I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for dwelling decor, furnishings, clothes, children’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method could take a bit of longer, I believe 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.
Immediately 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 keep centered on the issues that may truly 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 contemplate a Pinterest board a “listing” as nicely, so if you happen to’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 most 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 assume you would possibly discover one thing actually particular and need 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 method via 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 dwelling?
- 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 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 intervening time. Whereas the lower cost factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the fact is that if you happen to don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll in all probability find yourself with some belongings you don’t truly use.
4. Be constant.
The extra recurrently 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 dwelling. I usually wish 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 via a retailer and rapidly browse one particular part. Both method, consistency is essential on the subject of thrift and vintage purchasing.
5. Settle for the method.
Generally after I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to convey dwelling. That’s okay. You’ll discover the gadgets in your listing 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 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. Carry one thing to donate if you go.
For those who’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 actually not least: For those who may help it, by no means go thrifting or antiquing on an empty abdomen (or thirsty, for that matter). Sifting via aisles and aisles of products requires power, and it is going to be a way more satisfying expertise if you happen to’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 the right way to play tennis and is eternally testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
