This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full Disclosure Policy.
Vintage finds have a special kind of magic; the kind that tells a story the moment you lay eyes on them. There’s just something about a well-worn table or a timeworn ceramic jug that instantly adds warmth and character to a space.
I’ve always had a soft spot for pieces with patina and charm, and I know I’m not alone.
If you’ve ever wondered how to decorate with vintage finds or where to begin when hunting for them, you’re in the right place. I’m so excited to share some of my favorite tips, ideas, and personal stories that might just inspire you to start (or continue!) your own journey into the world of vintage.
From my early days on an Alberta farm to antiquing in the heart of Provence, my love for vintage finds runs deep, and I can’t wait to help you bring that same soul into your home.
My Journey with Vintage Finds: From Alberta to Provence
For me, the appeal of vintage finds goes far beyond aesthetics. I have just always loved the story behind antiques. There is a profound sense of comfort that washes over me when they are in my home, surrounding me in my daily life. The very idea that these things have been used over and over in the past—and imagining what they’ve seen in their lifetime—gives me a deep sense of contentment.
Every time I look at my favorite vintage finds, I feel connected to the past and growing up on the farm here in Alberta. It reminds me of my grandmother, who had a true appreciation for the little things. She collected old salt and pepper shakers, and her kitchen was always filled with beautiful stoneware bowls and containers that she used to cook with. Seeing those kinds of pieces now, and having my own collection of vintage finds in my home, just makes me feel incredibly happy. It’s a nostalgic warmth that brand-new items simply cannot replicate. If you want to read more about creating this feeling, check out my thoughts on vintage simplicity.
Antiquing Around The World
As my passion for vintage finds grew, it took me on adventures all over the world. Wherever I travel, whether I’m exploring the bustling streets of New York City, driving all the way across to Oregon, heading down to Texas, or hopping across the pond to Europe, I am always hunting for antique stores!
I’ve brought incredible pieces back from my European travels, including stunning chandeliers from Italy and beautiful furniture from France.
These experiences eventually led me to co-own Vintage Society Co., where I curated European antiques and custom linens. Sourcing these exquisite vintage finds globally didn’t just give me unique souvenirs; it deeply trained my eye for architecture and patina, solidifying my expertise in designing spaces that feel collected rather than decorated.
in this guide
Curating Your Vintage Finds: Less is More
As much as I love antiques, I am a firm believer that a beautiful home should not be overflowing or busting at the seams with decor. When it comes to vintage finds, choosing wisely is incredibly important. I prefer a space that feels intentional, which is a core part of my approach to simple living.
Instead of buying every old item you see, focus on picking the vintage finds that resonate with you the most. Look for the pieces that have a story you connect with. By carefully curating your vintage finds, you allow each piece to breathe and stand out. If you struggle with having too much stuff, you might find my guide on how to declutter and simplify your home helpful. A curated approach ensures that your vintage finds bring joy rather than clutter.
Decorating with Antiques: A Style That’s Always in Season
No matter your personal style, be it Scandinavian farmhouse, boho, industrial, cottagecore, or a mix of it all, vintage finds can bring in charm and character that simply can’t be bought brand new. I’ve found that pieces with a little wear and tear often have the most personality. That scuffed edge? That’s history. That faded color? That’s character!
When we decided to renovate an old house, we made sure to highlight these elements. We incorporated vintage finds throughout the space, from the shiplap walls to the carefully selected antique lighting. You can see how we blended old and new in our tiny house shed conversion.
That Lovely Vintage Patina
Oh, the patina! Whether it’s the mellow tones of aged copper or the soft sheen on a well-worn wood table, the look that comes from decades of use is hard to beat. I remember starting out married life with barely any budget for furniture, so I gratefully took hand-me-downs from family or scoured yard sales and auctions. At the time, buying second-hand was a necessity, but hunting for vintage finds quickly became a passion.
Looking back, I truly believe those early vintage finds shaped the way I decorate even now. Each piece held a story, and that made it special. The authentic wear on these vintage finds cannot be replicated in a factory.
If you ever find a piece with great bones but a rough finish, don’t be afraid of painting furniture or trying your hand at furniture refinishing to give it new life while preserving its soul.
How to Shop Smart for Vintage Finds
These days, I’m a little more selective about what comes into our home. I still search for those one-of-a-kind vintage finds, but now I think more about where something will go and how I’ll use it. If I’m looking for something specific, I usually check places like Etsy, eBay, local flea markets, or estate sales before buying new. More often than not, I find that older pieces are made better and have more life left in them than anything fresh off a showroom floor.
Tip: Keep a notebook (or use your phone!) to jot down items you’re looking for, along with measurements. I can’t tell you how many times that’s saved me when I stumbled across a piece I loved and wasn’t sure if it would fit.
Knowing your dimensions is the secret to successfully integrating vintage finds into your existing layout, especially if you are working with small space organization ideas.
Mixing Old and New in Home Decor
One of my favorite parts of decorating with vintage finds is blending them with newer pieces. Your whole house doesn’t have to be antique to have charm! A modern sofa paired with a vintage lamp or a sleek kitchen with retro knobs can create such a unique, personalized space.
It’s that mix-and-match approach that really sets your home apart. I love how a simple switch, like using vintage finds for lighting or side tables, can make a room feel completely fresh yet timeless. In our Scandinavian kitchen design, we perfectly balanced modern functionality with rustic vintage finds to create a cozy, meaningful retreat.
Reinventing the Old: Creative Ideas for Vintage Finds
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to vintage finds! Some of my favorite decor pieces have been repurposed into something new:
- A vintage teacup becomes a sweet candle holder
- An old chicken crate turns into a rustic coffee table. (Check out my coffee table decor styling tips and tricks for more ideas!)
- Empty picture frames become mirrors or statement wall art
- A sturdy bureau? Perfect as a kitchen hutch or kitchen island.
When I’m out shopping, I try to imagine what an item could be, not just what it was. That little bit of creativity can turn an ordinary find vintage finds into something extraordinary.
For more inspiration, browse my thoughts on vintage home decor.
Vintage Decor Ideas You’ll Love
Here are a few of my go-to vintage finds that always seem to bring something special into a space:
- Electric insulators – perfect as bookends or paperweights
- Old books – ideal for adding height and layering in displays
- Antique frames – lovely with or without art
- Chicken crates – cute as outdoor tables
- Sap buckets – charming as planters
- Crocks and pitchers – beautiful for kitchen storage or floral displays
- Salvaged corbels – great as shelf brackets or wall décor
Want more ideas? I’ve gathered 7 more tips for decorating with vintage items in this post here.
Vintage Finds in the Bedroom
In our bedrooms, we’ve added vintage lighting and antique furniture. The warm tones of aged brass light fixtures and the craftsmanship of dovetail drawers in old dressers add so much charm. And don’t overlook vintage upholstery! I’ve learned not to be scared off by outdated fabric. With a little vision—and maybe a custom slipcover—older furniture can become a standout piece among your vintage finds.
You can even bring this charm into utility spaces! Adding a few vintage finds to your laundry room decor and refresh can make chores feel much more pleasant.
But vintage finds aren’t just for indoors. I love using salvaged doors as patio tables or creating whimsical garden spaces with old windows. Adding vintage touches outside adds so much personality and makes your space feel lived-in and loved.
If you need inspiration for your exterior, take a look at these farmhouse patio ideas or my guide on building a DIY salvaged brick patio.
Happy Hunting, Friends!
I hope this inspires you to look at old treasures with fresh eyes. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been collecting vintage finds for years, the joy of uncovering something special never gets old. I’d love to hear about your favorite finds or how you use vintage decor in your home; drop me a comment or send me a message!
Happy treasure hunting!!! I would love to hear from you. Let me know how you use vintage items in your home.
Ready to Create a Calmer Home?
If you love the idea of creating a home that feels intentional and collected, but you feel stretched thin or overwhelmed by the thought of constantly organizing, I wrote something just for you. My ebook, Making Space: Simple Standards for a Calm Home and Life, is a practical guide to building daily standards that create space and clarity without overhauling your life. It’s not about strict routines or decluttering your entire house in a weekend; it’s about reducing friction so your life feels lighter and your home truly supports you. Download your copy here and start creating a life you love, one steady day at a time.
