You've likely seen all of the spring and summer clothes at the stores lately. You've probably also noticed the price tag at say, Target, where they average $9.99. If you like better brands, say Gymboree, than you'll pay $22.95 on average. These prices don't take into account sales or coupons, but it gives you an idea. If you're like me and like to have around 8 pairs of shorts for each child, than that runs you
$80 - $184 for just 1 child.
If you're like me and prefer to shop used, than you can save some considerable cash. You'll probably pay a max of $2.99 each pair, costing you $24 for 8 pairs. Much more reasonable.
However, a few months ago it dawned on me that I could save even more money by re-using Baby J's knit sweats for summer shorts. This morning I was going through all of his clothes; the stuff he's wearing currently (and making a pile to donate) and the big box of stuff I bought last summer at garage sales. I came across 6 pairs of sweats that currently fit J around the waist, but weren't the correct length. This is where that 1 minute of time = free shorts. The pictures speak for themselves :)
 |
| Before |
 |
| After |
I'm going to do the same thing with Miss A's cotton leggings when it gets closer to spring, since she still fits into them. These homemade shorts may not be okay for anywhere except the backyard, but I don't mind. If you're looking to do this for your kids but don't have any leftover sweats/legging, than now is your time to shop. The thrift stores will be full of fall/winter clothes once the weather in your area shapes up and people start buying spring/summer clothes. If you prefer to buy new pants, the stores are clearancing their fall/winter clothes and you can score. The thing to remember about buying pants to make into shorts is that they only need to fit around your child's waist.
What are your favorite brand(s) of shorts for kids? How will you save money on this summer's wardrobe?
Nice way to recycle!
ReplyDeletegood Idea. I am going to make some recycled skirts for my girls one of these days out of this pile of old jeans we don't use.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kristy :)
ReplyDeleteMichelle, I've always loved those recycled skirts...so cute :)
That is a fantastic idea! Thanks for sharing it!
ReplyDeleteI agree!!! Great idea. For those of us with girls, I add fabric to the bottoms and sometimes make it into a ruffle for Melody's shorts. I need to start making some for this upcoming summer.
ReplyDeleteThat is a great idea! I noticed T's pants getting a little short but still fitting in the waist so this will be good! As far as saving money I always go to half off day at our thrift store and I LOVE a bargain. I never buy anything over $5 and some stuff I do get new. You just have to know when to hit the clearance racks!
ReplyDeleteEvery year, we find jeans and pants that fit in the waist, but are too short otherwise. We turn these into capris or shorts simply by cutting off a certain amount and then hemming them with the sewing machine. Quick, easy, and they get to enjoy some of their favorite clothes for another season! :) Great idea for your sweats shorts - perfect for playing.
ReplyDeleteYou guys are so creative! I love the idea of ruffles on the bottom and making capris...I love capris :)
ReplyDeleteI had 11 pairs of jeans that either didn't fit my boys in length and still fit in the waist, or had holes in the knees. I sent them to a lady to have them cut and hemmed into shorts. She didn't seem to want to charge me for the work at all, but I got her to take $10 for the work. Not bad!
ReplyDeleteThat's a great idea!! :)
ReplyDeleteI like to save by doing clothing swaps with friends or at a church that I know of that does it once a month - we bring in our outgrown clothes and we get to take home whatever clothes we find and like! :)