Spruce Up Your Living Space With Thrift Stores: 15 Charming and Creative Ways to Decorate and Save Big!

Spruce It Up!

Shopping at a thrift store is like a treasure hunt. When you need to do a little decorating, these gems are the perfect place to enhance your home with one-of-a-kind finds while staying within your budget.

Here are some great ideas for your home to provide new life and interest with cost-saving rewards.

Picture Frames and Artwork

I love a pretty picture frame, and thrift stores often offer a variety of frames and artwork. These are also great for mixing and matching different styles and sizes to create a beautiful gallery wall.

Average savings of $14 - $50

Lamps and Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Thrift stores offer lamps and chandeliers that only need minor refurbishments like new shades or a fresh coat of paint. We once found a beautiful dining room light fixture at a fraction of the cost. We weren’t looking for it, but it found us, and we snatched it up.

Average savings of $40 - $150

Pottery and Ceramics

While shopping for decor, I always gravitate toward vases. Honestly, I have too many right now. But, …..I love them. Thrift stores are a great place to find unique vases, bowls, and pottery that can serve as functional items and stylish decor. Display them on shelves or use them in your everyday life. They are a beautiful addition to any room!

Average savings of $25 - $40

Decorative Mirrors

Mirrors are magical. They can make a space appear larger and brighter. Look for interesting frames and shapes that add a unique touch to your decor. Mirror frames can also be painted, enhanced with details, or covered in wallpaper to add flare.

Average savings of $40 - $125

Baskets and Storage

I often see a variety of baskets at thrift stores in various shapes, sizes, and colors. These can be used for many things, from storage to decorative elements, and are also great for adding interest and organization to your room.

Average savings of $18 - $40

Candles and Holders

Thrift stores often offer brand-new candles and various unique candleholders. These add ambiance to your room and can perfectly set the mood while adding interest to your other decor.

Average savings of $8 - $20

Wall Art and Tapestries

You never know what you’ll find in the area of wall art at a thrift store. These pieces can serve as focal points in any room and are great avenues to add color and texture to your walls. Plus, they are uniquely different from those at commercial stores.

Average savings of $25 - $85

Rugs and Mats

Rugs can be expensive. Finding a patterned rug can pull together a room. Thrift stores often have a few different sizes. I have seen brand-new ones and gently used options.

Average savings of $80 - $250

Vintage Furniture

Thrift stores often have unique furniture pieces you won't find in mainstream stores. A vintage coffee table or an elegant armchair can add character to any room. The quality is often better than newer items for sale in other stores. These pieces can look brand new with sanding and a fresh coat of paint. We bought the cutest corner shelf that looked great with a couple of coats of off-white paint and different hardware.

Average savings of $125 - $250

Kitchenware

If you love pretty or rare dishes, thrift stores are a great place to look for them. You’ll often see a variety of vintage plates, cups, and utensils. These items sometimes come in sets and can add a quirky touch to your kitchen design. You can oftentimes find modern appliances and dishes if that’s the look you want.

Average savings of $9 - $30

Planters and Gardening Tools

Thrift stores offer a variety of containers that can be repurposed as plant holders. Transforming your indoor and outdoor gardening with vintage planters and tools can be affordable.

Average savings of $20 - $45

Books

Hardcover books can add an interesting element to an area. They can be useful for reading and clever decorating. Stack them on tables or shelves to add a literary touch.

Average savings of $9 - $25

Decorative Trays

Trays can be used in various ways, from serving drinks to organizing items on a coffee table. Look for trays with intricate designs or interesting colors.

Average savings of $18 - $35

Seasonal Decorations

I love finding nice seasonal decor at thrift stores, as it allows me to justify changing things up occasionally. Thrifting during a holiday season assists with festive decorating while purchasing items within your budget.

Average savings of $10 - $25

Textiles and Fabrics

You can find a variety of throw blankets and textiles in various patterns. One of our local stores offers a wide range of fabrics with various textures and patterns at affordable prices. So, if you sew, this might be a great place to check for various fabrics!

Average savings of $25 - $85

Final Thoughts

A little thrifting can bring change and interest to your decor without depleting your wallet. The savings add up and can offer you peace of mind. It allows you to decorate with unique, one-of-a-kind pieces to personalize your home.

Sometimes, it takes a little creativity, but these items can be a stylish avenue for elevating your living area. So grab a friend and see what you can find to jazz up your home. Happy thrifting!