I’ve been doing a lot of thrifting the last few weeks. So I thought I would share, what I’m looking for now while antiquing.
I have always loved vintage and old things. I began collecting as a teenager. Now, as a designer and home owner, I feel like nothing gives your room that special patina like vintage finds!
This week, I have been out on the hunt and I thought I would share some of the items that I am looking for as standouts in the antique shops.
Original art
I know I am always banging this drum, but there is nothing I love more than vintage art. First off, many times, it is much more cost efficient to buy original art that is vintage, versus new gallery art.
Art can really make a room look styled, can pull a color scheme together, and there is something about having a unique piece that no one else has.
Art elevates your home decor. Who doesn’t love a gallery wall? I love that this booth had a collection from one artist, which can be really nice if you like cohesion in your art pieces.
Look for items that speak to you. Whether it be the colors, the theme, or the art medium, vintage art will add a layer to your room like no other.
Quilts
I am always on the lookout for old quilts. Color and pattern is what I am drawn to, and shop accordingly.
I even look for cutter quilts, meaning quilts that are not usable as a whole, but can be cut and made into crafts.
Buying quilts is one of those things that you can get away with, even if you have limited space. Because displaying quilts can be a task that doesn’t take up much room. They can be hung on walls, rolled into baskets, and folded on open shelves.
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If you want some vintage but don’t want to leave the house..
Milk glass
It’s no secret that I have way too much milk glass. I have been collecting milk glass since I got my first piece from my grandmother at the age of 14. But I still look for it.
Our everyday dishes consist of milk glass plates, bowls, and glasses. And very often, I use my flower vases to make things pretty when things are blooming.
Now, I mostly look for items that are very usable and unique, like these ice cream shake glasses. I love the shape and pattern, and I know they will get used.
The thing about buying vintage, you can ask yourself a few questions: do you love it? and will you use it? If it’s a yes from both, then buy it!
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Baskets
There is never a time that I am NOT looking for vintage baskets. Especially when summer rolls around, my eye does a beacon to picnic baskets especially.
But baskets aren’t just for picnics, and they can be used all over the house in many ways.
Keep a keen eye for smaller non-handled baskets too, that can be used in the kitchen. They are great to serve bread in, store fruits and veges after a shopping trip, and incorporate into your table centerpiece.
Inexpensive small baskets are also great to use for gift giving. They add to the gift and offer a cute way to gift wrap something naturally.
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Glass jars
The use of glass jars comes and goes in the vintage world. Currently they are having their moment.
Obviously anything that helps you organize your stuff is a great find, and if you can see everything through glass, all the better!
Consider glass jars for storage in the kitchen, bathroom, home office, and pantry. They too, also make great gifts, when filled with goodies.
Blue and white dishes
Yes, I am a blue and white decorating freak, but I’m not the only one. Many people are out on the prowl for blue and white dishes.
Blue and white dishes always look so great when mixed and matched on a table. When shopping, make sure that if you want to use them everyday, that they can be put in the dishwasher.
You’ll find lots of options in flow blue, transferware, blue willow china, and much more.
Ironstone
Ironstone is another one that I have too much of, but still look for. I feel like I can justify it, since I use mine so much. At least, that’s what I tell myself.
If you ever decide to start collecting ironstone, it will be easily found in your better antique shops. It’s not cheap, but it’s sturdy, and has stood the test of time.
I still look for the items that I know I use. But you can always find pitchers, bowls, and chamber pots galore! I don’t collect the latter, but many people use them for plants.
Interesting shapes of china and ironstone
Since we’re talking about ironstone, keep an eye out for soup tureens, casseroles, or larger shaped vessels that can be great bases for centerpieces.
Whether you find them in china, ironstone, or any other element like metal or wicker, these will add interest to a vignette.
Look for medium shapes that can hold something decorative, and make these the star of your seasonal display!
Unique items for wall art
Although I’m partial to vintage art, anything can become art as long as it is interesting and catches your eye.
I love the look of old items hung on a wall, especially when they add architectural interest to your room.
When decorating with vintage items like these, you can guarantee that you will have a look that is unique to you and a reflection of your true personal style!
if you like collecting vintage
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Head out thrifting
Anytime is a good time for thrifting. I love to visit estate sales all through the year.
But spring and summer is a good time to get out at your local flea market and find that one wonderful thing that speaks to you!
And remember, as long as you love it, you will find a place for it. Always buy the things that catch your eye, and that are unique, and you will always have a space that is filled with things you love. Happy shopping!
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I love to shop for these items! I can’t even narrow it down!