When diving into the world of vintage, it can be overwhelming. If you are a collector, you know exactly what you are looking for when it comes to the treasure hunt. But if you are just getting started in vintage décor or considering becoming a vintage seller, explore some of these easy vintage finds as you begin your journey into this fun hobby or business.
Glassware and dishes
The easiest vintage items to find consist of glassware and dishes. Most thrift stores and antique markets are loaded with plates, cups, saucers, wine glasses, serving platters, butter dishes, and bowls at very low prices. Some have markings or names on the bottom such as Royal Albert, Royal Copenhagen, Lenox, Noritake, Spode, or Staffordshire to name just a few. Many of the items are not worth much, however, often these products can be valuable and deserve an online search to determine their worth. Check carefully as some were mass produced or are knock-offs and are pretty much worthless.
Once in a great while, you might find a whole set of vintage or antique dishes but this is rare. Usually, you find a variety of pieces here and there. If you are selling online or in a shop, placing a good inventory of random dishes can be lucrative as collectors often are just looking for a piece or two to complete a set.
Display plates
You will find display plates everywhere in all styles, motifs, colors and settings. Most do not have significant value. The majority tend to be $20.00 or less, however, that can be a nice addition to an online store to generate more sales for lower priced items.
However, you may find a rare plate ever so often that has real value. The more valuable plates frequently have a certificate of authenticity or information printed on the plate that indicates the title, producer, year designed and number within the sequence of plates produced.
We found this plate at a thrift store for under $5.00 of John Lennon complete with the numbered and signed certificate attached. It currently has a value of about $120 online.
Vintage Asian décor
As your travels take you to a variety of thrift or vintage stores, you will find a range of Asian pieces, some small and some quite large. Vintage Asian décor is quite popular today.
Some of the rarer items are really beautiful and make a nice addition to any home or office décor. Some are quite valuable and can bring in a nice sale online or in a shop. The more intricate, unusual and aged the piece is, the more valuable it can be. Here are just a few pretty items we currently have in one of our vintage booths:
These types of products make an attractive addition to any décor or are great to add to your online store. Most are inexpensive to purchase and have great mark-up potential. As many of them are smaller, they can readily be packaged and safely mailed if selling online.
Easy vintage finds are everywhere…keep your eyes open and grab the best ones that you are sure to find in your journeys.
