We often hear people complain that they’re no good at thrift store shopping – they have an aversion to dirt, no patience, or just bad luck. The truth is that anyone can be a good thrifter if they keep an open mind. It’s as simple as recognizing when an object needs a good cleaning, a coat of paint, or even just a new context. Need mode direction than that? Here’s a list of a few common items to keep an eye out for – an ultimate DIY shopping list to carry with you next time you thrift 😉
1 – Dishes
You can find mismatched dishes in a range of colors and patterns at any thrift shop. Use them to build a collection, hang a wall of plates, make them into mirrors, candles, etc.
2 – Artwork
If you’re thinking of hanging a wall of clustered artwork, thrift shops are a great place to build a cheap, out-of-the-ordinary collection. Or add some subtle changes to a cheap piece of art to really make it yours.
3 – Shelves and Secretaries
Storage pieces are always useful around the house. Clean up shelves with paint or wallpaper. Although old-fashioned, secretaries are really useful pieces that can easily transform into a home office bar or linen closet.
4 – Sweaters and Blankets
Have these dry-cleaned, and then use them to add some coziness to your home by reupholstering a chair seat, or covering a footstool.
5 – Trunks, Suitcases, and File Cabinets:
Industrial trunks and storage pieces or vintage suitcases are easy to find at flea markets and thrifts shops. Clean them up and use them as occasional tables.
6 – Dining Chairs
Whether you’re looking for a whole set or a single side chair, dining chairs are always waiting to be scooped up at second-hand shops. If your chair needs a little love, try painting it, reupholstering a seat, or staining it.
7 – Dining Tables
Simple thrift store tables can be used for kitchens, dining rooms, or repurposed as a desk. If the table is scuffed or needs some DIY, try restyling it with paint, fabric, or even just a tablecloth.
8 – Lamps
Sometimes all a lamp needs is a new shade and a good cleaning to make it brand new. If you find a broken lamp at a thrift store, you can always try rewiring it.
9 – Rocking Chairs
We can’t tell you how many Thonet rocking chairs we’ve found at thrift shops around the $30 mark, usually in excellent condition. Rockers are great for child’s room, a porch, or even a corner that needs a big piece. If your chair is a little dull, try painting it.
10 – Fabric
If you’ve got basic sewing skills, thrift stores are the perfect place to look for a fabric scraps to use for pillows, napkins, tablecloths, curtains and any other project that could use a stash of mismatched prints. Just make sure to wash your fabrics before using them.
Source: 10 Common Thrift Store Finds That Work Great for DIY Projects | Apartment Therapy.
T•H 
Another great post, thanks!
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It’s amazing how many times you can find clothes with the tags still attached! I love thrift shopping.
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