I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for house decor, furnishings, clothes, children’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method could take just a little longer, I believe 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.
In the present day 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 an inventory written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This can enable you to keep centered on the issues that can really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that can solely develop into further litter. 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 think about a Pinterest board a “listing” as effectively, so in the event 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 almost definitely 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 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-examination, as a result of generally you may 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 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 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 lots of them had been gadgets I didn’t really need in the mean time. Whereas the cheaper price factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the fact is that in the event 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 frequently 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 convey house. I typically 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 by 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 gadgets in your listing while you discover them—you possibly can’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are in regards to the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that can convey persona and character to my house or wardrobe. And once I discover one thing I really like, it’s effectively well worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Deliver one thing to donate while you go.
Should 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 definitely not least: Should 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 it will likely be a way more pleasing expertise in the event 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 presently studying play tennis and is eternally testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Comply with her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.