Spring is typically a time we like to start tackling those home projects to get ready for the warm weather and spending more time outdoors. Planting new flowers, painting the fence and fixing that loose step. Unfortunately, many of us have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and have encountered roadblocks in trying to tackle those projects. So, how do we get the needed supplies if we can’t leave the house? Outlined below are a few suggestions that may be helpful.
Shop Online
When we need to complete a project, some of us may simply run to the local craft or hardware store to buy what we need. Given our current circumstances, many stores and businesses have been closed or are running at reduced capacity. Some stores, however, have setup curbside pickup where you order online, drive to the store and they will place your order in your trunk and you never have to leave your vehicle. Another option is to order online and have it shipped to your house. Overnight and 2-day shipping has been eliminated for many sites. So, if you do order online, it may take a few extra days to receive your delivery.
Shop at Home
If there is a project you want to complete, figure out what items you need to complete it. Write out a shopping list if you need it. Then go shopping in your house to see if you already have what you need. Check the garage, the basement, the shed and that closet that has become the dumping ground for all the odd items you’re not sure where to put. You may rediscover items you have forgotten.
Be Creative
If you don’t have everything you need, you may need to be creative. You may discover a solution right in front of you. For example, you’ve been meaning to buy new flowerpots for the front porch but never got around to it. As you search through your house, you realize you have some spray paint and so you paint your old flowerpots and now they look brand new! You may also need to think outside the box. For example, you have a sewing project but no material on hand. As you go through your closets, you realize that you have an old sheet set not being used that would be perfect for your project.
Create a Plan
But what if you’ve searched your house and don’t find the items you need to complete your projects? Sure, you can shop online. But what if you have no income coming in because your employment has come to a halt in recent weeks? You can still plan and organize for your project! Think about what items you need for the project. Then think about what items you have and what items you need to buy. You can go online and do the research to find the items you still need. You can check out different retailers and see what they offer. You can comparison shop to see who has the best price and make note of it. You can also use apps like Pinterest where you can create a virtual board for each project and pin items that meet your needs for that project.
We know this won’t be the same as completing the project, but it will allow you the time to plan and organize your thoughts on the project and plan a budget. Taking the time to plan upfront will hopefully save some money in the long run. Then, when you’re back on better financial ground, you have done the leg work to identify what items you need and where you need to get them, and you can begin to knock off those projects more easily.
Being stuck in the house without the necessary supplies for our projects doesn’t mean we need to put those projects on hold indefinitely.
Karen Kabara
Your Tasks – Our Time
