Make Sure You Never Overlook The Thrift Store For All Your DIY Supplies

DIYers and craft lovers aren't usually the kind to gatekeep, so it's no surprise they know all the best spots to collect craft supplies. While stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels are obvious places to start, you might be wasting that hard-earned money on brand-new items you could find elsewhere for way less. It turns out that your local thrift stores are a treasure trove of craft supplies, and you might easily score a whole collection of items for the price of just one new tool. When you're out searching for valuable high-end items at the thrift store, check the racks and shelves for everything from glue guns to wood craft blocks, sewing materials, or whatever else you are in need of.

Make sure to head to the shelves of wares and assorted items in your local secondhand shops, as this is where you will likely find a lot. While stock will vary by location, more often than not, you should be able to spot fabric, yarn, and string, as well as doilies in the hanging sections. On the shelves, you may come across items like beads, string, and even bags of school supplies, which sometimes include scissors, scrap paper, and rulers — all useful for DIY projects.

Thrifting tools like glue guns, knitting needles, and containers to hold everything could save you a lot of money. You might even snag a sewing machine, if you're lucky. Don't forget there are so many ways to repurpose embroidery hoops around your house – so be sure to grab a few if you come across them. While you're at it, keep an eye out for embellishments like pom-poms and ribbons, all of which will prove handy if you want to upgrade your bedroom pillows or other fabric items without blowing your budget. Oh, and if you're a fan of those candle crafts that are always trending, snagging tapered or pillar candles means you won't have to buy them new and feel bad about painting or melting them to make something else.

It's not just the standard craft supplies that you can find in thrift stores, though. Random items such as candlestick holders, trays, glassware, and shelves all make great DIY supplies around the house. Jewelry is another worthwhile section to explore, as you might uncover gems or strands that you can use while crafting. Old books are just as versatile: they can be repurposed into scrap paper, while picture books can be cut up for prints or decoupage projects. The same goes for packs of napkins, which are useful when decoupaging as well. Depending on your store and its supplies, you may even score unused canvases and scrapbook materials – but don't overlook paintings that you can transform into viral DIY wall decor you've been wanting to recreate!