How to Thrift Holiday Decor

This month's blog post features tips and trends from @craftingculture, one of Goodwill's 2025 influencer partners. Michele is a self-proclaimed professional thrifter, wannabe gardener, self-taught wallpaperer and sometimes crafter.

Thrifting Tips for Holiday Decor

Want to decorate for the holidays without spending a lot? Thrifting is a fun and affordable way to find unique pieces for your home. These easy tips will help you shop smart, get creative and make your holiday decor stand out.

Thrift frequently and at different locations 

When it comes to finding treasures, thrifting frequently is key. Shop your favorite locations or change it up by exploring new ones. With a little persistence, I found these three peppermint candy containers at Goodwill and reimaged them into vases for a fun touch on my holiday table.   

Look for holiday decor year-round  

My biggest tip is to look for holiday decor year-round as some of the best thrift treasures are found in the off season. I curated this festive mantle look using silver glass acorns found at the Goodwill Store & Donation Center in Glenview in April and thrifted the candlesticks from Goodwill just one week after the holiday season last year. 

See something you love … thrift it!  

When you see something you love at the thrift store … buy it. Even if you aren’t sure how you will use the item in your home and/or holiday decor, once it’s gone it’s gone. I thrifted the bright pink glass ornaments and finial tree topper at the Goodwill Store & Donation Center in Des Plaines last year and knew they would add the perfect festive touch, and I’m so glad I did as my tree wouldn’t be the same without these gorgeous touches.  

Think outside the box by giving items new purpose  

Don’t be afraid to think creatively and explore new purpose for items. Look past an item’s obvious intention and try to reimagine how it can work for you in your home. I found a $1.99 wreath at Goodwill that had grapevine and was able to take that and weave it into my tree for an added whimsical layered look.  

Thrift items in pairs  

When you find pairs of items, thrift them! I found these four red candlesticks at the Goodwill Store & Donation Center in Melrose Park. One candlestick would have little impact but grouping all four makes a visual statement.