Thrifted Decor

Rewind one year: I was quitting my job. Parents, friends, and relatives probably thought I had gone off the deep end. But in reality, I would have gone off the cliff if I didn't quit, but that is a story for another day.

When I entered my 'early retirement', as I called it then, my first priority was getting our house under control. We had lived in our first home for just a little over a year and there were still boxes that hadn't been unpacked and a barren, non-cozy feel to our nest. I needed to decorate! But wait...I had just left my job and we were still getting accustomed to our new living on less lifestyle. What was a girl to do on a decorating budget of nil??

Go thrifting!

I would say that this is when my passion for thrifting started. I went to yard sales, estate sales, and thrift stores, scouring the decor and furniture sections. I came up with some pretty fun pieces at next to nothing prices.

The first area I decorated with mostly thrifted finds was our back entry way. This area serves many different purposes. The dog is always in and out of this door and guests see this area when we entertain outside in the summer. It is also the door that leads to our garden.

This is how it started, blank and boring:

Here is the space mid-makeover:

 This is how it looks today, warm, inviting, and functional!

Here's the breakdown:
Weathered bench: yard sale $8
Pictures: gifts and thrifted $1.50
Rug: Pier 1 clearance 22.50 (and I had a $20 gift card!)
Anti-slip rug grip material: yard sale $5 (new in package)
Boots and watering can and spade: my own and my Grandma's

I just love how it turned out. I can sit on the bench, pull on my boots and grab my watering can and spade before heading out into the garden. When the dog comes back in from the yard, the rug helps to trap the debris he drags in. This is also an inviting space for guests when we entertain in the yard.

The small entry way was just the start to my thrifted decorating projects...more to come!

What areas of your home have you decorated with mostly thrifted decor? You are welcome to leave a comment below, or come and show off a photo over at the Facebook fan page!
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Linking up with Her Library Adventures: Flea Market Finds and Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers Hop.