I’ve personally never bought anything from these shows, but you can’t help but love to watch them for their comedic value.

I am amazed, though, at how many celebrities tend to go on and sell stuff and sometimes the “teaser” makes it sound like it’s going to be an in depth interview.

I wouldn’t watch as long as you did. I’m afraid I might buy something.

But while I would hate to see my in-laws’ credit card bill, I’ve changed my tune quite a bit. I’ve been the lucky recipient of many items purchased on these networks - the quality is quite good, and the prices often are fantastic. I have bought a few things myself, but a few - the key, as with all shopping is discipline.

One particular bargain that comes to mind is a set of 40 gift bags including matching tissue paper that I purchased a while ago. I generally save any gift bag we receive that is in good enough condition to be re-used; however, I’d discovered that my supply was low and I infinitely prefer having a bunch on hand so that I don’t have to make a last-minute dash to a store and spend more than necessary. While channel-surfing, I saw that QVC was selling the gift bag set and that the price worked out to less than $1 per bag, including S&H. The bags are of good quality and I’m happy I bought them - although I would have paid the same price for fewer bags of more sizes. (I realize I can just use gift wrap, which is cheapest of all, but that doesn’t really work for a gift composed of several different pieces.)