Dear Vice Column,
I'm a 30-year-old artist who loves to splurge on fancy art supplies and equipment. But now I'm struggling to make ends meet and need to start budgeting better. I also have a weakness for gourmet coffee, and I spend over $100 a month on artisanal brews.
- Coffee-Addicted Artist
Hey there Coffee-Addicted Artist,
As an artist, it's easy to get carried away with purchasing the latest and greatest art supplies, but it's important to remember that these expenses can add up quickly.
The first step to better budgeting is to track your spending. Write down all of your expenses, including those fancy art supplies and gourmet coffee runs. Seeing where your money is going can help you identify areas where you can cut back.
When it comes to your art supplies, try to make do with what you have. Get creative with your materials and find ways to repurpose items you already own. You might even discover some new techniques and styles along the way. If you do need to purchase new supplies, try shopping at discount art supply stores, purchasing used items online or checking out your local Buy Nothing group.
As for your coffee addiction, consider brewing your own coffee and roasting your own beans at home. You can purchase green coffee beans online for a fraction of the cost of store bought beans, and then roast them at home using a popcorn maker or an air fryer to start, or a dedicated coffee roaster if it's something you want to stick with. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have the opportunity to experiment with different roast levels and flavor profiles to make your own artisanal coffee.
Remember, budgeting takes time and practice, so don't get discouraged if you slip up occasionally. And don't worry, you can still treat yourself to a fancy coffee every once in a while, just make sure it's within your budget.