8 mistakes you should never make when thrifting for furniture and decor, according to interior designers
We asked interior designers for their best tips on furniture and decor shopping at thrift stores.They said bringing a tape measure and physical color swatches will make shopping easier.One expert warned against purchasing anything that requires expensive repairs.Although thrift stores can be a great place to find the perfect piece of furniture or decor, it's also easy to waste money on low-quality items if you don't know how to shop smart.So, Business Insider asked interior designers to share the mistakes they see people make when shopping at secondhand stores. Here's what they said.Skipping great frames because of ugly artCara Newhart, an interior designer and the host of the "Make Space" podcast, told BI that shoppers should never skip buying a high-quality frame just because the art isn't their style."Even if you don't like the art, you can save the frame and swap it out for a print that's a perfect fit for your space," Newhart said.Forgetting to measure a room before shopping for furnitureInterior designer Veronica Sanders said it's crucial to measure your space before heading to a thrift shop."Not measuring the dimensions of your space is such a common mistake," Sanders said.
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Interior designers shared eight common mistakes people make when buying used furniture and decor at thrift stores. They advise shoppers to bring a tape measure and color swatches to avoid size and style mismatches. They also warn against buying items that need costly repairs or are of low quality. Following these tips can save money and time.
Why it matters
Knowing these mistakes helps shoppers find good deals and avoid wasting money on unsuitable pieces. It makes thrifting a smarter and more satisfying experience.
- What should you bring when thrifting for furniture?
- Bring a tape measure and physical color swatches to check size and color.
- What kind of items should you avoid buying?
- Avoid items that need expensive repairs or are of low quality.
- Why do designers recommend these tips?
- They help shoppers save money and find pieces that fit their space and style.
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8 mistakes you should never make when thrifting for furniture and decor, according to interior designers
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