This Simple Thrift Store Find You Usually Overlook Can End Up Being Very Valuable

Going into a thrift store is a pretty exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) experience. There is so much to look through, from valuable vintage trinkets to funky, unique pieces of clothing, that it can be easy to miss valuable items. In fact, there is a certain thrift store item that may be all too easy to overlook: tablecloths. These vintage linens have dropped out of fashion over the last few decades big time. Most of us have probably either repurposed our old tablecloths or left them, collecting dust, in the cupboards. However, you should always check them out at the thrift store, just in case you stumble across a valuable brand. A lot of vintage tablecloths are worth around $40, but some can go for hundreds of dollars.

Vintage tablecloths are collector's items, with lovers of these pieces seeking rare and unique designs. There are a few reasons why vintage tablecloths have charmed collectors. Firstly, there is an element of nostalgia to them as they seem to represent a simpler time. They are also a representation of people sitting around the table for dinner and celebrating special occasions with loved ones. Furthermore, they often represent the feeling or fashion of the country in which they were made. For example, people from different countries began crafting patriotic tablecloths in World War II. These simple items often hold the energy of what was happening in the home. As such, they are an important part of history. 

When you want to spot valuable, high-end items at thrift stores, knowing the brands you are looking for is half the job. For vintage decorative tablecloths, be on the lookout for Wilendur, Startex, and Simtex. Wilendur is known for its vibrant prints, first introduced in 1938. Some of its famous designs are the American Beauty rose pattern and the 1950s lobster and clam pattern (which can be really hard to find). To spot Wilendur tablecloths, look for smaller sized cloths that have two hemmed sides and two selvage sides. Certain Widendur pieces can go for over $50, especially if they are unused and still have the original tags.

Simtex and Startex tablecloths are also fabulously bold, with many pieces dating back to the 1950s and 1960s. Like the Wildendur tablecloths, the value of these brands depends on the rarity and condition of the piece. Many of them will be around $20 or $30, but certain unique tablecloths can be worth much more. For example, the rare state map Startex tablecloths or the Simtex Christmas designs can be worth over $100. Check the tags of the tablecloths next time you are at your local thrift store, and who knows — you may just hit the jackpot!