I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for house decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method could take a bit longer, I believe it’s effectively price the additional time and vitality. 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.
Right now I’m sharing my ideas 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 enable you to keep targeted on the issues that may really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely turn into further muddle. 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 take into account 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 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 a bit deeper. Take a bit extra time on this re-evaluation, as a result of typically you may miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your approach by way of the shop, edit down your cart and return something to the cabinets that you just don’t really 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 bit 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 a lot of them have been objects I didn’t really want for the time being. Whereas the lower cost factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the truth is that should you don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll in all probability find yourself with some belongings you don’t really use.
4. Be constant.
The extra commonly 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 convey house. I typically prefer to go to a couple shops in a single afternoon to profit from my time. On different events, I solely have fifteen minutes to spare, so I’ll bop by way of a retailer and shortly browse one particular part. Both approach, consistency is essential in the case of thrift and vintage purchasing.
5. Settle for the method.
Typically once I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to convey house. That’s okay. You’ll discover the objects in your record while you discover them—you may’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are in regards to the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that may convey character and character to my house or wardrobe. And once I discover one thing I like, it’s effectively well worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Carry one thing to donate while you go.
If you happen to’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, profit from your journey and convey one thing (or a few issues) to donate while you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however definitely not least: If you happen to may also help it, by no means go thrifting or antiquing on an empty abdomen (or thirsty, for that matter). Sifting by way of aisles and aisles of products requires vitality, and it is going to be a way more pleasant expertise should you’re satiated beforehand. Belief me on this.
These are a couple 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 the founding father of Wit & Delight. She is presently studying methods to play tennis and is ceaselessly testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Comply with her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
