As the crisp air of autumn begins to settle in and leaves paint the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, our focus often shifts from the sprawling garden to the cozy indoors. It’s the perfect time to bring the warmth and beauty of the season into our homes. While big-box stores offer aisles of fall decor, there’s a special kind of magic in finding unique treasures at a thrift store.
These pre-loved items not only add character and personality to your space but also represent a sustainable and budget-friendly way to decorate. This guide will walk you through 15 thrift store finds that are perfect for creating an inviting, fall-inspired atmosphere in your home and garden, inspired by our own love for fall.
1. Wicker Baskets
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Wicker baskets are the chameleons of thrift store decor. Their natural texture and earthy tones make them a perfect fit for autumn. You can find them in all shapes and sizes, from small countertop baskets to large floor-standing ones. They add a rustic, handcrafted feel to any room, effortlessly blending with other fall elements. Use them to hold cozy blankets by the sofa, display a collection of heirloom pumpkins and gourds on your porch, or even as a unique planter for a fall-blooming mum.
Next Steps: Before use, give your wicker basket a good cleaning with a soft brush or the upholstery attachment of your vacuum to remove any dust. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth can also refresh it. To protect your floors from scratches, consider adding small felt pads to the bottom of larger baskets.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Natural texture and earthy tones add rustic charm.
- How to use: Hold blankets, display pumpkins, or use as a planter.
- Care tip: Clean with a brush or vacuum; add felt pads to the bottom.
2. Amber Glass Bottles and Vases
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The warm, golden glow of amber glass is the essence of autumn captured in an object. When sunlight streams through an amber bottle placed on a windowsill, it casts a beautiful, warm light that instantly makes a room feel cozier. Thrift stores are often filled with these gems, from small apothecary bottles to large, elegant vases. Grouping several together creates a stunning visual centerpiece, or you can use a single vase to hold a few branches of colorful fall foliage gathered from your own backyard.
Next Steps: Clean your glass finds thoroughly with soap and warm water. For stubborn residue inside a narrow-necked bottle, a mixture of coarse salt and a little vinegar can work wonders, just swirl it around and rinse.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: The warm, rich hue mimics the colors of fall foliage.
- How to use: Display on a windowsill, group as a centerpiece, or use as a vase for fall branches.
- Care tip: Clean with soap and water; use salt and vinegar for tough spots.
3. Retro Plaid Blankets and Throws
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Nothing says “cozy fall evening” quite like a plaid blanket. Thrift stores are excellent sources for high-quality wool or flannel throws in classic autumnal patterns. These blankets add a pop of color and pattern, whether draped over the arm of a chair, spread across the foot of a bed, or folded neatly in a basket. They are not just decorative; they are functional pieces that invite you and your guests to snuggle up with a good book and a warm drink.
Next Steps: Always check the care tag if it’s still attached. For wool blankets, it’s best to hand-wash in cold water with a gentle detergent or use your machine’s wool/delicate cycle. To keep it soft and prevent shrinking, always air dry your find.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Adds instant warmth, color, and a classic cozy pattern.
- How to use: Drape over furniture or keep in a basket for easy access.
- Care tip: Hand wash or use a delicate cycle with cold water; always air dry.
4. Classic Hardcover Books in Autumn Colors
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Hardcover books are more than just stories; they can be beautiful decorative objects. Look for books with spines in rich, earthy tones like deep red, burnt orange, forest green, and warm brown. Stacking a few on a coffee table or mantelpiece creates an intellectual and homey vibe. You can use a stack to give a small plant or decorative object a bit of height. This is a simple, sophisticated way to add layers of color and texture to your decor.
Next Steps: Gently wipe down the covers and spines with a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust or grime. If the pages have a musty smell, you can place the book in a sealed bag with baking soda for a few days to absorb the odor.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Adds sophisticated color and texture with an intellectual feel.
- How to use: Stack on a coffee table or shelf as decorative accents.
- Care tip: Wipe covers with a damp cloth; use baking soda to remove musty smells.
5. Antique Candle Holders
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The soft, flickering light of a candle is essential for creating a warm and inviting fall ambiance. Thrift stores often have a wide selection of candle holders made from brass, silver, wood, or ceramic. A pair of elegant brass candlesticks can elevate your dining table, while a collection of mismatched holders can create a charming and eclectic display on a mantel. Pair them with beeswax or soy candles in seasonal scents like apple, cinnamon, or pumpkin for a full sensory experience.
Next Steps: To clean brass or silver candle holders, a specialized polish will restore their shine. For removing old wax, you can place the holder in the freezer for about an hour the wax will become brittle and pop right off.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Adds elegance and warm, flickering light to any space.
- How to use: Create a centerpiece for your dining table or a display on the mantel.
- Care tip: Use metal polish to restore shine; freeze to easily remove old wax.
6. Rustic Metal Lanterns
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Lanterns evoke a sense of nostalgia and rustic charm, perfect for both indoor and outdoor fall decorating. You can find them in various metals like tin, iron, or copper, often with a beautifully aged patina. Place a large lantern on your front step with a battery-operated candle inside for a welcoming glow. Smaller lanterns can be grouped on a hearth or used as a centerpiece on your patio table during a cool autumn evening. You can also fill them with mini pumpkins, gourds, or pinecones for a purely decorative touch.
Next Steps: Check for any sharp edges or rust. A light sanding can smooth rough spots, and a coat of clear sealant can prevent further rusting if you plan to use it outdoors. Ensure any glass panels are secure before placing a candle inside.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Adds a rustic, nostalgic glow to indoor and outdoor spaces.
- How to use: Place on a porch with a candle or fill with seasonal items like gourds.
- Care tip: Sand down any rust and apply a sealant for outdoor use.
7. Wood Picture Frames
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Fall is a season of reflection and cherishing memories, and displaying photos in rustic wood frames fits this mood perfectly. Look for frames made from dark, warm-toned wood or those with a weathered, barnwood finish. You can create a gallery wall of family photos or simply display a single, meaningful picture on a side table. These frames add a personal and heartfelt touch to your autumn decor, grounding your space with a sense of history and family.
Next Steps: Clean the frame and glass carefully. If the frame feels a bit dull, you can revive it with a small amount of wood polish or furniture oil. This will bring out the natural grain and give it a healthy luster.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Warm wood tones and weathered finishes add a personal, nostalgic feel.
- How to use: Create a gallery wall or display a single special photo.
- Care tip: Revive the wood with furniture polish or oil.
8. Old-Fashioned Brass Lamps
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Lighting is a key component in setting a cozy mood, and the warm, golden tones of brass are ideal for fall. An old-fashioned brass lamp, whether it’s a slender table lamp or a sturdy floor lamp, can add a touch of vintage elegance and a soft, inviting glow to a room. Look for lamps with interesting shapes or details. You can easily update a thrifted lamp by swapping out the old shade for a new one in a neutral linen or a rich, autumnal color.
Next Steps: Always have thrifted electronics checked for safety. Test the cord and plug for any fraying or damage, and consider having it rewired if you have any doubts. A good polish with a dedicated brass cleaner will make your find shine like new.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: The golden hue of brass provides a warm, elegant glow.
- How to use: Add to a side table or reading nook for ambient lighting.
- Care tip: Test all electrical components for safety and polish with brass cleaner.
9. Copper Cookware and Molds
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Copper is another metal that shines during the autumn months. Its reddish-orange luster is reminiscent of fall leaves, and it adds a touch of old-time sophistication to a kitchen or dining area. Look for copper pots, pans, kettles, or decorative jelly molds. You can hang a collection of copper pans from a pot rack for a functional and beautiful display or use a vintage copper mold as a unique piece of wall art in your kitchen.
Next Steps: Copper develops a natural patina over time, which can be beautiful. If you prefer a brighter shine, you can easily clean it with a mixture of lemon juice and salt or a commercial copper cleaner.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: The reddish-orange luster perfectly complements fall color palettes.
- How to use: Hang pots on a rack or use molds as kitchen wall decor.
- Care tip: Clean with lemon juice and salt to restore shine.
10. Vintage Sweater Throw Pillows
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Finding a cozy sweater at a thrift store is a treat, but finding one you can turn into a pillow is even better. Look for sweaters with interesting textures like cable knit or chunky weaves in fall colors. Repurposing a sweater into a pillow cover is a simple DIY project that adds a uniquely soft and snuggly element to your sofa or bed. It’s a wonderful way to give an old garment new life and add a personalized touch to your home.
Next Steps: Wash the sweater according to its care instructions before you begin your project. To create a pillow, you can either sew the sweater around a pillow insert or create a simple envelope-style cover that can be easily removed for washing.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Sweater textures like cable knit add unparalleled coziness.
- How to use: A simple DIY project turns a sweater into a unique couch pillow.
- Care tip: Wash the sweater before cutting and sewing it into a pillow cover.
11. Charming Embroidered Samplers
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Embroidered samplers and other needlepoint art are little windows into the past. They bring a sense of handmade charm and history into your home. Look for pieces that feature autumnal motifs like leaves, harvest scenes, or woodland creatures. Even samplers with simple quotes or alphabets can work well if their color palette includes warm, earthy tones. Grouping a few together can create a sweet, vintage-inspired gallery wall.
Next Steps: To refresh a found sampler, you can gently hand-wash it in cool water with a mild soap if the fabric seems sturdy. To remove wrinkles, press it from the back with an iron on a low setting, placing a towel between the iron and the embroidery.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Adds handmade, vintage charm and a touch of history.
- How to use: Display individually or group together for a gallery wall.
- Care tip: Gently hand-wash and iron on low from the back to freshen up.
12. Decorative Ceramic Pumpkins
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While real pumpkins are a fall staple, ceramic pumpkins offer longevity and reusability. Thrift stores often have a variety of ceramic gourds and pumpkins from seasons past. These can be more unique and characterful than what you might find in a big-box store. You can easily give them a modern update with a coat of spray paint in a matte white, a metallic gold, or any color that suits your decor.
Next Steps: Clean your ceramic finds with a simple wipe-down. If you decide to paint them, make sure the surface is clean and dry first. A coat of spray primer will help the new color adhere better and last longer.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: A reusable and durable alternative to real pumpkins.
- How to use: Display as-is or update with a fresh coat of spray paint.
- Care tip: Use a primer before painting for better color adhesion.
13. Vintage Floral Arrangements
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Don’t overlook the faux floral section at the thrift store. You can often find high-quality vintage floral stems and arrangements in beautiful, muted fall shades. Look for dried hydrangeas, cattails, wheat stalks, or silk flowers in deep reds, oranges, and yellows. You can deconstruct old arrangements and use the best stems to create your own custom bouquet, wreath, or centerpiece that will last the entire season without any need for water.
Next Steps: To clean dusty faux florals, you can use a hairdryer on a cool, low setting or place them in a bag with some salt and shake gently. The salt will act as a mild abrasive to dislodge the dust.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: Provides long-lasting fall color without the need for maintenance.
- How to use: Create your own custom bouquets, wreaths, or centerpieces.
- Care tip: Clean with a hairdryer on a cool setting or shake in a bag with salt.
14. Old Watering Cans
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An old, galvanized metal watering can makes a fantastic rustic vase or decorative object for fall. The weathered gray of the metal provides a perfect neutral backdrop for vibrant autumn colors. You can fill it with a large bouquet of sunflowers, colorful fall branches from your garden, or a collection of dried cattails and wheat stalks. Placed by your front door or on your hearth, it adds a touch of garden-inspired charm that beautifully bridges the outdoors with the indoors.
Next Steps: Check for any leaks if you plan to use it with water for fresh flowers. If it does leak, you can either use it only for dried arrangements or place a smaller, watertight container inside to hold the water.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: The weathered metal adds rustic, garden-inspired charm.
- How to use: Use as a vase for large bouquets of fall branches or flowers.
- Care tip: Check for leaks; insert a jar inside if you want to use it with water.
15. Stoneware Crocks and Jugs
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Heavy, earth-toned stoneware crocks and jugs are another thrift store staple that fits perfectly with fall decor. Originally used for fermenting and food storage, these sturdy vessels are now prized for their rustic and substantial presence. A large crock is perfect for holding a bundle of birch logs by the fireplace or for displaying tall, dramatic branches. Smaller jugs can be used as simple, sturdy vases for a few sprigs of fall foliage on a kitchen counter or shelf.
Next Steps: Give your stoneware a thorough scrubbing with hot, soapy water to ensure it’s clean. Their heavy-duty nature means they can handle a good cleaning. Check for any major cracks that might compromise their stability.
Scannable Summary:
- Why it works: The earthy, heavy material adds a substantial, rustic feel.
- How to use: Hold logs by the fire or use them as a sturdy vase for tall branches.
- Care tip: Clean thoroughly with hot, soapy water before use.
Your Next Steps
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With this list in hand, your next trip to the thrift store can become a treasure hunt for the perfect fall accents. The key is to look beyond an item’s current state and imagine its potential. A quick clean, a coat of paint, or a creative repurposing can transform a forgotten object into the centerpiece of your autumn decor.
Start by choosing one or two items from this list that resonate with you and keep an eye out for them on your next thrifting adventure.
