“The Old Time Art of Thrift” edited by Ken and Janice Tate

While thrift is alive and well in some cultures and sub-cultures, it is an unknown art in others.  Thrift is a mindset than can develop in and from times of scarcity. It is also an abundance mindset that can appreciate how much value something can possess in multiple forms and uses.

“The Old-time Art of Thrift” edited by Ken and Janice Tate is a collection of short stories about how people lived from the turn of the century to the disposable age.

In the introduction, Ken Tate states: “The dictionary defines thrift as ‘an economical management of money and resources.’  I define it as an art that had its most beautiful work painted during the Good Old Days.”

Have you ever thought of thrift as art?

If not, read the stories Ken and Janice share.  It takes a lot of ingenuity and creativity to conceive of multiple uses for a variety of things. 

That aspect is the book’s biggest grace.  Rather than create another “how to” book, the Tates provide examples of how individuals chose to maximize their resources. 

Whether it is water, time, string, wood, energy, cloth, paper, pennies, food, etc., this book provides stories of individual responses and initiatives.  Some are applicable today.  Others are not.

The Tates provide an opportunity to look at your own resources with a fresh eye or consider ways to use them wisely and well.

Read the book to relive or get a glimpse of the Good Old Days.  Read it to see how things can be reused or repurposed. Take a fresh look at your stuff and use your imagination to find ways to put it to more uses. 

If you are looking for modern examples of thrifty behavior, contact us.