4 Ways to Make Home Thrift Finds Chic



So you've stepped out on a limb and browse your local thrift store to see if you can score a find. It's the latest trend now to thrift shop, so you have to join the party and see what the fuss was all about. More than likely you are buying a used item that may need some clean up or just may be in bad condition all together. However, that shouldn't discourage you, I have some easy tips on how to clean up thrifted items to give them a chic look! Check them out below:

1. GO METALLIC

There's something about a metallic finish that gives an item a polished look. It's quite easy to give an item a metallic finish with spray paint. Spray paint has really come a long way and it super easy to use. Even the most beginner DIY'r can managing spray painting.  When browsing, if you see a small item think how refinishing it in a metallic may enhance the beauty. For instance: there pen holders and paper tray. What was originally black is now gold and I love it!


2. GO FOR A TOTAL MAKEOVER

Sometimes a item you find may have a bit of damage, or be a great piece but just not your style color wise. This can be a simple fix depending on how drastic of a change you want. One simple thing I have done is to paint a piece of furniture. With some sanding and paint you can have a piece you truly love. 



3. MIX IT WITH NEW ITEMS

The concept of blending the old with the new can really make the old look new. Let's say you find an old basket that could use some TLC, but you're not in the mood for painting. Place that item next to a new item and it will blend right on it. Here's an example of this: I found this old box at Goodwill and placed it near my new vase.. it just flows so nicely on the shelf!


4.  UPDATE WITH WORD DECALS

As I shared in my post about 6 items I always thrift, there are plenty of white dishes and glasses to be found at the thrift store. You can give them an instant updated and chic look with word decals. You can find word decals at your local craft store and even at some bigger stores such as Target and World Market.


Now tell me, how do you turn your thrifted items into chicness?

Follow along on Instagram: @alayadonetta

13 comments

  1. I love all your thrift store finds and what you did with them. The desk is awesome! I love browsing our local Goodwill and this tiny thrift store that belongs to a church. I ALWAYS find something good. Have a great week! :) -Sabine

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    1. Hey Sabine! Thank you! There is few things I leave out of Goodwill empty handed!

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  2. Great finds as always Alaya! I have to get my hands on some of that gold spray paint!

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  3. I haven't had much luck with thrift stores lately. The closest one in my area moved to a new location and the goods just aren't the same. Seeing your post makes me want to give them another try. Your desk makeover is truly amazing!!

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    1. Thank you Brandi! I hate when I hit dry spells too! Hopefully you will find something soon.

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  4. Never thought of mixing old with new! Great advice! Thanks for the post Alaya :)

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  5. I can never find things in the thrift stores and you always come with some amazing things ! I love how you remade everything new again !

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  6. I absolutely love the idea of reprinting those ugly black office supplies gold. I am going to do that. Do you have any tips for spray painting!?

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    1. Thank you Shannan! For tips I would say to do thin even coats. Let the paint dry in between each coat. I always get tempted to do heavier coats because I'm impatient, so I have to resist the urge. Also I would recommend have a small hand sander handy in case you have drips. You can sand those out! I hope this helps!

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