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Friday, April 20, 2012

Crochet Plans of Mice and Men, or What Michael's Knew

A couple of weeks ago, I checked out a wonderful crochet book from our local library -- 200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets, Throws and Afghans: Crochet Squares to Mix and Match by Jan Eaton.  I figuratively drooled over it for a while and tried out a square that was too hard for my meager skills.  After returning it today, I realized I really wanted my very own personal copy.  It is available on Amazon for $16.47 and Wal-Mart's web site for $16.46.  But I had a 40% off coupon from Michael's stashed in a drawer.  (You Michael's regulars probably know where this is going.)

a few of the 200 squares in Eaton's book

I have become a little obsessed with learning to crochet squares.  Never mind that all I've managed to make is one partial granny square of three and a half rounds.  I've seen funky granny square slippers on Ravelry, and I'm determined to make some for myself.  (And won't they look great once I've walked around and collected dog hair on them?)

So today, I headed off to Michael's where I picked out three colors of cheap, on-sale ($1.99 per skein) yarn for the granny square slippers.  And, happy day, they had a copy of Eaton's 200 Blocks book.  Full price at $24.95, but I had that coupon.  I happily handed the cashier my 40% off coupon.

"Coupons aren't good on books or magazines," she said.  Well, of course not.  That would be too good of a deal.  I thought about Amazon's $8 savings (not counting shipping), but I had the book in my hand.  I wanted the darn book.  So I let the cashier ring it up.

No doubt, this is what Michael's counts on: avid crochet book desire and a lack of reading the coupon's fine print.  By the time someone reaches the cashier, she's already bought that book as far as her heart is concerned.

I'm happy to have the book, and I'm just going to forget about the $8 I could have saved.  But I think I'm going to shop at Hobby Lobby for a while.


17 comments:

  1. Oh, I have had that experience! I shared your emotion all the way through your story...but on the upside you have the book now!

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  2. This is the book that started me crocheting last year! I found it in a charity shop for a couple of pounds and thought that had to be a bargain! I'm always buying crafts books especially if I can get a bargain. When I got it home I started on a granny square. I've haven't stopped crocheting since :) Looking forward to seeing your projects! Maggie xx

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  3. Sometimes Michael's can be a rip off. Here in DC there's a alternative called AC Moore and I love it. Although their jewelry making parts and accessories is very limited. Good look crocheting, and show us something you are proud of.

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    1. Maybe this will make you feel better. I ordered two book from Amazon.....they gave me free shipping. Then all of a sudden I was charged $71.00 for signing up for Amazon Prime........I didn't sign up. I am in dispute about the charges. I dind't know the coupons weren't good on books.
      I would love to learn how to do those squares.
      Have a good week-end.

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  4. Can't wait to see those slippers, dog hair and all!

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  5. This happened to me at JoAnns the other day. I had a 50% off coupon for some fabric that was 9.99 per yard. When I went to get the fabric, the fabric was on sale for $2 off per yard--not the regular price and the coupon was not good for sale priced merchandise! If I had gone a day earlier, I could have saved $10 on the total yardage that I needed! Pooh! Oh well.

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  6. Hi,
    I hate it when the coupons are not valid on things you want or when because of my laziness, I miss the date and they expire. Looking forward to your creative and beautiful crocheting.

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  7. Can't wait to see your cute slippers. I used to crochet many years ago. Maybe I should take it up again.
    Laura

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  8. I used to do a lot of it, stopped for some reason, can't see now and hate trying to do things like that with glasses. always did it while watching Tv. now need Bi focals.Richard from My Old Historic House.

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  9. What a bummer! I suppose that would be too good of a deal. Can't wait to see what you make.

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  10. I don't have the patience for knitting or chrochet. I am a lazy crafter!! I have always admired things that can be made though with yarn and there are so many pretty yarns these days. Have fun!

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  11. Don't ya just HATE that? They tease us so with that 40% off coupon. ugh! Glad you got your book though. I'm usually too impatient to wait for what I want to come in the mail. Can't wait to see your slippers. I haven't seen those.

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  12. would love to see your new creations, can't hardly wait!

    ANDWHATELSEISTHERE | SHOP

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  13. I have mix feelings about buying things online! It's definitely convenient, but to me, nothing like the warm and proximity of going to the store and get it. Anyway! I cannot wait to see your new creations! Enjoy! xoxo

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  14. How cute! Yes...books like this are a hard sell at the library- you need more time!

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  15. I've been learning more things in crochet lately and its addictive. I can't wait to see those slippers in any color combo. Happy hooking

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  16. I've been learning more things in crochet lately and its addictive. I can't wait to see those slippers in any color combo. Happy hooking

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