I don’t find a gem every time I go thrift shopping or scour Craigslist. But, I do a lot of the time. I wouldn’t say I’m extra lucky; I’d just say I’m pretty open minded. In fact, my number one tip to shopping for secondhand furniture and accessories is to trust your instincts and consider everything—even if it’s not necessarily your thing.
There’s a reason so many people shop secondhand now. One—it’s fun to hunt (or at least I think it is!). Two—there’s freedom in finding a deal on something that you can pull apart, repaint or experiment with in your home. And, three—you can find things you’ll never come across in the aisles of Target or TJMaxx. (It could be the piece that makes your entire room.)
When I’m shopping secondhand, the thrill is going in with no plan whatsoever. I’m almost never shopping with a specific thing in mind or even a particular style. I just like to wander the aisles (or browse online) to see what jumps out at me. Then, I mentally weigh the asking price against the work involved to revamp it (if needed) or if I can resell it later—should I get it home and it’s all wrong. . .
I’m sharing more tips for finding the best stuff when you’re secondhand shopping over on Better Homes & Gardens.
What’s your shopping strategy?
yettie says
February 1, 2016 at 1:39 pmMy history with shopping thrift stores has been in stops and spurts. I’m going through another spurt right now and learning to be more deliberate (eg knowing the size of a picture I need to fill a certain portion of the wall)
Jess says
February 1, 2016 at 2:41 pmI’m new to smartphone, but there are two ads in the middle of your post and 1 pop-up at the bottom. Is that supposed to happen? Mucinex, cool sculpting and cepacol. Maybe it’s some thing im allowing ony phone unknowingly, but if its on your end, I wanted you to know (BC I remember this happening o another blogger once and she didn’t know.)
Roxane Stay says
February 1, 2016 at 3:36 pmI found a small oval brass and glass coffee table at a consignment shop! There was one there that I wanted but it had sold already. I thought about the brass and glass one and went back to buy it. It is better than the first one and looks a lot like one that is in a Pottery Barn catalog only for a lot cheaper! I like the tip about keeping an open mind.
Amy says
February 1, 2016 at 4:52 pmIf it’s a small accessory and it speaks to me immediately — I get it. One of my favorite little tchotchkes is a little shriner man that someone painted in ceramics class. Across the base, it says “Nobleman Ray.” I have no explanation for why I had to have him, but he’s perfect in our funky, eclectic game room and everyone asks about him. Cost me a whole fifty cents! If it’s a piece of furniture, I do not allow myself to get it unless I know I have a place for it. I’ve picked up too many awesome, affordable pieces that just wound up never finding a home.
Lisa says
February 1, 2016 at 7:09 pmI’d love to know where you shop in our area.
Emily Clark says
February 2, 2016 at 2:22 pmI usually stick to Habitat ReStore and Goodwill. When I get to go, I like Sleepy Poet and Slate and am eager to check out Dress My Room Interiors’ new shop.
Mary says
February 1, 2016 at 9:49 pmYou are so right about keeping an open mind while shopping. I’ve found my best items when I wasn’t looking for them.
Kinda like how I met my husband. I certainly wasn’t looking. Ha!
You won't believe this State Farm says
February 2, 2016 at 2:15 amall are beautiful designs… very refreshing
Maggie @Maggie Overby Studios says
February 2, 2016 at 6:30 amSecond hand is my favorite! With the exception of mattresses and large upholstery pretty much my entire house is second hand. An open mind is definitely key, I’m usually willing to change my entire plan for a room if I find the perfect bargain.
Emily Clark says
February 2, 2016 at 7:02 amI’m with you on mattresses. Not so open minded there :)