Thrift Like a Designer: Secrets to Scoring Unique Furniture on a Budget
Thrift stores have long been a sanctuary for the select few who know how to get the most out of a thrifting experience. Fortunately, for the rest of us who aren’t such veterans in thrifting, here are some amazing secrets that’ll teach you how to get some great furniture on a budget through thrift stores.
An Amazing Hobby
Thrifting is an amazing hobby that can net you some great pieces that you can’t find in the store today. Remember that all of these pieces tell a unique story, and with the right approach, you can be a happy thrifter with some interesting pieces.
Location, Location, Location
Before you start your thrifting, you need to know where to look, and the key is to find the right stores. Some thrift stores don’t sell any furniture, but you wouldn’t know unless you called them first. Other notable locations for amazing deals are flea markets and antique shops. Even Facebook Marketplace can have some amazing furniture.
Check Your Furniture
Once you’ve found that dream piece you can imagine going in the perfect spot in your home, you’ll want to check it to make sure that it’s still in good condition. Make sure the integrity of the furniture piece is still fine and made sure things like drawers are still present and work.
When To Go
Knowing when to go to a thrift store is almost as important as where you’re going. If you find a thrift store never has anything that good, it may be that you’re getting there too late. Try visiting on weekdays in the morning when they have new stock that hasn’t been scooped up yet.
Negotiate
Thrifting definitely has some of the “art of the deal.” When buying from a private seller or at a market, you can generally get the seller to knock a few bucks off of nearly anything. Thrift stores tend to have fixed prices, but it doesn’t hurt to ask for a discount.
Restoration
Once you’ve selected, inspected, and successfully made a deal and brought your wonderful piece home, its condition may be a little lackluster due to age. Luckily, any antique worth its salt can be easily restored. A fresh coat of paint, a lacquer, or even reupholstering are all methods that will make your antique shine again!
What To Avoid
It’s difficult for novice thrifters to know what’s a good deal and will be scooped up quickly as opposed to something that will sit and for a good reason. If you see any damaged furniture, it’s best to leave it alone unless you think you can restore it and get a deep discount. Water damage can sometimes be hard to notice, but it can mean the whole piece is damaged beyond repair.
Imperfections
Although you should always be examining your piece and making sure it’s not damaged, imperfections that you found when it was crafted or a slight chip can add a bit of character. Learn to embrace imperfections as they can add a charm and a story behind your new thrift piece.
Different Styles
Since antiques can vary so much in era, design, and aesthetic, learn to love the mixing of styles with an eclectic mind. Together, modern and vintage elements can create a home space with a lot of uniqueness and character.