Lady painting barstool in living room.

Let’s Get Crafty with Cash

Spring’s in full swing, and May’s calling for some hands-on action — the kind that makes your wallet a little happier. At Southern Lakes Credit Union, we’re all about smart moves that stretch your dollars without cutting the fun.

So if you’re into getting your hands dirty, fixing up old stuff, or just wanna try something new that doesn’t wreck your budget, we’ve got ideas for days.

Turn Skills into Bills

Got tools in the garage and some know-how? Boom — you’re halfway to a side hustle. Think woodworking, sharpening tools, small engine fixes, or even welding together something cool like a fire pit.

You can keep it simple, keep it useful, and keep the cash rolling in on weekends without breaking a sweat (okay, maybe just a little).

Patch It, Polish It, Sell It

Don’t chuck that worn-out jacket or scuffed-up boots — give ‘em a facelift. A little polish, a new zipper, or some tough patches can turn beat-up into badass. Fix it for yourself or flip it for someone else.

It’s smart. It’s satisfying. It’s a wallet win.

Furniture That Pays You Back

Found a sad-looking coffee table on the curb? That’s not trash — that’s inventory. A bit of sanding, a coat of paint, and that thing’s ready for Facebook Marketplace or a neighbor with cash in hand.

Plus, there’s nothing like turning junk into something awesome — and getting paid for it.

Growin’ Green (and We’re Not Just Talkin’ Lettuce)

Whether you’ve got a backyard, a patio, or just a sunny window, growing your own herbs or veggies can save serious grocery money. Extra tomatoes? Sell ’em. Got chickens? Those eggs go fast. Before you know it, your garden’s making money and your fridge looks fresh.

DIY That Actually Saves You Money

Not all home upgrades need a contractor. You can knock out easy fixes like:

  • Swapping bulbs for LEDs
  • Installing a smart thermostat
  • Sealing up drafty windows
  • Upgrading your water heater setup

The Month to Make Stuff Happen

At Southern Lakes Credit Union, we’re here for it — the projects, the hustles, the “look what I made” wins. So go ahead, try something new this month. Need help building a budget for your projects? Holler at us — we’ll hook you up with tools to get rollin’.