I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method could take a bit 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.
Immediately I’m sharing my ideas for procuring 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. It will make it easier to keep targeted on the issues that may truly add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely turn out to be 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 “record” as effectively, so in case you’re a visible individual, 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 search out what’s in your record. 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 deeper. Take a bit extra time on this re-assessment, as a result of typically you would possibly miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your approach 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 record 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 a lot of them have been objects I didn’t really want in the intervening time. Whereas the cheaper price factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the truth is that in case you 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 often you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll turn out to be at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually need to carry 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 way of a retailer and rapidly browse one particular part. Both approach, consistency is vital with regards to thrift and vintage procuring.
5. Settle for the method.
Generally after I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to carry residence. That’s okay. You’ll discover the objects in your record while you discover them—you may’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are concerning the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that may carry persona and character to my residence or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I like, it’s effectively definitely worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Carry one thing to donate while you go.
In case you’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, benefit from your journey and convey one thing (or a few issues) to donate while you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however definitely not least: In case you will 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 it is going to be a way more pleasing 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 presently studying play tennis and is ceaselessly testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
