Coupon Organization Update

Earlier, I gave detailed instructions on Coupon Organization using a Case-It binder. While I still love this method, it has become a bit unpractical. With John and the family now doing a paper route, we are able to get the inserts from any unsold Sunday papers. Since an increased number of papers are placed in the stores along the route on Sundays, the number of returns  are also increased. This means that often we have 20 – 30 inserts waiting for us on Monday morning. Yesterdays returns, for example, numbered 39! Yes, you read it right, 39 inserts! It is great if a wonderful sale comes along, with which I can combine coupons, thus making for free or almost free products. I love stockpiling!

I am currently experimenting with merely stacking the inserts according to type (Red Plum, Smart Source, P&G) and writing the date of issue on the top copy. I have piles of coupons under a chair in our bedroom so they are out of the way. It is not too difficult to go through the stacks to find appropriate coupons but does take time. To help with this, I have made a list of the coupons included in each insert along with the expiration date.

The main disadvantage of this method is that I no longer have my supply of coupons with me at the store to easily search through. However, with the vineyard work increasing and our family gardening beginning, I will not be doing much shopping. So, I do not foresee this being a problem. The main advantage is, much time is saved in cutting out all of those coupons. I was using my Case-It for a couple of coupons per pocket and a shoe box in which I placed the remaining copies (like copies clipped together) in alphabetical order. Now, I am simply making use of previously unused space under a chair and out of the way!

On a side note: I am also saving the Sunday comics to use as wrapping paper – combined with inexpensive bright ribbon, they make really cute packages!

I’ll keep you updated as to any further changes.