Successful Thrifting
“Thrifting” can mean hitting garage sales on the weekend, going to estate sales and flea markets, or even going through your parents’ or your own basement or garage. For the purpose of this blog, we’ll narrow the definition to thrifting in an actual thrift store. And we’ll focus on my favorite kind of thrifting, successful thrifting. Throughout this post, I’ll share some photos of some of my recent thrift store finds. Now, let’s get to it, shall we?
1. Research in advance. Determine what items you’re looking for and hit the internet to learn which thrift stores in your vicinity should make your short list. Obviously, the inventory in most thrift stores changes frequently. This is one of the reasons I love them. However, it’s to your benefit to know, for instance, if a smaller store carries knick-knacks and clothing. In general, the bigger the store the bigger the variety, but many specialize in certain items, so it pays to do your homework in order to save time and, since time is money, money. Isn’t that a major reason we’re thrifting to begin with?
I paid 4.99 apiece for these candle holders. I gave them an antiqued white finish with supplies I already had. Not too shabby!
2. Take the big car. Sometimes you’re out and about when inspiration strikes, and your car seems to miraculously find its way to a thrift store. How does that happen? More often though you go thrifting with intent. So, when you want to make a thrifting run don’t forget the big car! If you have two vehicles and one is even marginally bigger, given the option take the bigger car. There is nothing more frustrating than to fall in love with a piece that… Just. Doesn’t. Quite. Fit. That frustration multiplies if an even slightly bigger car is sitting at home in your driveway. You know it will mock you on your return. Bonus tip: keep your trunk stocked with big drop cloths or blankets to reduce the risk of damage to your car. Especially if you thrift on a semi-regular basis, you will prevent a fair amount of wear and tear.
3. Pick your price. While prices in thrift stores may be a bargain, occasionally…not so much. Avoid the hand-wringing and second-guessing by determining how much you’re willing to pay for that perfect hamper that you need for your laundry nook. Paying attention to discount store prices will help you understand how much you’re willing to pay. Also, don’t be afraid to ask if the store will go lower on price. For bigger items especially—think used furniture—store owners—think mom-n-pop shops—may be more than happy to drop a price to move merchandise. Pointing out damage can give leverage, and it doesn’t hurt to ask them how long a piece has been around (this may remind them that a sale in the hand beats a future sale in the bush – or something like that).
Some old cabinet doors as wall art? Sure, why not? The doors were free and I probably used under $5.00 in supplies.
4. Consider your commitment. It’s common to experience fear of commitment. Y’know, the item looks so cute in the shop. It shouldn’t take that long to restore it and make it cute, right? But then comes a weekend or two of spending the necessary hours of free time sanding and treating that potential cute item—well, let’s just say your enthusiasm may fade. In most cases the price of an object is directly correlated to how much TLC is involved to fix it up. My advice here is trust your gut. If you absolutely love an item and it fills a special niche in your soul, then go for it. The work will be well worth it.
I needed some extra storage in my office…Under $10 all in (including the spray paint)!
5. Grab that tape! This tip is closely related to “Take the big car.” There’s nothing more infuriating than finding a great something only to get it out to your car and you realize it won’t quite fit. It’s a great idea to know your car dimensions ahead of time and keep them in your phone for easy reference. If there’s a question, measure the item in the store before you buy it. And for the love of all things holy, make sure it will fit through any hallways, stairs, doorways, and within the space where it is to live. This tip, unfortunately for me, was learned the hard way.
These tips aren’t rocket science, but they are plenty impactful and being reminded of them may make you next thrifting outing a big success. Wondering what an example of great thrifting success might be? Not to boast, but here’s a recent conquest that I snagged for $5.99. I wish you much success finding great finds like this one!
She’s in need of some love for sure, but c’mon, $5.99!
Stay tuned for the blog where I share the process of turning this $5.99 find into some special!
Now, what will you do next to love where you live?
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