New or secondhand? That’s a dilemma that we all face when considering purchasing items for our homes. In many cases, vintage items are more durable and better crafted. Whether you’re hitting estate sales, clicking around Facebook Marketplace or exploring local consignment shops, here are some items to keep an eye out for.

Art
Check resale and consignment shops for handmade art pieces. You’re likely to find pieces that are more unique and better quality than currently mass produced pieces, but at a fraction of the cost of what it would cost you to purchase from a gallery.

Rugs
Vintage rugs often feature intricate patterns, designs and colors, and they are made from durable materials like wool or silk. However, these pieces also come with years of dirt, wear and stain. You may need to have the rug professionally cleaned, rebacked or repaired.

Books
Books are great items to pick up secondhand. You can find unique coffee table table books to display and beautiful tomes for styling shelves. Going vintage gives the items more charm and individuality.

Mirrors
Older mirrors usually are made of better glass and metal than what you’ll find in stores now for similar prices. Plus, they often have ornate or gilded design making them a great decor piece, as well as a practical addition to your home.

Upholstered Furniture
These pieces often have well-crafted, solid-wood frames. Padding and upholstering can always be updated, and that way you can personalize the piece to your style.

Wooden Furniture
Items from the mid-20th century are often made from solid hardwoods, such as oak, walnut and mahogany. Not only are they more durable, but they often feature unique details like dovetail joinery or hand carvings.

Ceramics
Many of today’s ceramics are mass produced and more cheaply made. Going with vintage means you’re getting a more durable item, and these pieces often include unique handmade details. Ceramics also aren’t likely to depreciate in value, so it’s a good investment. Just make sure you check for any chips or cracks that may impact the usability or longevity of the piece.

Lighting
Lighting is an easy way to add warmth and character to a room. Older lamps often have distinctive designs and were made from materials like copper, glass and brass. If you’re on the hunt for a deal, look for lamps with a damaged cord or shade that may be discounted. Those are easy fixes that you can do on your own or have done.

Kitchenware
Vintage glassware, cast iron skillets, utensils and ceramic dishware are all good finds. They are likely to last you a long time and also offer character and charm, making them great for display. Make sure to carefully inspect each piece, especially if you intend to use it for food. Not all vintage materials are up to the safety standards of today. For example, uranium glassware can emit low levels of radiation. Avoid it!

Antique and consignment stores around the StL

  • Cool Stuff Period
    5707 Manchester Ave., coolstuffperiod.com
  • Encore Consignment Shop
    Kirkwood: 0821 Manchester Road, Town and Country: 287 Lamp & Lantern Village, encorestl.net
  • Fantastic Finds
    12778 Olive Blvd., alstl.org/fantastic-finds-resale
  • The Green Goose Resale & Consignment
    1267 S. Laclede Station Road, greengoose.com
  • The Green Shag Market
    5733 Manchester Ave., thegreenshagmarket.com
  • The Hill Antique Market
    4923 Daggett Ave., hillantiques.com
  • Max and Moo’s Thrift
    11726 St. Charles Rock Road, Ste. J, maxandmoos.com
  • Miriam Switching Post
    292 Hanley Industrial Court, miriamstl.org
  • MoModerne Design Shop
    3730 Foundry Way, Ste. 188, momoderne.com
  • The Refind Room
    2525 S. Brentwood Blvd., therefindroom.com
  • St. Louis Antique Mall
    9715 St. Charles Rock Road, antiquemallstlouis.com
  • St. Louis Consignment Gallery
    3217 Woodson Road, stlouiscg.com
  • Treasure Aisles Antique Mall
    2317 S Big Bend Blvd., maplewoodantiquemall.com
  • The White Rabbit
    9030 Manchester Road, thewhiterabbitstl.com