Shop Vintage Finds Like A Pro
It’s the season for garage and estate sales or the big outdoor markets like Brimfield. We can’t emphasize this enough, but it’s places and sales like these that help us find the most interesting pieces for the homes we design. You can’t create a dynamic and layered space just shopping retail. Here are our smartest tips for finding what you’re looking for:
Before You Go…
make a list
When we go antiquing we’re not looking for one thing for one project, we’re shopping for multiple rooms and multiple projects. So we go in as organized as possible. When you go to a large market like Brimfield it’s really easy to get distracted, so having a list keeps us on task. We use clipboards that hold our list of needed items that includes their dimensions, potential colors and wood tones to look for, and inspiration and product photos for reference.
make a day of it
Instead of making one stop, take the day to go to different shops. It gives you time to see a lot of decor options and the ability to look for the right piece. Plus, it’s fun!
be prepared
Hear us out, any bag you have to put on your shoulder will start to get seriously heavy if you’re walking around all day. A fanny pack makes it easier to keep all your supplies close. We keep these essentials with us: pens, a measuring tape, protein bars, a checkbook, a wad of cash, a plastic poncho, hand sanitizer, a mask, and sunscreen.
keep your hands free
A rolling metal grocery cart or a big wheeled wagon lets you pick and choose items without having to carry them around through the sale.
Once You’re There…
Get smart about transportation
If you know you’re looking for larger furniture pieces, bring a vehicle large enough to accommodate your purchases. Ratchet straps and moving blankets also help. One year at Brimfield we had the back of a pick-up truck piled so high it looked like we were The Beverly Hillbillies.
Be Aware of price ranges
Markets like Brimfield are more expensive; but it’s eons less expensive than buying from a vintage site online. You won’t be finding the one to ten dollar price tags you’re used to at a small garage sale or The Salvation Army. The large markets do a really good job curating products and there are many vendors that sell products for less than market value. It’s ideal when you want a beautiful antique piece that will be a statement in your space. We love buying chairs, outdoor furniture, doors, rugs, unique vintage lights, small little curios, art, hooks, hardware, vessels, vases, and bookends from these places. Some areas at larger flea markets charge to view the collection, sort of like paying cover at a bar. The price is typically $5 to $10 but it’s usually worth it.
know the etiquette
Etiquette depends on where you are. An antique shop has set prices but you might be able to bargain if the piece is $100 or more. Never underestimate the power of cash either! Sometimes if you pay in cash they’ll wave the tax or be more flexible on pricing. Keep your checkbook on hand too, it’s as good as cash—even though it sounds old school.
Do a sit test
For larger furniture pieces, definitely sit on it before you buy it. See how it feels; it should feel sturdy and secure. Don’t be discouraged by slight rips and dings, they actually add texture, history, and value to the piece. In today's society where there’s such a focus on buying retail, having something that’s worn really helps ground your house.
Images: Erin McGinn & Zack DeZon
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