9 Holiday Décor Items You're Better Off Buying at Thrift Stores, According to Experts

Handmade Wreaths

Finding someone's handmade project, be it a knitted blanket or embroidered outerwear, is always a thrift store score. Handmade holiday wreaths are a similarly wonderful find. "Handmade wreaths offer one-of-a-kind creativity at an affordable price," says expert thrifter Stacey Lewis of @mintcenturythriftystacey.

If you yourself prefer to get creative, thrift store holiday wreathes can also serve as the perfect canvas. "Thrift stores are full of wreaths and while many are outdated, a quick removal of undesirable décor makes for a blank canvas. [Then,] add whatever you'd like at a fraction of the price of a craft store wreath," suggests thrifting and DIY pro Camille McMullin.

Table Linens

"From table runners to tablecloths to napkins, holiday linens are a great way to add some extra charm to your [holiday table]," says Emily Huxford, avid thrifter and founder of Happily Huxford. "I'm particularly fond of handmade and embroidered table linens. They feel like incredibly special family heirlooms." (Just be sure to properly wash them before using.)

Vintage Tree Ornaments

"Thrifted ornaments bring nostalgia and character to your holiday displays," explains Lewis. Not to mention, the options for unique and affordable ornaments are often vast. "I recently found an amazing set of six glass ornaments by Kurt Adler, including a strawberry, toadstool, and fruit bowl for $3.75," shares McMullin.

Candlesticks and Brass Candlestick Holders

Be on the lookout for candlestick holders at secondhand and thrift stores, advises McMullin, as they'll come in handy year-round. "Candlesticks are a great décor item for any holiday and can be especially festive for Christmas time when paired with a beautiful set of taper candles," she says. "I have a large collection of brass candlesticks in varying heights that I love to pull out for the holidays. Add a bow, and they're immediately more festive." 

Stockings

"Quilted or knitted stockings can be expensive, but thrift stores are often full of beautiful options at a discount," says McMullin. "If you're concerned about cleanliness, I'd recommend a fabric steamer or hand wash if the fabric tolerates it." 

Christmas Mugs

"Holiday-themed mugs can make those cups of coffee or hot chocolate feel so much more cozy, and they make excellent gifts as well," says McMullin. You can even use them as vessels for your own hand-poured Christmas candles—another great DIY gift idea.

Tabletop Figurines

You know those charming mini Christmas villages? Instead of purchasing a brand new set, check your favorite secondhand haunts. "From houses to ceramic trees, there are so many beautiful and unique options at thrift stores," shares McMullin. "Last year, I found a ceramic village complete with a church, car service station, and even a craft store."

Ribbon

"I've never come across a thrift store that didn't have some bags of mystery ribbon for sale," says Huxford. This versatile thrift store staple can be used in a variety of ways once the holidays roll around, she shares. "I like making ribbon bows and adding them to trees, garlands, and wreaths, or you can use it traditionally to wrap gifts."

Glass and Dishware

"I love the gorgeous colors and design on glassware," Lewis says of the mix-and-match options of vintage goblets and wine glasses found in thrift stores.

Huxford also looks to secondhand shops for her holiday tabletop needs: "I've purchased entire sets of 12-seater holiday china for less than $40, which would simply not be possible anywhere other than a secondhand store," she says. "As with most vintage items, dishware does come with the caveat to check for lead before eating off them."