Beginners Guide to Thrift-full Finds!

I've been thrifting since I was a kids. Back then it was clothes, belts and shoes! I knew I could walk in with a $20 bill, and walk out with a whole new wardrobe. How amazing is that? And don't be confused thrift stores do not equal crappy stained clothing! The amount of top brands I have found over the years would amaze you.

My love for thrifted clothing finds is still strong but my love for home goods now tops the charts! I get really over the top excited when I score something cool for our home or an antique item I can refinish. I love finding things that are DIFFERENT! There are a few things you need to know before adventuring out on your first thrifting experience.

1. Time. Absolutely do not go to the thrift store if you are short on time. I guarentee you will leave with nothing. Thrift stores are jam packed with so many items you need time to scan the shelves and walk the isles. At a quick glance you will find nothing. It just looks like a massive heap of items but upon a closer look you will definetly find diamonds amoung a sea of rocks.

2. Do not get overwhelmed. This is a huge deterrent. I have tons of friends that have said " there are way to many items in the store so I get frustrated and walk out". Step number 2 (noted above) relating back to step number, if you have enough time you should not get overwhelmed.

3. Just because the items in a thrift store does NOT mean its a good deal. There have been numerous times I have picked items up I liked but upon closer look realizing I would only be saving 2 or 3 dollars than if I had purchased it new at the store. If that's the deal I would just rather buy new. I want a deep discount. 50% or more off an excellent condition item is a great deal on a thrift find, and you should be happy dancing right out of the store.

4. Know your brands. To make sure you are not over spending on an item use your google search as much as you can. I was recently at Value Village and picked up the cutest sweater dress. It had feathers and lace, super cute. They wanted $25 for the dress. ( I thought that was way over priced but if it was a high end brand totally worth it.) I was not familiar with the brand so I googled the tag and found out the dress was only about 10 less dollars then what I would have bought for new. Do not trust that thrift stores know their brands either. Doing your own quick check and research will ensure you are getting the best bang for your money.

So there you have it. The best 4 tips this seasoned thrift-full shopper can offer! Please share the best thrift-full find you have ever got! Below is a picture of my last thrift adventure. My favourite item? 3 rolls of wall paper for $2.99 each!! I definitely left with a huge smile on my face! Enjoy!