I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for dwelling decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take just a little longer, I feel it’s nicely 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 ideas for purchasing at thrift and vintage shops.
1. Know what you’re searching for.
It’s so useful to have a listing written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This can assist you keep targeted on the issues that may really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely change into additional litter. 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 contemplate a Pinterest board a “record” as nicely, so when you’re a visible particular person, that may give you the results you want too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re almost definitely to search 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 just a little deeper. Take just a little extra time on this re-assessment, as a result of generally you may 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 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 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 record 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 objects I didn’t really need in the intervening time. Whereas the lower cost factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the truth is that when you don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll most likely find yourself with some belongings you don’t really use.
4. Be constant.
The extra repeatedly you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll change into at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually wish to convey dwelling. I usually 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 way of a retailer and shortly browse one particular part. Both means, consistency is necessary 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 dwelling. That’s okay. You’ll discover the objects in your record 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 persona and character to my dwelling or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I like, it’s nicely definitely worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Deliver one thing to donate if you go.
In the event 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 if you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however definitely not least: In the event you 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 power, and will probably be a way more pleasant expertise when 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 tips on how to play tennis and is perpetually testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Comply with her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
