How to Decorate With Thrift Store Finds

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A thrift store is the best place to find items with lots of character. You can often purchase antiques and even new items at a discount, so it’s a good way to shop on a budget if you’re looking for decor. Not sure where to begin? Here’s how to decorate with thrift store finds. 

Things to Consider When Looking for Decorations

Before you dive into your thrift shopping experience, you should have some idea of what you want. While browsing, ask yourself the following questions about any items you’re considering buying:

• Can you clean it up?: Sometimes, the things for sale at a thrift store have seen many years of use. You might be tempted to buy that cute, antique loveseat, but will you be able to remove the stains from the cushions or fix the leg that somebody’s dog used as a chew toy? Decide whether you have the time and resources to polish heavily worn items. 

• Is it sturdy?: If you’re planning to buy furniture, make sure it’s solid and well built. Look for chairs that don’t wobble and a bed frame that can hold your weight. 

• Does it match your sense of style?: This is more a matter of personal preference than a requirement. It might be fun to look for items that fit a certain theme, like a particular color scheme or time period. 

• Does it fit within your budget?: Have an idea of what you want to spend before you even enter the store. If you go in without any limitations, it can be hard to resist buying every cute china set or oil lamp you come across. 

Items to Hunt for at the Thrift Store

Ready to get started? Here are some great secondhand finds you can use to decorate your house. 

1. Dishes

Look for sets of ceramic plates, cutlery, matching teapots and cups, glassware and vases. Be aware that some antique dishes are best suited for only being decorations, since they can contain lead. 

2. Rugs

Thrift stores often sell nice rugs, whether used or new, at a discount. A large, colorful rug can really change a room’s appearance, making it feel more homey or comfortable. 

3. Tapestries and Curtains 

Try to find some that match the rug, or go for a complementary color. Be sure to give them a thorough wash since they could come from a home with pets or have a little dust on them. 

4. Mirrors

Mirrors can make a space look bigger and brighter. Plus, you can use them in pretty much every room in the house. 

5. Lamps

Antique oil lamps lend a rustic charm to any space. Or, pick up a standard floor or desk lamp to light up your bedroom and home office. 

6. Furniture

It’s much more affordable at a thrift store, and you can find some really great pieces. Some suggestions include:

• Bed frames

• Tables

• Dressers

• Chairs

• Couches

Don’t overlook pieces that have peeling paint or scuff marks. You can take them home, sand them and bring them to life with a new coat of varnish.

7. Books

Antique books often have nice covers and can make a beautiful accent on a coffee table or shelf. You may even find some you want to read. 

8. Knick Knacks and Collectibles

Popular thrift store finds include cookie jars, silverware, glass telegraph insulators and porcelain dolls. They make great decorations, and some rare collectibles are probably worth a lot more than the thrift store is selling them for. 

How to Decorate With Thrift Store Finds

The only limit is your imagination. Secondhand items are often affordable, charming in their uniqueness and a great way to bring an eclectic sense of style to your space. 

Look for things that are clean and solidly built, and remember that an item’s external appearance is often easy to improve with a little TLC. Happy decorating!