Thrifting is more than just a way to save money—it’s a treasure hunt! Whether you’re decorating your first home or refreshing your space on a budget, thrift stores, flea markets, and garage sales are goldmines for unique, affordable finds. But if you’ve ever walked into a thrift store and felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. With a little know-how, you can thrift like a pro and turn secondhand items into stunning DIY decor.
In this guide, I’ll share my best tips for thrifting success, what to look for, and how to transform your finds into beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Thrifting Tips for Beginners
Thrifting can feel intimidating at first, but with these tips, you’ll be a pro in no time! Not only is thrifting a fun and budget-friendly way to decorate, but it’s also an eco-conscious choice! By giving pre-loved items a second life, you’re reducing waste and supporting sustainable living. It’s a win-win—you get unique, one-of-a-kind pieces while helping the planet. So, as you get into thrifting, remember that every find is a small step toward a greener, more stylish home!
1. Know Where to Shop
- Thrift Stores: Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local thrift shops are great starting points.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores for all kinds of furniture.
- Antique/Second-hand shops for interesting decor items.
- Flea Markets: Perfect for vintage and unique pieces.
- Garage Sales: Often have hidden gems at bargain prices.
- Online Platforms: Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist are great for local finds.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Read my disclosure policy here.
2. Go Often and Be Patient
Thrift store inventory is always changing, so visiting regularly boosts your odds of discovering hidden gems. If you don’t find what you’re looking for right away, don’t get discouraged—thrifting is all about the excitement of the hunt! After a month of coming up empty-handed at local thrift stores, I hit the jackpot last weekend and scored so many amazing pieces for upcoming blog posts!
3. Have a Plan (But Stay Open-Minded)
Take a moment to look around your home and identify any decor changes you’d like to make or items you need, such as picture frames, lamps, or an end table. Jot these down in your phone. Instead of heading straight to a big-box store like Target, try checking out your local thrift stores first. And don’t feel tied to your list—if you spot something with potential, go for it! Often, the best treasures are the ones you didn’t even know you were looking for.
4. Inspect Items Carefully
Check for damage, missing parts, or stains that could affect your project. Small flaws (like scratches or chipped paint) are often fixable, but major issues might not be worth the effort.
Keeping a set of wood stain pens on hand is a simple way to fix small nicks and scratches on your thrifted treasures with minimal effort. For example, I recently found a piece of framed art with a few nicks on the frame, and the stain pens made it look as good as new!
When inspecting furniture with drawers, I always do a smell test, as old pieces often have musty odors trapped inside. If you love the piece and want to eliminate the smell, there’s an easy fix: sprinkle cheap ground coffee inside every drawer and leave it for about a week. This method has never failed me!
5. Bring Measuring Tape and Photos
Before making a purchase, ensure the item will fit your space and align with your vision. Keep photos of the rooms or areas you’re decorating in your phone’s camera roll for reference. Additionally, create a detailed list of measurements in your phone’s notes for the spaces you’re working on. For example, note something like, “The coffee table must be under 40 inches.” Having these measurements on hand is incredibly helpful—trust me, if you’re anything like me, you’ll forget otherwise! This way, you can avoid buying something that doesn’t work for your space.
Pro Tip: Keep a small measuring tape with you for shopping trips. This mini tape measure is perfect and small enough to keep in your bag or coat pocket.
Learn more of my Thrifting Tips for Beginners.
What to Look For: Thrifting Gold for DIY Projects
Not sure what to keep an eye out for? Here are some items that are perfect for DIY decor projects.
1. Furniture
- Examples: Dressers, side tables, chairs, and shelves.
- Why: These pieces can be transformed with paint, new hardware, or reupholstery.
- Tip: Look for solid wood pieces—they’re more durable and easier to refinish.
2. Picture Frames/Artwork
- Examples: Framed art, canvases, & small picture frames
- Why: Frames can be painted, distressed, or used for DIY wall art. Often times you can find high quality artwork to fill your walls on a budget.
- Tip: Buy frames without glass for crafting projects to save money.
3. Lamps and Lighting
- Why: Lamps can be updated with new shades or a fresh coat of paint.
- Tip: Check that the wiring is intact or budget for a replacement kit. Most stores have bulbs and plugs to try before buying.
4. Glassware and Ceramics
- Examples: Vases, jars, mugs, and bowls.
- Why: Perfect for upcycling into planters, candle holders, or storage solutions.
- Tip: Look for unique shapes or patterns that can be highlighted with paint.
5. Textiles
- Examples: Curtains, tablecloths, and blankets.
- Why: Can be repurposed into pillow covers, wall hangings, or upholstery fabric.
- Tip: Check for stains or tears that could affect your project.
6. Decorative Accents
- Examples: Mirrors, trays, baskets, and figurines.
- Why: Small items can be painted, embellished, or grouped for a big impact.
- Tip: Look for items with interesting shapes or textures.
DIY Transformations: Before and After Ideas
Here are a few of my favorite DIY transformations and projects using thrifted and secondhand finds.
Furniture Makeovers
Over a decade ago, I started refinishing secondhand furniture, never imagining it would become the spark for my future career. Since then, I’ve upcycled countless pieces, and it’s incredible how a fresh coat of paint can transform a dated item into something modern and stylish. Not only is it a budget-friendly way to decorate, but it also adds unique, one-of-a-kind charm to your home!
Yard sales can be a treasure trove for scoring quality furniture at bargain prices. When shopping, aim for solid wood tables—they’re far easier to repaint and refinish compared to veneered pieces. Here I share the details of how I transformed my entryway table with a simple paint glow-up!
This mid-century end table was a $5 thrift find. Not only is it solid wood it had such a cool shape too! To update it I used 2 colors of chalk paint: my favorite gray blue chalk paint on the body of the table and a dark brown on the tabletop.
One of my favorite furniture makeovers was my corner kitchen hutch. It was stained with that dated dark walnut that was popular in the 80s! I’ve painted it a couple of times over the past few years but I love the dark green that it is now (Sherwin Williams “Coriander & Olive“). A simple DIY that changed the feel of the cabinet was to remove the glass and replace it with rattan cane webbing. I love the natural touch!
Upcycled Art
Secondhand art is a fantastic and budget-friendly way to add personality and charm to your home. Over the years, I’ve discovered incredible pieces, from hand-drawn sketches and limited-edition prints to an oil painting created by the mother of a famous abstract artist—which I snagged for just $1 at a yard sale! Thrifting art not only saves money but also brings unique stories and style into your space.
Here’s a pro tip: Even if the artwork inside doesn’t appeal to you, take a closer look at the frame. Older frames are often made of real wood and can be found at a fraction of the cost of new ones. It’s a smart way to score high-quality frames for your own art or DIY projects!
One of my favorite thrifted finds is a hand-drawn ink picture that came matted and framed in a beautiful wooden frame. For just a few dollars, I scored an original piece of artwork that adds so much character to my home!
Customized Lamps
Lamps can be surprisingly pricey when bought new, but thrift stores are a goldmine for affordable lighting options. Always make a stop in the lighting section to see what hidden gems you can uncover. When I’m shopping for lamps, I focus on the shape and overall quality rather than the color, since a fresh coat of paint or a new shade can completely transform its look.
Painting a lamp is actually a fantastic beginner-friendly DIY project—it’s simple, satisfying, and can give an outdated piece a modern makeover. Over the years, I’ve upcycled several lamps, and each one adds a unique, personalized touch to my home. Don’t be afraid to get creative—thrifted lamps are a budget-friendly way to brighten up your space!
When I was searching for a green lamp to match my entryway table, I stumbled upon a small red ceramic lamp base while thrifting. While the color wasn’t right, the shape and size were perfect. I decided to give it a makeover using stone-textured spray paint in a deep green shade, and it turned out exactly how I envisioned! It’s proof that with a little creativity, you can transform thrifted finds into something that fits your style perfectly
New Life for Old Ceramics & Vases
Glass and ceramic pieces like vases, jars, mugs, and bowls are fantastic thrift store finds because they’re incredibly versatile for upcycling projects. These items can easily be transformed into planters, used for their original purpose, or even given a makeover making them both functional and decorative. When shopping, keep an eye out for unique shapes or interesting patterns—these details can be accentuated with a coat of paint to create one-of-a-kind pieces that add personality to your home.
A vintage-looking ceramic bowl made the perfect planter for my colorful prayer plant. Much more affordable than purchasing new!
Vases are one of my absolute favorite items to thrift and transform. I often draw inspiration from Pottery Barn’s timeless style and have upcycled numerous secondhand vases into stunning lookalikes of the ones I’ve admired online. It’s amazing what a little creativity and a fresh coat of paint can do to turn a thrifted find into a high-end-looking piece!
vase makeover inspo
Fabric Fun
Thrift stores are a treasure trove for affordable textile finds like tablecloths, table runners, napkins, and bedspreads. These items are not only budget-friendly but also offer endless possibilities for creative projects. If you know how to sew, you can easily repurpose a beautiful bedspread into custom throw pillow covers, saving you a fraction of the cost of buying new ones.
Even if you’re not a sewing pro, many textiles can be used as-is—think of layering a vintage tablecloth on your dining table or draping a colorful bedspread over a sofa for a cozy, eclectic vibe. Thrifting textiles is a sustainable and stylish way to refresh your home decor without breaking the bank!
I once found a set of 12 brand-new fabric napkins for just a few dollars at a thrift store. At such a low cost, I don’t hesitate to leave them out on the counter as a sustainable alternative to paper napkins. Even if they get a little worn from everyday use, it’s no big deal—they were such a steal!
For a creative and budget-friendly art idea, try framing colorful swatches of fabric. In the photo above, I upcycled a shadowbox-style frame by simply gluing a beautiful piece of fabric to the back. It’s an easy way to add a unique, personalized touch to your walls that is super-affordable.
Decorative Touches
I’m always on the lookout for interesting decorative accent pieces. Since I love to change up my decor seasonally it’s a way to keep my home looking fresh on a small budget (plus I can share my ideas with you!).
Sometimes you have to use a little imagination when you are looking at something to imagine what it could become!
During my most recent thrifting adventure, I came across a large metal urn, but its dark bronze finish felt a bit too “ancient Rome” for my modern decor style. However, I knew it had potential and could be easily transformed. To give it a fresh, updated look, I used Rub ‘n Buff in Gold Leaf, and the result was exactly what I had envisioned—a stylish piece that perfectly fits my aesthetic! It was part of my $20 thrift haul makeover.
A cute basket was perfect for creating a Spring tablescape with small daffodils and mini eggs, I wrapped fresh pussy willows around the handle for an extra touch.
I’ve had this antique mirror for so long that I can’t even remember if I picked it up at a yard sale or a thrift store. Either way, it’s been a staple in my living room for years! Not only does it help bounce light around the room, making the space feel brighter, but it also serves as the perfect spot to switch out a small wreath with the changing seasons. It’s both functional and decorative—a true thrifted treasure!
4. Budget-Friendly Tips for Thrifting
Thrifting is already a budget-friendly way to decorate your home, but with a few smart strategies, you can save even more. Here are my top tips for getting the most bang for your buck while thrifting:
Set a Budget
Before you head out the door, decide how much you’re willing to spend. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re surrounded by so many tempting finds, but having a budget will help you stay focused and avoid overspending. For example, if you’re looking for a few small decor items, set a limit of $20. If you’re shopping for furniture, decide on a maximum amount you’re willing to pay. Sticking to a budget ensures you leave room for future thrifting adventures!
Shop Sales
Many thrift stores have discount days or special sales that can help you save even more. For example, some stores offer half-off everything on Saturdays, while others have color-coded tag sales where certain items are discounted each week. Some send emails with extra discount codes. It’s worth asking the staff about their sale schedules so you can plan your visits accordingly. Shopping on discount days is a great way to stretch your budget and score high-quality items at a fraction of the cost.
If you have a Savers thrift store nearby, when you donate items they will give you a 20% off coupon to use in the store.
Negotiate
Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially at yard sales or flea markets. Many sellers are open to haggling, especially if an item has been sitting for a while or has minor flaws. Politely ask if they’re willing to lower the price—you might be surprised at how often they say yes! For example, if you find a vintage mirror with a small chip, point it out and offer a lower price. Negotiating can help you snag amazing deals on items that just need a little TLC. I only do this at flea markets, Facebook Marketplace, and yard sales.
Repurpose and Reuse
One of the best things about thrifting is the opportunity to think outside the box. Items don’t have to be used for their original purpose—get creative and imagine how they could be transformed. For example, an old wooden ladder can become a stylish blanket rack, or a set of mismatched teacups can be turned into charming succulent planters. By repurposing thrifted items, you can create unique, personalized decor while saving money. Plus, it’s a sustainable way to decorate your home!
- Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you go.
- Shop Sales: Many thrift stores have discount days (e.g., half-off Saturdays).
- Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price, especially at garage sales or flea markets.
- Repurpose and Reuse: Think outside the box—items don’t have to be used for their original purpose.
5. Tools and Supplies for Thrifting Upcycles
When it comes to transforming thrifted finds, having the right tools and supplies is key. Paint is your best friend—chalk paint is perfect for furniture makeovers, spray paint works wonders on small decor items, and acrylic paint is ideal for adding colorful details.
Don’t forget brushes and rollers for smooth, even coverage, and sandpaper to prep surfaces for painting. It’s worth the money to invest in a couple of good quality paintbrushes.
For assembling and embellishing, stock up on adhesives like a hot glue gun, Mod Podge, and E6000.
And finally, don’t overlook hardware—new knobs, pulls, or hinges can instantly update a piece of furniture and give it a fresh, polished look. Hobby Lobby has a huge assortment of knobs and pulls for updating your thrift store finds.
With these essentials on hand, you’ll be ready to tackle any thrifted treasure!
- Paint: Chalk paint, spray paint, and acrylic paint.
- Brushes and Rollers: For painting furniture and decor.
- Sandpaper: For prepping surfaces.
- Adhesives: Hot glue gun, Mod Podge, and E6000.
- Hardware: Knobs, pulls, and hinges for furniture updates.
diy supplies
basics to get you started
Here are the supplies that I have on hand in my workshop.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Thrifting & secondhand shopping can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s easy to get carried away or overlook important details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for—and how to avoid them:
Overbuying
It’s tempting to fill your cart with every cute or interesting item you see, but overbuying can quickly blow your budget and leave you with a pile of projects you don’t have time for (guilty as charged!). To avoid this, stick to your list and focus on the items you actually need or have a plan for. If you’re tempted by something not on your list, ask yourself: Do I have a clear idea for this? Will it fit my space or style? If the answer is no, it’s probably best to leave it behind.
Remember, thrift stores are always getting new inventory, so there will be plenty of opportunities to find the perfect piece later. In my defense I’ve used every single piece in that photo above!!
Ignoring Flaws
While thrifted items often have a lot of potential, it’s important to inspect them carefully before buying. Small flaws like scratches, chipped paint, or loose screws can usually be fixed, but major damage—like broken legs on furniture or large stains on fabric—might not be worth the effort. Before you buy, ask yourself: Can I realistically repair or work around this flaw? If the answer is no, it’s better to keep looking. A little due diligence can save you from ending up with a project that’s more trouble than it’s worth.
Skipping Measurements
This is a big one!! There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a piece of furniture or decor, only to realize it doesn’t fit in your space. To avoid this, always bring a tape measure and know the dimensions of the area you’re decorating. If you’re shopping for furniture, measure doorways and hallways to make sure you can actually get the item into your home.
For smaller decor items, consider how they’ll fit with your existing pieces. Taking a few minutes to measure can save you from the disappointment of having to return or resell an item that doesn’t work.
- Overbuying: Stick to your list and avoid impulse purchases.
- Ignoring Flaws: Make sure damage is fixable before buying.
- Skipping Measurements: Always check that items will fit in your space.
Your Thrifting Toolkit is Complete!
Thrifting is more than just a way to save money—it’s a creative adventure that lets you fill your home with unique, one-of-a-kind treasures. With these tips, you’ll be able to navigate thrift stores like a pro, spot hidden gems, and transform them into stunning DIY decor that reflects your personal style. Remember, the best part of thrifting is the journey: the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of a great find, and the joy of turning something old into something new.
So grab your reusable shopping bag, hit up your local thrift store or flea market, and let your creativity run wild. Whether you’re refreshing a piece of furniture, creating custom wall art, or upcycling a quirky thrifted find, the possibilities are endless. And don’t forget—mistakes are just part of the process. Every project is a chance to learn, grow, and make your space truly your own.
xo, Jennifer
Have you found any amazing thrifted treasures lately? I’d love to hear about your favorite finds and DIY transformations! Share your stories in the comments below send me your photos so I can see your creativity in action (email me at jennifer@cottageonbunkerhill.com ). And if you’re looking for more thrifting tips and DIY inspiration, be sure to follow along for my latest projects and guides!
Fine Art Printables
29 Free Downloads
exclusively for email subscribers
Great post! You are the queen of thrifting!