I love going to craft shows and if I find something I think I can make, I usually buy one as a sample. My friend can figure out a lot of things by looking at them, but I usually need instructions or at least a sample and write out a plan. One thing I really like to buy are the covered composition books that people use for journals or notes, etc. My DH teaches a 4th/5th grade class and I donate them to her treasure box. The kids get tokens as rewards for doing good deeds, homework, good test results, etc. and she said the kids love the books. I really should just make some myself for her students, but it's easier to buy them at a show.