Thrift Store Finds

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I have discovered the joys of bona fide thrift stores (better late to the party than never, I say). It's all part of my plan to be thriftier, force myself to think more creatively, and leave a lighter footprint. As a rule, I try to make the rounds every couple of weeks. Some of this I do for work, some for myself (because if I'm honest with myself, I have a glassware addiction and I'd rather find something that pleases me for $2 instead of $20). 

The mirror shown above - I bought it for $15, thinking that I would paint it and use it over my mantel. It sat propped against my living room wall for months and somehow, I just couldn't figure out what to do with it. I needed a mirror above the mantel, but alone, it felt too heavy for the fireplace. Then one day I finally accepted that I liked it just the way it was and that I'd make it work. I propped it on the mantel, then layered a couple of photographs over it (I suspect that all the white matting in the photos keeps the mirror from looking too dark).  I like it.  Actually, for $15, I love it!

Now, back to my glassware addiction. I always find tons of glassware and kitchen items at one particular thrift store. It occurred to me the other day that it was probably because it was close to so many restaurants. Basically, I think that people discard their unwanted possessions close to home. So whatever you're looking for, go to a thrift store in the appropriate neighborhood. It's just a theory, of course, but see if it works for you. 

Here are some of my other recent finds. The sets of glasses weighed in at about $2 per set and the set of glass domes were mine for $6. A little pleasure for less than the cost of a movie ticket (and I've given a home to someone else's trash).

 

I love the base of these sweet little glasses. There were only five, but I'm partial to odd numbers.

 

I found a set of four matching champagne coupes and etched them (See my earlier post for directions). I think these would make a perfect hostess, housewarming, or engagement gift.

 

There were five of these available, each slightly different. I decided not to be too greedy and bought three. I'll use them as props, to display and protect interesting items, cover food...I love them. 

 

Have a happy weekend!  Hope you get a little thrifting done.

Comments

[KatieJ]

I love all your stuff! Especially those glass domes! I found some jam jars a couple weeks ago and was excited.

[Jolie]

Oh my goodness that etching is stunning. I love it! Those glasses are so glamorous.

[teresa granath]

Ok, now I need a mirror over my mantel!

[Wendy]

Suzonne, I love thrifting! I also love your idea of etching the champagne coupes. :) I received quite a few of them from my 90 year old grandmother and my children love drinking sparkling cider from them every New Year's eve. I love the "Mad Men" look of them!!