I always see posts about things people really like and want to recomend to others but I figured I'd start one on what you DON'T need to buy. Or even things to flat out avoid. Might be to save a few bucks. Might be because something doesn't really work. Or maybe because you can make your own.... Here are a couple.
1.
"Hunter" type soaps/laundry detergent. Just buy the sensitive skin laundry soaps made by almost every company who makes laundry soap. Costs a LOT less and works better. Same goes for bath soap.
2.
Fur string silencers (the little two packs). Look for an old fur coat or collar at antique stores or yard sales and cut your own. You can also use yarn, old rubber bass plug skirts, a piece of flannel etc.
3.
True Center Taper Tool. This one falls partly into the things to avoid category. I wasn't impressed at all and most other people I know weren't either. Some really like them though and a hand tool has it's place but a sanding disc on your table saw with a simple jig out does them all.
Well, I'll keep it short for now and see what you all come up with. Have fun. But please don't turn this into a gripe session. Feel free to say what you don't like but keep it polite.