Decorating & Design

May 17, 2012

Top 10 Flea-Market Finds

Frames: Pick out a collection of solidly constructed frames in different shapes, sizes and styles that you can unify with a coat of paint to create a wonderful wall display of your favourite prints and pictures. Missing or broken glass can be replaced at a minimal cost.

Vintage fabric: Look out for vintage drapery panels, bedspreads or silk scarves in eye-catching patterns which you can make, or have made, into bold throw pillows or seat cushions.

Lamps: Many of today’s lamp designs are inspired by shapes that were popular in the ‘60s and ‘70s so why not get the real deal and pick up original light fixtures from that era. Shop for table and floor lamps in classic designs with no chips, dents or cracks that can be easily rewired and topped with new, of-the-moment shades.

Metal outdoor furniture:
Inject a dose of charm to your outdoor space with vintage metal loungers or a French bistro table and chairs set. A coat of enamel paint can do wonders to bring them back to life and will give your outdoor space a hit of personality.

Pottery and glass: Add colour and character to a mantel or shelf with some vintage pottery or decorative glass accessories. Scope out vases in varying shapes and heights that can work together as a vignette; larger rustic pottery pieces make eye-catching planters.

China: Pick up a few solitary pieces of china that you can add to your existing collection to create eclectic mix-and-match table settings. Search out pretty tea cups and saucers, dessert bowls or large plates with detailed patterns that can be used as chargers under plain dinnerware.

Prints: Add interest to a plain wall with a collection of vintage prints. Be on the lookout for vendors specializing in botany prints, antique maps and old advertisements which can add a graphic punch and a bit of whimsy to a room, not to mention act as a great conversation starter.

Chairs: Look for sturdy chairs in classic designs that can be painted, outfitted with a new seat cushion or re-upholstered. If a chair requires the latter, make sure its frame is in excellent condition, its springs are intact and above all, you love it enough to make the investment.

Tables and dressers: If you’ve got space in your car trunk (and in your home) seek out vintage vanity tables, nesting tables, sideboards and dressers that can be revitalized with a light sanding and a couple of coats of paint. Be sure that drawers slide in and out with ease.

Vintage hardware: Keep your eyes open for delicate porcelain or glass door knobs, brass door knockers and unique cabinet knobs and pulls which can give a brand new look to your doors, cabinets or kitchen cupboards.