Flea markets, thrift stores, and antique shops offer a wealth of interesting treasures.
The trick is figuring out how to incorporate them into your space.
These ideas for decorating with flea market finds will help you embrace secondhand scores in vintage style.
Credit: John Bessler
A retired suitcase, for example, can become a stylish yet functional bar cart.
Narrow wooden drawers, shown here placed on a lower shelf, are right-sized for holding glassware.
Scour flea markets or antique shops forfabrics with striped patterns, printed words, and interesting details.
Credit: Laura Moss
However, they aren’t made just to cover floors.
Flea Market Organization
You’ll find vintage tin containers at almost any antique store or flea market.
Often featuring vibrant colors and old-fashioned illustrations, they make great desktop organizers.
Credit: Michael Partenio
Utilize old tins in an office or to spruce up a side table or entryway buffet.
Arrange the tins on a tray to keep the items corraled.
Graphic, modern pillows and light gray damask wallpaper leave the room feeling fresh and up-to-date.
Credit: Kim Cornelison
A salvaged mantel, for example, can bring interest to a plain wall (no fireplace needed).
If an entire mantel can’t be found, assemble pieces of vintage molding to construct your own.
(you’re free to buy clock mechanisms at craft or hobby stores.)
Credit: John Bessler
Antique Sign Gallery Wall
Weathered signs and memorabilia are perfectfor creating gallery walls.
Use antique signs, both big and small, to add character to any space.
For a more cohesive look, choose pieces that showcase the same color family or a similar theme.
Credit: Michael Partenio
If an eclectic look is your goal, pieces can be different shapes, colors, and sizes.
The key is to capture the tarnished style that characterizes flea market charm.
you’re able to find vintage items to fit modern, retro, rustic, and cottage interiors.
Credit: Paul Dyer
Watch this video to find out what to look for to fit your personal flea market style.
The bold circular design naturally draws the eye, making these flea market finds ideal for wall decor.
Here, a canvas target wasframed and hung above a bedto create a focal point.
Credit: John Bessler
Displaying Flea Market Finds
Think outside the box when it comes to displaying objects.
Vintage Accessory Display
Vintage jewelry, purses, and scarves can serve as both accessories and decor.
Store these items in a hanging display to dress up an otherwise plain wall in a bedroom or closet.
Credit: Reed Davis
In this room, a coat closet shifts into a bar for entertaining guests.
Vintage suitcasesprovide storage space, while a serving tray creates a level surface atop the suitcase.
In keeping with the theme, vintage wallpaper accents the small space and gives it an air of distinction.
Credit: Edmund Barr
Vintage Lighting
Industrial-style lighting once used in warehouses or barns can find new function in homes today.
Look for sturdy metal shades and colorful paint finishes.
If the light no longer works properly, you might still salvage the fixture with a little rewiring work.
Credit: Anthony Masterson
Flea Market Vignettes
Add storage andpersonality to a hallwayor stair landing with flea market cabinets and buffets.
This old cabinet adds fun, color, and personality to the space.
Repeat similar colors and finishes among the flea market items to create a unified look.
Credit: Michael Partenio
To prevent damage to the quilt when hanging, use clip-on rings that can hang from a curtain rod.
Repurposed Headboard
For a creative headboard solution, go on the hunt for rustic, old doors.
If hanging, use wall anchors or secure screws into wall studs to ensure a solid hold.
Credit: Erik Johnson
Antique Mirrors
Flea market finds have a place in bathroom decor, too.
Here, two antique French mirrors set the tone for this glamorous bathroom.
A sleek, simple vanity allows the mirrors to remain the center of attention.
Credit: Michael Partenio
When thrifting for antique finds, keep an eye out for pieces that come in pairs or sets.
Often, this will increase the value of your score.
Here, an old wine-bottle dryer serves as a rack for glasses in a modern-day kitchen.
Credit: King Au
Think creatively about the piece’s size and shape to reuse old items for a new purpose today.
Repurposed Door Desk
A little DIY work can turn flea market treasures into beautiful new furnishings.
A barn door, for example, can become an antique-style desk when set on two old sawhorses.
Credit: Paul Dyer
Be sure to secure the door to the sawhorses with screws for a sturdy foundation.
If the silver appears tarnished, you might typically get it shining again with asimple homemade cleaning solution.
Use antique silver items as candleholders or vases for flowers on tables, shelves, or the mantel.
Credit: Werner Straube
For extra height, stack the crates or boxes in a double layer.
Antique Wagon Storage
An antique wooden wagon is a creative living room storage solution.
Use the wagon to keep blankets or firewood within reach at all times.
Credit: Gordon Beall
Credit: Paul Dyer
Credit: Michael Partenio
Credit: Reed Davis
Credit: John Bessler
