cheap or DIY studio props

Looking to make or purchase inexpensive studio prop items because I have nothing except for two cheapy stools I bought in Walmart.

What I'm looking for (but not limited to):

1) solid boxes for standing or sitting on...various sizes so each size box fits inside the next size up for easy storage...

2) posing tables for seated subjects...and different materials to cover them with...all I can think of for now are snack tables.

3) items for posing kids on the floor...not sure what works

4) items for posing infants (on their tummies, on their backs) that cannot sit upright on their own yet

5) any other unique inexpensive props you own and could recommend would be appreciated

Other than Walmart I live close to the following stores that may have items of interest: Target, Home Depot, Lowes, Michaels Crafts, Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohls, Babies R Us, Toys R Us, Sears, and many furniture stores.

always check CL for people closing down their studio. its a great way to get cheap props, stools, chairs, etc.

there is a guy in northern NJ that posted about closing his studio about a week ago.

You might find something in this eBay section...

http://photography.sho​p.ebay.com …n=1&_trksid=p32​86.c0.m282

I have found props and various things to shoot or shoot with in some thrift stores such as Amvets or Goodwill...

Vintage stores and antique stores.

Ross and TJ Maxx and the like. Those places are the stuff of a man's nightmare, but you can sometimes find some interesting things if you're willing to brave their depths.

I'm developing my skill at pinup-style shooting, so vintage/antique stores are a boon.
- old bright red suitcase, reinforced it inside so a model can sit on it or lean on it.
- vintage "Mixette" electric hand mixer, stripped it and repainted it a nice teal-blue. It works, but it doesn't have to. Fun for kitchen poses, oops you got a little whipped cream on ya.
- 60's-era sitting room chair, end table, and ashtray. The chair goes in my den with a slipcover when I'm not using it on a shoot, it's comfy.
- Currently looking for a vintage-style fan, if I can get one that works, even better for blowing a skirt or hair around.

Antique stores are great but sometimes items that are considered to be antiques can carry a hefty price.

Garage sales, flea markets, local For Sale ads, craigslist are good resources.