as the rhinestone-setter, are discontinued due to safety concerns or improved models replacing them.
