thrift shop! some tips and scribblings...

isn't it thrilling to find precious gems for practically free?!  thrifting can be quite a rush, that is, when you luck out.  other times, it can be a bit stressful with a heavy dose of hand sanitizer!  (psst...that's a tip, too!)  below i've compiled a random list of thoughts and tips on when i thrift.  i get lots of questions from people who have never been to a thrift store to actually BUY goods rather than donate, per se, but are intrigued.  so i figured heck, let me scribble it out for ya!

*i love the history that comes along with used goods.  as long as it is in great shape, it does not bother me that someone else has used it.  a feel that an alluring home is one that looks lived in, is full of life, shows off your personality, and is sprinkled with beautiful things you love.  for me, that means vintage one-of-a-kind pieces. 

*my style is such a silly mix of vintage finds and modern clean lines.  when i find something that fits my unique style sense, i go for it.  i love finding that intricate balance between old and new.  andrew is all about keeping things very simple and clean looking, so i try my best to respect that and not over clutter.  but when i do find something that really speaks to me, i embrace my inner vintage lover and give in.  he is always impressed when i come home with something new and fun, just as long as i don't display it ALL.  everything in moderation, right? 

*go alone, or at least with an adult friend.  i really try my best not to go with stella.  i love her dearly for obvious reasons, but i really like to take my time when going through things.  being two years old, she doesn't quite get the whole "this is going to take awhile and i need to let mama do her thing" mentality.  she's goofy girl, i know.

*learn the sales.  most thrift shops have daily sales and depending on what you are looking for, you can get some great deals. 

*don't go when tired.  when i thrift, i need to be in the right mood.  seriously.  i usually go once a month and prefer to be rather chipper and patient as i sort through what is usually piles of junk.  

* find out what materials intrigue and appeal to you.  for me, it's copper, anything knit or handmade, heavy colored glassware, antique furniture, superior old-fashioned cookware, wood, and anything weaved.  it's all about looking for the right material amidst lots and lots of materials you do not prefer, and knowing it will last once you give this item a new home.  sticking to the same materials will give your home more of a cohesive feel. 

* get inspiration from stores you adore but can't afford.  i love perusing on anthropologie's website for ideas BEFORE i thrift.  i look through the home section and scribble down fabric ideas, prints, and objects that catch my eye.  it helps when looking at a large pile of stuff to know what direction you want to take.  otherwise, it can get a bit overwhelming. 

* take a latte with a double shot.  just do it.  you're welcome.  ;)

* treasure your new/old treasures.  hang them and display them with pride but try not to overdo it.  when showing off your goodies, i think that less is more.  let your new gem shine.   

* wash it.  maybe even twice, if it needs it. and use lavender fabric softener just because.  i do this will all of my thrifted goods.  i just lysol wipes on anything and everything, too. 

* when you get, give.  when i thrift, i usually and take a bunch of outworn or outgrown items to donate from my personal inventory that we do not use anymore.  i do this twofold.  one: it's charitable.  another person's trash is another person's treasure
two: it keeps one from becoming a hoarder.  not only is it kind to donate upon arrival, but cleaning out your home will inspire mental notes of what you truly want or need.   

thrifted items from my photos above:

1. rainbow afghan // newborn sweaters // copper pot // woven tote // bamboo baskets (four stacked) 
2. small le creuset iron skillet 
3. vintage tin canisters 
4. a yellow tea cup

if you have any other helpful thoughts or ideas, feel free to leave them below!