EASTSIDE HILL THRIFT SALE, EAU CLAIRE

Ready to rummage? Garage sales will soon be popping up, and you know what they say, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure. These neighborhood sales are wonderful places to pick up some great bargains and find unique “new to you” items.

Not only that, you’ve just helped Mother Nature out by saving an item from making its way to the landfill. As you poke around the piles of baby clothes or sift through the mismatched kitchen utensils, keep an eye out for things you can also repurpose.

Garage sales have become a gold mine for upcyclers, and you’d be surprised at the many ways you can find a new life for your latest deal. Check out the tips below to turn your bargain into a beauty.

1. T-shirts

There are many crafts to make with T-shirts that are not only fun but also easy for the whole family. From cute headbands and dresses to stuffed animals and grocery totes, you’ll never look at a T-shirt the same way again.

2. Furniture

With furniture, your imagination and some paint could really go a long way. The dresser you purchased might just need some new knobs, and a fresh coat of paint could give that wooden desk a brand new look. Up for a challenge? Replace or paint upholstery on a chair.

3. Picture frames

Like T-shirts, there are many ways to upcycle a picture frame. A little bit of paint could do the trick, but there are also some cool projects, too. Make a dry-erase board or add some wire or lace to hold your accessories. If you find a frame deep enough, add some handles for a serving tray. 

4. Lamps

Get ready for some sweet upcycled lighting that will totally brighten your home. You can revamp lamps with new fabric and ribbon or change them completely by turning them into plant stands, candlesticks, or even bird baths.

5. Garden Planters

Think spring! Tea kettles are great for planting herbs, and colanders are perfect for hanging plants. You can fill boots and shoes with some soil along with your favorite flowers. Old drawers are also wonderful for growing a green thumb.

Spring is certainly prime time for garage sales and those early morning treasure hunts. As you dig around for that special gem, keep in mind that some creative thinking will help find new purposes for some of your bargains.

Neighborhood Sales in Your Area

Summertime in the Chippewa Valley offers a handful of big, annual, neighborhood-wide thrift sales where you can drive or walk from one yard or garage to the next. There will usually be thrift sales going on in that neighborhood on days leading up to and after the day of the event. You can find more information on each thrift sale on CVF.com, or on Facebook as the events get closer.

Halmstad, Chippewa Falls

When: First weekend in May
Where: Area surrounding Halmstad Elementary

Eastside Hill, Eau Claire

When: May 20
Where: Bordered by Main St, Farwell St, Margaret St, and Harding Avenue

Putnam Heights, Eau Claire

When: June 3-4
Where: Ellis Street to Rudolph Road, and Clairemont to Hamilton Avenue. There will also be an indoor sale at Peace Church.

Third Ward, Eau Claire

When: Third Saturday in September
Where: Bordered by Clairemont and Harding Avenue, and State Street