13 no-regret garage sale buys

Even if you don’t have a record player, vinyl records make super cool decorating items. You can melt them out of shape to create bowls or even turn them into a table top. Groovy!

Second-hand furniture has to be one of the biggest bargains to be had at garage sales. Keep your eyes pealed for great quality pieces which can be restored simply by sanding and applying new varnish or paint. Get creative with a mosaic table top or graphic paint designs. If you find some timber in good nick, you can even build your own timber bench and coffee table.

Look out for vintage and retro fabrics with colours and patterns which inspire you. It’s easy to transform your fabric finds into tablecloth with matching napkins or easy retro cushions.

Cute and colourful teapots and teacups can be used in so many ways. Of course, you can bring them out for your next high tea. But they can also be used as quirky planters, home office organisers, candle holders and plenty more crafty and creative things.

Mixed and matched china plates and saucers make great plates for a spring garden party and they can be picked up for a song at garage sales. You can also get crafty and use them in mosaic projects – you’re only limited by your imagination!

Garage sales can be a great way to pick up mirrors and picture frames at a fraction of the price of buying new. Examine mirrors carefully before buying (there’s nothing more unflattering than a warped mirror!) 

Don’t be turned off by flaking or unflattering paint on cast metal outdoor furniture. Snap up that outdoor setting because you can easily repaint cast metal furniture to suit your home.

Amid the rusty saucepans and cracked china, you can often find a kitchenware gems in weekend garage sales. Keep an eye out for cast iron pots and pans, pyrex dishes, uncracked tupperware and stainless steel utensils. Go for pieces that are dishwasher safe to avoid the ick-factor of second-hand kitchenware.

Snap up fruit boxes and other types of vintage boxes when you see them as they are super versatile around the home.

If you find some garden tools that are still in good nick, snap them up so you don’t have to splash out on a new set. Rusty tools can still be put to good use.

Second hand markets and garage sales are great places to get your hands on some lacy doilies. Perfect for adding a feminine touch to any room.

Genuine leather items look better with age so snap up leather bags when you see them at a garage sale. If your bag collection is getting too big, why not give it as a gift?

You might find a bicycle in good condition if the previous owner has grown up or simply run out of space.