Goodwill Builds (ft. Waffle Blanket)

The idea of timed, limited budget creations with a theme in mind is used all over cooking and game shows. You don’t need to be on a show however, to enjoy the creative energy associated with competing for the best thrown-together project. My aunt and I tried this ourselves at a Goodwill, and it went great!

We each started with a $20 budget, and the theme of “Disney” (though we both chose Star Wars ideas anyways) and tried to find everything we needed for our creations at Goodwill. I went into the challenge knowing exactly what I intended to create (a jetpack), while my aunt wasn’t so sure. After I had found my haul of guns and noisemakers, I came back to find she still wasn’t sure… And then we saw it. The infamous ugly green lamp. It was perfect.

The challenge played out quite well, ending in no clear winner (as my Mom was the judge), but two great results. Without much stress, only 6 or so hours, and only $20 each (plus an Arby’s lunch), we had a fantastic experience both of us enjoyed. I highly recommend doing something like this with a friend or family member when you get the chance.

Things you’ll need when trying this:

• Two people willing to look crazy in a GoodWill Store (you have to be to pick up that lamp)

• Basic home materials (glue, knives, cardboard, scissors, markers, paint etc.)

• A budget

• A theme

Have fun!