Walking into a thrift store is like stepping into a world of hidden treasures. The abundance of items can be overwhelming, making it difficult to know where to start and which deals are worth it. To shed light on the art of thrifting, I joined forces with Corrine Counts, a seasoned thrifter and the mastermind behind the popular Instagram page Frederick Home Finds.
Our adventure began in Alexandria, Va., where Counts introduced me to her tried and tested techniques. The first stop was an estate sale in an apartment complex just outside Washington, D.C. As we approached the sale, we discovered a long line of eager shoppers already waiting. Luckily, Counts had arrived early, ensuring our entry to the sale at 9:15 a.m.
Counts shared her strategy for estate sales, stressing the importance of arriving early if there are highly sought-after items. She recommends previewing the inventory online and scoping out valuable pieces beforehand. Once inside, she wasted no time and headed straight for the items she had pre-selected from the preview photos. Furniture takes precedence since it tends to sell quickly. To claim her finds, Counts either removes the price tag or uses her own “sold” stickers.
While furniture is the main focus, Counts also highlighted the hidden gems within estate sales. Curated collections give shoppers the opportunity to find smaller unique pieces that align with their personal style. She explained that purchasing multiple pieces from a similar collection can be a cost-effective way to create a gallery wall at home.
Leaving the estate sale with a cart full of treasures, we made our way to the next stop: a Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Contrary to my expectations, the store was buzzing with activity. Counts explained that these stores are a haven for contractors and construction workers, as they often offer building materials alongside furniture and home decor.
Counts emphasized the importance of arriving early at thrift stores, as the best items tend to go quickly. With rows of sofas in front of us, Counts focused on finding statement pieces or versatile neutrals that could fit into any room design. Despite not finding the perfect sofa on this particular visit, Counts shared her belief that every thrifting trip is an adventure, and the thrill lies in the unexpected discoveries.
Thrifting is more than just finding affordable items; it’s a treasure hunt filled with surprises and unique finds. Whether you’re searching for furniture or smaller decorative pieces, taking the time to explore estate sales and thrift stores can lead to exciting and budget-friendly additions to your home. So grab your shopping bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to uncover the hidden treasures waiting for you in the world of thrift.
FAQs about Thrifting
1. What is thrifting?
Thrifting refers to the act of shopping in thrift stores or attending estate sales to find secondhand or pre-owned items at affordable prices.
2. What are estate sales?
Estate sales are held when the entire contents of a home are being sold, usually due to the owner’s death or moving to a new location. These sales can include a wide range of items, from furniture and decor to clothing and collectibles.
3. Is it important to arrive early at estate sales and thrift stores?
Yes, arriving early is crucial for finding the best items. Highly sought-after pieces tend to go quickly, so being one of the first to enter allows you to have the first pick.
4. What is the strategy for estate sales?
Before attending an estate sale, it’s recommended to preview the inventory online. This allows you to identify any valuable pieces that you may be interested in. Once inside, head straight for the items you have pre-selected and claim them by removing the price tag or using sold stickers.
5. What other hidden gems can be found at estate sales?
In addition to furniture, estate sales often offer curated collections of smaller unique pieces. These collections can be a great opportunity to find items that match your personal style and can be used to create a gallery wall or add decor to your home.
6. What is a Habitat for Humanity ReStore?
Habitat for Humanity ReStores are retail locations that sell new and gently used building materials, furniture, appliances, and home decor. These stores often cater to contractors and construction workers.
7. What should I focus on when thrift shopping at a ReStore?
When thrift shopping at a ReStore, look for statement pieces or versatile neutrals that can fit into any room design. Arriving early is key to finding the best items before they are sold.
8. Is thrifting just about finding affordable items?
Thrifting is not only about finding affordable items, but it is also a treasure hunt filled with surprises and unique finds. The thrill lies in the unexpected discoveries and the joy of uncovering hidden treasures.
9. How can thrifting benefit my home?
Thrifting allows you to find budget-friendly additions for your home. Whether you’re looking for furniture or smaller decorative pieces, exploring estate sales and thrift stores can lead to exciting and unique additions to your living space.
Key Terms
– Thrifting: The act of shopping in thrift stores or attending estate sales to find secondhand or pre-owned items at affordable prices.
– Estate Sales: Sales where the entire contents of a home are being sold, usually due to the owner’s death or relocation.
– Curated Collections: Collections of items that have been carefully selected and organized based on a specific theme or style.
– Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Retail locations that sell new and gently used building materials, furniture, appliances, and home decor.
For more information on thrifting and finding hidden treasures, you can visit The Thrift Shopper.