I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for dwelling decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method could take a little bit longer, I feel it’s effectively price 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 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. It will make it easier to keep centered on the issues that may really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely change into further 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 think about a Pinterest board a “listing” as effectively, so for those who’re a visible particular person, which may give you the results you want too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re almost certainly 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 may discover one thing actually particular and need to dig a little bit deeper. Take a little bit extra time on this re-evaluation, as a result of generally you may miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your method by 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 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 wished?
I’ve come throughout so many nice issues whereas thrifting and antiquing, however lots of them have been gadgets 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 for those who 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 need to deliver dwelling. I typically wish 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 a retailer and rapidly browse one particular part. Both method, consistency is vital in relation to 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 dwelling. That’s okay. You’ll discover the gadgets in your listing whenever you discover them—you’ll be able to’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are concerning the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that may deliver persona and character to my dwelling or wardrobe. And once I discover one thing I really like, it’s effectively well worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Convey one thing to donate whenever you go.
For those who’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, benefit from your journey and produce 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 by aisles and aisles of products requires power, and it will likely be a way more pleasant expertise for those who’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 at present studying learn how to play tennis and is eternally testing the boundaries of her inventive muscle. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
