If you've ever set foot in a thrift store, you know that it can be a bit overwhelming. There are racks and racks of clothes, mountains of shoes, and tables crammed full of miscellaneous items. For some it can feel like heaven and for others it can feel like an overwhelming mess. But even for thrifting pros it can sometimes be tough to even know where to start.

Even though it can overwhelming, thrifting is always a great option! When it comes to furniture and accessories for your home, with a little bit of know-how, you can thrift some amazing pieces at a fraction of the price you would pay at a retail store and help reduce items from heading to the landfill.

Dresser was thrifted from Facebook Marketplace

Here are some tips to help you thrift like a pro.

  1. Start by scoping out thrift stores in your area. Look for stores that specialize in furniture and home decor, as these are likely to have a better selection than general thrift stores. Check out online reviews to find out which stores are worth visiting.
  2. Set a budget and stick to it. Thrifting can be tempting because the prices are often much lower than what you would pay at a retail store, but it's important to still be mindful of your budget. Determine how much you're willing to spend on each piece and try to stick to that amount.
  3. Make a moodboard or a list so you know exactly what you're looking for. If you're thrifting for a specific piece or have a whole room to fill, it can be helpful to have a clear idea of what you want. That way, you can stay focused on your goal and avoid getting sidetracked by all the other tempting items in the store.
  4. Be open to compromise. While it's great to have a specific piece in mind, be open to finding something similar or even something completely different. Thrifting is all about finding hidden treasures, and sometimes the best finds are the ones you weren't expecting.
  5. Inspect the item carefully before you buy. Thrifting can be a bit of a gamble, so it's important to thoroughly inspect the item before you make a purchase. Look for any visible damage or wear and tear, and test out the item to make sure it's in good working order.
  6. Know when to pass. If you find an item that you love but it's in poor condition or needs a lot of work, it may not be worth the investment. Be realistic about your abilities and the time and money you have available for repairs.
  7. For the crafty thrifters - Take your time. Once you're in the store, take your time to browse through all the different sections. You never know where you might find that perfect piece! You might find the perfect sweater that you can repurpose into a pillow cover or a pair of cowboy boots that you can cover in disco tiles to have a disco ball sculpture on your shelf.
  8. That being said - don't be afraid to give old items a new life. Thrifting is a great way to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that have character and history. Don't be afraid to give an old piece a new lease on life by adding a fresh coat of paint or giving it a minor repair.
  9. Don't forget to check out Facebook marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor, Gumtree, and also Facebook groups that are in your community - people are always looking to get rid of things quickly when they are moving or upgrading.

Here are some clips of my journeys with thrifting.

Thrifting for furniture and accessories can be a great way to save money while still creating a stylish space. Just remember to start with a plan, take your time while you're shopping, and check quality! With these tips, you'll be sure to find some amazing pieces that will complete your vision—without breaking the bank.

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If you are looking to have your space designed using thrifted and upcycled goods please reach out to see if we would be a good fit to work together!