scrape together
Collect with difficulty
To scrape together is to gather something—usually money or resources—with difficulty, assembling it from various sources or through considerable effort: We scraped together enough for a down payment.
The image suggests collecting scattered bits, like scraping crumbs from a surface.
Also *scrape up*.
- scroungeObtain through begging
- rustle upInformally prepare or gather
- collectBring items together
- cobbleWorn stone for paths
- gleanCollect in small increments
salvage · makeshift · last resort · raise · eke out · bare minimum · pinch pennies · nickel and dime · jury-rig · improvise · hustle · frugal · tight budget · scare up · scavenge · make do · accumulate · procure