Thrifting for home décor is not only a budget-friendly way to spruce up your space, but it can also be an exciting adventure. Discovering unique and one-of-a-kind treasures that add character to your home is the ultimate thrill for any design enthusiast. We’ve got you covered if you’re new to thrifting or simply looking to up your game. This article will share expert tips to help you master the art of thrifting for home décor.
From finding the best thrift stores in your area to knowing what to look for and how to negotiate prices, we will delve into all aspects of successful thrifting. We’ll also share insider secrets on identifying quality items, repurposing vintage pieces, and incorporating them into your existing décor.
Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a beginner, this post may equip you with the knowledge and strategies to maximize your thrifting adventures. Get ready to transform your home with unique and affordable finds as we discuss some tips for mastering the art of thrifting for home décor.
The benefits of thrifting for home décor
Thrifting for home décor offers numerous benefits that go beyond just saving money. One of the most significant advantages is finding unique pieces you won’t find in mass-produced stores. Thrift stores are often filled with vintage and antique items that can add a touch of history and charm to your home. Also, thrifting is environmentally friendly as it reduces waste and promotes recycling.
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” - Robert Swan, Author
Another benefit of thrifting for home décor is the ability to create a personalized and eclectic style. Mixing and matching thrifted items with new pieces allows you to create a space that reflects your individuality and tells a story. Thrifted items often have a sense of character and craftsmanship that can’t be found in mass-produced items, giving your home a distinct and curated look.
Below, and as an example, our E&I team incorporates many thrifted items into our homes’ decor.
While mastering the art of thrifting takes time and involves some attention to detail, it is a fun and easy activity to do with friends and family. For example, me and my sisters went thrifting this past weekend. We found some fantastic finds, the best being this 72-inch round table that Roxy snagged for just $50! Isn’t she a lovely table? She will fit perfectly into Roxy’s warm, Modern Farmhouse home.
To get started, stop by your local thrift store. As you sift through the items, have an open mind to how some things could be revived with care and love. Perhaps they can start over in your home. The benefits of thrifting reach far beyond your home and into the environment around you by reusing items, thereby reducing waste.
How to find the best thrift stores in your area
Finding the best thrift stores in your area is essential for successful thrifting. Start by doing some research online. Websites like Yelp and Google Maps can provide a list of thrift stores near you, along with reviews and ratings from previous customers. Please pay attention to the stores that consistently receive positive feedback for their selection and prices.
In addition to online research, don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask friends, family, and colleagues if they have any favorite thrift stores they would recommend. Personal recommendations can often lead you to hidden gems that may not show up in online searches.
Once you have a list of potential thrift stores, plan a visit to each one. Take note of the store’s organization, cleanliness, and overall vibe. A well-organized thrift store with a wide variety of items is a good sign that you’ll have a successful shopping experience.
Our favorite thrift stores are the smaller mom-and-pop type thrift stores. We frequent a few local faith-based thrift stores and find that they often have treasure troves of sweet items. These places are also great for finding (vintage) books -if you are a book collector.
Also, don’t forget about auctions, either online or in-person. Again, Google local auctions -or even larger online forums such as Facebook Marketplace. Finding a routine where you frequent your favorite thrift stores may allow you a greater chance to see some hidden treasures. Also, sticking with a schedule -say every Saturday with your sister, will help you master the art of thrifting. By thrifting regularly, you will start to learn the value of items. Plus, you will find things you LOVE, which are always a must to keep. You will find a spot for them.
Mastering the art of thrifting at the thrift store
Thrifting can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re faced with rows and rows of items to sift through. However, you can navigate thrift stores like a pro with a few tips and tricks. Blesser House encourages you to come prepared with a list of desired items. This will help you stay focused and avoid being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices. It is also good to familiarize yourself with the things you seek -or even those you may encounter.
A good tool you can access is the Google Picture icon. Use that to take a picture of the item and see what the value may be.
You may love an item regardless of whether it holds value, which is okay -that makes thrifting so fulfilling. Recently, while thrifting with the E&I crew (my sisters), we came across floral dishes similar to some our mother used to have, so we bought them. The dishes are now displayed in a curio cabinet, a family heirloom @carlanderson_home.
When it comes to actually browsing through the items, take your time and be patient. Thrift stores are treasure troves, and the best finds are often hidden among the less desirable ones. This article by The Spruce gives excellent advice for finding the best roundup for thrifted gems. Look beyond initial appearances and consider the potential of items. A coat of paint or a simple repair can transform an object into something special.
Understanding the art of negotiation and haggling
Mastering the art of thrifting sometimes involves negotiating and haggling. If you prefer to learn these skills, they can significantly benefit you when thrifting for home décor. While not all thrift stores may be open to negotiation, many are willing to lower prices, especially if an item has been sitting on the shelf for a while. Before you start negotiating, knowing what the thing is worth and what you’re willing to pay for it is crucial. This can be an essential step in mastering the art of thrifting.
When negotiating, be respectful and polite. Start by asking if the price is negotiable and if the answer is yes, make a reasonable offer. It’s important to remember that thrift stores often have limited funds for charitable causes, so be mindful of this when negotiating. If a store isn’t willing to budge on the price, don’t take it personally and move on to the next item.
Cleaning and restoring thrifted home décor items
Once you’ve found your perfect thrifted treasures, it’s time to give them some love and care. Thrifted items may need a thorough cleaning or restoration before they can be proudly displayed in your home. Before starting any cleaning or restoration process, it’s essential to research the best methods for each specific item.
For smaller items such as vases or picture frames, a gentle scrub with warm, soapy water and a soft brush can do the trick. A deeper cleaning or restoration may be necessary for more oversized items like furniture. Depending on the piece’s condition, this could involve sanding, painting, or reupholstering. Cleaning and repairing some of your vintage finds is essential to mastering the art of thrifting.
DIY projects using thrifted items
Thrifting opens up a world of possibilities for DIY projects. With creativity and essential tools, you can transform thrifted items into unique and personalized pieces for your home. One popular DIY project is upcycling old furniture. A fresh coat of paint and new hardware can transform a dated dresser or table into a stylish and modern statement piece.
Another idea is to repurpose thrifted items for different uses. For example, an old ladder can be turned into a bookshelf, and vintage suitcases can be stacked to create a unique side table.
Above, the photo on the left features a repurposed TV stand that is now a double-side dog crate for our pugs—the picture on the right (and below) features matching bedside table(s) that once made up a makeup vanity. The endless possibilities and DIY projects allow you to unleash your creativity while saving money.
Decorating ideas for different rooms using thrifted items
Now that you’ve mastered the art of thrifting and have a collection of unique items, it’s time to incorporate them into your existing home décor. Thrifted items can add character and charm to any room in your home. Consider using vintage artwork or unique accent chairs in the living room to create a cozy and eclectic space. Elle Hervin @elle_the_home_bird is a pro at mixing vintage with newer and existing finishings.
In the kitchen, thrifted dishes and glassware can add a touch of nostalgia to your dining experience. Look for vintage plates, teacups, and serving trays to create a unique table setting. Thrifted textiles such as blankets, pillows, and curtains can add a cozy and bohemian touch to the bedroom.
How to master the art of thrifting and incorporate thrifted items into your existing home décor style.
Incorporating thrifted items into your existing home décor style is about balance and cohesion. While thrifted items can add a unique touch, ensuring they complement your existing furniture and décor is vital. One way to achieve this is by sticking to a color palette or theme. E&I founder (and sister) Dawn Moon from @dawnmoonhome does this better than anyone! She marries her style using a neutral color palette and sticking to a City Farmhouse feel.
For example, if your home has a modern and minimalist style, look for thrifted items with clean lines and simple designs. If your style is more eclectic and bohemian, embrace a mix of patterns, textures, and colors. By finding a balance between thrifted and new items, you can create a space that feels curated and cohesive. Mastering the art of thrifting involves mixing vintage pieces with your existing home decor.
Here are some final tips for mastering the art of thrifting for home décor
Thrifting for home décor is a budget-friendly option and an exciting and rewarding way to decorate your space. Following these expert tips, you can confidently navigate thrift stores and discover unique treasures that add character to your home. Remember to be patient, open-minded, and always willing to negotiate.
As you continue your thrifting journey, don’t forget to have fun and let your creativity shine. Embrace the art of repurposing and DIY projects to transform thrifted items into personalized pieces that reflect your style. With a bit of practice and a keen eye, you’ll become a master of the art of thrifting for home décor in no time.
Happy thrifting!
Leave a Reply