Make way for Common Core Math.

I spent the past week planning for a new Math curriculum.  I am very excited to implement what we planned.  Now to find all the manipulative and supplies we will need.  This calls for me to be creative.  

our first module is place value.  We need to order place value disk.  The problem is cost.  I did find a deal on eBay, but here is my creativity...

This is what I need.  This is a set that will work for two students.  So, 31.46 x 5 sets.  Seeing a Dilemma here, I came up with this DIY project 

I can get 7 different color and make my own.  I have even found another seller that will sell them for 5.00 each color to save even more money.  

How do you save money when it comes to your projects?