I met my friend Nester for coffee the other day. We always say we are going to meet for coffee, but actually its just to grab a cup, talk as fast as we can about 9,000 different things before we run out, jump in one of our cars, and then hit the thrifts stores. I love going thrifting with Nester. We walk in together, split apart, meet back up, show each other what we found, try on clothes, and then I always model something for her to get her honest opinion, which she will always give. We talk, share, dream, usually repeating things over and over because we are easily distracted by all the junk just screaming to be taken home! When I leave our thrifting adventures I always feel so happy, almost giddy. I guess its spending time with a dear friend doing something that I love. Thrifting is my therapy. Digging though all that junk, the hunt, the projects that come to mind, the dreaming up ideas from different cast off pieces, it just fills me up. But also to thrift with someone you love spending time with who also appreciates the hunt, well that is just about the best thing.
This was one of my scores that day! I have been looking for one of these old retro suitcases for a while now. I was extra excited about this color! I can’t wait to show you what I am going to use it for!
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But this was probably my favorite find of the day. I almost walked right past it because it was buried under about 10 things. I just happened to see a little piece of the fabric petal sticking out. When I uncovered this pot of vintage fabric flowers I ran to find Nester!
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I found three of these wood trays at the dump awhile back. A man was actually throwing them out when I pulled up beside him to unload some stuff for my husband. I was like, “WOWWWW, are you throwing those out”!?!?! He was so super nice and just started loading stuff up in my van! I went home from the dump that day with more than I went to throw out! That is the last time my husband has asked me to take anything to the dump for him!hahaha
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I found this quilt top at a Goodwill in my hometown, Bristol, VA. It hurt to cut it up, but it has been so much fun using it for different projects.
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I found this bird pattern in one of my books. Actually now that I think about it, it was a library book, that I returned three years ago……….oops.
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Once I got those fabric flowers home from Goodwill I had so many projects that I wanted to use them for! Here are a few……..
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No wonder thrifting is soooo therapeutic for me. For 2.99 I was able to come home and use something that I found to unleash my creative juices! Fills me up every time!
Nester is in Tanzania Africa this week, make sure you check out her blog posts about her trip with Compassion International!!! We actually sat down as a family last night and picked a child to sponsor though Compassion International. It was something really special for my kids to learn about little Lukas from Tanzania. We can’t wait to receive our packet of pictures and information about Lukas. Compassion International is such an amazing organization. Click here for more information on the organization and sponsoring a child.
While Nester is away anyone want to go thrifting with me!?!?! I am needing a does of therapy!
My name is Angela Statzer and I love to incorporate just about anything into my artwork. Ranging from recycled materials, vintage items, wood, jewelry, other people’s junk, buttons and fabric, my style is fun and diverse. You can find me smiling at any yard sale, thrift store or flea market. I am a momma to two amazing kids and wife to one hot husband. 
Ooh I'll go with you…it may take me a while to get there though
I literally was shaking my head reading this post…I can't believe your creativity and ability to see new uses for just about anything! Love the bird tray…that's exactly why I'm not allowed to go to the dump anymore either, ha!
Hahaha Handmade housewife!
thank you so much for your comment! Made me smile! Are you still doing your Etsy shop? I need to go check it out right now! Wish you lived closer!
xoxox
Angela
I so enjoy your posts. You use my favorite elements in such fun ways. Thanks for showing what you did with your finds so quickly! Great inspiration!
Thanks Kelley!!!
Gotta agree with those before me, your creativity blows my mind. So many beautiful things I've admire here over the time I've followed you. I'm an old suitcase lover, too, can't wait to see what you do with it. Got a couple myself to repair handles, reline, etc. Not only is thrifting therapy, it's cheaper and more productive, lol. Wish we lived closer.
Janet
craftythriftydecoratingwifemom.wordpress.com
No shop right now, just piddling on stuff around the house. We're making plans and gathering things to build our chicken coop…yep we're getting chickens
I'm up late tonight stealing stuff from your Pinterest boards again, lol! LOVE it all!
Can't wait to see what you do with the suitcase…. I have 2 of them at home and am not sure what to do with them….
Yes Janet!
I have thought about how much cheaper thrifting is then therapy!hahaha One day I was a little sad about some stuff that had happened with my daughter. I went to salvation army because it was half priced day and just lost myself in the clothing racks. I spent about $15.00, had a bag full of fun clothes and my attitude had totally shifted! It was the boost I needed. When little Lilly got off that bus that day I was happy and ready to be the mom she needed.
Handmade Housewife!
Chickens that is awesomeeeeeeeeeeeee!!! I want to see pictures!
xoxox
Angela
Angie!
what color are yours!?!? Getting ready to start on mine right now! Cant wait I am so excited!
lots of love
Angela
Those flowers are sooo sweet! Love the birdie one:)
You know I'll go thrifting!!
Mine are green also…. I have a medium one and a small one…