Here are some simple ideas to help you save money on summer gear.
Beach Towels
Beach towels are great. They come in assorted styles, colors, and sizes. Some have fun designs and characters, but they can be expensive. Instead of purchasing high priced beach towels, opt for brightly colored bath towels. Let each member of the family pick his or her favorite color and use that towel when visiting the beach, the pool, or going to a pool party at a friend’s house. This way, your good towels won’t get lost or ruined, but you won’t have to spend a lot of money to make sure everyone has a towel to take along. Watch for bath towels to go on sale. A local discount store recently had bath sheets on sale 3 for $10.00. They were large, thick towels, which were available in many colors, and you can’t beat that price.
Bathing Suit Cover-ups
You can make cute cover-ups for little girls with towels. Wrap a towel around your daughter, cut off the excess, and sew Velcro to the sides for closures. Use the excess to make straps, and you’ll have a simple, dress-style, terrycloth cover up. You can make skirt style cover ups with any fabric. Cut a piece large enough to cover your daughter from the waist to just above her knees. The fabric should just meet at one side of her body. Hem all sides and sew ribbon, string, or strips of fabric to the top two corners for a tie closure. You can do the same with a skirt that is a little too small. Cut the side seam open, hem to make smooth edges, and add ties or Velcro. This turns out cute when using an old jean skirt.
Flip Flops
If you bought flip flops at the end of the season last year and they are just too big, draw a line just beyond where your child’s heel rests. Have you child remove the shoes and carefully trim the excess with an electric knife until you have a smooth edge.