The Vintage Decor You Should Never Leave Behind At The Thrift Store

Thrifting is a fun opportunity to find unique pieces at great prices, but it can also be surprisingly stress-inducing due to one specific issue: indecision. You find yourself a gorgeous item, check the price, and carry it around the store, but you just can't quite decide if it is worth a purchase. From trinkets to clothing, you never want to have buyer's remorse. On the other hand, if you skip it, you may never see it again. If you are tired of constantly running the debate in your head, then it may help to know which valuable vintage trinkets you should always look for at thrift stores and estate sales. In fact, there is a specific type of vintage decor that you should never leave behind. Next time you see vintage ceramics, such as dishes, planters, or figurines, you should know that they are absolutely worth purchasing.

Vintage ceramics include porcelain, stoneware, and earthenware, and the items are likely to be handmade rather than mass-produced. Being handmade, they will feature unique and beautiful details, and since they have been around for decades and still look stunning, you will know that vintage ceramics are highly durable. With a fairly quick assessment, you should be able to tell if a piece will appreciate in value over time by assessing its quality and desirability. The next time you find a ceramic piece that is in good condition, that you like the look of, or that you know is rare, authentic, or highly sought after, then you will know to buy without hesitating.

Start by checking for any chips or cracks that will tell you the item is not in good condition. Discoloration can also be a flaw worth noting. Checking for aesthetics is easy, as you get to rely on your own eye and style. If you like the design, especially if it is in good condition, then it is worth buying for your home. Learn the styling secrets that make thrifted vintage ceramics the centerpiece in your home, and enjoy your new item. 

Just be sure to clean carefully but thoroughly and to test for lead if you plan to use it as dishware. When cleaning, avoid submerging the piece to prevent water damage through cracks in the glaze. Instead, gently handwash the item using warm water. Then, maintain your ceramics by softly dusting them and displaying them in a temperate location on a soft but stable surface to reduce damage from light or vibrations.

Checking for authenticity, rarity, and desirability can be more difficult. You'll need to know the vintage brands that are always worth buying at thrift stores and how to find them. Typically, this involves looking for maker's marks and researching the brand to see the worth. You may find pieces by Grueby, Royal Doulton, Lenox, or other major brands that are highly valued today. If you happen to pick up one of these pieces for a good price while thrifting, you could make a major profit, so it is definitely worth buying any vintage ceramics and appraising them.