10 Tips For Mastering the Thrift Store

The above Ribba Ikea frame was a Value Village purchase for half the price. Check out my DIY “Sea Life’s Beauty” shadowbox tutorial.

2. SIGN UP FOR SALE DAYS

This is usually via email, so go early on those days!

3. GET TO KNOW THE STORE AND STAFF

You never know who might point items out that they know you are looking if you take the time to learn their name(s) and be conversational with them. I’ve made great finds because a staff member knew me and what I was looking for.

The above tray, chalk paint by Americana and chalk pen were all purchased at a Dollar Store called “Buck or Two” (which is just as good as the thrift store sometimes). Check out “Hatch Some Fun” for a quick and easy DIY tutorial.

4. BE PATIENT

Take your time and enjoy the treasure hunt. Look for the hidden gems that get misplaced.

5. SEARCH ALL SIZES WHEN LOOKING FOR CLOTHES/SHOES

I have found my size in another size section due to a staff or customer misplacing it.

The Ikea frame for this jewelry display was purchased at a Value Village. Many of my necklaces and earrings on this display are also from Value Village. Check out my easy DIY jewelry display called “Get the Hang of It”.

6. BE STRATEGIC

Rate what areas are most eye catching to you, so you have a system to work through the store especially on those days when you don’t have a ton of time (lunch breaks from work).

7. KNOW WHEN NEW STOCK COMES IN

This way you are aware of new to the store items and can get a (designer) leg up on the competition.

The Twinings tea tin for the “Not Sew Succulent” easy felt DIY craft arrangement was purchased at a Value Village years ago.

8. IF YOU SEE IT AND LOVE IT – BUY IT!!!

Don’t second guess it or put it back, as chances are it won’t be there when you change your mind and decide to come back. (Been there, done that and bought the thrift store t-shirt). If you check out the store’s return policy, chances are you can get an exchange or store credit.

9. CHECK OUT THE STORE’S INCENTIVE PROGRAM

Every time I donate to my favorite thrift store (Value Village), I get a punch on a card that builds by 5% to 10% off each time I bring clothes or household items in.

The milk glass vases and blue vintage bowl were thrift store finds over the years. Find how to arrange vintage vases for a home decor display in “5 Vintage Inspired DIY Displays“.

10. MAKE A BARGAIN ON A BARGAIN

If something feels overpriced or there is a spot of damage on the item ask for a manager and give a good reason as to why you should have a discount. (I once purchased a designer chiffon dress with a rip at the bottom as I knew it would still be valuable to me as I was going to make it shorter anyway. I got it for a steal at $4.99!!). Do not bargain on the discount though, just take the discount they give you. After all, you are getting a great deal.

11. BONUS!!

Know your favorite brands and go for the higher end, higher quality products (especially in clothing) as the item will last longer because remember it already has some wear and tear.

The above “Love” embroidery hoop was found for $.25 at a United Church thrift store. Check out my Easy Modern DIY Embroidery Tutorial called “Embroider with Love“.

Even though I share a lot of freebies and tutorials, I held back for years sharing my creations because I feared failure. As creatives, you and I can be held back due to negative thinking. It might look like comparing your ability to others or not having the confidence to pursue your creative talent or putting your creations out into the world.    

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AND 

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Do you want to build a creative business but are struggling to find the answer to “what do I do next?” 

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Watch this quick video below for more information. 

https://youtu.be/C08dZQkZCU0 

Click HERE to get started. 

Remember to pin image to read later or share to Pinterest. Thank you! 

So go forth and conquer your nearest thrift store(s)! Enjoy your treasure hunting! Drop me a line and let me know your most recent or valued find and what you did to repurpose it. And if you like what you see and read, please share, pin or comment. Thank you!

Blessings from my house to yours,

Darlene