Thrifting is the act of shopping at a thrift store, flea market, yard sale, has become such a popular trend that it has even earned a page in Wikipedia. Savvy shoppers have abandoned the mega mall for re-purposed, re-cycled and pre-owned goods. Some thrifters are motivated by true economic needs, while others love the hunt for an interesting one of a kind treasure. Some are out for the sheer gratification of seizing the bargain of the day.
Whatever the motivation, thrift stores are getting higher quality donations and offering great goods at incredible prices. These trends have opened up a new world of creative opportunity for the ‘Do-It-Yourselfer’.
So what DIY projects can you find at the thrift store? Well, it is only limited by your imagination. For the hand crafty DIY folk, turn some vintage jewelry and pins into custom designed bling. Buy a few rich-colored cable knit sweaters and cover throw pillows for a fun seasonal look for next to nothing.
Old drapery panels can become a new seat cushion slipcover. A collection of color themed china plates can become a gorgeous focal point over a sofa, at a steal over retail.
DIY projects take creativity to a new level when you repurpose furniture. Furniture of generations past was made with such craftsmanship, pride and quality, while much of the current selection is mass produced, faux woods and just poorly constructed.
‘Thrifters’ can access a treasure trove of old furniture with solid woods and sturdy construction that have simply been cast away because the look ugly – diamonds in the rough. If you want a rewarding, cost saving and “green-minded” project, take a stab at re-purposing old furniture. You can create a one of a kind piece that will carry a story of your adventures in creativity.
Here are a few tips to guide your “thrifting” furniture purchase. Remember, a high quality result starts with the right piece of furniture:
- Always measure the piece and be sure it fits in your home and car!
- Inspect the piece for quality construction – look for solid woods or high quality veneers, dove- tailed drawers (drawer corners have interlocking wood edges) and that it is free of mold or wood rot.
- Look past the finish: Focus on the size, shape and features of the piece. You can change the color later.
- Consider how to modify a furniture piece. Can you use a dresser as a bathroom vanity?
- Would a long dresser be the perfect TV console? Can you remove drawers and install a wine rack for a custom bar?
- Use good quality paints, stains and primers, following all manufacturer instructions
- Have fun and be creative: You can always change the color when you are ready for a new look.
I recently turned an end table into mini-bar console for an episode of Good Day Philadelphia and modified a $130 antique dresser into a vanity for my own powder room. Add the granite topper and it is easily worth $40 or more. With a little creativity and patience, you can do-it-yourself, be proud and save some furniture from the land fill too.
