Hunting is an art form… but with the right tips, it’s even better!
We love the adrenaline rush of a good deal, the thrill of finding something unique… But hunting isn’t just about strolling around a flea market hoping to come across a gem! Here are my best tips for leaving with vintage pieces that really have character (and avoiding the fake good deals).
1. Have a plan… but be open to surprises
Before setting off in search of the perfect piece of furniture or object:
✔ Make a list: Need a vintage lamp? A solid wood sideboard? Having an idea will help you stay focused.
✔ Take measurements: It’s all very well falling in love with something, but if it won’t fit in your home, it’s a waste of time.
✔ Keep an open mind: sometimes the real gem is the one you didn’t expect!
✔ Always have a tape measure and a torch: checking the dimensions and examining the condition of a poorly lit room can avoid unpleasant surprises.
2. The hunter’s eye: learning to spot quality
Not everything old is necessarily a good deal! Before you take out your wallet:
✔ Touch, lift, test! Is a piece of furniture too light? Is the veneer peeling off? Move on.
✔ Look at the materials: Solid wood, ceramic, thick glass, brass… this is often a good sign.
✔ Accept small imperfections: A scratch or a patina is a sign of character! But if it’s wobbly or broken, think twice.
✔ Test the moving parts: Open the drawers and test the hinges and doors. Nothing is worse than a sideboard with drawers that no longer slide!
✔ Avoid unpleasant surprises depending on the material:
- Chrome: Check that it is not rusty.
Switches & wiring: Make sure that the lights and electrical appliances work or arrange for them to be repaired. - Glass & ceramics: Look at them in the light to detect micro-cracks.
- Plastic: Look out for deep scratches and yellowed areas.
- Veener: Check that it is not coming away and that the corners are not too damaged.
3. The best places to hunt for vintage
Where can you unearth real vintage gems without spending a fortune?
✔ Flea markets and car boot sales: The place to be, but you have to dig! Arrive early for the best items or at the end of the day to negotiate.
✔ Second-hand shops and recycling centres: Less well known, but often full of pleasant surprises.
✔ Vintage e-shops (like mine 😉): Carefully selected, without the hassle of hunting!
✔ Online second-hand sites: Vinted, 2ememain… but beware of scams!
✔ Auctions and antique shops: Perfect for rare or iconic pieces, sometimes at good prices.
4. Negotiate without threatening the seller
We all like to get a good deal, but negotiation is a matter of tact!
✔ Ask questions before talking about the price: ‘Do you know where this coin comes from? Is it original?’
✔ Show that you are serious: A salesperson will be more inclined to make a gesture if you are respectful.
✔ Make a reasonable offer: If the item is already reasonably priced, there is no need to drive the price down.
✔ Buy several items: If you are taking several items, ask for a total price, which is often more advantageous.
✔ Watch the seller: if they are hesitating or starting to put things away, they may be more inclined to give a discount.
5. The instinct of the bargain hunter: follow your intuition
Sometimes there’s that one item that calls out to you. You just know. It’s THE ONE!
✔ Follow your heart: Vintage is all about emotion.
✔ But just think for a minute: Will it really suit your home? Will you really have any use for it?
✔ If you become obsessed with it after leaving the stand… go for it before it goes to someone else!
✔ Have no regrets: If it is a unique piece and you hesitate for too long, it may slip through your fingers.
Conclusion: bargain hunting is all about flair, patience and a lot of fun!
With these tips, you’re ready to unearth the real gems. Take your time, have fun, and above all, let your instincts guide you! 💛
💡 Don’t feel like rummaging around for hours? Discover my selection of vintage gems, lovingly hunted down!