I have never been a great saver when it comes to money but I've always been smart about how I spend it. I always want my money to go further and with my love of unique and vintage, thrift stores are just the solution!
I recently read on a blog that said to go to upscale neighborhood vintage and thrift stores. I personally have found quite the opposite. The same furniture at the same thrift store can be as much as $39 cheaper!
Case and example:
This potentially beautiful side board/buffet table was only $11 in the hood.
Where are the buffet tables I purchased below were $50 each.
No, they weren't in that condition when I bought them. They were brown wood color and rather hideous but you need to see the potential in items and be patient and handy with a paint brush.
The black mirror above the buffet in the last photo was only $14 from a thrift store and round mirrors are all the rage right now in home decor.
The acrylic table lamps were only $7.99 each and I purchased all there for sale!
They came without the 3 piece harp and shades so purchasing those, the total came out to $19!! That's under $20 and it has the same effect as my three crystal table lamps that cost me $60 each from Home Goods.
I found this huge, quality 60 x 15 coffee table for $29.99 with some high gloss paint it looks nearly brand new and I've gotten so many compliments on it!
My most recent find was these side tables for $9.99 which were originally only $14.99.
See what some sanding and paint does?
Here's my advice when it comes to thrift shopping:
Be patient and go often. I sometimes get embarrassed that the workers see me there so frequently and even more so embarrassed because last week I dropped and shattered a gold vase there. They do get new things in weekly and if there are other DIY gals in the area like me quality pieces with ton of potential will be gone before you know it.
Look for the potential in pieces. A lot of times these pieces look rough but with the right TLC they can look fabulous! If the piece is rickety can you fix it by tightening it or is it a lost cause? Water damage can be sanded or covered with a nice fur throw but are the bones of the piece quality?
Never forget your measuring tape!
It helps to know the dimension of the area in your home that you are looking to fill but it is especially important to carry measuring tape to measure the furniture piece and your trunk to make sure it will fit. :)
Take photos of the rooms in your house. I always think I have a good spot for something but if I'm unsure I won't buy it and can potentially miss out on a great opportunity. I've learned that taking photos of each room and walking around with them and comparing furniture to the room helps immensely. It takes the guess work out of "Will that look good next to my entryway?"
If you are on a super tight budget, factor in paint or other supplies you will need for the beautification process. The paint I purchase from Home Depot is $13 so I factor that into the piece I'll be purchasing to get my total cost. You don't want to be unprepared and run out of money on a project.
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