You know those bumper stickers that read, “I brake for yard sales”? Well, mine says, “I brake for thrift stores.” And I do. All though every secondhand store is unique, there’s a standard set of items I’m always on the lookout for. Here are some things you, too, should always buy at thrift stores.
Dishware
I’ll say it loud and proud: “I buy all my dishes at thrift stores.” Sure, nothing matches in the strictest sense, but that’s part of the fun.
Creative designers make an art form of setting tables with highly curated “mismatched” sets of dinnerware. You can copy this great look for pennies at a thrift store. Here’s how:
I choose a main color family (classic whites and creams) and an accent color (navy blue).
Next, I let my creativity take over, buying interesting pieces that fit within my chosen palette.
Every plate, bowl, cup and saucer is different, yet it all works together.
One-of-a-kind items
I’m always on the lookout for the weird and wonderful.
Kids’ pinch pots with wild glazes, threadbare silk rugs, a stack of black and white snapshots — these one-of-a-kind items make our homes unique. And they can all be found in thrift stores.
Holiday decorations
Psst: When you pay less for holiday decorations, you’ll have more money to spend on gifts. Over the years, I’ve built a handsome collection of handmade Christmas tree ornaments — all purchased at thrift shops for about 50 cents apiece.
And, like clockwork every year, I find a box of brand-new holiday greeting cards for a dollar or two. (Sorry, retailers, but spending $6 to $12 a box just doesn’t work for me.)
Totes, trays and baskets
Sure, Amazon sells countless products to organize your home.
But, again: Why pay retail? Canvas totes are always on my shopping list. They’re handy for stowing items in the trunk of my car, packing for an overnight trip, and shopping at garage sales and flea markets.
Trays and baskets are my other go-to storage items. Trays are perfect for displaying cologne, organizing TV remotes or storing craft supplies. Use baskets to store pet supplies, winter gear and bath towels.
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