Series: Start A Garden with Tools Made in the USA, part 1

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

With the beginning of summer right around the corner, the outdoors are just calling to be enjoyed.

A great way to enjoy the time outdoors is to start a garden. Memorial Day weekend is coming soon, and now is a good time to prepare the outdoor space for summer entertaining.

1. Gloves

via Vermont Glove The Vermonter

Gardening requires having sturdy tools at your disposal. The Vermonter glove is made from 100% goat leather and tough enough for your gardening needs.

2. Pruning Shears

via Cutco Bypass Shears

A good pair of shears cuts through flowers, shrubs, and branches with ease. This pair is also made so the blades lock for safety. Cutco proudly makes all of their products in the USA.

3. Hand Trowel

via Red Pig Garden Tools ™

This 3-inch hand trowel by Red Pig Garden Tools ™ is designed for heavy-duty weeding and planting.  There is also a smaller size for kids or folks with hands too small for the 3-inch trowel.

Their tools have a long history and it makes for fascinating reading.

4. Spade

via Amazon Bully Tools 12-Gauge Drain Spade

Bully Tools manufactures this drain spade to weed in tight spaces, scoop dirt, transplant plants, and dig trenches.  It is made from 100% American steel, and made with powdered coat to prevent rust.  A spade is a great tool to have for gardening.

5. Rake

via True Temper Bow Rake with Fiberglass Handle

Rakes loosen soil and collect leaves, plants and hay.  Once the trenches and beds have been carved out, the rake will sweep it up and out.

True Temper also has a fascinating 200-year history of manufacturing in the US.  Buying from a company with that history instills faith in the quality of the product.

Conclusion

Finding tools made in the USA to start a garden may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!

Series: Start a Garden with Tools Made in the USA, Part 3

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

With the beginning of summer right around the corner, the outdoors are just calling to be enjoyed.

Welcome to Part 3 of the series of how to start a garden. Memorial Day weekend is coming soon, and now is a good time to prepare the outdoor space for summer entertaining.

1. Shovel

via PredatorTools® Model 22 - Ultra Phantom - Shovel

Shovels make it easy to remove soil, and move around different materials, such as dirt, gravel, and snow.  To find out which shovel is best for you, read this article.

PredatorTools® makes their digging tools and shovels in the USA.  It's important to note that their tools are used by the United States military.  Other industries also include forensics, archaeology, and search and rescue.

2. Tool Bag

via Garrett Wade

Having a bag that holds your gardening tools helps keep things organized.  This bag by Garrett Wade was made intentionally to be large enough to fit the most used tools, but not too large that it becomes a junk drawer of sorts.  It is hand-sewn by master leather-workers, so each one has its own unique look.

3. Lopper

via Amazon Barnel USA Lopper

  

Loppers offer gardeners another option to saws and pruning shears.  They cut through thicker branches and stems. Both hands are required to use them, versus pruning shears that can be held in one hand.  The anodized aircraft aluminum provides heavy-duty construction to reinforce stability with more challenging gardening projects.

4. Wheelbarrow

via Home Depot: True Temper Wheelbarrow

Wheelbarrows help transport fertilizer, mulch and other gardening materials throughout the yard.  This one has a flat-free tire, steel tray and steel handles.

True Temper makes the tray in the USA, with the rest of the wheelbarrow being made from global materials and assembled in the USA.

5. Garden Hoe

via Amazon: Bully Tools 12-Gauge Garden Hoe

Hoes assist you in weeding your garden, sowing seeds, and preparing the garden soil.

Bully Tools make their tools from 100% American-made steel.  The powdered coat finish helps prevent rusting.

Conclusion

Finding garden tools made in the USA may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!

Series: Hurricane Emergency Preparedness Supplies Made in the USA

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

There are some supplies that may not be on a checklist.  These are the items that come by word of mouth - from people who have prepared for emergencies on several occasions.

Here is the miscellaneous list - and all made in the USA.

1. Lantern

via Amazon

Coleman Premium Powerhouse Dual Fuel Lantern

Coleman has been making lanterns for over 100 years.  The lantern is made for camping and being outdoors, so in case of power outage, let this lantern be your light.

You can use Coleman Liquid Fuel or unleaded gasoline all seasons.

2. Tools

via Amazon 

CHANNELLOCK Professional Tool Set with Tool Roll 

Includes 4 Pliers, Wrench, Driver, Roll

Hurricanes and other natural disasters can be unforgiving in their power and damage they leave in their paths.

Having tools that are made with superior performance as the standard, make prep and other projects easier to accomplish.

3. Recipe Cards

via Amazon 

Evergreen Studios Recipe Cards  

Recipe cards are normally used to write down and pass down family recipes.

During a power outage, it can sometimes be overwhelming to think about what to eat.  As part of your prep work, think about what you eat on a daily basis and create recipes around that.

Another aspect to consider is if you have a way to warm up the food, if you want a hot meal.  This will make a difference in your recipe.

4. Exercise

via Amazon 

top: JumpNRope 1-Series Jump Rope

middle left: Theraband Resistance Bands

bottom right: Theraband Ankle Weights

 

When a hurricane or storm is coming, it can be stressful.  Exercise is a proven and medically-recommended benefit for stress relief.  

While exercise equipment is not normally on an emergency checklist, it is important to keep your stress and sanity in check.  Having a game plan for stress relief is also a necessity.

5. Gardening

via Costa Farms Mini Bonsai

Another stress reliever is gardening - specifically the art of creating a bonsai.  When you're stuck inside after a storm, the peace and needed concentration will help bring down your stress level.  

Add it to your supply list.  Better yet: get one and take a few minutes each day to test and see if it really does reduce your stress level.

Not yet a believer?  Both the National Institute of Health and Scripps News offer some more information about the benefits.

Conclusion

Finding emergency preparedness supplies made in the USA may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!

Under $20 Tuesday: Mother's Day Gifts made in the USA

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

Times are tough, but you still want to honor your Mom.  You ask Mom what she wants for Mother's Day and she tells you to save your money, and that you are her best gift.  

What to give the woman who has it all, or humbly denies needing anything?

Here are a few gifts that honor Mom and your budget, and are gifts made in the USA.

1. Jewelry Cleaner

via Amazon Calyptus Jewelry Cleaner Concentrate

 

Jewelry is quite a popular gift for Moms and ladies alike. Jewelry cleaner helps her keep her precious stones sparkling. It's almost like giving her a new piece of jewelry over and over again.

Calyptus formulated this cleaner concentrate from plant-based materials in NYC.

2. Plant Mister

via Industrial Farm Co: Petite Glass Plant Mister

At 6 1/4" tall, this petite glass plant mister acts as both a stylish decor piece and a useful gardening accessory.

Industrial Farm Co. makes all of their products in the USA. They run a full metal fabrication machine shop in New York.

3. Bath Pearls

via Amazon Skleer Store Bath Oil Pearls

 

Give Mom a bit of luxury with these bath pearls. They dissolve in warm water and release soothing fragrances. As an added bonus, Mom's skin gets moisturized and nourished. Give her a spa day at home.

4. Design Book

via Amazon

Beauty by Design: Refreshing Spaces Inspired by What Matters Most

For the Mom that loves design, this coffee table book makes a great book to provide her with inspiration. Beware though: She may take on several new projects around the house.

5. Cherry Wood Tea Nest®

via Modern Artisans Cherry Wood Tea Nest®

 

For the Mom who loves to curl up with a lovely cup of tea, the Tea Nest® steeps her favorite loose teas.  The nest is made from sustainable hardwood cherry.  It contains no plastic, chemicals or stains. 

Conclusion

Finding Mother's Day gifts made in the USA may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!

How to Organize a Community Clean Up - made in the USA

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

With Earth Day coming this month, organizing a community clean up is a great way to honor the neighborhood in which you live.  There are several to take to ensure a successful clean up.  

• Organize a group of volunteers, such friends, family, fellow community members.  
• Choose local environmental organizations with whom to partner.  
• Make a detailed plan of your project.  
• Pick a community project.  
• Assemble necessary materials and tools to be used during and after the clean up.  
• Celebrate a job well done.

1. Trash Bags

via Amazon: EcoSafe Certified Compostable Trash Bags (aff. link)

Bags are important to have for a community clean up.  Keep several on-hand to separate recyclable and compostable items.

Series: Start a Garden with Tools Made in the USA, Part 2

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

With the beginning of summer right around the corner, the outdoors are just calling to be enjoyed.

Welcome to Part 2 of the series of how to start a garden. Memorial Day weekend is coming soon, and now is a good time to prepare the outdoor space for summer entertaining.

1. Wide Brim Sun Hat

via American Hat Makers Cascade Hat

A hat that blocks the sun from your face is a must-have in gardening.  The Cascade Hat is laminated on the top to block 80% of the sun's rays.  It also has a removable sweatband.  

This hat is made in California by a company that has been making hats for over 50 years!  AND their hats have a lifetime warranty.  They are handmade to last a lifetime!

2. Boots

via Amazon Sloggers Garden Boots Flower Power

The proper footwear protects feet from whatever the garden offers.  Sloggers' Flower Power Boots keep feet dry with their waterproof power, offer "All-Day Comfort" insoles, and repel dirt with just a quick hose-down.  The soles are also made with 50% recycled material.

Note: They are made with U.S. and imported materials.

3. Apron

via Artifact 

Artifact's Garden Apron is made from waxed canvas, which makes it repel water.  It keeps liquids from soaking in and particles from sticking on the apron.  

Artifact has been making this apron in Nebraska since 2010.

4. Watering Can

via The Sill

A watering can comes in handy to water plants.  Regular watering maintains proper growth and health of the plant.

The Sill's watering can holds 56 oz. of water.  It is made with a long spout to control water flow and works indoors and outdoors.

5. Hose

via Amazon Flexon Industries

A garden hose is a must-have when starting a garden.  Your new plantings need to be hydrated to maintain their life and growth.  

Flexon makes their hose to be year-round with weather resistant vinyl coverings.  

Conclusion

Finding garden tools made in the USA to start a garden may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!

Under $50 Friday: Top American-Made Products You’ll Love

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

Welcome to Under $50 Friday, where we showcase amazing products made in the USA, all under $50!

From unique gifts to everyday essentials, these affordable, high-quality items support local artisans and craftsmanship.

Shop our curated selection and enjoy great value while supporting American-made goods!

Series: Start a Garden with Tools Made in the USA under $50 Friday

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  (HINT: LINKS IN RED ARE AFFILIATE LINKS.) ALL INFORMATION VALID AS OF POSTING DATE.

Who says that products made in the USA have to cost more than their foreign competitors?  Under $50 Friday proves that you can find made in the USA products without breaking the bank.  Here you will find some garden tools to keep you going on your new garden summer project.

1. Weeder

via Garrett Wade

This is the weeder that saves your back.  The steel gripping prongs and foot lever provide a quality product that will become a go-to tool.

2. Rain Wand

via Amazon DRAMM Rain Wand, 30-inch

  **Note: Hose not included.**

A watering wand allows a large amount of water to be added to your plants and trees. It regulates the amount of water and imitates rainfall on the garden bed.

Note: The nozzles are made in the USA.  The wands are assembled in the USA.

3. Crevice Tool

via Fisher Blacksmithing Crevice Tool

                                         

A crevice tool edges around landscaped beds and borders. It is handmade from reused concrete reinforcement rod and black walnut, while also using traditional blacksmith techniques. There is a certain nostalgia when tools are handmade in this manner.

4. Chickadee Feeder

via Modern Artisans Hanging Stoneware Chickadee Feeder

 

While feeders may not be the first thing you think of for a garden, they attract birds. Birds, in turn, keep your garden bug-free with their bug-eating habits.

This chickadee feeder is hand thrown on the potter's wheel in North Carolina. Each one is individually made, featuring a drainage hole, wooden perch and nylon cord hanger.

5. Kneeling Pad

via Amazon Aquamentor Kneeling Pad

 

A kneeling pad is very convenient to have when on the ground tending to your garden.  It keeps your knees comfortable, while also allowing you to avoid bending over to tend to the garden.  That can cause dizziness or vertigo-like symptoms.

Having the tools for proper body mechanics protects you from injury.  Whether you are weeding your garden or planting seeds, a kneeling pad adds a level of safety and comfort to this fun new hobby.

Conclusion

Finding gardening tools made in the USA that cost less than $50 may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!