Along with being a mother and a wife, I am also an artist. Along with being an artist, I am also a thrift shopper enthusiast. I have combined my love of saving money and painting by seeking out bargain framed pictures at thrift stores and painting my art over the old. This allows me to offer my artwork at a more reasonable price, rather than buying a canvas and frame brand new (frames and canvases are expensive).
My favorite thrift store thus far is His House Thrift Store at 167 HWY 378 in Lexington. Every time I shop there my bank account is a little lower.
His House is just like any other thrift store in my opinion. It is hit or miss. Luckily, for me it’s always a hit, but I could definitely see it being a miss for some people. And the best part is there are no real price tags. The owner has always just looked at my stuff and given an estimate. I was even able to negotiate a lower price for a desk.
Here’s what you can expect to find when you visit:
- Clothes – The clothes are hung in no particular order, therefore they are priced at $2.00 a piece. While I buy most of my clothes at thrift stores (because I always seem to get stains on them, and would rather ruin a shirt that cost me $4.00 as opposed to $40.00), I have never attempted to sift through the racks and racks of clothes hoping to find one thing that may be in my size (I just don’t have time for all that).
- Books – Looking for a good read without the hefty price tag of a new book? Their paperback books are .25 and the hardback books are $1. Quite the bargain.
- Rugs – The last time I was there they had rugs which appeared to be leftovers from a carpet store. There were also large carpet samples which would be great as bathroom or kitchen mats.
- Puzzles/Games – I have bought a few puzzles and games, and all the pieces were included (which I can NOT say for consignment stores and sales).
- Frames – They always have a great variety of pictures and frames (my main reason for going). Keep in mind the actual picture or color of the frame may not be exactly what you are looking for, but think of the potential. I posted a few before and after photographs below of artwork I’ve recreated from an old picture and frame, and it’s hard to believe these are the same pieces.
- Furniture – There are often desks, chairs and other pieces of furniture to choose from. Again, think potential. A desk might look a little beat up, but what about if you added a fresh coat of paint? I’m slowly working towards flipping furniture. Mainly because it takes more time and tools to recreate furniture, which isn’t always in the Bradford budget.
So what are you waiting for? His House is open Monday – Saturday (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.). I can appreciate they are closed on Sunday (I mean with the name His House would you expect anything less?), but it is unfortunate because Sunday is the day I can usually get away kid free. Regardless, it’s worth freeing up some of your time for a visit. If you are ever in the area and you’re a thrift store shopper, I highly suggest checking them out. Below are some all of the things that I have bought and recreated from His House. To find out more information about each piece, click on the photograph.
** Want to know more? Look for the next thrift store installment and DIY tutorials coming soon! **
What’s your favorite thrift store in Columbia? Have you had success recreating art or furniture from a thrift store find? Tell us more!
