Hey there, fellow thrifters and creatives! Today, I want to share with you some of my absolute favourite secondhand treasures that I've collected for my studio. These unique finds not only add character to my workspace but also inspire me to create amazing things. So, let's dive into the world of pre-loved items and discover the hidden gems that make my studio truly special!
From Trash to Treasure
First up on my list is this vintage chest of drawers. They were left broken underneath my house when we moved in 3 years ago! I had asked my landlord if he was okay with me fixing them and bringing them back to life and he was quite excited for me to. Thankfully, the damage wasn't too bad: all it needed was a bit of wood glue, a hammer and some nails and the drawer that was once broken was repaired!
The Thrifty Find
Would you believe me if I told you that I got these drawers secondhand from an op shop? It's true, but I could hardly believe it when I saw them myself! I've had these amazing drawers for five years now and they've never let me down. They could probably do with a little TLC but honestly, I have not stopped using them long enough to be able to fancy them up a bit. Besides, we all know that behind every scratch and dint is a story! I don't know what the stories are but who am I to take them from the drawers!?
From Rags to Riches
Now, lets talk about these ridiculously good looking fabrics. Yes, they're all secondhand! They have come from all walks of life actually as I source them from many places including vintage stores; online sellers interstate; garage sales; gifted by generous friends; my local Buy Nothing group and of course local thrift shops! Wouldn't you know, the shelving is second-hand too!
Makers Gonna Make
I couldn't make the gorgeous items I make without these ridiculously fabulous haberdashery items. Buttons; zips; belts; random lengths of bias tape; hooks; clips; loops and more. These little treasures make up some of the most important aspects of dressmaking! A lot of the buttons especially are vintage too!
Not Actually Pulling The Wool Over Your Eyes
Last but certainly not least, I have to mention my stunning wool blanket collection! Once, I had a woman tell me in our first meeting that she had a few blankets she wanted to sell and asked if I was interested. I said sure, not realizing that my definition of a few and her definition were drastically different. $500 later and fifty-five, YEP... 55!!! blankets later; I had completely filled my entire car with bags of precious woolly blankets. It was an effort and a half to clean; dry and fold each blanket in the coming weeks but oh boy was it such fun! I de-cluttered many of the blankets so I could have some space again but I'm not sure I'd ever be able to forget the memory!
So there you have it, friends. These are just a few of my favourite secondhand items that have found a new home in my studio. Remember, one person's trash is another person's treasure, and the world of secondhand shopping is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So go out there, embrace the quirkiness, and let your creativity soar!
Tarquin
xx