Couponing

Last fall I went to a class in Relief Society on how to use coupons. I was so excited because I was going to save all kinds of money. I went home and organized my coupons the way I was taught. I went on the web site to check the ads and get the coupons that went with them. I did everything just the way I was taught. Well, maybe not everything. I only have one Sunday newspaper instead of four. I have found, however, that I am not saving any money. I have been trying to coupon since October and it just does not work for me. I think part of the reason it is not working is because the things that there are coupons for are not the things are normally buy. I do not want to start changing how I cook, etc. Also, if there is a coupon for something I do want, another brand is usually cheaper than the brand from the coupon. I use a few coupons when I shop but I am probably only saving $1 to $2 each time. Is it worth my time, effort, etc. to coupon? What are some tricks that you have found to help you save money at the store? I have always shopped the ads and have bought bulk of items I will always use. Today I bought a few cases at Smith's from their case lot sale. Any suggestions?