After seeing Stephanie Drake’s chair transformations, I’m sure you wondered how she finds such treasures. After all, scouring thrift stores can sometimes be daunting. But somehow she is able to find treasures among all of the junk. But how does she do it?
Well, we asked her! You’re welcome. 
Below are Stephanie’s 7 Tips for Treasure Hunting:
1. Keep an open mind. There may be a stigma associated with shopping in second-hand stores like Goodwill, America’s Thrift, Salvation Army, etc. The fact of the matter is, people just like you and me donate really great stuff all the time. Either we outgrow it, downsize, or just get sick, we get tired of perfectly good items and send them on their way. With an open mind, these shops can be goldmines. Not to mention, you are indirectly helping those in need with your purchases and RECYCLING!
2. Don’t be afraid to mix NEW with OLD. The trick to decorating any space is not to get stuck trying to conform to a particular style or theme. If you see something that strikes you, any item you are immediately drawn to, grab it. You will always find connections that make your thrifted items cohesive within your home.
3. Thrifting furniture is about the BONES. When looking for vintage sofas, tables, or chairs, try not to get too caught up in cosmetics. The current color or fabric can be changed. It’s the underlying structure you are interested in, so you’ll want to make sure it’s sound. It may take a few coats of paint, reupholstering, or maybe both, but you can score an awesome deal on a piece with potential and have money left over to make it look exactly how you want. (Check out my chair makeovers here).
4. Instant Collections. If you want to create instant, mini collections, thrift stores are perfect. Ball jars, milk glass, depression glass, tea cups, candle sticks, etc. are abundant in these sorts of stores and look great in groups. You can start a decent sized collection or grouping without breaking the bank.
5. Go Forth + Go Often. Since thrift stores literally accept donations daily, you will find a constantly changing inventory. Find out what days your local thrift stores restock shelves then show up early for the greatest selection. Go as often as you can. You are competing with all sorts of Ebay resellers and Antique Roadshow types for the best stuff, so the more you go, the better your chances of finding a diamond in the rough.
6. Know the Sales. Yes, the thrifty shopper can be even thriftier! Most second-hand stores have special days where they offer their wares for up to 75% off the ticketed price! Check with your local thrift stores to find out the extra savings days. Remember to show up early, the better the deals, the more people you will have to fight off to get to your treasures!
7. Have Fun! Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find something amazing every time you go thrifting. See Tip # 5. Remember that half the fun of thrifting is the hunt and the story you get to tell after you’ve uncovered a great find!
by Stephanie Drake – owner and event stylist of Proper Measures
Visit her website here.
