Coupon clipping should not become a lost art. It’s still a major part of my grocery shopping ritual. Sure, you have to sit there and either cut or print them out, but think of some extra money in your pocket.

I’ve been coupon clipping for years now. It’s been a matter of tweaking how I do it, but I can manage to save at least $6 every weekend shopping trip. Who doesn’t want even that amount back in their account?

There was a time when I also thought I didn’t have the time to coupon clip. That changed after kids came, and costs skyrocketed. Trying to save money became a no-brainer. And to this day, it still is a priority before I go shopping.  So here are some of my personal tips that I have adopted for coupon clipping to be an effective way of saving money at the store.  Click here.

For starters, I only cut out coupons for what I know I will use at some point. My coupon clipping method is not one for buying whatever is on sale. One thing to make clear. I am not an extreme clipper like some out there. My method is for those like myself, who have particular brands they like to use and use them only. It also pays to sometimes shop at stores that offer double coupons. For instance, a 25 cent one becomes 50 cents off one. Many retailers will double up to 99 cents. That can be a good deal. However, keep in mind that some stores with higher overheads have their own cards and won’t let you use coupons on items they have for sale. This is where you have to make wise choices.

I prefer to shop at stores where the prices are already saving me money. I may not get a double deal, but if I have a coupon for a $1.00 off, well I’m already saving just for shopping in that store. And if you shop where you can buy both groceries and dry goods, you might put more back in your pocketbook. Another trap not to fall into, is the buy 2 get this much off deal. If like me, and you’re trying to save dollars in general, consider what the buy 2 item is initially. Example, if you need detergent, which already costs up to $10 for 160 loads size, $1.00 off of $20 is not saving you anything. You’re still putting $9 more on your bill. Just buy the one and skip the coupon.

Also be a little weary of 20 cents for such items as toilet paper, etc..No great bargain here since toilet paper is not that cheap anyway. Still, if it makes you happy, then go ahead. However, I do encourage buying multiple things when you have a coupon for $1.50 or $2.00 off. I find these deals often.

One last thing about coupons. I’m sure many women are aware that big name department stores use them to lure you in for their big sales. Macy’s, Kohl’s and J.C Penney have done it for years now, as does Ulta and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Go on and clip away. Why leave your money in the store, if you really have another choice!