Best Thrift Store Finds for Crafters

Item Category Examples Crafting Potential
Textiles Old clothes, bed sheets, curtains, tablecloths Fabric for sewing, quilting, dyeing, rag rugs, t-shirt yarn.
Yarn & Thread Unfinished knitting/crochet projects, skeins Scarves, blankets, amigurumi, embroidery.
Frames & Mirrors Picture frames, mirrors Repaint, decoupage, create custom art, chalkboards.
Glassware & Ceramics Vases, plates, mugs, jars Painting, mosaic, terrariums, candle holders.
Books & Paper Old books, magazines, maps Collage, decoupage, altered books, paper beads.
Jewelry & Beads Broken necklaces, single earrings, loose beads Jewelry making, embellishments, mixed media.

Tips for Thrifting Craft Supplies

Tip Description
Go Often Inventory changes daily, so frequent visits increase your chances of finding good deals.
Inspect Carefully Check for stains, tears, missing pieces, or damage before buying.
Think Outside the Box An item’s original purpose doesn’t limit its crafting potential.
Wash Everything Always clean thrifted items before using them in your projects.
Bring a List If you have a specific project in mind, make a list of materials you need.

Upcycling Ideas from Thrift Store Finds

Thrifted Item Upcycling Project
Old Sweaters Sweater mittens, pet beds, throw pillows.
Denim Jeans Denim bags, organizers, patches.
T-Shirts T-shirt yarn, braided rugs, cleaning rags.
Picture Frames Chalkboards, memo boards, jewelry organizers.
Glass Jars Painted vases, storage containers, fairy lights.