Sharing is Caring Try Before you Buy

by AJ Axtell

Thinking of starting a new project?

Ready to get out there and explore the outdoors? Have kids that always need new gear? So many of our activities come with a host of stuff to weigh you down.

Why not take a different approach? Make friends, not trash! Take “try before you buy” to the next level. Sharing equipment, tools, gear, and other household goods can be a huge saving when it comes to cost, space, and resources. Luckily, there are many options in the Northland for you to check out.

Thinking of trying a new sport? Resist the urge to start out with a full set of shiny, new gear. Check with friends and family to see if anyone has a set of skis and boots for you to test out for a few runs before fully committing to your ski bum status.

Rentals are another great way to test the waters. Investigate local ski swaps or resale sites for used equipment once you’ve decide that you’re ready to get into the game. If your child’s sport involves a club or a league, check with parents from the next age group to see if you can purchase outgrown equipment. Interested in quilting or sewing? Find out what you’re made of when it comes to back stitching and button holes before you load up on fabric and thimbles. Reach out to friends who might have a sewing machine that they’d be willing to loan you for a test run. You can even re-use when it comes to fabric. Old sheets and pillow cases make for great practice material when you’re learning your craft. Planning to do some canning after the upcoming growing season? first go round, borrow canning equipment from your fellow gardeners. The Duluth Community Garden program even loans out equipment for your test driving needs.

Ready to take the plunge? Consider sharing your canning supplies with a few others since you’ll only need them once a year. Also, remind the recipients of your goods to return jars for refilling.

Many have high hopes of becoming the next pickle czar, only to end up with a case of mushy cucumbers and broken

Feeling the urge to get creative in a big way? Blacksmithing, metal working, and wood working can be functional and rewarding hobbies, but they’re not for everyone. Why not take a class through a local college or community education program before investing in your very own welding helmet? Once you’ve decided you love it, seek out a club or a group of hobbyists who are willing to share their goods.

The Duluth Maker Space (du- luthmakerspace.com) has an open shop for your welding and crafting needs. They also have a wood shop if you’re more of a functional artist. Try your hand at a coffee table or a new bookshelf without having to purchase a single saw or clamp.

Finally getting around to that kitchen remodel this summer? Ask around to see if you can borrow a tile saw for your spiffy, new tile back splash. No sense in buying one when you’ll only use it once. Rentals may even be an option for larger equipment.

Check out WLSSD’s Household Hazardous Waste facility for free paints and stains — perfect for trim or cabinet refinishing. The Habitat for Humanity ReStore might just have those perfect knobs that you’ve been looking for. Or, check out print or online classified ads for supplies and materials. With all of these reuse options, you could get your dream kitchen for a steal!

There are many ways for you to avoid the stockpile of stuff that comes with all of our hobbies and interests. Just think of all the space you’ll save in the garage and in your closets when you don’t have the ghosts of new ventures gone bad weighing you down. Network with friends, family members, co-workers, and fellow parents to share as many saws, stock pots, and ski boots as you can. D

AJ Axtell is the Environmental Program coordinator for the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District.