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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Kent State chapter.

For those who’ve always been interested in thrift shopping, but don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place. Here are my top five thrift store finds that can be used to create one-of-a-kind clothing pieces and decorations. The best part? None of the DIYs require any special, artistic skills. Trust me, if I can do it, so can you!

T-Shirts

T-shirts are an oldie-but-goodie. No matter where you’re shopping, you’re sure to find at least one unique top that is calling your name. Oversized t-shirts can be worn just as they are, or they can be transformed with a few simple cuts. Even patches can easily be ironed on to create a completely new and original top with no need for sewing… thank goodness!

Picture Frames

Picture frames are my favorite item to shop for when thrifting because they’re so versatile. You can paint on the glass to add some spice to a black and white photo. You can use the frame and some wire to create a “clothesline” to hang your polaroid pictures. A simple picture frame DIY is the perfect personalized gift for anyone special in your life.

Glasses, Teacups and Vases

Glasses, teacups and vases all make perfect pots for succulents or other plants. They can be painted (or even bedazzled) to add a personal touch to a gift that’s sure to please any plant-lover. Larger glasses can also be used to create terrariums or fairy gardens… now that’s what I call magic!

Scarves

Beautiful and intricate scarves are an amazing accessory for any outfit. Besides keeping you warm on a chilly day, they can be tied in your hair or around purse handles to add interest and texture. If they are big enough, they can even be used as a shawl on a windy day at the beach. 

Old Mass Market Paperbacks

These tiny books that are a pain to read may be just the thing you need to take your scrapbooking to the next level! Typically, you can get several for a very affordable price at a thrift shop or local used bookstore. A unique and inexpensive alternative to scrapbook paper, pages from a mass market paperback provide the vintage-esque backdrop for a scrapbook or collage.

Jenna Bal

Kent State '24

Jenna Bal is a sophomore journalism major with a minors in English and web development. This is her second semester writing for HerCampus and the Burr. When she’s home in Toledo, Jenna enjoys working as a barista and spending time with her younger sisters. Her hobbies include reading, hiking, and journaling, and her favorite read is Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. After graduation, she hopes to write for a magazine and eventually pursue her master’s degree in library sciences.
Junior at Kent State, with a mojor in journalism and a minor in fashion media. I like to write about fashion, lifestyle and Harry Styles.