All About Coupon Storage!

Coupons are actually a new thing that I have started collecting. Usually, when I go grocery shopping, I purchase the Kroger or Wal-Mart brands of food, toiletries, etc. I mean, who really cares if the trash bag you are using isn't a name brand?!?! It is a trash bag. A lot of times, you don't need a coupon for those things. But, there are some things that name brand is the only way to go. These things include detergent, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, and the list goes on. I never really thought about clipping coupons for these things until recently. Thank you to the show "Extreme Couponers" and my wonderful blog friends for the recent push.

So, if I am going to start clipping coupons, I must have a way of storing them, right?!?! In my approach, I have two types... My household coupon sorter and the coupon pouch that actually travels with me to the grocery store. Remember, this is a new thing for me, so my process is still evolving.

Today, I am going to show you my household coupon sorter and my coupon pouch... Enjoy!

Household Coupon Sorter

I purchased this pocket file from Target. It was in one of the dollar bins.

A view of the back label.

After I made the purchase, the question became... How am I going to organize this little file? With only 13 slots, it was a little challenging at first. I decided to label them alphabetically, but each tab had to include at least 2 letters.

These were the clear tabs that came with the pocket file.

I got out my handy label maker (that I purchased from The Container Store) and clear labels and created a label for each tab.

Then, I cut only the letters out (no excess) and placed them on the half moon labels that came with the file. Then, I placed them on the tabs.

Next, I used some scrapbook letters that I had lying around (these came from Hobby Lobby) and I put the word "coupons" on the front of the pocket file.

Coupon Pouch

For the coupon pouch, I used a piece of scrapbook paper that I purchased from Hobby Lobby, white 2" x 4" labels, and a small envelope that I had lying around.

An up close view of the scrapbook paper. Have I mentioned that I love polka dots?!?!

I took the envelope and the scrapbook paper, measured them, and used a pencil to mark just enough paper to cover the front of the envelope. Then, I cut it out and used clear tape to attach it to the envelope.

Next, I used Microsoft Office to create a label for the front. You know, I always have to include a label! And, I laminated the whole thing to ensure that the envelope doesn't get messed up in the process of traveling from my house to the grocery store and back.

And, a quick update... The pocket file's pink scrapbook stickers didn't work out so well. After the first week, half of them were falling off.





So, I had to reevaluate my file and try something different. This time, I decided to use:

• index card
• scrapbook paper
• tape
• label
• scissors
• laminate
• Velcro

I cut the scrapbook paper to fit over the index card and taped them together.

Then, I attached the label and laminated the card.

Lastly, I applied Velcro strips to the back of the card and to the front of the pocket file. Now, I know the label won't be moving from it's current location. It may not be the best looking thing ever, but it works. Later on, I may trim down the label so it isn't sticking up so bad.

I purchased these Velcro strips from Wal-Mart for around $1.99.

The final product!!!

And, a side view...