Thread 15 - glad my glitter pussy gets a mention

[Reastie]

Thought I’d do a ‘how to’ for a couple of things people often post about not being sure of

To do click links you do this put link in here then a space then the name or phrase you want to go with the link . Don’t put a space between the start of the link and the and then last word and the like I have or it won’t work but I had to to demonstrate.

To follow the thread without using up a post to mark place you can click on ‘watch this thread’ at the top of the first post.

No affiliate links please.

Referral thread here

Second message has a few links and info which I’ll slowly build up, let me k ow if there’s anything you’d like me to add to it

Aliexpress have lots of stuff very cheap, order early as it’s all delivered from China here see sockeatingmonster’s useful tips on this site at the bottom of this post

Camelcamelcamel is a brilliant site that tracks prices on amazon here

Learning resources can have good bits in their sale here

Lisa angel sale is popular when on, apparently arrive nicely packaged too here

Magazine subscription offers here and here

Netpricedirect has discount toys and party bits here

Pouch on fb is worth a look. Woodwaj recommends ‘you just use them via messenger type in the shop and they message back with any valid codes!’

Toys for a pound here

Zeek have discounted gift vouchers here

Sockeatingmonster’s top tips for using aliexpress

1. Check reviews
2. Be wary of plastic toys. There have been concerns about toxic plastics from China, and I have binned plastic figures for having very unpleasant smells. I no longer buy any 'low-end' plastic items (UPDATE: I wouldn’t buy squishiest either, for the same reason) and only ever from sellers with lots of positive reviews
3. Aliexpress refund/complaints procedure is actually way more straightforward than eBay, and stacked in the buyer's favour
4. Beware of mains operated electricals, many of which are supplied without fused plugs. Always message the seller first if in doubt, don't rely on the photos
5. I don't trust dress up clothes to be flame retardant, although I don't believe this is UK law anyway?
6. Clothes can come up very small. Quality can be variable (excellent to awful). Photos are often of similar items, so take them with a pinch of salt and check the reviews.
7. Actually, all photos on Aliexpress should be taken with a pinch of salt. Again, check reviews (where buyers often post photos of the actual item received)
8. I wouldn't trust toys to meet UK safety standards and wouldn't buy anything that could pose a risk (e.g. Paint might not be safe for children to gum, there could be sharp edges/choking hazards, etc)
9. Lego alternatives don't tend to stick together as well as genuine Lego. Minifigures are still excellent value, but the odd one might benefit from a few drops of superglue.

10. Barbie and other doll clothes can be excellent value, but check reviews for fabric quality and finish (UPDATE: Type “18 inch doll” for clothes that will fit American Girl/Our Generation/Designafriend dolls. Shoes are particularly excellent value. Wash dark clothing first as dyes can stain dolls’ limbs) 11. Stationery is generally excellent value, although paper quality can be lower than expected. Type 'kawaii' into stationery and be prepared to spend a fortune

Thanks Reastie.

Oh good. Still got dad and some friends to buy for.

Morning reastie

Thanks for the new thread! x

Thanks Reastie

I have my SIL's bloke to buy for. I have only met him three times, during which he spoke about 4 sentences to me, 3 to my husband. We know nothing about him except his first name
We're skint so budget is about a fiver.

Unless inspiration hits he will have socks or sweets which does feel a bit pointless

Thanks Reastie. How are you doing?

worn out boots - chocolate seems very appropriate here! M and S had good offers last time I was in.

Thanks for the thread

Thanks for the thread, just got a few things left to buy

Thanks Reastie, reported the bot ^

Thanks, Reastie. I hope you're feeling better now.

I've reported too. Hopefully it'll be zapped soon.

Checking in - even though I'm totally done! Just need to get to the post office this week 📦

I am going to buy next years advent calendar in the sale, little one will be nearly 2 next Christmas. Which would you recommend, happy land advent calendar, playmobil farm/forest or one of the toot toot ones? Or any other recommendations? Thanks all!

New thread!

I think I'm done but sure you can all tempt me with must have items, if only for myself!

Thanks reastie. I am done really but the title drew me back in

Nearly 2 - I would go happy land.

for a fiver you could buy a cheap bottle of wine

15!!

Thanks Reastie 😁

Thanks for the new thread @Reastie

@ChristmasDaydreams I would also go with the Happyland advent calendar. My two year old loves his.

Still on the look out for nerf laser guns reduced. I've finally found a bike I like for Ds1 birthday (Christmas Eve) and it's out of stock . Hoping it comes back in by the end of the week.

Tesco had some £50 note chocolate for £1 in store which could make a great token gift for SIL bloke.