Thrifting Tips for Beginners- A Guide for Thrift Shopping

Are you new to the world of thrifting? Let me guide you with some of my best thrifting tips for beginners to help you thrift like a pro!

I am thrilled to join my friends Mary Jo @masterpiecesofmylife and Rachel @theantiuedjourney for another chapter of THRIFTED GOODIES! Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter who loves the thrill of the hunt or new to the world of thrifting, this post is packed with valuable insights. Thrifting offers countless benefits, and navigating thrift stores can be a breeze with the right tips. Join me as I showcase my latest thrift finds and share my best thrifting tips for beginners. 

You should stop by both of their beautiful blogs to see what amazing things they have thrifted this month. The links are at the end of this post.

On my blog WM Design House, I may sometimes use affiliate links, which means a small commission is earned if you purchase via the link. The price will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link. Read my full disclosure policy here.

So what is thrifting? The term thrifting refers to shopping at second-hand stores, and it just so happens to be one of my favorite pastimes! Shopping at thrift stores instead of at big box retail stores has numerous benefits. For starters, thrifting is a sustainable way to shop. Not only does it reduce waste by giving new life to pre-loved items, but it also helps minimize our environmental footprint. Thrifting also provides significant cost savings, allowing you to find high-quality pieces in great condition at great deals. The thrill of discovering unique, one-of-a-kind items adds a personal touch to your home and wardrobe that you can’t find in mainstream stores. 

Now that we’ve discussed thrifting, let’s discuss why you should try it and the best thrifting tips for beginners. Besides the cost savings and environmental benefits, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of hunting for treasures. I always have a great time, and you can find some of the best stuff!

Recently on one treasure hunt, I came across a large dark colored cabinet. While it was a great piece, the wood was much darker than the light-colored piece of furniture I had my heart set on for my family room. That’s when inspiration struck—I decided to strip it down to its natural wood. The transformation is truly stunning, and if I had to purchase this piece new, I would have spent thousands of dollars. But, for under $300, I took this beautiful piece of old furniture I bought at the Salvation Army and refurbished it to look like new. 

In this blog post, I will focus on practical tips for those new to thrifting. First, let’s understand what kinds of stores are the best places to shop.

Understanding the Thrift Store Landscape

Let’s start by understanding the different types of thrift stores and finding the best ones to explore. Thrift stores come in various forms, each offering a unique shopping experience and great finds to uncover:

• Charity Shops: These stores are often run by non-profit organizations, and their proceeds support a specific cause or community program. Donated items like clothing, furniture, and household goods are sold at affordable prices. Examples include your local Goodwills and The Salvation Army.
• Consignment Stores: Consignment shops sell items on behalf of the original owner, who receives a portion of the sale price once the item is sold. These stores often feature higher-end or brand-name items, as the inventory is carefully curated to ensure quality items are in good condition.
• Flea Markets: Flea markets are typically outdoor or semi-permanent setups where multiple vendors sell various goods, from vintage items and antiques to handmade crafts and collectibles. Prices are often negotiable, and the variety can be vast, making them exciting places for bargain hunters.
• Antique Stores: While only sometimes considered traditional thrift stores, antique shops offer a curated selection of older items, often with historical or collectible value. Prices can be higher, but these stores are a great place to find unique, vintage, and often one-of-a-kind pieces.
• Vintage Stores: Similar to consignment stores, vintage shops focus on items from past decades, particularly fashion, accessories, and decor. These stores specialize in well-preserved, high-quality pieces often considered timeless or iconic.

Each type of thrift store offers a distinct experience, catering to different tastes and budgets, making thrifting an adventure with something for everyone.

Some of my favorite thrift stores are Savers, Goodwill stores, Salvation Army, Rose Bowl Flea Market, and any pop-up vintage markets I can find. 

Knowing When to Shop Your Local Thrift Stores 

Timing is crucial when shopping at thrift stores, so patience is key. To improve your chances of finding the best items, you can visit right after weekends or holidays when donations are more likely to be plentiful. It’s also helpful to ask store clerks about their restocking schedule. Knowing when new merchandise will be put out along with the best time and day to shop will be beneficial.  Early mornings are ideal for getting first dibs, as many stores restock with new products before opening. Additionally, watch for a special sale day or promotions for even more significant discounts. Seasonal items are typically more abundant after holidays when people clean out their decorations.

Preparing for Your Thrift Store Visit

• Dress Comfortably:
• Bring the Essentials:
  • Measuring Tape: Useful for checking the dimensions of furniture or decor items.
  • Shopping List: Write down specific items you want to stay focused on.
  • Shopping Bags: Bring reusable bags to carry your purchases.
• Set a Budget:
  • Determine how much you want to spend, especially for specific projects.
  • Stick to your budget to avoid overspending.
• Do Your Research:
  • Gather inspiration from social media platforms like Instagram or from a Pinterest board.
  • Look for ideas on how to use thrifted items in DIY projects or home decor in books and magazines, 
• Plan Your Route:
  • Map out the thrift shops you want to visit.
  • Prioritize stores that are known for affordable items. 
• Check Store Policies:
  • Understand the return or exchange policies if an item doesn’t work out.
• Stay Hydrated and Energized:
  • Bring a water bottle and a snack to keep your energy up while shopping.
• Bring a Friend:

Negotiation and Pricing Tips

• Understanding Pricing: Understanding pricing at thrift stores can enhance your shopping experience and help you score the best deals. Thrift store pricing is typically based on an item’s condition, brand, and demand, but prices vary widely from store to store. Many thrift stores also have color-coded tags or specific discount days when certain items are marked down. It’s a good idea to ask about their pricing structure and upcoming sales. Knowing when to expect discounts allows you to plan your visits strategically, maximizing your savings while still finding great items.
• Haggling Tips: Negotiating for a better price is often expected, especially at flea markets or consignment shops. The best way to approach negotiating is to do it politely and respectfully. Start by expressing genuine interest in the item, then ask if the seller is open to negotiating. Offering a reasonable price based on the item’s condition or market value can lead to a successful deal. Timing can also play a role—sellers may be more willing to negotiate near the end of the day or if the item has been in the shop for a while. Always be prepared to walk away if the price doesn’t meet your budget, but remain friendly and courteous. 
• Discount Days: Many local shops in my area have great discount days. Check all your local businesses and see what days they offer an additional discount.

 Thrift Shopping Tips for Successful Thrifting:

Having thrifted for years, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks that can help any beginner navigate the world of thrifting. Here are some key things to keep in mind.

Know what you are looking!

Knowing what particular item you are looking for is a great way to stay focused while thrifting. You may find other unique items that will work for you along the way, and that is a big plus. This will also ensure you feel safe from the sheer volume of items in your local stores.

Take Your Time 

Thrifting adventures take time. Plan on spending an entire afternoon or a full day on your thrifting journey so you have enough time to shop at several different stores. 

When thrifting, it’s important to take your time and explore every nook and cranny of the store. Look carefully through all the shelves and notice hidden corners or lower racks where unique finds might be tucked away. The best finds are often the ones that aren’t immediately visible, so a thorough search can lead to discovering truly special items. Patience and a keen eye are your best tools for unearthing those hidden gems.

Know the Brands 

Familiarizing yourself with name brands before you go thrifting can make a big difference in your shopping experience. Knowing which brands are high-quality or in demand helps you quickly identify valuable items among the racks. This knowledge can also guide your decision-making, ensuring you invest in durable and stylish pieces. Whether you’re looking for designer clothing, sturdy furniture, or unique home decor, being brand-savvy can help you spot the best deals and make the most of your thrift store visits. So be sure to do a little research before heading out to the second hand stores. 

Look Beyond the Surface 

Don’t shy away from items needing a little TLC when thrifting. Sometimes, a thrifted find needs a fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or minor repairs to reveal its full potential. As you browse, imagine how a piece could be transformed with some creativity and effort. A dated chair might become a statement piece with new upholstery, or a scratched dining table like this one for $4.99 could shine again with some sanding and stain. Seeing the potential in these items can lead to unique, personalized treasures that add character to your home.

Think outside of the box

If you are looking for fabric, look at table linens and clothes. Last year, I bought old robes and nightgowns to make these adorable stuffed pumpkins. I have even used a dress to cover a picture frame.

Inspect your Items for Damage

While thrifting, it’s essential to carefully inspect each item for any signs of damage before making a purchase. Check for cracks, stains, missing parts, or other imperfections that might be difficult or costly to repair. For furniture, ensure it’s sturdy and free from woodworm or structural issues. Look for stains, tears, broken zippers, or missing buttons with clothing. A thorough inspection helps you make informed decisions, ensuring you’re bringing home items in good condition worth the effort to restore.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Impulse Buying: Impulse buying can be tempting, especially when items are affordable at thrift stores. However, resisting the urge to purchase something just because it’s cheap is important. Before you buy, ask yourself if the item is something you truly need, love, or have a specific use for. Consider how it will fit into your home or wardrobe and whether it aligns with your style or current projects. By pausing to reflect, you can avoid cluttering your space with unnecessary items and ensure that each purchase brings value and joy.
• Overlooking Flaws: As I explained earlier in my post, it is important to inspect your items before purchasing them to ensure that there are no major issues, especially ones that are not repairable. 
• Ignoring Sizing or Dimensions: Ignoring sizing or dimensions can lead to disappointing purchases, so always double-check before buying. If you’re considering clothing, make sure the dress will fit by trying it on in a fitting room. For furniture, confirm that the piece will fit in your space by taking accurate measurements. Being thorough with sizing and dimensions helps ensure your thrift store finds work perfectly in your home or wardrobe.

Thrifting Online Stores

Yup, you can even shop online thrift stores. Here is a list of a few of my favorites and what they have to offer. 

• Depop– A social shopping app, has globalized Gen Z fashion culture and become a major platform for promoting young designers and upcycled clothing. Users can list items they’re selling or buy unique garments from others, making it a hub for creative and sustainable fashion.
•  Poshmark– A community-focused peer-to-peer social shopping app where you can buy and sell used or new clothes. It’s more modern or classic, and although Gen Z uses it, it’s more popular among Millennial shoppers.
•  ThredUp– Is an online consignment and thrift store that operates differently from platforms like Depop and Poshmark. As a seller, you’ll receive a bag with a prepaid shipping label from ThredUp. You fill it with your gently used clothes, accessories, and shoes that meet their accepted brands list, and send it back. ThredUp will then review your items, select what they will sell, and present you with an offer. You have 10 days to accept or decline the offer. Accepted items are listed online, and you’ll earn a percentage of the sale when they are purchased. Items that are not accepted can be either donated or recycled by ThredUp.
• Ebay– This one has been around since 1995, and most of us are familiar with eBay, where you can find literally anything! 
• Etsy—Etsy is an online marketplace that connects buyers with independent sellers offering unique, handmade, vintage, and new items. It’s a platform known for its diverse range of products, from one-of-a-kind jewelry and home decor to custom clothing and art, making it a go-to destination for all types of items, from handcrafted to secondhand finds. 

Be sure to check out my two friends, Mary Jo and Rachel, to see what they have discovered on their thrifting adventures! Visit their blogs and social channels to explore all the exciting treasures they’ve found.

My Thrifting Projects

Here are several projects that I have created using thrifted treasures that I have found in second-hand stores.

DIY Moss Frames

01

This was such a fun project that transformed my porch with a stunning feature wall. I found some old, vintage-style frames and added moss for a fresh springtime look.

DIY Fabric-Covered Frames

02

Using old fabric scraps and a dress I found at some of my favorite secondhand shops, I created a beautiful feature wall in my office with these unique picture frames.

DIY Planted Chairs

03

I love incorporating old chairs into my garden. Whether they’re metal or wood, I’ve used them all. Find an old chair, create a planting base, and watch it become a charming garden feature.

DIY Farm Disc Water Fountain

04

I discovered this old farm disc at an estate sale and immediately knew it would make the perfect water fountain. I turned it on its side and brought my vision to life. 

Thrifted Baskets

05

Over the course of a year, I collected baskets and used them to create a charming archway over the doors of my she shed. Since I found them at such low prices, I wasn’t concerned about exposing them to the outdoor elements.

Vintage Flower Containers and Clay Pots

06

I have a passion for flowers and am always looking for trendy pieces to use as vases or flower containers. I’m also a fan of clay pots and enjoy collecting them to display under my garden bench.

DIY Fabric Pumpkins

07

I found an old chenille bedspread, a robe, and a few nightgowns at great thrift store prices and transformed them into these charming pumpkins.