Goodwill Hunting

When people come to my home they ask me .."Where did you get that?" My response more than not is "At the Goodwill." I want to share some tips with my readers about shopping at Goodwill. To open this discussion, let's be honest and say that most of the items in Goodwill are just trash - that is versus junk that is very valuable. I will admit up front I know nothing about thrift store clothes - just never went in that direction. If my readers know about thrift clothing, share in the comment section.

When I retired I was going to craft - however vintage Etsy called me and my shop was launched in 2008. I still craft weekly but also go junking for my shop and Goodwill is always a start.  I have sold at Flea Markets and Consignment stores. I shop garage sales and estate sales. When this first began, I had no discernment and lots of thrift items went right back in the donation bin. However, vintage books are usually available and are great for the collector or for home decor - place a lamp or figurine on a stack of old books.

There are some very good reasons to shop Goodwill - they always have a large selection of baskets. They can be spray painted or left plain but are great for organizational purposes, as well as home decor. Why buy new?

Combing through the books is an adventure I love. I purchase many books for my own library. I have discovered many Christian books that have been inspirational. (Another future blog post) Most paperback books are 99 cents and hardcover books are $1.99.

I buy items for my Etsy shop that are 20 years are older. I have found some incredible pieces at Goodwill for my shop. The above book is a 1975 Hallmark Address Book in mint condition in the original box. Perfect for the shop.

I find great home decor items such as these solid wooden candle holders that I painted blue. Paid $3.99. Great bargain and they were in awesome condition

Goodwill always has a great supply of wooden and metal frames - old frames are perfect to distress or decorate to fit your needs. I keep a great stash of old frames in my craft room. Also seasonal decorations are always in the store - I have found some great seasonal items that were so much cheaper than new.

In conclusion, the next comment from people who visit my home -

 " I go there and I can never find anything." I go thrifting for days and never find one thing to buy - and then EUREKA! I find a jewel. Let me know what you find at the Goodwill. (Another post about some of my more memorable finds)

(I what to encourage everyone to donate to the Goodwill - it is a great organization that gives people a helping hand.)