Second-Chance Studio

Step-by-step guides for DIY, home décor and creativity to give thrifted finds a second life.

White pumpkin in a setting with acorns

From Broken Clock to Fall Showstopper: How to Make a Pumpkin Floral Upcycle

Upcycling pro Jen Dunne turns a broken thrifted clock into a cozy fall masterpiece in this Goodwill Second Chance Studio tutorial. Follow her step-by-step guide to create your own pumpkin floral wall art—proof that even broken things can bloom again.
Read More From Broken Clock to Fall Showstopper: How to Make a Pumpkin Floral Upcycle
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  • Retail
Group of diverse people posing in the street

The Haunted Runway: Goodwill Kicks Off Arts in the Dark with DIY Style and Community Spirit

Goodwill Thrift Studio kicked off Arts in the Dark Chicago with The Haunted Runway, a live DIY costume contest celebrating creativity, sustainability, and secondhand style. Hosted by Suavé — professional MC/DJ and founder of Hip Hop ConnXion — and powered by DJ Ray, the event lit up State Street with music, dance, and thrifted looks. Paradegoers voted live via QR code, crowning Mad Hatter Janna as winner. The Haunted Runway proved that fashion can be fearless, sustainable, and community-powered — all 100% thrifted and 100% nonprofit.
Read More The Haunted Runway: Goodwill Kicks Off Arts in the Dark with DIY Style and Community Spirit
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  • Illinois
Woman posing with a famous animated character

7 Easy Last-Minute Halloween Costumes You Can Thrift for Under $20

Need a costume in a pinch? From Kim Possible to Effie Trinket, these Goodwill finds show how to thrift five creative Halloween looks under $20—plus two easy DIY tutorials for last-minute magic.
Read More 7 Easy Last-Minute Halloween Costumes You Can Thrift for Under $20
  • Thrifting
  • Second Chance Studio
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A vignette of spooky decor including a mirror, books and a candelabra

How to Make a Spooky Mirror with Thrifted Finds

Give your Halloween décor a haunting twist with this DIY spooky mirror project. Using a thrifted mirror and a few simple supplies, you’ll create a ghostly reflection that’s perfect for scaring friends, family, or party guests. Affordable, creative, and eerie—it’s a Halloween hack made possible with Goodwill.
Read More How to Make a Spooky Mirror with Thrifted Finds
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Woman holding a DIY project with text in the foreground

How to Make Ghost Party Art from a Thrifted Sign

Upcycle an old sign into ghost party art with this Halloween DIY from Goodwill’s Content Creator, and skilled upcycler, Jen Dunne. Using thrifted finds, paint, and texture, you’ll create a spooky, sustainable piece of décor that’s both fun and affordable.
Read More How to Make Ghost Party Art from a Thrifted Sign
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Woman holding an autumn wreath

How to Make a DIY Autumn Wreath for Your Front Door

Welcome fall with a simple DIY wreath made from thrifted finds. Learn how to craft an autumn door wreath with seasonal flowers, ribbon, and a few easy steps.
Read More How to Make a DIY Autumn Wreath for Your Front Door
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Scarecrow sitting atop pumpkins in a fall scene

How to Make a DIY Happy Scarecrow for Halloween

Turn thrifted finds into a festive fall decoration! Follow these easy steps to create a DIY scarecrow that’s fun, affordable, and perfect for your porch this Halloween.
Read More How to Make a DIY Happy Scarecrow for Halloween
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