Looking to create beautiful DIY home decor without spending a ton?
Then it’s time to grab your tote bag, your favorite coffee, and hit the thrift store, friend!
In this post, I’m sharing 5 of my absolute favorite thrift store finds that are just begging for a DIY makeover. These pieces are not only affordable, but they’re also packed with potential. With a little creativity (and maybe a bit of chalk paint), you can turn everyday items into one-of-a-kind vintage-style decor that’s as personal as it is pretty.
Whether you’re a seasoned upcycler or just getting started on your trash-to-treasure journey, these finds will help you decorate with charm and purpose.
Why Thrifted Finds Make the Best DIY Projects
Thrift flipping is one of the easiest (and most fun!) ways to create budget-friendly home decor that reflects you. Instead of buying mass-produced items, you’re giving new life to forgotten treasures—and that’s a win for your wallet and the planet
Here’s what makes thrifted DIYs so magical:
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
- Full of vintage charm
- Unique and customizable
- Beginner-friendly
- Affordable
1. Mirrors: The Ultimate Blank Canvas
From thrift store to timeless treasure—this vintage mirror got a whole new life with chalk paint and floral transfers.
Why They’re Great:
You can almost always find mirrors at the thrift store—and they’re perfect for a DIY makeover! Look for pieces with interesting frames, even if the color or finish isn’t your style.
How to Transform It:
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Add a coat of chalk mineral paint in a cozy neutral like “Drop Cloth”
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Use IOD transfers or stamps for a floral or French farmhouse look
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Lightly distress the edges for that aged, vintage-style vibe
Bonus Tip: Small mirrors make great wall collages. Paint them in different tones and hang together for a charming gallery effect!
2. Enamelware & Metal Pieces
Who knew a tarnished teapot could look this charming? A little paint and creativity go a long way.
Why They’re Great:
Think teapots, trays, pitchers, or even old tins. These are perfect for upcycled home decor—they’re durable, decorative, and just plain fun to work with!
How to Transform It:
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Paint with Dixie Belle chalk paint (darker shades like “Caviar” or “Collard Greens” pop beautifully)
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Add a floral IOD transfer or label-style stamp
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Use gilding wax to highlight handles, feet, or rims for a classy touch
These pieces look amazing on shelves, entry tables, or as centerpieces filled with greenery or faux florals.
WATCH THE FULL TUTORIAL ON YOUTUBE!
3. Wooden Bread Boards & Cutting Boards
These old bread boards are now full of farmhouse soul—perfect for your kitchen wall or open shelving.
Why They’re Great:
They’re farmhouse gold! Not only are they easy to find, but they’re also super versatile. Use them as functional decor or purely decorative pieces.
How to Transform It:
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Wash with a Sweet Pickins milk paint wash for a food-safe, vintage finish
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Decorate one side with IOD stamps or transfers
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Seal with Sweet Pickins Tongue Oil to protect (and bring out the wood grain)
Creative Tip: Hang several boards on your kitchen wall for a cozy, collected look.
LIKE THIS TUTORIAL? I HAVE MANY MORE ON MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL!
4. Picture Frames & Art
These charming frames got a whole new story with a coat of paint and a little creativity.
Why They’re Great:
From tiny frames to giant wall art, this is one of the most affordable thrifted items you can snag. Don’t worry about what’s in them—focus on the frame itself!
How to Transform It:
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Paint the frame and dry brush over details to make them pop
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Turn empty frames into bulletin boards, chalkboards, or even jewelry displays
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Replace outdated art with decoupage paper, rice paper, or your own creation
Use Decoupage or Rice Paper for a whimsical or seasonal look!
5. Small Furniture Pieces
An inexpensive find, a little paint, and boom—hello, cozy cottage vibes.
Why They’re Great:
End tables, stools, plant stands—oh my! These pieces are usually under $20 and offer huge DIY potential.
How to Transform It:
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Sand and paint with chalk mineral paint or milk paint
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Add IOD moulds or inlays for texture and detail
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Finish with clear coat or wax depending on the style you want
Small furniture is also great for practicing blending, layering, or distressing techniques before jumping into a big furniture flip.
Bonus Tips for Thrift Store Treasure Hunting
What to Look For:
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Solid wood (no particle board if possible)
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Real metal or enamel pieces
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Frames with ornate detail
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Items with potential, not perfection
What to Bring:
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Measuring tape
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Photos of your space for reference
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A list of project ideas or materials you already have
Ready to Go Treasure Hunting?
Now that you know what to look for, I hope you’re feeling inspired to try your own DIY home decor projects! Just remember—it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. In fact, the charm is in the imperfections. That’s the heart of upcycling.
Shop the Supplies I Use:
Dixie Belle Chalk Paint → Browse Colors
Sweet Pickins Milk Paint → See Options
IOD Transfers, Moulds & Stamps → Shop Transfers
Rice Paper and Decoupage → Connie Lines & Designs and Decoupage Paper
Let’s Chat!
Have you scored a great thrift store find lately?
Tell me in the comments—I’d love to hear what you’re flipping next!
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