The Art of Thrifting

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Everyone loves a good bargain. Thrift store shoppers also love the thrill of the hunt with a “what treasure might I find today?” mindset.

Thrift stores around the Lakes Region are usually open year-round and bring something special for shoppers long after yard sale season ends.

Says one eager shopper who wishes to remain anonymous, due to his competitive nature for finding antiques and vintage items, “I love to haunt thrift shops. Sometimes I am looking for something practical that I need, such as dishes, or even a good book to read. Other times I go thrifting on a Saturday morning and spend the day going from shop to shop, hunting for antiques and valuable things. I admit it isn’t often that I find something highly valuable, but that is part of the fun. Sometimes I resell the items but usually I keep them to add to my collections.”

He continues, “I have found antique dinner plates, old pottery, vases and cookie jars, for example, at thrift stores. I advise shoppers to grab antiques or anything that appeals to you, even if you aren’t sure of the value. If you like it and the price is right, buy it!”

A few tips before you head out are to make sure to clean out your car because you may need lots of room should you find a piece of furniture or other large item. Another good idea is to bring cash to make it easier; most thrift shops take credit cards and other methods of payment, but if you happen upon a rural shop or yard sale (in season), you may have to pay with cash only.

Thrift shops all over the Lakes Region have many items from which shoppers can choose. Each has a focus, but all are great fun to browse through and find something you just cannot live without!

A few of the shops include Goodwill and Salvation Army in Laconia, the Etc. Shop in Meredith and the Lord and Tailor Shop in Wolfeboro.

The Salvation Army store moved to its present location at 370 Union Ave. to take advantage of the roomy space. They now have a thrift store with racks of clothing in all sizes for the whole family, toys, games, jewelry, some furniture, and much more. It will take you some time to shop at the Salvation Army thrift shop because there is so much; you are sure to come out with a new shirt, pants, or perhaps some antiques or baby toys. The non-profit funds from shop sales go back into the community. Those who wish to donate items can do so by driving to the back of the building, where there will be people to take your donations on Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm. Call 603-409-6073. The store hours are 9 am to 4:30 pm on Tuesday to Saturday.

St. Vincent De Paul Society runs a thrift shop at 1269 Union Avenue in Laconia, and it is a busy place. St. Vincent De Paul’s Thrift Shop offers a large space full of gently used clothing and goods at bargain prices. Items are donated by the local community, and everyone is invited to shop. The aisles are full of clothing for the entire family as well as household items and more. Call 603-524-5470.

Hankering for a shopping spree where you can find great clothing, shoes, jewelry, and more at low prices? Head to the Lord and Tailor Shop at 264 South Main Street in Wolfeboro. The shop is a true gem with beautiful clothing donated by those who live in the area year-round or while staying at their summer homes. In short, you will find shirts, sweaters, pants, dresses, skirts, and women’s coats and shoes. Men will appreciate the jackets, pants, shirts and more. Information at www.wolfesaints.com relates, “The Shop provides high-quality clothing at reduced prices, and for those in special need for free. All proceeds are used to serve others. Lord & Tailor is staffed entirely by volunteers and is a Christian Ministry of All Saints housed in the Outreach Center at 264 South Main Street in Wolfeboro.  (The history of All Saints’ is interesting: In 1928 seven ladies in Wolfeboro organized the Women’s Auxiliary: Maude Sanborn, Agnes Shannon, Theodora “Theo” Witten, Katharine Libby, Winifred Lawrence, Louisa Auderer, and Lois Belle Hildreth. These ladies opened a thrift shop on Railroad Avenue to raise money for missionary projects.) Today the shop is located next to the All-Saints Episcopal Church in Wolfeboro. Call 603-569-6301.

Goodwill is located on Rt. 3 in Belmont (across the street from the Belknap Marketplace). This shop has been a favorite for many over the years because of the large selection of clothes for men, women, children, and babies. The shop is in a roomy building, and thrifters return again and again because you never know what you might find! From artwork to furniture to household items to books, tools, seasonal items and more, a trip to Goodwill Industries is a must for the shopper. Call 603-527-1362.

The White Horse Thrift Shop offers quality, affordable items for everyday needs—including clothing, furniture, and household goods—helping individuals in transition and anyone looking for a great deal. You will be helping a good cause when you shop at White Horse: Every purchase directly supports White Horse Recovery’s programs, making a real difference in the lives of those on the path to wellness. The shop has clothing, toys, sports equipment, and much more. Located at 232 New Hampshire 16B, Center Ossipee, you can call 603-651-1448 for more information.

Meredith is a fun town any time of year, and many who come to the quaint area head to the Etcetera Shoppe for two floors of goods from clothing to household items, books, jewelry, collectibles, and a lot more. The shop is located at 65 NH-25, Meredith, and began in 1973. The shop has a long history of being among the best thrift shopping experiences around. Antique collectors and dealers often find great items at the shop; it is fun to spend hours browsing through the items to find just what you want in many categories. Call 603-279-5062.

If you plan to go thrift shopping, the following are more tips:

Make a list of what you are looking for, to add to a collection or to start something new.

Look at clothing care instructions. Always wash clothing immediately upon returning home.

Pack essentials: a small tape measure for clothing and furniture, hand sanitizer, a water bottle to keep hydrated, and a reusable bag.

Visit thrift stores on weekdays when they open to get the fresh inventory before the shelves and clothing racks are heavily shopped during the day.

If you are also looking for furniture or framed pictures, bring your tape measure.

Most of all, have fun on your thrifting adventure!