Rather than a list of thrift and second hand stores, I decided to curate a collective map. I will be editing this (adding and subtracting as need be). I encourage you to send me any news of thrift stores, second hand stores, and (reputable) pawn shops in the Greater Victoria area!
View Victoria Thrift Stores in a larger map
If you have ever thought about selling things on eBay, now is a very good time to try it out. You can list the first 5 items every 30 days for free, so you only pay if the items sell.
There are a few exceptions — cars, farm equipment and real estate are exempt, as are a few other items — but this would be a great way to gradually get rid of some of that clutter or see how your handmade goods sell. [Full details]
If you are thinking of attending a Luminara celebration, or if you just want a frugal way to decorate for a garden party, you might want to make your own lanterns. Why not dig into your recycle bin for inspiration?
Lifehacker has the simplest tutorial with its Hanging Candle Lanterns using clean, empty jars and some wire.
The Frugal Family Blog made some Shamrock Lanterns by adding tissue paper to jars but you could add any design you like!
My favourite are the Tin Can Lanterns — the tutorial is at Deviantart. I have tried these in the past though and found them quite challenging; the tip suggests that a metal punch would make it easier and I think that’s probably true but older kids and some adults may get a kick out of pounding nails into an ice-filled tin can!
Knitter/author/blogger Vickie Howell has a great set of tips for 10 Ways to Keep Knitting in a Bad Economy. My favourite by far is the suggestion to organize a knitting swap — bring your stash, swap for someone else's! How brilliant!
The purportedly Definitive Guide posted at Lifehacker doesn't live up to its name as evidenced by the many reader comments.It also suggests buying from other cities which I personally don't think is frugal. Still, it's worth checking out but be sure to read all the comments; I learned more from there than the article itself.