I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for dwelling decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take a bit longer, I believe it’s effectively value the additional time and power. There are such a lot of high-quality, distinctive items to be found 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.
Right this moment I’m sharing my suggestions for procuring at thrift and vintage shops.
1. Know what you’re searching for.
It’s so useful to have an inventory written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This may assist you to keep centered on the issues that may truly add worth to your life and never get distracted by issues that may solely develop into further muddle. In my most up-to-date thrifting journey, I used to be particularly trying to find a brand new pair of denims and a white button-up shirt, which helped me hone in my search within the retailer. I take into account a Pinterest board a “listing” as effectively, so in case you’re a visible particular person, which may be just right for you too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re most certainly to seek out what’s in your listing. Add issues to your cart that catch your consideration. Then return to sure aisles the place you assume you would possibly discover one thing actually particular and wish to dig a bit deeper. Take a bit extra time on this re-evaluation, as a result of typically you would possibly miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your approach by the shop, edit down your cart and return something to the cabinets that you simply 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 dwelling?
- If it’s a chunk of clothes, how would this match into my on a regular basis outfits?
- Has this merchandise been on my listing for some time or is it one thing I solely simply now determined I wished?
I’ve come throughout so many nice issues whereas thrifting and antiquing, however a lot of them had been objects I didn’t really want in the intervening time. Whereas the cheaper price factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the truth is that in case you don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll most likely find yourself with some belongings you don’t truly use.
4. Be constant.
The extra repeatedly you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll develop into at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually wish to carry dwelling. I typically prefer to go to some 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 by a retailer and rapidly browse one particular part. Both approach, consistency is vital in the case of thrift and vintage procuring.
5. Settle for the method.
Generally once I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to carry dwelling. That’s okay. You’ll discover the objects in your listing once 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 may carry character and character to my dwelling or wardrobe. And once I discover one thing I like, it’s effectively well worth the effort and time that will have gone into the search.
6. Carry one thing to donate once you go.
In case 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 once you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however actually not least: In case you will help it, by no means go thrifting or antiquing on an empty abdomen (or thirsty, for that matter). Sifting by aisles and aisles of products requires power and will probably be a way more pleasurable expertise in case you’re satiated beforehand. Belief me on this.
These are a number of 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 at present studying to play the Ukulele, a lot to the despair of her husband, youngsters, and canine. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
