Couponing Tutorials

Want to save $MONEY$ ? I have saved a lot of $$$ using coupons. "How?" you ask? Read on...

Step 1: Start Clipping!

• Sunday newspapers-I buy the Dallas Morning News because it always has better coupons in it. The Waco Tribune Herald has fewer coupons. So, if at all possible, go for the Dallas paper. IMPORTANT: SAVE ALL COUPONS regardless of whether you think you will use it or not. It could make you $$!
• Ask around-Neighbors, co-workers, friends & family may get the Sunday paper. Ask them if they mind saving the coupon section for you.
• Internet printables-These coupons can be found on the internet. I will try to link as many as possible in this blog to help you access them.
• Keep your eyes open!-Look around the stores. Many stores have blinkies(*), tearpads(*) &/or peelies(*) for numerous products. (*See my tutorial on LINGO)
• Use a clipping service-you can buy coupons on Ebay or through services like couponclippers.com
• All-U Magazine-This magazine is only found at Wal-Mart unless you get a subscription. It is full of coupons!

Step 2: Get Organized!

• Binders-This is my method of organizing coupons. I have a zipper binder that has baseball card holders to sort my coupons.
• Small Sorter-This is a small accordian style sorter found at Wal-Mart or maybe Target. I started out with one of these but learned very quickly that it was not the right choice for me.
• Envelopes-Simple enough.
• Picture albums-You could use the small 1 picture per page albums to sort coupons.

All of these are just ideas. Try them out and see how they work for you. If you don't like it, try something else. It is completely up to you how to organize your coupons. But trust me, coupons can get out of hand very quickly if you don't stay organized!

Step 3: Study, Research & Plan!

• Study your store ads-Sometimes several stores will have the same product on sale. Make sure you get the best value.
• Research the ads-Many times you can find the ad online before the sale begins. Check for coupons you have that will match the sale.
• Plan before you hit the store-You may not be able to plan every detail but having a good idea of what you need/want will make the process easier.

Step 4: Build A Stockpile!

• Buy in bulk-This doesn't necessarily mean buy the BIGGEST box of cereal you can find! Buy several boxes if they are on sale or a good bargain. Little by little. This takes time so be patient!
• Buy ahead of time-Don't wait until you completely run out of something. This can cause you to spend more than necessary. I am very guilty of this.
• Make room-You need a place to keep all of your stockpile. You may need to rearrange your pantry or clear out an unused closet.
• Stop being brand loyal!-Don't commit to only buying one brand. Many times you can get another brand cheaper or even FREE!

Step 5: Price Match!

• Make a list of the items you use the most.
• Carry this list with you when you visit stores and write down the prices. (I would pay attention to the price per ounce section on grocery items). You will learn how often stores put products on sale which will help you plan for bulk buying.

Step 6: Be Patient!

• This will take time! There is a lot to learn so keep at it.
• Don't get frustrated! It is worth the time and effort, I promise.

There you have it! Follow these steps and you will be on your way to saving more money!