Next time you’re considering a major purchase take a look at Freecycling. Freecycling is a grassroots movement of people who are giving & getting stuff for free in their local areas. It’s all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills. Each local group is moderated by a local volunteer. Membership is free.
To find a group simply Google “freecycle network”, search Yahoo Groups or take a look at the resources below:
Even if you aren’t planning a purchase right now, I urge you to visit one of these sites just to see what’s available. You may be surprised at what you find and/or motivated to move some of your own items onto the FreeCycle grid.
And after you’ve “shopped” the FreeCycle circuit check out one or more of these Amazon books for ideas and instructions on making your new finds beautiful: