Thrift Core

The Ultimate Blogging Guide: Answers to All of Your Blogging Questions

2012-05-31T09:06:00.000-04:00

Blogging takes practice, patience, and hard work. I'm often asked for advice on how to increase blog comments, make a blog more popular, or how to make a living at blogging. I've written thousands of words on blogging over the years, and it's time I've compiled them all into a helpful index! Bookmark and come back, this is your ultimate blogging guide!

General Tips:

On Persevering:

Blogging Opportunities:

My #1 Secret: Take the extra time to create high quality content, and keep it fun and entertaining. Write what you'd like to read.

I'll continue to answer your questions on reselling, blogging, and freelancing, but I really believe in the advice I've shared above.

How about you? What do you think makes a blog worth reading, commenting on, and coming back to?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

We're Halfway Through the Year...Time to Get Your Websites in Gear!

2012-05-31T09:05:00.000-04:00

It feels like the year just started, but it's already nearly June! The year's flying by, but it's not over yet! If you need help getting sales for your shop or traffic for your website where you need it to be, I'd love to use my years of web marketing experience help you out! When I was a full time marketer I had articles published on these places. You may have heard of some of them... ;)

Use my simple contact form to ask about placing on ad on Thrift Core. Read the advertising page to buy an ad and learn more!

Remember, if you don't have an ad I'll make you one for free :) Thrift Core's going big places this year, and I'd love to take you with me.

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

What I Didn't Buy at the Thrift Store: Flea Market Edition

2012-05-29T09:39:00.000-04:00

With a house stuffed full of merchandise to sell (even with a bigger space we're tripping over boxes...resellers, you know the feeling!) I've been taking it easy and leaving more behind than I would like to while thrifting. But the voices of the items I leave behind are still calling out to me. This is what they're saying:

What do you have trouble leaving behind at the thrift stores?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Garage Sale Tips: Host a Kick Ass Garage Sale and Make That Money

2012-05-24T09:01:00.002-04:00

The blue skies are clear and the weather is pleasantly warm, garage sale season has returned! I love to spring clean and purge old merchandise while making some cash on the side. I thought I'd share some top tips for hosting a successful yard sale that I've learned over the years so you could have a nice purge, too!

1. Gather Your Merchandise Ahead of Time

Go from room-to-room with a box in hand and fill it up with items you're tired of looking at. If your home hosts the average thrifter's excess, you should fill several boxes in no time!

2. Make Sure you Have Enough to Sell

Yard sales are more successful when you have plenty of "merchandise". If you only a few items, consider selling individual items on PennysaverUSA.com or Craigslist.

3. Plan and Advertise Ahead of Time

Advertise your sale on Craigslist and/or PennySaverUSA’s Garage Sale classifieds three days to one week ahead of time. Be as descriptive as possible, listing individual items you'll be selling at the sale. Try posting on community boards and local publications as well.

4. Signs, Signs, Signs: Make Your Sale Easy to Find

Post plenty of clear, legible signs to help people find your sale. Include the date and arrows to guide potential customers to your sale. Try neon poster board to grab their attention, or be thrifty and creative by using whatever you have around the house.

5. Have Plenty of Change Ready to Go

You want at least $100 dollars in change organized and ready to go before the sale. Make sure you have plenty of ones, fives, and rolls of quarters.

6. Write a Check List of Supplies You’ll Need

inventory list , a box or apron to keep your cash organized, tables to set up wares and chairs to sit on, and materials for your signs at the least.

7. Don't Host More Than One Sale Per Month

Yard sales are exhausting; you won't have energy to host more than one per month. You don't want people to get tired of seeing the same wares week after week, either. I think seasonal garage sales work best.

8. Have Your Wares Locked and Loaded the Night Before

Have your tables, chairs, and supplies near the door and ready to go first thing in the morning. You'll be grateful you prepped in advance. Also, expect people to come at least 30 minutes early to get a head start on scouring your goods!

9. List the Big Juicy Items on PennysaverUSA or Craigslist Individually

Make individual ads for big, juicy items you'll have available at the sale. I did this for old, collectible video game systems that I was selling and it brought a lot of people to the sale. As a plus, I had people e-mailing me for months afterward asking to buy video games!

10. Check the Weather, But Don't Let it Deter You

Sometimes the rain will clear up. If you've put a lot of time and effort into your sale, I'd set up anyway.

PennysaverUSA has an awesome Garage Sale Tips Center with tons of information and videos on hosting your own successful yard sale. You should check it out! I also love The Non-Consumer Advocate's post on running a profitable garage sale.

Got any garage sale hosting tips to share? Spill in the comments!

Pennysaver USA is a Thrift Core sponsor. Contact me if you'd like to be a Thrift Core sponsor!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Giveaway: Promote Your Small Business with Free Business Cards

2012-05-22T09:16:00.002-04:00

I share many creative business tips and information on Thrift Jobs. But I don't think I've written about the importance of business cards. I use my Thrift Core business cards all the time, it's more professional than scribbling my name and info on a piece of scrap paper for a potential client/customer!

Need some business cards of your own? Need more of them if you have them? PrintRunner.com is a online printing company that offers high quality business card services. They're offering 250 business cards to one lucky winner today!

What You'll Win:

Business Card Size and Style Business Cards - 2x3.5 (Standard)
Quantity 250
Colors 4/4 Color Both Sides
Paper 14 pt. UV Coating on Front, 14 pt. UV Coating on both sides,
Proof NONE
Rounded Corners NO
*Giveaway is open to US Residents only, ages 18 years old and above.

How to Enter:

Leave a comment on this post letting me know what you struggle the most with as freelancer/business owner/hopeful business owner. That's it :)

For Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each action you perform so they count as extra entries. Don't forget to include that e-mail address!

- Follow the Thrift Core blog (you are here!)
- Follow Thrift Core on Facebook
- Follow Thrift Core on Twitter
- Tweet About This Giveaway
- Stumble This Post

The deadline for this giveaway is May 29, 2012! Good luck!

Disclaimer: I did not receive compensation for this giveaway, I just wanted to share a business card opportunity with you!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Haul: A Playful Haul of Mod, Comics, and Much More!

2012-05-21T09:39:00.000-04:00

With my strict organization goals in place I nearly skipped the flea market this week. I'm glad I didn't, I came home with a glorious haul of all of my favorite types of finds: playful, colorful, and eclectic!

Ah, so many shapes, colors, and textures to admire! I can't wait to get these finds tagged-up and loaded into my antique store booths for their rehaul. But remember, everything pictured is for sale if you want it. Just send me an e-mail. :)

I love vintage picnic baskets and was glad to get this huge, sturdy one for a good price. I do believe I'll be giving this one the chalkboard picnic basket treatment.

Kitsch explosion! Who could resist this thick wooden deer clock with a playful googly eye? Not I!

My collection of vintage kitschy trivets is quite large by now...but I can't stop picking them up, they're so fun.

I'm sure someone will scoop up this playful cassette tape purse quickly. It's in fresh never-been-used condition. Paired here with fun sunnies I found at the flea.

I admit this "Chow Kit" was silly, but I ended up purchasing it for the cool packaging. Damn you, tempting vintage packaging.

I was happy to find Siestaware and what appears to be real Dorothy Thorpe glasses in good shape this time around as well!

These cute tiny pitchers were made in Japan. I love the rustic beer barrel and white coffee bag on the front. The sticker underneath proclaims they are a "Del Coronado Nasco Product."

Another robot! I want to rebrand my antique store booths in a colorful toy-and-comic-book filled style that suits my style better, so this one may end up being sold. If I can let him go!

Mr. Robot posing with some beautiful Rook comics from the 1980s! I all of the primary colors on the covers.

Next we have a couple of 80s era TV eating trays. I honestly don't know what MASK is, I haven't bothered to look it up yet...but I loved the bold composition and colors at work here!

I like how the tin allows oxyidation to show through. People eat up rustic finds like these in antique store; rust tells a story. Also, confession time, I never like the Smurfs. I prefer my Transformers!

Ha! What was I thinking? It was only fifty cents but the photos of deformities within will give you nightmares! But mission accomplished, I learned interesting new things about an anatomy educators are too prudish to discuss in schools.

I have this theory that Squirrels are the new owl! Here's three of my favorite things: kitchen junk, cute woodland critters and scotch print.

A beautiful unicorn lamp and vintage Japanese girl. I love her blue and white kimono and the way her obi matches her red bow!

And we're wrapping things up with an adorable vintage chipmunk wall hanging.

And Yuko finally shows her face to demonstrate scale for us. Thank you, Yuko. People have asked where's she's been lately...

These days she's perching on high things and sleeping a lot. But I'll be putting her to work to earn her kibble soon enough!

I must thank the kind people who buy from these thrift haul posts yet again. I love carefully packaging up your vintage bits and sending your drawing and surprises in every box! If you like anything you see in haul posts, simply e-mail me.

I also host super thrifty daily deals on Facebook and Twitter.

What did you find this weekend?

Linked to: [Thrift Share Monday] [The Penny Worthy Project] [Flea Market Finds].

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Sunday Goals 20 & 21: The Organization Intensifies

2012-05-20T10:18:00.003-04:00

As always, I'm busy behind-the-scenes. I made these cute planters and dropped them off at my Southern Crossing and Treasure House booths.

I'm still in the midst of getting my life organized. There's boxes everywhere and I can never find what I need when I need it. I've felt very guilty about it, but I now accept that it's taken me years of working full time to let personal life get into this state of chaos...I won't be able to clear it up in a week. Or two weeks...or...

So with that guilt trip expressed, these are the action steps to get my life back!

1. Continue to perfect daily schedule and make plans to complete big projects.
2. Ahead on all blog projects. (Writing, guest posts, advertiser plans)
3. Completely switch out merchandise in both antique store.
4. Tackle all surface clutter first, tossing and donating along the way.
5. Give daily use items their home, use labels if necessary.
6. Continue to tackle the chaos, try to conquer it all!

And now I'm off to the flea market! I think I've told you I also buy my fruits and veggies at the flea? I can't wait to get some coconuts. I think six will satisfy the 'ol coconut craving...

Anywho...what are your goals for the week?!

See you tomorrow with tons of photos of my amazing finds from the week!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Nutritional Yeast Dressing Recipe: The Ultimate Dressing!

2012-05-18T09:18:00.002-04:00

Nutritional yeast is a wonder food. Exploding with nutty/cheesy flavor and including Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12, it's is a vegan source of precious B vitamins. If you're struggling to incorporate veggies in your diet, this dressing will make your raw veggies worthy of shoving in your mouth; it's that good. You'll rape your vegetables, I swear it!

My art partner-in-crime Birdie of Frog vs Toad and The Haiku Life is my dressing's biggest fan. He drew you a comic to help you make this delicious dressing! Let's see!

It really is that easy! Step 1) Blend 2 cups of nutritional yeast *, 1/3 cup water, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil or grapeseed oil, 1/3 cup of soy sauce/tamari/or liquid aminos (tamari is the best choice), 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar, and a few drops of sesame oil (yum!) Step 2) pour it into a pretty bottle and refrigerate.

* I buy my nutritional yeast in the bulk buy section of Whole Foods. You can Google it and comparison shop online if there are no Whole Foods or health food stores near you. The flakes are delicious on top of popcorn and pasta, too!

I'd say it will last in your fridge for about 1 month but...it won't. Once you have that cheesy, earthy, savory, umami flavor in your yap you won't stop eating every vegetable in sight until you've drained your bottle of dressing dry. And your sorry soul won't feel complete again until you whip another delicious batch. My favorite way to devour it is as a dip with fresh, raw cauliflower and broccoli.

I make a spread with fresh veggies and nutritional yeast dressing at every party I host and every ounce of vegetable and dressing is licked clean before the end of the night! Try it, you'll see what I mean!

What's your favorite way to violate your veggies? I have more delicious, nutritious ways to gorge on vegetables coming up soon :)

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrifty "Toy Planter" DIY: Funky Animal Planters for Cheap

2012-05-16T08:13:00.001-04:00

With a house full of toys and a plant obsession, I'm frequently asked when I'm going to make the toy planters trending on the web these days. I'd been planning to make some, but my friend Rosaly of Old Skool Junk beat me to the punch making the colorful set above. She recently gave them to me to finish painting, fill with plants, and sell.

DIY Steps: 1) Select your thrifted toys to slice into, make sure they're hollow! 2) Cut a hole in their backs for the plant to live in. 3) Optional: Spray paint your toys, leave them to dry for at least a day. 4) Fill with your plant, most likely a succulent unless you're working with a huge toy with space to accommodate a plant that needs more root space. 5) I'd top with a decorative mulch like marbles or aquarium gravel.

I been enjoying them hanging around in the house so we have made it to the sell stage yet... but I intend to make some special cards for them and place them in the antique store to see how they sell. If you'd like to buy one from me in the meantime though, drop me a line!

These planters are a hit with everyone who sees them. I can't wait to experiment with larger hollow plastic toys I find and make more!

Related Article: Using Vintage Planters: Quick Tips for Filling Vintage Pots with Greenery

What thrifted finds do you like to fill with plants? Old buckets? Vintage drawers? Anything that can hold dirt can hold your plants!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Haul: Super Summery Mod Scores for a Song

2012-05-14T08:59:00.002-04:00

I thrifted five hours south in sunny Sarasota, Florida last week and let myself scoop up summery mod scores to revitalize my antique store booths. The thrifting is good in Sarasota, I'll definitely be back to hunt through them and document them further! Here's what I found:

This very mod drinking set was actually sent to me by Scott (@zombiedad on Twitter) to sell on his behalf. I just got in the mail this week. I do offer this service, so contact me if you need assistance there-- or if you'd like to purchase this lovely set!

A veritable skittles-hued variety pack of vintage beauty. These are perfect for a mod themed tiki party. And you can mix up and serve your cocktails on top of...

This dreamy and very mod peacock tray! This was another find send down by Scott. It's in perfect condition. Again, simply e-mail if you want to buy anything in this post. Today I've listed nearly everything with their deal prices (I do Daily Deals on Twitter and Facebook) for ease.

Ready for a picnic on the beach? Just tote your vintage ice bucket, cool vintage style Coca Cola drinking glasses and hip neon sunnies. I've found that sunglasses turn around quickly in the antique store so I always scoop up neat ones.

I used to be a Coca Cola addict so my nostalgia goggles are firmly in place with this find. They have a textured finished with the "Coke" logo on one side and the "Coca Cola" logo on the other. I'm selling the pair for $6.00.

My cup fascination will never cease! Here we have a little mod cup, juice jug, and nifty drink recipe cup.

All of these summery cups really inspire me to do some crafting. Especially the small cup with mod starbursts.

I was sad that the diamond shaped mod wall hanging wasn't a pair; a pair would be perfect hanging above the mid century modern-themed bar. But one is better than none! The little fireplace tableaux wall hanging stands on its own, though. I'm selling these for $9.00 each.

A very utilitarian yet attractive vintage tool box! I love the color and the shape.

I'm letting this one go for only $8.00 for Thrift Core blog readers and social media followers.

Stunning ceramic mushroom glory! It's a red toadstool or Amanita muscaria, everyone's favorite fungi. You have no idea how badly I want to keep this large mushroom coin bank for my kitchen. But a reseller must resell!

Another "Find" I want to keep for impact in my developing office are these large educational cards from 1967. The "workers" and "family" ones are my favorites, butt hey are all absolutely gorgeous. I love the texture and vintage illustrations galore. I'm selling them at $8.00 each or the whole set for $28.

Each card has a front and back. They're 24 inches wide and 20 inches tall. Each thick cardboard card has that desirable rustic patina.

Front side of the "Family" Card. I love the vintage fashions in this one and the big color blocks.

Back side of the "Family" card. Looks like many children's books, very cute! I love the typography.

I like the very simple design of this one! This is the "Front."

And this is the back of the sample "simple" card. Gorgeous illustrations yet again, and this one is actually making me a little hungry, too!

Another favorite that I picture being perfect in a home office, admire workers in their charming 1960s Mad Men era attire.

Back of the "workers" card. I love every illustration on this page. Look at the detail of the little valentine, even! It has a little damage but I think that adds to the vintage charm.

More cute vintage illustrations. Look at the mod ranch style house and fan on the second line!

And the back of the card above. I especially appreciate the Jack and Jill illustrations! Nice cool colors and graphic shapes.

And now it's time for me to make a strong batch of tea and start this work week off right! So tell me...

What did you find this weekend?

Linked to: [Thrift Share Monday] [The Penny Worthy Project] [Flea Market Finds].

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Decor: Living Room 30 Minute Thrifty Before and After

2012-05-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

You might recall that I made a work section in my living room from my new apartment tour. That wasn't working out. I didn't use the table as intended for long and it made a giant mess, like so...

Woah, look at that shameful mess! The work space in the living room was such a bad idea. I ended up painting, tagging merchandise, and organizing supplies in the space. Who could entertain in such squalor? No one, that's who! I was going to have pals over and knew I had to get to work, so I set my timer for 30 minutes and hit it!

Artwork: $0.00, all on-hand, made for myself, or trades

"New" Area Rug: $3.00, flea market

Bar Stools: $8.00 pair, flea market

Second Couch: Free! Curbside Find! (covered with quilt)

Having a Sexy Living Room to Entertain Friends: Priceless!

I love being thrifty and using what I have on-hand instead of running to a store to make impact in a room. This wall of art showcases my Michael Jackson and Jackson 5 record collection...

And another has classic Bob Kane Batman illustrations from a free calendar I received years ago, glued to black dollar store foam core and thumbtacked to the wall. The quilt on my "new" free couch (I recall it from Target, I was tempted to purchase it about 3 years ago actually! Thrift Karma, indeed!) was a gift from my pal Fenn.

I like it when a room comes together organically and cheaply! How do you use thrifted finds in your home?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Jobs: 5 Fresh and Innovative Reselling Tactics

2012-05-09T08:13:00.001-04:00

We all know about reselling online and in vintage shops and fairs, but we can do better than that. As thrifters we're required to be the most creative and resourceful people alive! Let's exercise those skills on these less-often reported guerrilla reselling tactics!

1. Make a mailing list; update frequently.

Create mailing lists for your online and offline retail spaces. Send an e-mail out to members at least once a week to show off your new merchandise and/or developments.

2. Extort Your Friends! (What else are they good for?)

Tell everyone in your circle about your thrift endeavors. Let interested friends and acquaintances get first-pick on your finds. Friends can make the best repeat customers. It helps to cut them a tiny friend-break on prices within reason, of course ;)

My pals at Old Skool Junk stage their retro artwork and accessories with real vintage props.

3. Post all of your Finds on Facebook.

Increasing the amount of eyes on your products increases sales. Try posting a photo of your hauls on Facebook and let people know everything pictured is for sale.

4. The Power of Craigslist Compels You!

I try to post every single thing I find at the thrifts and flea markets on Craigslist, it really helps increase sales! Get creative with how you advertise with it, experiment!

5. Sell at arts and craft markets, shows, and events.

Art and craft market attendees and attracted to unique objects, and vintage really fits the bill. If it's allowed, find a way to sell your vintage wares (artfully staged, of course) at art shows, events, and markets.

What are your ideas for selling that are outside the norm? Let's think outside the box and sell, sell, sell!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Shocking Truth: The Top 5 Blogging Tips I NEVER Follow

2012-05-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

Struggling with your blog? Is it not growing or producing fast enough for you? Maybe your problem is following the sea of "top tips" on the web; it's time for a fresh perspective! Let me help by debunking 5 blogging tips you've heard before.

Lots of notes, homemade vegan pie and ample tea help when blogging gets tough.

1. Don't obsess over traffic; ignore your counters.

I used to check my Google analytics and hits daily, now I could go months without a peek. Monitoring traffic is important, but I prefer to fuss over quality. Craft superior content that readers are compelled to share and increased traffic happens organically.

2. Don't follow the crowd.

I see a lot of bloggers play follow the leader. Blogs tend to fit into a tribe with similar styles of posting, image editing, layouts, and color schemes. I draw my inspiration and style from inside. Let your interests and personal tastes define your blog. You'll stand out and posting will feel natural.

3. Don't Chase After Followers.

Quality over quantity! Again, focus on making your blog the best it can be and followers will grow organically.

4. Don't try too hard.

Yes, quality is important, but don't spend hours upon hours on your blog. If that's difficult, try setting a timer and writing quick first drafts from the heart. Come back to these drafts later and refine them, again setting a timer to keep from spinning your wheels working to hard on one post.

5. Don't forget to think of your readers.

Blogging can feel like a selfish act. I'm passionate about blogging! I feel myself growing with each post, but I never forget about my followers. I need my content to help, inspire, and entertain you, my reader!

It takes time to find your voice and style with blogging. Don't let slow traffic and "small" numbers bother you, focus instead on building authentic connections with your audience and peers. Create content that would make your heroes (like my hero Batman!) proud!

Be authentic, present your best, and have fun along the way!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Haul: Flea Market Toys and Midcentury Mod Galore

2012-05-07T10:17:00.002-04:00

I only found time to hit-up the flea market once this week, but when I did I really scored! I spent more than I usually would, but I was very happy with my finds. Even though in my haste to load up my finds I left a large vintage suitcase, a vintage magazine, and a ceramic donkey planter intended for my mom in the parking lot! D'oh!

Anywho, first-up we have a couple of splurge personal purchases. I was obsessed with the Beetlejuice movie and cartoon series as a child, a internal nostalgia-meter guided me to this beautiful Beetlejuice toy with interchangeable heads. And my Japanophile-geek self loves the Ultraman toy, too.

Next we have this resplendent Trav-L-Bar! It's a Mad Men era "portable bar" with everything intact- including the key to the entire case and the original key! It looks like it's never been used. Please do e-mail me if you're interested in this gorgeous piece.

Woah, sexy naked lady cups! This vintage set from the 50s is made in Japan. I'd never seen anything quite like them, ass and titties everywhere. You know you need these as a conversation piece for your bar!

This gorgeous PBR bar lamp is already sold. It's meant to be wall-mounted and is all kinds of vintage glorious for a personal bar.

Owl Clock! I rushed at this stand-out beauty at the flea market. It's such a unique piece!

I originally saw these super-kitsch bookends as "piratey." On second-glance, they are very western. Either way, they're beautiful. The Dragon Ball Z comic books are from my own massive collection; they're not thrift finds ;)

Another favorite find is this set of fox glasses. My last set sold quickly, so I'm sure this one won't last long either!

I thought this Florida souvenir plate featuring Disney characters was one of my cutest finds...ever! It's in beautiful shape, so I hope someone scoops it up soon!

This informative houseplant and gardening themed card set comes with its own greenhouse shaped dome. I'll admit that my plant loving soul guided me to make this purchase...oops! A bit of an impulse buy, but one I'm sure will pay off in the end.

I'd never seen a vintage mushroom deviled egg plate like this one; I'm powerless against the hypnotic pull of charming vintage shroom swag...but this one is of course, for sale if anyone is interested!

This lovely black and sleek mid century modern lamp was a fun find as well, it's doubling as lighting and merchandise in my antique store booth for the moment.

I continue to collect kokeshi dolls. I've passed over a few very beautiful ones because of the price, but this one was only a buck. Who would resist? She'll look nice with her sisters perched high in my kitchen.

The final finds are a vintage family tree wall hanging with cute silhouettes of farm animals and a very mod never-used turtle sponge set!

Ah, so much to price, accomplish, and explore and so little time...

So Tell Me: What did you find this weekend?

Linked to: [Thrift Share Monday] [The Penny Worthy Project] [Flea Market Finds].

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Sunday Goals 19: Back to Mission Organization

2012-05-06T11:40:00.000-04:00

Yuko the morning after my housewarming party. 'Twas an exhausting night for Yuko-cat.

Last Week: 1. Finish unpacking every single box. 2. Organize all of the stuff I've yet to sell into Craigslist/Shop/Etsy categories. 3. Complete 3 table DIYs I had in mind. (Back burner for the moment...) 4. Complete 2 Chalkboard DIYs I had in mind. ~~5. Set up my home office and general home settling-in fun.~~

I was incredibly productive last week, I swears! I thrifted valiently (you'll see the fruits of my labor tomorrow), sold plenty of vintage, designed for clients, networked and took part in an art show, and organized like a baller! I was so busy I rarely slept or even sat down, I just didn't tackle the things on the to-do list.

But while working I did realize I MUST become more organized. I keep writing this, but it's true, I have to stop working to find things all the time, it's seriously messing up my flow. So this week I will...

1. Make an "organization plan" and improved schedule.
2. Pimpin' office finished once and for all.
3. Seriously ahead on blog posts.
4. Completely switch out the merchandise in both antique stores.
5. Clean house and settle-in!

There's always so much more than my weekly lists going on behind-the-scenes, like getting caught-up with clients and other projects, but I'll get caught-up one day! So...

Wuuuucha doin'?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Antique Store Wisdom: How to Make over Four Figures a Month!

2012-05-03T10:22:00.001-04:00

Sweet Carla is a frequent commenter here at Thrift Core. She's said my Antique Store posts inspired her to open a booth of her own (d'aww) at Southern Crossing Antique Mall along with me. When she revealed she made over four figures last month reselling at the antique store I nearly fell out of my chair. Talk about surpassing the muse, I've never made close to that! So I sat down to g~~rill her for her secrets on making the big bucks~~ have a friendly chat.

We've covered much of this before, but let's get back to basics and make that bank!

1. Focus on Practical, Utilitarian Items

In these harsh economic times (ha! had to say it) people are spending less on "creature comforts"- a knick knack that will gather dust on the shelves isn't a justifiable purchase- but a "useful" item may fit the bill. When you resell, focus on vintage items that can re-purposed in the home, like metal baskets.

2. It's a Numbers Game, Remember the Walmart Approach

Carla's sales add up in the end! She uses the "Walmart" approach, stuffing her booth with lots of low-priced merchandise.

3. Focus on Staging

I noticed Carla's booth before I ever knew it was hers. It stands out. She has a good eye for balance and design and stages her booth like a pro. She squeezes in as much as possible while keeping the brilliant tableaux accessible and attractive. Keep experimenting with your staging and find what works for you.

4. Be Unique Through and Through

We all gravitate toward unique items. Don't stifle the inner critic that tells you to leave something strange behind at the thrifts, buy it! You want to stuff your booth with unique finds. Likewise, follow your style to help your booth stand out at the antique mall.

5. Add New Merchandise Twice Per Week

You can't get around it! Add new merchandise to your booth at least twice per week, especially before the busiest days (usually the weekend) to keep things fresh. Restaging your entire booth from time to time doesn't hurt, either!

I know this all sounds trite, but it works, it really does. When I actually buckle down and work hard at applying these five tips I see a big jump-up in sales.

What do you find helps you make the most reselling? Spill! Let's help each other :) Don't worry, I have plenty more creative tips on making money from thrifting to share next time.

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Using Vintage Planters: Quick Tips for Filling Vintage Pots with Greenery

2012-05-01T10:27:00.001-04:00

I've said it once and I'll say it again, I love potting up vintage planters. Because using vintage planters is trickier than using conventional modern pots, I thought I'd give you some quick tips for filling your vintage planters with lush greenery.

1. Use small cacti and/or succulents.

Cacti and succulents grow slowly and are ideal for your tiny vintage planters. However, they do need full sun to thrive. If you can't provide adequate light for your cacti, see below...

2. Shady home? Use small tropicals instead.

I recommend very small tropicals (your typical "houseplants") for shady spaces. Make sure to transplant your tropical when it appears to be outgrowing its tiny home.

3. Don't plant herbs or vegetables in tiny planters.

Never plant herbs or vegetables in your vintage planters as they grow quickly and require lots of root space.
4. Use mulch of some kind.

I use white aquarium gravel in these pots. You can use marbles, pottery shards, or regular garden mulch. Mulch is not only attractive, it keeps the soil moist, allowing you to water your plant less. This is helpful since vintage planters are smaller and dry out easily.

5. Leave a "reservoir" for your plant.

Don't fill your planter to the very top with dirt, leave at least one inch as a "reservoir" so your pot won't overflow when you water it.

Quick Tip: It sometimes helps to add a thin layer of gravel to the bottom of your planter for your thirsty tropicals, this will hold some water for them to drink later and help keep them from getting waterlogged.

Vintage pots are trickier to use than modern ones, but they really come alive with filled with plants! How do you plant up your vintage pots? Any tips to share?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Haul: Triumphant "Return" to Hardcore Thrifting

2012-04-30T10:34:00.000-04:00

My triumphant return to thrifting was successful. I hit up the flea market and a few thrift stores to yield a spectacular haul of delicious vintage wares! I even found a few things I'd been lusting on for years. But don't worry, everything here is for sale. Just e-mail me if you'd like to purchase anything pictured.

These green-topped bar stools were my first furniture purchase in a long while. I may paint the legs silver or bright orange...or try to sell them as is. They've been helpful at the home since I don't have enough seating for everyone at parties.

This portable coffee set was a fine find for the coffee fiend. It comes with an adapter that plugs into your car so you have a coffee fix on-the-go!

Bazooka Bubble Gum bucket! I got it for pocket change at the pound store, kept trying to put it back but my love of bold colors and graphic design won out in the end.

This is the third thermos of this kind I've purchased, and the vintage drink mixer satisfies my barware fetish nicely.

Sweet and summery, I've been trying avoid most vintage artwork these days but scooped up this fruit still-life anyway.

More lovely stackable mugs in a pleasant orange color. Loving the squirrel planter, it's already in Southern Crossing and planted with succulents!

I love the lines and pattern of these air-tight jars. I was on the prowl for more of these anyway to store my bulk food stock. I had to pair them with the Super Mario Brothers Bob-omb, they remind me of 80s arcade vintage fun.

And Bomb-omb is back to show off another nifty bar novelty. The clubs are drink stirrers and the caddy comes with a bottle opener. I can imagine Don Draper receiving this one for a gift...and promptly stabbing someone in the eye with the sharp part for his sick kicks. And Don Draper will get away with it because police won't arrest such a sexy man! I like this toy.

Robot comics! Oh, happy day. I'm definitely going to scan and print many of these pages for crafting projects.

They are filled with bold robot glory, there's a treasure on every page.

This coin bank elephant is playful and covered with a soft, downy felt. I love its eyes, so whimsical.

This Barbie-Doll pink book stood out in a bin at the pound store. I love all the fun crafty ideas and the radiant retro glory of it all.

The inside is stuffed with wonderful photos and illustrations. If only I had time to scan each one. Speaking of books...

I found a delicious set of children's books and coloring books, some from back in the 30s! They're in excellent shape, I love the colors on the covers. I may have to do a follow up post with details on each one, if I got into it now this post would stretch into infinity.

I must show off the inside of the Mrs. Henny Ben book, though. A book I've lusted for since I flipped through it at a pricey antique store. The large textured pages are shockingly vibrant, and the fluid thoroughly 30s style recalls our favorite classic American cartoons.

My cup obsession continues. This is quite an incomplete set, but the shapes and colors sold me.

I love to make picnic basket sets and stick them in the shop, so I scooped up this large picnic basket for a song.

And I'm really enamored by the faux wood grain goodness of this metal basket. It's filled up with goodies and stuffed in the shop, but if it doesn't sell soon I might have to keep it for displaying robot toys. Or use it to pot-up a robot filled succulent still life...

I rarely buy accessories, but this hat! It was too dapper to leave behind.

Now, now, Mr. Owl. Don't be modest. You're one Dapper, sexy beast.

With this new addition I have seven mushroom jars in-stock now! I'm not having luck selling them but I'll scoop them up every time! Love 'em.

As you can tell from these moody photos my apartment is filled with the blinding light of 10,000 bright shining suns! It's interesting experimenting with different ways to take photos in here as I settle in.

Welp, back to work with me, as you can tell from yesterday's goal list I have a busy work week ahead of me! Remember, if you see anything you like in these haul posts you can e-mail me and I'll make a good deal for you!

So Tell Me: What did you find this weekend?

Linked to: [Thrift Share Monday] [The Penny Worthy Project] [Flea Market Finds].

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Sunday Goals 17 & 18: Work, work, harder than ever!

2012-04-29T15:15:00.002-04:00

You may have noticed that I didn't post a Sunday Goals post last week. There's a simple explanation for that, ~~internet in my entire area was down~~ I was abducted by Autobot leader Optimus Prime to help him fight against the evil Deceptacons! True Story! But now that I'm back from Cybertron, it's time to get back to work!

Even Yuko is here to watch me work and make funny faces on me. Go, go Team Thrift Core!

Actually, considering I've been on another planet for so long my to-do list is the same as the last sunday goal list, here's what I plan to accomplish:

1. Finish unpacking every single box.
2. Organize all of the stuff I've yet to sell into Craigslist/Shop/Etsy categories.
3. Complete 3 table DIYs I had in mind. (Back burner for the moment...)
4. Complete 2 Chalkboard DIYs I had in mind.
5. Set up my home office and general home settling-in fun.

Try to...

6. Photograph everything that's going on to Etsy
7. List everything on Etsy
8. Photograph and list may of the things I'm getting rid of and list them on Craigslist.
9. Branding work and brainstorming
10. Getting ahead on blog posts
11. Switch out everything in my antique store booths and revamp them.

Work, work, work! Now that I'm mostly unpacked I'm motivated to hit it! What Are Your Goals This Week?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Core Status Report: Behind the Scenes at Headquarters

2012-04-27T09:22:00.002-04:00

Can you believe it's nearly May!? It feels like this year just started yet it's already so close to being half-over. I'm hard at work settling in here at my new apartment, plotting to open a shop, and get caught-up on everything else!

I have exciting recipes, DIYs, thrifting/blog tips, funny bits and much more scheduled for May. I'll have a few fun radio and other special interviews to share with you, too! It's a great time to Advertise on Thrift Core. No banner? No prob, I'll make one for you. And you can grill me on marketing tips or anything else :) Just contact me if you have any question.

For now, I must rush back to unpacking, taking photos, and tagging things for a big Antique Store re-haul. See you soon for Sunday Goals and I'll be back on Monday with a huge haul of sexy thrift finds!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Vintage Knick-Knack Painting Tips for the Impatient Crafter

2012-04-25T08:47:00.001-04:00

Painting vintage knick-knacks and other thrifted finds is a hot new trend. I typically like the original vintage colors, but a fresh coat of paint revitalizes a find. It comes in handy if you want to cover chips or for selling an item that's been sitting on the shelves for too long.

Here are tips for painting vintage knick-knacks for the impatient bastard crafter!:

1. Use spray paint. Pick any brand, but use a primer.

Any brand of spray paint you use will do the trick, just make sure you apply a nice solid white base coat to help the colors pop and prevent and bleed-through of the original color.

2. I skip the sanding, so should you!

What can I say, I'm an impatient crafter. I'm not going to sit around sanding knick-knacks for hours. Primer usually does the trick.

3. Be mindful of the colors you choose.

Some colors like yellow and light green can be a nightmare. They apply thinly and take multiple coats to come out right. If you're impatient like me, choose bold vibrant colors which are usually a thicker consistency.

Painting vintage is less daunting than it may seem. It's cheap, fun, and easy. What I love about painting thrifted finds is that there's no guilty if you mess it up, you can't "make mistakes" with cheap or free finds! Experiment with your thrift finds and see what works for you!

How do you paint your vintage finds? What do you like better, painted or un-painted scores?

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Vintique Homes Giveaway: Sexy Vintage Dinosaur Books!

2012-04-24T10:44:00.000-04:00

Jeremiah of the awesome dinosaur toy and classy vintage filled shop Vintique Homes is offering another giveaway that's after my own dark, crispy little heart. I have a science book fetish, and this Life Special Edition for Young Readers, The World We Live In is perfection.

This book is jam-packed with gorgeous illustrations to entice young minds- or children at heart. It's sturdy, hard cover, and the perfect edition to a book, science, or dinosaur lover's collection! You know you want it....

To Enter This Delicious Book Giveaway:

1. If You have Twitter, Follow vintiquehomes
2. Otherwise, visit the Vintique Homes Etsy shop and tell me what your favorite item in the shop is in the comments of this post!
3. Leave Your E-mail in the comment so I can contact you if you win.

For Extra Entries: Leave a separate comment for each action you perform so they count as extra entries. Don't forget to include that e-mail address!

- Follow the Thrift Core blog (you are here!)
- Follow Thrift Core on Facebook
- Follow Thrift Core on Twitter
- Tweet About This Giveaway
- Stumble This Post

Snail Giveaway Winner: Rob of the awesome blog knitxcore is the winner of my Snail Giveaway! I've e-mailed you to gather your address!

I will announce the contest winner here on the blog on April 24, 2012! So check back then. Vintique Home is a Thrift Core Sponsor. Please drop me a line if you're interested in becoming a Thrift Core Sponsor!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrift Haul: A Family of Owl and More Vintage Goodness

2012-04-23T10:29:00.000-04:00

I made my triumphant return to the flea market on a wet and rainy Sunday. Most of my usual vendors were "rained out," but I managed to bring home a quality haul of vintage regardless. It was definitely worth the treks through muddy earth!

My favorite find is the vintage lunch bag. It came with two thermoses and a lunch box. I found it at an estate sale where it was one of the few affordable scores.

I love the masculine vibe of the set and the anchor pattern on each thermos. I'm selling the whole set for $15.00 today, e-mail me if you'd like it!

These vintage Florida souvenir plates were an interesting score. A couple are a little rusted, but that kind of rustic character tends to turn around quickly at the antique store. We'll see soon enough!

Yuko wants ALL of the owls! I love this "family" of little owl trivets. These are perfect for tea or coffee with friends; there's enough to provide each friend with a little table-protecting owl trivet for their cups and the big owl could be used for the pot!

I'm making this owl set today's "daily deal" and setting the price at $15.00 for the whole family. Please e-mail me if interested in them.

It's been a while since I did it big and hit up many thrifts to score ample finds. I think after my office is completely unpacked I'll have to schedule a big-time hunt with some reseller pals! But until then, back to work unpacking with me...

So Tell Me: What did you find this weekend?

Linked to: [Thrift Share Monday] [The Penny Worthy Project] [Flea Market Finds].

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

Thrifters Around the World: Bianca's Thrifting Adventures in Tasmania!

2012-04-20T09:03:00.000-04:00

I've been a fan of Bianca's fun cute artsy-vintage blog Goodnight Little Spoon since I found it three years ago at work looking for photos of Legos for a project! Bianca's an Australian expatriate thrifter with tons of cute vintage, so I had to ask her about what it's like to thrift in Tasmania.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, Bianca.

Hi there. I am a 22-year old contemporary arts student currently residing in lovely Launceston, Tasmania. I love making collages, thrifting, vintage clothes, riding my bike, playing with my cats and blogging. I'd like to become a primary school teacher but in the mean time I am your friendly supermarket checkout girl.

When and why did you start thrifting?

My mum always inspired a sense of the three R's in me (reuse, recycle, reduce) as a child. She was a single parent and we were poor, and although it didn't really occur to me at the time, almost all of our furniture, clothes and toys were thrifted or second-hand. She has a knack for finding great second-hand items repurposing things. Our favourite 'opshop' was a huge warehouse type place, run by one old lady and it used to feel like the place where all the treasures lived. There has always been a normalcy and necessity to op-shopping for me. When I was about three or four, my mum would buy amazing old second-hand children's dresses, give them a bit of a spruce, and while the other children wore pilly tracksuits to pre-school, I'd be in beautiful vintage gowns. I still thrift avidly. The feeling after having thrifted that perfect item far rivals the feeling of buying anything new. Thrifting is my feel-good thing to do. I always feel better after a day out opshopping even if I come home empty handed.

What do you think makes thrifting in Australia different than thrifting in the United States or other places in the world?

I'm yet to dip my toes into international thrifting - watch out!

What are the names for "thrifting" in Australia? Any special nick names?

I think it's pretty standard to call it 'op-shopping' in Australia. Or perhaps 'second hand shopping'. Thrifting is a fun term for it, though it's not widely used here.

You've lived in both Newcastle Australia and Tasmania, are there any differences in the thrifting/second hand/art culture in these areas?

Both have their high points and low points when it comes to thrifting. Both are great hives of creativity with amazing art scenes. Newcastle is not too far from the state capital, Sydney and often has it's opshops trawled over by Sydney-siders for reselling in their (pricey) Sydney vintage shops. Many bargains are still to be had there though. Opshops in Tasmania are always full of people, but I don't think 'vintage' has taken off here the way it has on the mainland, so there are some real treasures to be found. Prices for second hand items on the mainland were probably a tad higher.

Is there a stigma against second-hand shopping in Newcastle or Tasmania? Is it seen as something dirty or something for low-income families?

Not that I've noticed actually. Opshops are pretty abundant in Australia and are filled with people from all walks of life. I don't think I've actually ever met anyone who had a bad word to say about opshops!

Are there any flea markets in Tasmania? What are they like?

Nearby to where I live the biggest and best market would be the Evandale Markets. Lots of clothes, books and second hand homewares can be found there and they have a great indoor section full of handpicked vintage goodies. I love to pore over the papergoods in there - postcards, old ration books, retro magazines, etc. There are other smaller markets nearby that get very junk-y - the kind of stuff that opshops probably wouldn't take in. In the South of the state, in Hobart, are the Saturday Salamanca Markets which you need at least 3 hours to properly peruse - they are amazing. I love a good second-hand market and Tasmania's offerings are pretty good.

Is there a large thrift and craft culture in Tasmania?

I think so. Tasmania is full of crafty, interesting, thrifty folk and most of the people I go to university with thrift on at least a monthly basis.

What are thrift stores like in Tasmania?

Thrift stores in Tasmania are really interesting to me because it is an island state and I like to see what has made it over to the island over the ages and what was really popular. Opshops are a really interesting cross section of local culture and to me they're kind of like little museums for the unwanted and unappreciated. In Tasmania, I don't think vintage has peaked in the same way that it has on the mainland, so I have found some amazing things I definitely wouldn't have elsewhere, just based on the fact that I'm the only one looking for them! One awesome thing about Tasmanian opshops is that the Savlos here do 20% off every Wednesday for students.

Where is your favorite place in the World to Thrift?

Well, my favourite place to thrift in Tasmania is the Youngtown Mission Shop. It has an extensive section of antiques and collectibles sorted by colour. I often just go there to window shop! My other favourite, for the same reasons, in Newcastle, is the Centennial Centre - a huge warehouse space full of 20-something little vintage clothes and homeware stalls. It's dreamy, believe me!

What's your favorite thing to collect from thrift stores?

Framed art, interesting fabrics and linen, papergoods, good records and clothing accessories.

I love your collages, art pieces, and mail art. Do your supplies, materials, and even inspirations come from thrift stores/op-shops/second-hand shops?

They definitely do. I collect magazines, playing cards, photos, postcards, stickers, record covers and books from thrift stores for my collaging and mail art. I find things that are far more unique and interesting than if I bought them brand new. Also, I just feel inspired by thrift stores in general. I like to think about the histories of the objects within - the lives they've had, the stories attached to them. I love finding inscriptions in old books and old photographs for that reason.

You find amazing vintage dresses, where do you hunt for them, and what are you tips for finding them?

Clothes shopping at opshops can be labour intensive with little reward - but I have had some big wins. I find that if I browse the aisles with colour and pattern in mind, I tend to find things that aren't necessarily prefect, but that can be altered or turned into something new. Opshops here have 'retro/fancy dress' sections, which rarely contain the goodies - they're usually hidden deep on the racks. I am lucky to have some great vintage clothes stores in Launceston (Cinty's and Nanna's) which take the hassle out of poring through opshop racks, but I still like to go hunting. I think the main tip I'd give for any kind of opshopping is to make a list of the kinds of things you'd like to find, and look in the sections you might find them in. Be really thorough, give yourself at least half an hour for each store. I am of the mind that there's always something hiding in there for me, I just need to unearth it!

* * *

If you would like to be featured in Thrifters Around the World, shoot me an e-mail. I would love to interview you and chat about thrifting where you live.

Past Thrifters Around The World Interviews:

[2/15/2011] Thrifting Pro Miss P From the UK (Part I)
[2/22/2011] Thrifted Treasure's Alice from Australia
[3/01/2011] Thrifting Pro Miss P From the UK (Part II)
[3/08/2011] Switcheroom's Elle From the Philippines
[3/16/2011] eLousion's Cindy From Puerto Rico
[3/30/2011] Ashleigh's Thrifting Tales from Taiwan and Tokyo
[4/15/2011] Kimberly's Thrifting from France to Germany
[5/13/2011] Thrift in Vancouver, Canada with SixBalloons
[5/19/2011] The Vintage Cabin's Becke from Toronto
[6/17/2011] Planet Fur's Marlous from the Netherlands

[6/22/2011] Thrifting in the Arctic with Mali of Arctic Mum
[6/29/2011] Marco from Italy and Amsterdam
[9/08/2011] Thrifting in the Desert with Fenna

[2/9/2012] Natasha's Journey Across the USA

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.

The New Thrift Core Headquarters: A Peek at my new Apartment

2012-04-18T14:58:00.001-04:00

I guilted over my choice to select this large two bedroom apartment for days. I got an amazing deal, but I was looking for the cheapest, smallest place possible as per my thriftiest year ever goals.

In the end, this larger apartment is the thriftier choice! I'm writing off a portion of the rent because I'm using so much of the apartment as work space. With the deductions (see my reseller tax tips) I'm paying less than I did before for a more functional living and working space! I'm already sleeping better now that I'm not constantly tripping over boxes of art supplies and merchandise! This new apartment is good for my soul!

I'll show you the other half of the apartment soon! I'd love to know about where you work and live! Spill!

Daily thrifting updates, information, & Inspiration: Follow Thrift Core on Twitter and Facebook.