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Gifting your loved ones with thrifted or second-hand items is a unique and growing trend.
I have been gifting my friends and family thrifted items for many years now and they all love it.
It is not true that second-hand or thrifted gifts lack quality, the only thing is you need to choose them carefully.
There are so many options available to gift. I live in New Jersey, here I have many thrift shops where I can find stunning items to gift.
These gifts are meaningful, eco-friendly, and also save money, reduce waste, and have a story behind them.
In this blog post, I will share some of the best secondhand and thrifted gift ideas that you can gift to your loved ones.
Why Choose Secondhand & Thrifted Gifts?
1. Second hand & thrifted gifts are sustainable. When you choose them, you’re reducing demand for new production.
As per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the United States generated over 17 million tons of textile waste in a year. Thrifted gifts help cut down on this waste.
2. Also, these gifts are unique finds. There’s nothing quite like stumbling upon a one-of-a-kind vintage vase or a classic first-edition book. These treasures can’t be found in big-box stores.
3. Second-hand doesn’t mean cheap. It means thoughtful! You can find high-quality items at a fraction of their original price.
Best Second-hand & Thrifted Gift Ideas
1. Vintage Jewelry
Delicate necklaces, brooches, or rings can carry decades of history. You can gift an antique brooch or a statement cocktail ring to your loved ones—these items turn into instant heirlooms.
You can find these items from nearby thrift stores and estate sales. They often have stunning pieces at reasonable prices.
2. Books
Books are always a thoughtful gift. You can find them from nearby secondhand bookstores. Look for first editions, rare finds, or even gently used cookbooks.
Be it a classic novel, an inspiring biography, or a quirky coffee table book. I recently gifted my cousin a vintage sci-fi novel I found at a local bookstore.
3. Home Décor
You can gift decorative items like antique picture frames and quirky vases to your loved ones. These gifts can elevate any home. These gifts are especially ideal for homebodies and design enthusiasts alike.
4. Vintage Candle Holders
The vintage candle holders bring warmth, elegance, and character to any space. You can gift vintage ones like a pair of brass candlesticks or a rustic wooden holder.
These gifts are best for anyone who loves cozy aesthetics or enjoys hosting intimate dinners.
5. Unique Flower Vases
You may think a flower vase is a simple gift, but when it’s a vintage piece, it becomes an unforgettable gift.
You can gift a variety of flower vases like mid-century modern designs or rustic styles etc. These vintage vases come in different shapes, colors, and textures.
6. Antique Clocks
We can consider antique clocks as a statement of history and style. You can choose a variety of antique clocks like an ornate mantel clock, a vintage wall clock, a charming cuckoo clock, etc.
These gifts are best for someone who loves craftsmanship and timeless decor.
7. Secondhand Artwork
Artwork adds character to any space. In nearby secondhand stores, you can find different options like framed paintings, prints, or sketches. You can gift a classic landscape, an abstract piece, a vintage poster, etc.
8. Vintage Rugs
Vintage rugs are unique thrift gift choices and they as a gift combine luxury and functionality. These rugs are usually made with high-quality materials and stunning designs.
Vintage rugs add warmth and elegance to a room.
9. Antique Mirrors
Antique mirrors are great decor pieces for homes. You can gift antique mirrors with ornate frames or unique shapes etc. These mirrors brighten up a room and serve as a stunning focal point in any home.
10. Vintage Barware
Vintage barware is a fun and thoughtful gift, especially for cocktail enthusiasts or home entertainers. You can gift retro cocktail shakers, crystal decanters, unique glassware, etc.
Vintage barware items bring charm to any home bar.
11. Vintage Kitchen Tools
You can gift retro utensils, cast iron pans, unique bakeware, etc. These gifts are great for someone who loves cooking or baking.
12. Classic Comic Books
Comic books are a nostalgic treasure for many and an exciting gift for collectors. There are a variety of books available, you can gift a classic superhero issue or a rare find.
Vintage comics are a unique way to delight any fan of the genre.
13. Vintage Designer Jackets
Vintage designer jackets are stylish and sustainable and a great gifting option for fashion enthusiasts. There are many options available like timeless leather jackets or chic trench coats, etc.
These vintage jackets are fashionable and mostly eco-friendly.
14. Vintage Board Games
Vintage board games are best for family gatherings or game nights. Classics like Scrabble, Monopoly, or unique finds from decades past make for delightful gifts.
15. DIY Ideas for Upcycled Gifts
If you are interested in crafting then you can create your own upcycled gifts. For example,
Mason Jar Candle Holders: To create this, fill jars with wax and a wick to create a cozy, homemade candle.
Tote Bags from Old Fabrics: Get some vintage fabrics and repurpose them into reusable bags.
Wooden Crate Shelves: To create this sand and paint old crates for decorative storage solutions.
Also Read:
Sustainable Gift Ideas for,
Tips for Shopping at Thrift Stores
- Thrift shops usually restock items regularly. So, the more you visit, the better your chances of getting cool items.
- You can also check online platforms like Poshmark, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace and can shop from home.
- While purchasing a thrifted gift always check for wear and tear. A quick cleaning or repair can make all the difference.
I once found a vintage bracelet at a flea market. After a little polishing, it looked brand new. I gifted it to my friend and still she has it. - Finding a perfect secondhand gift may take time. As I said earlier you may need to visit the shop often.
How to Wrap Thrifted Gifts Creatively
Use Recycled Materials: Wrap gifts in newspapers, old maps, or fabric for an eco-friendly touch. You can read my detailed blog post on eco-friendly gift-wrapping ideas.
Add a Personal Touch: It’s better if you handwrite a tag or include a note about the item’s history.
Go Themed: You can create a gift basket with multiple thrifted items, like a coffee-themed bundle with a vintage mug, book, and coasters.
People mostly think secondhand gifts lack quality or thoughtfulness. But that’s not true.
If you choose carefully, they’re just as meaningful (if not more) than something new. I’ve had so many friends admire the thrifted gifts I’ve given.
When you gift a thrifted item—you’ll be giving more than just a present; you’ll be giving a story.
So let’s explore your local thrift store or favorite online marketplace and gift your loved ones with stunning thrifted items.
