I think I like this little life 🥰 Changing care I think I like this little life 🥰 Changing careers can be challenging but I’ve never felt more free, at peace, and so happy! 
I know that everything I’ve done so far in my life has led me to this moment. How lucky am I to be able to follow not one, but two passions in my lifetime? 
I’ve worked so hard to become a nurse so walking away from it (even if it’s just for a while) was not easy. But I’m so glad I’m pursing my love for design, helping people (in a different way), and creating content that inspires you. 
Stick around as I navigate the new life of entrepreneurship and share fun projects that are in the works 😉🤎 
#diy #interiordesign #diyprojects #diyer #contentcreator
Can’t lighten the wood on your furniture? Use th Can’t lighten the wood on your furniture? Use this technique to create a faux wood grain without the hassle of sanding or possibly damaging any veneer wood. 
Here’s how to achieve the look: 
-Clean your furniture piece (IMPORTANT STEP!!) 
-Repair any damaged veneer with wood filler 
-Lightly sand all surfaces and wood filler once dried 
-Clean well with cheesecloth to get rid of any sanding dust 
-Paint with chalk paint. (I had a sample of SW mixed with @bbfrosch paint transformer already on hand) 
-Once paint is dried and coverage looks good (I applied 2 coats of paint) apply @rustoleum Decorative Glaze 
-Apply the glaze with a soft brush first, then immediately after sweep with a brush that has harder bristles (I used a deck brush) 
-Make sure to do long light brushstrokes and wipe the brush with a rag in between strokes until you get your desired look. 
-Once the glaze is dried, seal with a polycrylic. I sprayed the dresser with Minwax polycrylic in a gloss finish 
It’s hard to tell the dresser was painted! The lines created in the glaze look amazing and truly mimic wood grains. Give this a try and let me know how it goes! 
#refinishedfurniture #furnituremakeover #paintedfurniture #furniture #dressermakeover #frenchprovincial #frenchprovincialstyle #frenchprovincialfurniture
It was finally time for the ghosts to become Chris It was finally time for the ghosts to become Christmas trees! Since making my own trees two years ago here’s what I’ve learned. 
-wrapping the trunk with brown floral tape makes it look better 
-instead of pre drilling in random places, drilling around in sections makes it easier to insert stems 
-using different size bits to drill your holes to make sure your stems are nice and snug 
These were so much easier to make and I love how I can choose any bunches/stems to create unique trees. 
#diychristmastree #diychristmasdecor #christmastree #christmasdecor #minichristmastree #christmasdecorideas
This dresser that was given to me by my lovely cou This dresser that was given to me by my lovely cousin @wendelyniashai has been sitting in my garage for a few months. But I believe it was just waiting for the right time and right home. 
When I saw that @helpherhomeri needed furniture to furnish and decorate a shelter for women of domestic violence and their children I knew this dresser would be perfect! 
I reached out and the measurements were just what they were looking for! 
Initially the plan was to just purchase hardware and clean up the dresser to donate. After some thought I knew I couldn’t donate the dresser as is. 
I decided to give it a makeover because I believe everyone deserves a safe and beautiful place to call home. 
If you are able, I encourage all of you to reach out to any local organizations doing amazing things for people and see how you can help ❤️
#refinishedfurniture #refinisheddresser #furnituremakeover #furniture #furniturerestoration #frenchprovincial #furniturestills #frenchprovincialfurniture
I’ll forever love making my own Christmas trees I’ll forever love making my own Christmas trees 🌲 
#diychristmastree #diychristmasdecor #christmasdecor #christmastree #porchdecor
Turning coffee grounds into holiday magic with the Turning coffee grounds into holiday magic with these DIY ornaments ✨🎄 
I love how these turned out! I’ve been recycling my old clear ornaments this week and this one is my favorite! 
Here’s how to make your own: 
-Mix Mod Podge with a couple teaspoons of coffee grounds 
-Stir well until you get the color you desire (you can always add more Mod Podge if it’s too thick or dark) 
-Remove cap from ornament and pour in your mixture 
-Move around to cover the entire inside and place upside down over a cup to let excess drip out 
-Leave overnight to dry 
-(optional) Add Rub n’ Buff to cap and place back on ornament
-Hang and enjoy! 
#diyornaments #treedecorating #diychristmasdecor #christmasdecor
✨GIVEAWAY CLOSED🌲✨ I’ve teamed up with @l ✨GIVEAWAY CLOSED🌲✨ I’ve teamed up with @lynchcreekfarm to give away a beautiful fresh wreath just in time for the holidays! This wreath smells amazing and will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit! 
How to enter:
🌲Like this reel and comment ‘WREATH’
🌲Follow @lynchcreekfarm and @paintingbythepenny 
🎄Bonus entry: tag a friend for an extra entry (each separate comment is an additional entry) 
Giveaway ends on November 29th at 11:59 EST! 
Available to win in the U.S only. This giveaway is not associated with Instagram.
I was sad to see the fall decor go so I used it as I was sad to see the fall decor go so I used it as inspiration and I’m holding onto the grapevine wreaths a little longer! 
We were able to easily transition from fall to Christmas decor by switching out the pumpkins for Christmas garlands and bundles. 
I’m having a hard time deciding which one I love more, last year’s garland arch or these year’s wreaths? Let me know in the comments which one is your favorite! 
And keep an eye out on my stories as I add more decor to the porch this week! 
#porchdecor #christmasdecor #christmasporch #christmasdecorations #christmaswreath #frontporch
Spent part of the day today decorating the front p Spent part of the day today decorating the front porch for Christmas! Last year this arch was EVERY👏🏽THING!!! 
This year we’re doing an easy transition from fall to Christmas decor. Catch part of the process on my stories! 
Stay tuned for the final look! I’m having a hard time deciding which one I love the most! 
#christmasporch #porchdecor #frontporchdecor #christmasdecor #outdoorchristmasdecor #holidaydecor #christmasdecorideas
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Painting by the Penny

DIY & Interior Design

DIY Projects, Interior Design · January 6, 2022

Top 10 Thrift Store Home Decor Finds

One of my favorite things to do is to go thrift shopping. I honestly have to stop myself from going All of the time. When it comes to decorating a home, finding items that are unique and will save you money is one of my main focuses. Going thrifting for home decor items can be so much fun but it can also be overwhelming. This is why I put together a list of my top 10 thrift store home decor finds. I also share tips, why you should thrift, where to go, how to decorate your home with your thrifted finds, and lastly what to stay away from when thrifting.

Let’s get right into it!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through those links. I have used and recommend products from companies that I have found helpful and trustworthy.

Top 10 thrift store home decor finds

#1 Vases

Small blue vase and larger green and tan vase on shelf of thrift store

When I go thrifting for vases I like to focus on the shape versus the color. You can easily change their look by spraying or painting them to change the color. They come in all different shapes and sizes and can be used in pretty much every room in the house.

WARNING! Before grabbing a paintbrush and painting any vintage or antique find, be sure to check its value first. If you feel it has some value, start by just going on Google and gathering information, get the item appraised online, or visit your local antique dealer. You don’t want to find out later after you’ve painted an item that it had some big value.

This vase I purchased for $3.99 and painted It by mixing some latex paint, baking powder and a little dirt to add more texture.

Small blue and white ceramic vase with handles on the side

This is what the vase looks like now. I also thrifted these amber bottles and encyclopedias in the photo below!

Close up image of shelves with vase, books and frame artwork

This was another good find. I loved the texture on this one and was inspired by this Pottery Barn planter so I painted it. I share how I painted this on my DIY 2 highlight on my Instagram.

Fore image of a Yellow vase on dining table and same vase painted white with greenery inside on top of glass coffee table
Ceramic white textured small planter

#2 Artwork/Frames

Wall with framed artwork of birds and oceans
Wall filled with framed art with some frames on floor leaning against wall

Artwork is a great way to add wall decor without breaking the bank. You can easily paint over the art or enhance it by adding more color. You can also change the frame if you just like the art. For a vintage look, leave it as is.

I found the artwork below at a yard sale. It’s perfect for fall!

Tow green end tables against white wall with framed fall tree artwork on wall

Old frames are wonderful too. I like to display them as is.

Set of two white frames and one gold frame standing against other items inside a thrift store
I mixed this vintage frame with some modern art.
Close up image of dresser with wooden frame leaning against wall and smaller frame in front of it

#3 Bowls/Dinnerware

Bowls and dinnerware are also great to style hutches or place in your kitchen. Just be aware, if purchasing antique dishes use them only for decor. Antique dishes may contain lead oxide which isn’t safe to eat out of.

This vintage set is a perfect display to stage this refinished oak dining table.

Light wood oak round table with claw feet. Vase with greenery inside and small bowl filled with lemons on top of table

I like to purchase pitchers to use as display in a kitchen or hutch. These also make great vases.

Ceramic vase on-top of a shelf inside a store

#4 Baskets

Pile of baskets on floor

Ahhh who doesn’t love a good basket? Thrift stores have all sorts of baskets to choose from. You can use them for storage, hang them on doors as wreaths with some florals, or purchase flat ones and use them as wall decor.

This hand made basket is great for storing blankets!

One large round basket with handle on floor

#5 Books

6 Shelves filled with books

Books are great thrift store home decor finds because you can get them for a great deal. You can choose to get a ton of vintage books for your bookshelves or find great reads to style your coffee table. I like to get older books with earthy and neutral tones.

Small 4 shelf bookcase with antique books

#6 Lamps

Blue ceramic Lamp base being help by hand with price tag sticker on it

This one is one of my favorite things to shop for at the thrift store. I have recently become a lamp hoarder 🙃. I just can’t seem to leave these little beauties behind! Also, have you looked online and tried purchasing a nice lamp? They can be expensive! I love creating dupes and transforming the look of some of these lamps. Some are great just as is!

I usually just shop for the base and purchase a new shade elsewhere but lamps are incredible to add some additional lighting to your home.

Here are some lamps I have worked on. For more, checkout 5 Thrifted Lamp Makeover Ideas.

Blue lamp base next to a small white lamp base on top of a dining table

Can you believe these are the same lamps?

Lamp next to framed artwork of antique wooden door
Lamp on top of book with wooden beads laying on the side and small framed landscape artwork
Lamp base on top of dining table
Small vase with greenery next to brown lamp on a side table next to a leather couch

#7 Furniture

Small wood cabinet with 50 percent off tape and small christmas trees on top sitting in the middle of a thrift store

Ok, if you’ve been following me on social media you know I love to refinish furniture. Finding furniture for free or for a really low price and then making it look completely different is a passion of mine.

Mixing vintage and antique furniture with modern pieces looks great in any home.

Look at this fluted bar cabinet! I’ve seen so many people DIY this look. This piece would look incredible painted and I would add some legs to make it more modern!

Brown fluted bar cabinet

#8 Wood decor

Small wooden bowls stacked inside bigger bowl with two wooden spoons in big bowl being held up

From cutting boards to display in your kitchen to wooden bowls or trays, bringing a natural element like wood into your home is wonderful. Don’t shy away from dark wood. If you find a wooden piece thats too dark remember you can always sand it and reveal the natural wood.

Set of wooden salad bowls
Small Wooden tray on a shelf

I found this cute wooden bowl a while ago but wasn’t a big fan of the red.

Small red wooden bowl
So I sanded it down using my Surfprep Sander and revealed this pretty light wood bowl that was perfect for my coffee table.

(If you are looking for a great sander for DIY projects or projects around your home, I highly recommend Surfprep. I have the 3×4 Electric ray sander. Use code PBYP10 for 10% off!)

Book with small wooden bowl on top filed with gold bells on a glass coffee table with fireplace in the background

#9 Candle holders

Antique Candelabra on top of shelf

Create ambiance with candles for a very low price. In my opinion, you can never have too many. These are great for any occasion. I love to use candle stick holders for my table setting. Like these brass candle stick holders I used for my Thanksgiving table setting

Dining table with plate setting and antique brass candle sticks and candles running through the center on top of cloth runner

You can purchase vintage candelabras which are popular during the holiday season or get unique ones like these below that are great for the fall. They can be sprayed or left as is.

Two green taper candles inside gold leaf candle holders

#10 Mirrors

Antique wooden mirror against wall inside thrift store
There are lots of mirrors at the thrift stores. If you are looking for a mirror I recommend thrifting first. You may be ale to find just the right size and if you don’t like the frame you can easily paint or spray it.

Check out this antique mirror. If you look online for an antique mirror, something similar to this will cost you well over $500. This one was on sale for $200.

Hanging gold antique mirror with Christmas lights and butterflies hanging on the side

Why shop at a thrift store for home decor

Corner with random furniture and small items at a thrift store

Ok so now that we know the top thrift store home decor finds, the question is why shop at a thrift store? This one is obvious but its so much cheaper! If you are looking to decorate your home, shopping at thrift stores can save you a lot of money.

Items can easily be changed to fit your style too. You can easily change the color of an item without feeling guilty about how much you paid.

You’ll also have a unique item to display in your home. Part of designing a home is about bringing pieces you love and that is unique to your experiences, likes, and personality.

Where to buy thrifted home decor in person and online

If you are from the east coast like me, popular thrift stores like Savers and Goodwill are go tos for thrifting. There’s also your local mom and pop thrift stores and Salvation Army. Once the weather starts getting warm, local yard sales and flea markets are great.

Also, I did not know this but, did you know that you can shop Goodwill online? You can bid on items at Shop Goodwill .

My favorite place to shop online for thrifted items is Facebook Marketplace. I found my front door on Facebook for $250! Yes! You heard that right $250! This is a solid wood door and I was getting quoted well over 2k when I started shopping around for one. I love to shop for furniture on there too!

Wooden front door with two large pine cones hanging on door, greenery  running across top of door, two small christmas trees beside door in baskets

Other great online places to thrift shop are Etsy, OfferUp, EBay, and Everything but the House.

Thrifting Tips

Like I’ve mentioned before, thrifting can be overwhelming and this is why its best to be prepared when you go thrift shopping. Here are some tips!

Have a plan

When going thrift shopping make sure you have an idea of what you are looking for. You may have to dig for the items you want and as fun as browsing a thrift store sounds (and sometimes I go just to browse) I find that you leave empty handed and feeling overwhelmed. Some thrift stores can be very cluttered. Go with a list on hand or in mind of what exactly you are looking for. Looking for vases? Then aim to search for that and when you find what you are looking for then you can browse and see what other items you are drawn to.

Pick up the items you like

Once you find an item you like place it in your cart, even if you are unsure you’re going to buy it. There’s a chance that if you leave it on the shelf it may not be there when you go back for it. Remember, most of the time there aren’t multiple of the same item.

Go multiple times

When thrifting, go multiple times and browse the aisles a few times. You’ll see items you may have missed when walked by before. If you go multiple times you’ll see newer items stocked and you’ll start to see what days are best to go.

Learn the good days

Most thrift stores restock items daily but one of the best times to go thrift shopping is early in the morning on Mondays or Tuesdays. You can ask an employee if they have specific days that they stock new items. Some stores even have days where they add additional discounts to items.

How to decorate with thrift store finds

Sideboard with lamp, artwork, glas vase with greenery on top

I wish I had a better photo of how I decorate my thrift finds in my own home but it’s currently empty from all the holiday cleaning. I’m also not the best at remembering to capture the rooms in my home as they all need some updating (we have lots of home projects coming up!). Along with home decor, thrifting has given me a chance to get items I love and display them to stage my refinished furniture.

Choose items you love and fit your style

Look online for inspiration first. See what items you are drawn to when searching and aim for getting similar items when you are out shopping.

DIY and upgrade your thrifted find

This one is right up my alley! Sometimes I like to challenge myself and find items that I can change. You can make a simple change by simply cleaning, staining, or polishing your item. Or you can turn it into a bigger project and decide to change the look completely. Painting can make a big difference so most of the time that is my first thought.

Look for unique items

Sometimes items from big department stores find their way to second hand stores. You can most certainly get those things because after all, its priced much lower but I like to incorporate unique items. It doesn’t have to be a ton of unique items but something that stands out and is one of a kind.

Stick to a theme

Purchase items that work well together if using them in the same space. Choose colors that compliment each other and fit the theme of the room. They can be similar in colors but try and get different textures and shapes.

What to stay away from when thrift shopping

Close up image of antique stacked plates with red and gold decor detail  with two teacups on top

Now that you know what to buy when shopping for thrift store home decor items, here’s a list of the things you should stay away from.

Antique Dishes

I mentioned this one before but unless you are using these antique dishes for decor, antique dishes may contain lead oxide and is not safe to eat from. This applies to antique or vintage dishes only so do your research and make sure it is safe.

Broken Pieces

If you have the time and energy to fix the item then go for it but sometimes its just not worth it. Some items may require a lot of work and time to fix.

Painted Antique/Vintage Furniture

I have noticed that some furniture artist sell their pieces at thrift stores. These pieces are ok to buy if you know they have been recently painted. If its an old piece of furniture with the same old paint finish you have to be careful. Painted vintage and antique furniture may contain lead.

Smelly Fabric

I tend to stay away from fabrics and upholstered items altogether. Especially if it smells, ughhh this is a pain in the butt to deal with. Depending on the item, it can take a lot of work to remove the odor.

Items for Kids

Be careful when purchasing items for kids. Old painted items can contain lead and items like bassinets may not meet today’s safety standards.

And there you have it. I hope you found this post helpful. Going to the thrift store for your home decor can take some time to get use to but the more you go the better you’ll be at finding the right items for you and your home.

Have you gone thrifting? Leave a comment below and share your best thrift store find! I would love to hear about it! Haven’t thrifted yet? Give it a try! You’ll be surprised by what you find and all the money you’ll save.

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DIY Christmas Trees

About me

Hi! I’m Joanna, a Latina who is passionate about making homes beautiful through furniture, design and DIY! Follow along as I share all my tips and tricks and the behind the scenes. I hope to inspire you as much as you all inspire me!

Instagram

Follow @Paintingbythepenny

I think I like this little life 🥰 Changing care I think I like this little life 🥰 Changing careers can be challenging but I’ve never felt more free, at peace, and so happy! 
I know that everything I’ve done so far in my life has led me to this moment. How lucky am I to be able to follow not one, but two passions in my lifetime? 
I’ve worked so hard to become a nurse so walking away from it (even if it’s just for a while) was not easy. But I’m so glad I’m pursing my love for design, helping people (in a different way), and creating content that inspires you. 
Stick around as I navigate the new life of entrepreneurship and share fun projects that are in the works 😉🤎 
#diy #interiordesign #diyprojects #diyer #contentcreator
Can’t lighten the wood on your furniture? Use th Can’t lighten the wood on your furniture? Use this technique to create a faux wood grain without the hassle of sanding or possibly damaging any veneer wood. 
Here’s how to achieve the look: 
-Clean your furniture piece (IMPORTANT STEP!!) 
-Repair any damaged veneer with wood filler 
-Lightly sand all surfaces and wood filler once dried 
-Clean well with cheesecloth to get rid of any sanding dust 
-Paint with chalk paint. (I had a sample of SW mixed with @bbfrosch paint transformer already on hand) 
-Once paint is dried and coverage looks good (I applied 2 coats of paint) apply @rustoleum Decorative Glaze 
-Apply the glaze with a soft brush first, then immediately after sweep with a brush that has harder bristles (I used a deck brush) 
-Make sure to do long light brushstrokes and wipe the brush with a rag in between strokes until you get your desired look. 
-Once the glaze is dried, seal with a polycrylic. I sprayed the dresser with Minwax polycrylic in a gloss finish 
It’s hard to tell the dresser was painted! The lines created in the glaze look amazing and truly mimic wood grains. Give this a try and let me know how it goes! 
#refinishedfurniture #furnituremakeover #paintedfurniture #furniture #dressermakeover #frenchprovincial #frenchprovincialstyle #frenchprovincialfurniture
It was finally time for the ghosts to become Chris It was finally time for the ghosts to become Christmas trees! Since making my own trees two years ago here’s what I’ve learned. 
-wrapping the trunk with brown floral tape makes it look better 
-instead of pre drilling in random places, drilling around in sections makes it easier to insert stems 
-using different size bits to drill your holes to make sure your stems are nice and snug 
These were so much easier to make and I love how I can choose any bunches/stems to create unique trees. 
#diychristmastree #diychristmasdecor #christmastree #christmasdecor #minichristmastree #christmasdecorideas
This dresser that was given to me by my lovely cou This dresser that was given to me by my lovely cousin @wendelyniashai has been sitting in my garage for a few months. But I believe it was just waiting for the right time and right home. 
When I saw that @helpherhomeri needed furniture to furnish and decorate a shelter for women of domestic violence and their children I knew this dresser would be perfect! 
I reached out and the measurements were just what they were looking for! 
Initially the plan was to just purchase hardware and clean up the dresser to donate. After some thought I knew I couldn’t donate the dresser as is. 
I decided to give it a makeover because I believe everyone deserves a safe and beautiful place to call home. 
If you are able, I encourage all of you to reach out to any local organizations doing amazing things for people and see how you can help ❤️
#refinishedfurniture #refinisheddresser #furnituremakeover #furniture #furniturerestoration #frenchprovincial #furniturestills #frenchprovincialfurniture
I’ll forever love making my own Christmas trees I’ll forever love making my own Christmas trees 🌲 
#diychristmastree #diychristmasdecor #christmasdecor #christmastree #porchdecor
Turning coffee grounds into holiday magic with the Turning coffee grounds into holiday magic with these DIY ornaments ✨🎄 
I love how these turned out! I’ve been recycling my old clear ornaments this week and this one is my favorite! 
Here’s how to make your own: 
-Mix Mod Podge with a couple teaspoons of coffee grounds 
-Stir well until you get the color you desire (you can always add more Mod Podge if it’s too thick or dark) 
-Remove cap from ornament and pour in your mixture 
-Move around to cover the entire inside and place upside down over a cup to let excess drip out 
-Leave overnight to dry 
-(optional) Add Rub n’ Buff to cap and place back on ornament
-Hang and enjoy! 
#diyornaments #treedecorating #diychristmasdecor #christmasdecor
✨GIVEAWAY CLOSED🌲✨ I’ve teamed up with @l ✨GIVEAWAY CLOSED🌲✨ I’ve teamed up with @lynchcreekfarm to give away a beautiful fresh wreath just in time for the holidays! This wreath smells amazing and will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit! 
How to enter:
🌲Like this reel and comment ‘WREATH’
🌲Follow @lynchcreekfarm and @paintingbythepenny 
🎄Bonus entry: tag a friend for an extra entry (each separate comment is an additional entry) 
Giveaway ends on November 29th at 11:59 EST! 
Available to win in the U.S only. This giveaway is not associated with Instagram.
I was sad to see the fall decor go so I used it as I was sad to see the fall decor go so I used it as inspiration and I’m holding onto the grapevine wreaths a little longer! 
We were able to easily transition from fall to Christmas decor by switching out the pumpkins for Christmas garlands and bundles. 
I’m having a hard time deciding which one I love more, last year’s garland arch or these year’s wreaths? Let me know in the comments which one is your favorite! 
And keep an eye out on my stories as I add more decor to the porch this week! 
#porchdecor #christmasdecor #christmasporch #christmasdecorations #christmaswreath #frontporch
Spent part of the day today decorating the front p Spent part of the day today decorating the front porch for Christmas! Last year this arch was EVERY👏🏽THING!!! 
This year we’re doing an easy transition from fall to Christmas decor. Catch part of the process on my stories! 
Stay tuned for the final look! I’m having a hard time deciding which one I love the most! 
#christmasporch #porchdecor #frontporchdecor #christmasdecor #outdoorchristmasdecor #holidaydecor #christmasdecorideas
From gifts for kids to experiences Paintingbythepe From gifts for kids to experiences Paintingbythepenny.com has all the gift guides you’ll need to help you this holiday season. Did you catch the last gift guide? 🤑😆
Happy shopping and remember spending time with your loved ones is really what matters the most ❤️
#holidaygiftguide #giftideas #holidayshopping #giftguide #holidaygifts
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