What to look for when thrifting for artwork:
Thrift stores are an excellent source for finding unique and affordable artwork for your home. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful painting, a vintage poster, or a stunning print, thrift stores have it all. However, with so many options, thrifting for artwork can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect artwork at the thrift store.
First, inspect the artwork carefully to determine if it’s an original painting or a print. One way to check is to examine the back of the artwork. If there are visible brushstrokes and paint bleeding through the canvas, it’s likely an original painting. However, if the back looks flat and uniform, it’s probably a print. Keep in mind that prints can still be beautiful and valuable, so don’t discount them entirely.
The most important thing is to look for artwork that speaks to you. Thrift stores often have a wide variety of styles and genres, from modern abstracts to classical portraits. Choose pieces that you genuinely love and that will bring joy to your home.
Check for labels, tags, and signatures
When it comes to thrifting for wall art, it’s important to pay attention to any ceramic marks, labels, tags, or artists’ signatures on the piece. These details can give you insight into the age, origin, and value of the piece, and can also help you determine if it’s a genuine work of art or a mass-produced reproduction. Look for these marks and signatures on the back or bottom of the piece, and do some research online to learn more about the artist or manufacturer.
With a little bit of sleuthing, you can score some amazing finds at your local thrift store and give your home a touch of unique, vintage charm.
How can I tell if the artwork is vintage?
Identifying whether a piece of wall art is truly vintage can be a bit tricky, but there are a few key things to look for. One clue is the materials and production methods used. For example, older paintings may have been created on canvas that was stretched by hand, while newer ones may use pre-stretched canvases made with synthetic materials. Another clue is the style of the piece — does it look like it could be from a particular era or movement?
Finally, pay attention to any wear and tear on the piece. Vintage art may have some discoloration or damage due to age, but this can add character and charm to the piece. Ultimately, the more you know about art history and different artistic movements, the better equipped you will be to spot vintage pieces at the thrift store. With some patience and a keen eye, you might just uncover a hidden gem!
Notice the frames
Frames can make or break the artwork’s overall look, so choose frames that complement the piece. Frames that look like one piece are usually more expensive than frames that are clearly four pieces of trim glued or stapled together.
Frames don’t go together? Use Rub n’ Buff!
My BEST tip is that if the frames of the pieces you chose don’t match, you can always use Rub ‘n Buff to create a cohesive look. Rub ‘n Buff is a metallic wax that can be easily applied to frames, creating a beautiful gold finish that will tie all your frames together. My favorite color is the European Gold Rub n Buff.
I rubbed this over these frames with my fingers so that they’d go together cohesively:
Displaying thrifted artwork in your home
Once you’ve found that perfect piece of wall art at the thrift store, it’s time to display it in your home. One important tip is to make sure the artwork is centered on the wall and at the right height. A general rule of thumb is to hang the artwork so that the center is at eye level – about 57 to 60 inches from the floor. Of course, this can vary depending on the height of your ceilings and the size of the artwork, so feel free to make adjustments as needed.
When it comes to hanging the art without damaging the wall, there are a few different options to consider. One popular method is to use picture hanging strips, which are adhesive strips that can be used to mount the artwork to the wall without nails or screws. These strips come in different sizes and strengths depending on the weight of your artwork, and can be removed without leaving any residue or damage to the wall. Another option is to use a picture rail, which is a molding that runs along the top of the wall and allows you to hang multiple pieces of artwork using hooks or wires.
No matter how you choose to display your thrifted wall art, the most important thing is to showcase it with pride and let it bring some personality and character to your home!
Thrifting for artwork is a fun and rewarding experience. Follow these tips to find and display the perfect pieces for your home, and don’t forget to use Rub ‘n Buff to create a cohesive look for all your frames! Next, check out my tips on thrifting beautiful baskets for your home! Happy thrifting!
