THE THRIFTER’S FIELD GUIDE
Thrift your way.
Every kind of thrifting has its own rhythm. Pick the way you hunt, or one you’d like to try: when to go, what turns up, how to do well, and the sites worth knowing.
Ways to thrift
Thrift stores
Charity and resale shops, with new things out every day.
Yard and garage sales
Weekend sales in driveways, from one family or a whole street.
Estate sales
A whole home’s things, priced and open for a few days.
Flea markets and antique malls
Rows of dealers’ booths, outdoors on weekends or indoors all week.
Online auctions
Bid on a home’s contents online, then pick up nearby.
Live auctions
An auctioneer, a room of bidders, and a preview to look first.
Marketplace and classifieds
One seller at a time, near you: message, agree, pick up.
Free finds
Curbside pickings and neighbors giving things away.
Three habits that pay off anywhere
Know your sizes
Measure the walls, shelves and frames you’re filling and keep them in Places. Then “will it fit?” is a quick look on your phone.
How Places worksSnap first, decide later
Take a photo of anything you’re unsure about. Your finds keep the photo, the price and your notes, so you can compare at home.
How saving a find worksKnow your number
Decide what something is worth to you before you’re at the register. Research gives a rough range when you’re not sure.
How Research works