I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, children’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take a bit of longer, I feel it’s properly price the additional time and vitality. 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 now 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. This can show you how to keep centered on the issues that can truly add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that can solely turn into additional 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 properly, so for those who’re a visible particular person, that 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 listing. 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 wish to dig a bit of deeper. Take a bit of 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 means by way of 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 residence?
- 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 needed?
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 meanwhile. Whereas the lower cost factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the truth is that for those who don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll most likely find yourself with some stuff you don’t truly use.
4. Be constant.
The extra recurrently 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 residence. I usually prefer to go to a couple 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 way of a retailer and shortly browse one particular part. Both means, consistency is vital in the case 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 listing while you discover them—you’ll be able to’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are in regards to the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that can convey character and character to my residence or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I really like, it’s properly definitely worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Convey one thing to donate while you go.
If you happen to’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, benefit from 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: If you happen to might 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 for those who’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 the founding father of Wit & Delight. She is at present studying play tennis and is eternally testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
