Vintage Furniture Hunt

Columnist - Gayle Lynn Falkenthal

Hello Gayle,

I read your article on San Diego Bargain Mama and thought you sounded so wise!

I too love to hunt for good buys, if the item is vintage and/or handmade it is also a major plus in my book. This Christmas I challenged myself to buy all my gifts handmade, vintage, or at the very least from a local shop.

My current shopping dilemma is finding a bed for my daughter's big girl room. The good news is I have about six months until she, Penelope, will even be ready to sleep in something other than a crib. I have tried places like Craig's List but I always seem to be too late when I contact the seller, and another lucky shopper gets the bed before I get there.

I am looking for vintage iron twin bed. Ideally if I could find an iron headboard and footboard, that are the same height, I would be thrilled. Then I could get the exact frame I want, so I can put a trundle under the bed. It doesn't matter the color, white would be nice, but I can always buy some paint.

If you know of any good vintage stores or places that I might not think of checking it would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Heather R.

Carlsbad, CA

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Heather,

You’re very kind – thank you so much!

Typically the thrift stores that have furniture are the largest ones. This would include the Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS, and Salvation Army. Some Goodwills have furniture rooms but not many.

There are consignment stores, however, that offer great deals. In Encinitas you might check out Consignment Classics, which has great furniture for 40-60% off retail. Also, seeing that you live in Carlsbad you might check out the consignment shops on State Street in downtown Carlsbad.

There are baby and child resale specialty stores but most don’t deal in anything but clothes, strollers, and perhaps cribs. You might be best off going somewhere like Craig’s List. Since it’s free, consider putting your own “want” ad on Craig’s List and describe what you are looking for. Keep in mind that state law prohibits stores from selling mattresses, but at this time of year you can find great discounts on them.

I hope this helps. You’re smart to get a jump on this. Time pressure can kill you when you’re looking for a great deal, especially when it’s a special item.

Best of luck and we are so glad to have you as a reader! Let us know how you fare!

Gayle Falkenthal

Find me on eBay! I'm seller "gfalke1" - Check out my best bargains offered online to you!
Email: info@falconvalleygroup.com