How to Use Flea Market Finds to Style Your House

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Have you ever seen one of those TV shows where the people go to a flea market/garage sale/antique store and come away with something amazing? Have you always wanted to try your hand at antiquing but not quite sure what to look for or where to start?

Antiquing or what I prefer to do, junking, is fun and simple if you know what to keep your eyes open for. Here are a couple tips so that the next time you go to a flea market you know what to look for and where to start. 

1. Anything to hold flowers

Any type of container can be turned in to a vase you just have to find something you like. An old milk bottle? Perfect!

Pitchers? Also perfect.

An old water jar would look great on any shelf or dresser. Stick some stems in it and you’re done!

Findings items to serve as vases is one of the easiest ways to add that farmhouse feel to your home. If it has an opening on the top don’t count it out!

2. Vintage household items

I am talking about old scales, washboards, bowls, plates, etc. I love to find an item that would of been common place 50 years ago and display it again. These items don’t necessarily have to be functional but would look great as a display piece on your mantle.

An old lantern- the rust makes it that much better!

A vintage scale:

I love this old washboard. It’s one of my favorite finds!

3. Furniture

This is my favorite thing to look for at flea markets. Large pieces of furniture that need some TLC are ideal.

You want to look for pieces that are still structurally intact. But don’t be scared away by scratch marks or stains. They can either be painted over or sanded out.

Look past the current piece and think about what it can be.

You can see the entire trunk transformation process here.

4. An item with a new function

This requires thinking a little bit outside the box but I promise you will get the hang of it. Look for an item that you can use in a different way.

Like a window with pictures in the panes to be a picture frame

Take some old planters and add spray paint…

And you get a fun bookshelf:

It’s much easier then you realize to bring that farmhouse vintage charm into your own home! Once you get started on flea markets and junk stores you will be addicted to the hunt and never want to stop!

Originally published October 20, 2016