Tips for Facebook Marketplace & Antiquing

I’m finding the key to a collected home is patience. And treasure hunting. You want your home to look collected, not decorated. I’ve loved antiquing, but I’ve a bit more recently discovered a love for buying used, even if it’s not antique. It certainly makes me feel better from a consumerism standpoint, because I do love stuff , but sometimes don’t feel good about how much I’m always ordering. Bonus that it’s also better for our planet (and often our wallets). So along with antiquing, I’ve been going to thrift stores more often and scouring Facebook Marketplace. You also tend to find more unique pieces this way. 

ONE

Keep a list on your phone of the types of things you're looking for. This helps me when I can sometimes get overwhelmed (and overly excited) in stores that are packed to the brim. My current list is long, but here are a few things currently on mine:

  • Silver photo frames

  • Glassware in interesting colors

  • Cabbageware

  • Bowls for popcorn/chips/nuts/dips

  • Flatware

  • Stool with interesting leg details

  • Full length mirror

  • Ladderback chairs

  • Lamps

  • Gathering basket

  • Side table

  • Art (always art! A blank wall hates to see me coming. Painting, lithographs, watercolors, oil pastels—one of a kind art makes a space feel collected.)

TWO

Keep a list of measurements in your house or of specific items on your list so when you find that perfect side table, you already know what dimensions will fit!

THREE

In line with number 2, bring a measuring tape! Often stores will have one, but it’s easier to bring one along. I even keep a tiny one in my car.

FOUR

Get to know keywords and search terms that fit your style (and try misspellings too!). You can try specific brands and materials (solid wood, marble, alabaster) as well. Some I use frequently include:

  • Federal style

  • Georgian

  • Burl wood

  • Inlaid wood 

  • Vintage

  • Antique

  • Solid wood

  • Custom upholstered 

FIVE

Save things on Facebook Marketplace that you like, even if you don’t intend on buying them. This trains your algorithm and then it will show you more of your style!

Home Decor♥home decor, Home, Lifestyle