The other day I ran into Michael’s to look for some wool yarn to knit these baby longies that I’ve been making. Longies made of wool are popular throughout the cloth diapering community because they absorb moisture without feeling wet. They are great to use as a cover over cloth diapers and are so cute! I’ve ordered some wool online, but I wanted to check and see if Michael’s had a specific brand before I ordered more. They didn’t end up having the specific brand I needed, but they had skeins of wool in the color that I wanted and just a different brand. They were on sale, so I decided that two would work and that the color was more important than the brand.
I had some time to kill, so I decided to wander around the store and see if there was anything I needed or could use to help decorate my house. I couldn’t find anything that I needed, so I went up to the checkout. When I got there, the cashier asked if I was signed up to receive the Michael’s coupons, and I said no. I filled out my name, address, and email address and she assured me that I would be added to the list so I’d get the coupons. If the Michael’s coupons are anything like JoAnn’s coupons, I’m going to be so excited! The JoAnn’s coupons are 20% off one item, and normally I can get out of there with just one or two items.
Michael’s Coupons
After I checked out and paid for my yarn, my receipt and an extra Michael’s coupon printed out: 20% off one item! I was so excited until I read the small print: it wasn’t valid until the next Sunday, and it was only good for a week. I’m not going to go back there just to use the coupon because by the time I take the extra time to go across town to use the coupon, I’ll have spent the savings on gas and it’s just not worth it to me. I’ll probably end up ordering some more yarn online because it’s cheaper anyway.
I’m thankful that Michael’s does offer coupons but I wish I could have taken advantage of the deal that day instead of waiting half a week. I’m sure they want me to come back to the store so I spend more money. 
Of course, the most frugal option would have been to look around for a Michael’s coupon before I left the house, but I just didn’t think about it. Next time I’ll be sure to look for one, or hopefully I’ll receive a printable coupon in my email. That would be even better!
Do you look for coupons before you go to specialty stores? Do you sign up for their lists?
