I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, youngsters’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take a bit longer, I believe it’s properly price the additional time and vitality. 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.
As we speak 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 a listing written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This may aid you keep targeted on the issues that may really add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely develop into 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 “checklist” as properly, so if you happen to’re a visible individual, 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 seek out what’s in your checklist. 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 wish to dig a bit deeper. Take a bit extra time on this re-examination, as a result of generally you may 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 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 checklist 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 objects I didn’t really need in the meanwhile. 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 really use.
4. Be constant.
The extra usually you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll develop into at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually wish to convey residence. I usually prefer to go to a couple 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 shortly browse one particular part. Both method, consistency is necessary in relation to thrift and vintage procuring.
5. Settle for the method.
Typically once I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to convey residence. That’s okay. You’ll discover the objects in your checklist if 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 convey 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 that will have gone into the search.
6. Convey one thing to donate if you go.
In case 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 case you can assist 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 pleasant expertise if you happen to’re satiated beforehand. Belief me on this.
These are a couple 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 presently studying methods to play tennis and is ceaselessly testing the boundaries of her inventive muscle. Comply with her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
