I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, children’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take somewhat 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.
Immediately I’m sharing my suggestions for purchasing at thrift and vintage shops.
1. Know what you’re in search of.
It’s so useful to have an inventory written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. It will enable you to keep centered on the issues that can truly add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that can solely turn out 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 “record” as properly, so if you happen to’re a visible individual, which may give you the results you want too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re more than likely to seek 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 wish to dig somewhat deeper. Take somewhat 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 approach 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 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 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 have been gadgets I didn’t really need for the time being. Whereas the cheaper price 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 usually 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 wish to deliver residence. I typically prefer to go to a couple shops in a single afternoon to profit from my time. On different events, I solely have fifteen minutes to spare, so I’ll bop via a retailer and shortly browse one particular part. Both approach, consistency is vital in the case of thrift and vintage purchasing.
5. Settle for the method.
Generally once I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to deliver residence. That’s okay. You’ll discover the gadgets in your record whenever 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 deliver character and character to my residence or wardrobe. And once I discover one thing I like, it’s properly well worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Carry one thing to donate whenever you go.
For those who’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, profit from your journey and convey one thing (or a few issues) to donate whenever you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however definitely not least: For those who may also 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 vitality, and will probably be a way more pleasing expertise if you happen to’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 the moment studying learn how to play tennis and is perpetually testing the boundaries of her artistic muscle. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
