ALTER by Jackie Page: ALTER Alert: St. Vincent de Paul's Thrift Store

Friday, April 9, 2010

ALTER Alert: St. Vincent de Paul's Thrift Store

You know how I feel about flea markets: LOVE! That feeling applies to thrift stores too, 'cause what's a thrift store other than a permanent flea market with a roof?

One of the best thrift shops in Los Angeles is hands-down St. Vincent de Paul's. It's purported to be the biggest in the city, and I can tell ya when I'm in there, it certainly feels like it!

St. Vincent's not your average thrift store. It's a damn WAREHOUSE, stuffed to the gills with... well... everything! You name it, they got it. Actually, you name it, they got ten of it. Furniture from chairs to tables to beds to dressers to sofas, office furniture, dish and glassware, small electronics and appliances, books, art... You could absolutely get lost in there. I recommend bringing a flare gun so the rescue teams can find you when you do.

Image from Apartment Therapy

Now, some of their stuff can be in pretty rough shape. It's good to go in with a critical eye, and think about if and how you can restore a St. Vincent's find to its former glory.

And of course, if you're on the flip side of things, St. Vincent's can help, too. Donations are always welcome! Not only does St. Vincent de Paul sell its wares to benefit the less fortunate, but some donations go directly to them.

Okay, that's enough from me. You find the best stuff if you get there early, so get to gettin'!