I love finding a good thrift store score. We have two fantastic locally owned and operated non-profit thrift stores near our house where I do much of our shopping for books, toys, kitchen items, magazines, music, and craft supplies.
Why pay full price for something of equal value and often in similar condition that costs a fraction of the price?! It’s more eco-groovy and budget-friendly to shop at second-hand shops.
brand new $4 coloring book we bought for 25¢
Here are my tips for finding a thrift store score:
1. Shop often – pop in, do a quick walk around, and head out. The more often you stop by, the more likely you are to spot a gem. You’ll also be familiar with your thrift store’s pricing structure and be more likely to know when something is a real steal.
2. Only buy something you’d be willing to pay full price for. I know this sounds counterintuitive. I find it keeps me from buying things I don’t really need simply because they’re a good deal.
$12 Ravensburger puzzle we scored for $1
3. If you’re looking for a particular item ask if they have it in the back. Many thrift stores have a giant inventory that’s constantly being moved into the store. I’ve had luck asking about Pyrex dishes and giant embroidery hoops.
4. Shop with an open mind. Don’t like the color of that picture frame? Paint it. Love the artwork in a particular book but the front cover is ripped? Frame pages or do an art project with the inside pages. Not sure about something that costs $1? Either buy it and donate it back later if you change your mind, or skip it and know that someone else will bring it home and enjoy it. Either way, you really can’t go wrong.
Rivers, Roads and Rails game for $2 instead of $20
There are some items that I always am on the lookout for: Ravensburger puzzles, wooden Scrabble letters, I Can Read books, Pyrex dishes, Gap kids clothes, games by Gamewright, eeBoo and Family Pastimes, empty coloring and activity books.
Curious about other great deals I’ve found? See the entire list of Thrift Store Score posts here.
I love the thrift store! As long as you go in with a open mind, there are so many treasures. My problem is ending up with too many “great deals”. I like your idea of a filter of only buying if you’d be willing to pay full price. It looks like you’ve got some great ones near you!
Becca, I so understand! I would imagine you are especially successful at the thrift store since you’re an interior designer! Job hazard, right?!
Now, that’s what I’m talkin’ about! I love reading this blog! And, I love the thrift store score posts the best, “Eco-groovy”, love it!
Awww, thank you, Rebecca! I’m so glad. I love writing the Thrift Store Score posts. It’s such fun to share our thrifting treasures.
Great ideas. I would have never thought to ask someone to look in the back for a specific item. Thanks!