I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for house decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method could take just a little longer, I feel it’s effectively value the additional time and power. There are such a lot of high-quality, distinctive items to be discovered secondhand.
Over time, I’ve developed a go-to course of that helps me navigate the world of thrifting and antiquing with extra ease and intention.
At the moment I’m sharing my suggestions for purchasing at thrift and vintage shops.
1. Know what you’re on the lookout for.
It’s so useful to have a listing written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This can assist you keep targeted on the issues that can really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that can solely turn into additional litter. In my most up-to-date thrifting journey, I used to be particularly looking for a brand new pair of denims and a white button-up shirt, which helped me hone in my search within the retailer. I think about a Pinterest board a “record” as effectively, so should you’re a visible individual, which may be just right for you too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re most probably to seek out what’s in your record. Add issues to your cart that catch your consideration. Then return to sure aisles the place you suppose you may discover one thing actually particular and wish to dig just a little deeper. Take just a little extra time on this re-assessment, as a result of typically you may miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your manner via the shop, edit down your cart and return something to the cabinets that you just don’t actually want/need. Ask your self a few questions and get particular in your solutions.
- The place would I show or retailer this merchandise in my house?
- If it’s a chunk of clothes, how would this match into my on a regular basis outfits?
- Has this merchandise been on my record for some time, or is it one thing I solely simply now determined I needed?
I’ve come throughout so many nice issues whereas thrifting and antiquing, however lots of them have been gadgets I didn’t really want in the meanwhile. Whereas the cheaper price factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the fact is that should you don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll most likely find yourself with some belongings you don’t really use.
4. Be constant.
The extra frequently you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll turn into at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually wish to deliver house. I usually wish to go to a couple shops in a single afternoon to take advantage of my time. On different events, I solely have fifteen minutes to spare, so I’ll bop via a retailer and shortly browse one particular part. Both manner, consistency is necessary on the subject of thrift and vintage purchasing.
5. Settle for the method.
Typically after I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to deliver house. That’s okay. You’ll discover the gadgets in your record while you discover them—you possibly can’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are concerning the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that can deliver character and character to my house or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I like, it’s effectively definitely worth the effort and time that will have gone into the search.
6. Convey one thing to donate while you go.
When you’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, take advantage of your journey and produce one thing (or a few issues) to donate while you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however actually not least: When you can assist it, by no means go thrifting or antiquing on an empty abdomen (or thirsty, for that matter). Sifting via aisles and aisles of products requires power, and it is going to be a way more pleasant expertise should you’re satiated beforehand. Belief me on this.
These are just a few of my favourite native spots to go to:
- Goodwill: Roseville, White Bear Lake, Arden Hills
- Savers: Columbia Heights, Woodbury
- Missouri Mouse Antiques
- Artwork & Structure
- H&B Gallery Antiques
Kate is the founding father of Wit & Delight. She is at present studying methods to play tennis and is ceaselessly testing the boundaries of her inventive muscle. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
