I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take a bit longer, I believe it’s properly price 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 this time I’m sharing my suggestions for purchasing 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. It will assist you to keep targeted on the issues that may really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely grow to be 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 “checklist” as properly, so in case you’re a visible individual, that may give you the results you want too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re most certainly to search out what’s in your checklist. Add issues to your cart that catch your consideration. Then return to sure aisles the place you suppose you would possibly discover one thing actually particular and need to dig a bit deeper. Take a bit extra time on this re-evaluation, as a result of generally you would possibly miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your method by means of 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 residence?
- If it’s a bit of clothes, how would this match into my on a regular basis outfits?
- Has this merchandise been on my checklist 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 want in the intervening time. Whereas the lower cost factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the fact is that in case you don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll most likely find yourself with some stuff you don’t really use.
4. Be constant.
The extra commonly you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll grow to be at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually need to convey residence. I usually prefer to go to some shops in a single afternoon to benefit from my time. On different events, I solely have fifteen minutes to spare, so I’ll bop by means of a retailer and rapidly browse one particular part. Both method, consistency is vital in terms 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 convey residence. That’s okay. You’ll discover the gadgets in your checklist if 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 convey character and character to my residence or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I like, it’s properly well worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Convey one thing to donate if you go.
When you’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, benefit from your journey and convey one thing (or a few issues) to donate if 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 by means of aisles and aisles of products requires power, and it will likely be a way more gratifying expertise in case 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 the moment studying find out how to play tennis and is endlessly testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Comply with her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
