• Restaurants with Loyalty Programs: An A to Z List - Now That’s Thrifty!

    As dining out becomes an essential part of our social lives, many restaurants have embraced loyalty programmes to reward their most devoted customers. These schemes are not just beneficial for the restaurants aiming to build customer loyalty; they also offer significant savings for diners. From enticing discounts to exclusive menu items, loyalty programmes can turn an ordinary meal into something extra special.

    In this A to Z guide, we’ll explore a diverse array of restaurants across the UK that offer rewarding loyalty programmes. Whether you fancy Italian, Indian, or a classic British pub meal, there's something here for everyone. You’ll discover how dining at your favourite spots can lead to perks like free meals, birthday treats, and even invitations to exclusive events. So, grab your fork and get ready to delve into this thrifty dining adventure — because who doesn’t love a little extra for loyalty?

    Each entry will highlight the specific benefits of the loyalty programme and how to make the most of it. From A for “All Bar One” to Z for “Zizzi”, this list is your perfect guide to savouring delicious dishes while pocketing some serious savings. Bon appétit!

  • 15 DIY Christmas Ornaments for Kids

    The festive season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by crafting cheerful ornaments with the little ones? Here are fifteen delightful DIY Christmas ornament ideas that are not only easy to make but also ensure an enjoyable bonding experience.

    1. Paper Snowflakes: With just paper and scissors, kids can cut intricate designs, creating stunning snowflakes to hang around the home.

    2. Salt Dough Decorations: A simple mixture of flour, salt, and water is perfect for creating personalised ornaments. Kids can shape them into stars and hearts, then paint them once baked.

    3. Pinecone Santa: These charming Santas come to life with a little paint and some cotton wool. A fun craft that brings nature indoors!

    4. Felt Shapes: Cut out festive shapes from colourful felt and let kids sew or glue them together. Add some glitter for a touch of sparkle.

    5. Beaded Icicles: String together colourful beads to create shimmering icicle ornaments. A simple yet eye-catching decoration!

    6. Photo Frames: Repurpose old CDs or cardboard to make miniature photo frames, adding snapshots from past Christmases to cherish and display.

    7. Baked Cinnamon Ornaments: A mixture of cinnamon and applesauce creates fragrant ornaments. Once dried, they fill the home with a warm, festive scent.

    8. Yarn Balls: A little bit of yarn and balloon are all it takes to craft these lovely textured ornaments. Once dry, pop the balloon for a beautiful spherical decoration.

    9. Cookie Cutter Prints: Dip cookie cutters in paint and stamp onto cardstock; the results make for sweet ornaments that can be personalised with names or dates.

    10. Gratitude Ornaments: Have kids write what they’re thankful for on paper strips and hang them inside clear baubles for a lovely reminder of the season’s spirit.

    11. Button Snowmen: Stack buttons in various sizes to create adorable snowmen. A quick and straightforward craft that yields delightful results!

    12. Nature's Touch: Collect twigs, leaves, and dried flowers to create natural ornaments; a great way to teach kids about nature while celebrating the holidays.

    13. Christmas Card Cutouts: Repurpose old Christmas cards by cutting them into festive shapes. Kids can decorate and hang these nostalgic bits of art.

    14. Tin Can Lanterns: With a little help from an adult, kids can punch holes into tin cans to create lanterns that can be lit with tea lights for a warm glow.

    15. Balloon Ornaments: Inflate balloons and let kids cover them in paper mache. Once dry, they make for stunning and lightweight decorations.

    These DIY ornaments will not only add a personal touch to your tree but also provide precious memories together as you craft your way into the festive spirit!

  • Transforming your home into a winter wonderland doesn't have to break the bank, and the Nifty Thrifty DIYer has discovered the perfect project to bring a touch of magic indoors: Salt Paint Snowflakes. With just a handful of inexpensive materials, you can create stunning, textured snowflake decorations that add a beautiful frost-inspired flair to your walls or windowpanes.

    Begin by mixing together salt, flour, and water to create a thick paste. The tactile nature of the salt not only gives your snowflakes depth but also catches the light beautifully, mimicking the glisten of real snow. Use a stencil or freehand your designs on sturdy cardstock or even canvas. Once your snowflakes have dried, a simple splash of white paint enhances their wintry appeal, while a sprinkling of glitter or a dash of silver paint can bring in an extra twinkle.

    These charming, handcrafted snowflakes are not only a delightful way to brighten up a chilly season but also make for wonderful gifts or festive decorations at parties. Embrace your creativity and enjoy a bit of crafty fun as you whip up these delightful pieces – the perfect addition to any cosy, winter setting!