What to scout for at the Flea Markets

I’m super excited that the first Randolph Street Antiques Market of the season opens this weekend! I’m hopeful that rain, high heat and some soccer and baseball games don’t keep me from going!

Besides just the Randolph Market … the season of Flea Markets has begun! So I thought I’d put together a guide of what to look for if you’re heading out to one in the upcoming weeks or months. To me, it is truly like an adult treasure hunt … finding those special, unique little things than can add character to even the most contemporary decor.

So here is your Treasure Hunt List:
1. Blue Ball Jars

These are pretty easy to spot with their bright blue color, which also provides just the right pop in your home.

Southern Hospitality

I love to use them as vases …

(Useless fact: when the first machine-made Ball jars were produced in 1896, the distinctive script on the front boasted “Ball IMPROVED MASON,” with an extra loop after the last “l” in Ball that almost looks like a fifth letter. From 1900 to 1914, the script was shortened to “Ball MASON,” while from 1910 to 1914, some Ball jars bore the words “BALL PERFECT MASON” in big, block letters.)

I’ll bet that you just ran to check your jars, didn’t you? What year are yours from? Mine say Ball Perfect Mason so they must be from somewhere between 1910 and 1914.

ANYWAY … moving on …

2. Vintage Suitcases

Ethan Ollie

I always see these at Flea Markets and have a few in my son’s room peeking out from under the bed. A fun place to store things and add a bit of travelers’ whimsy to a room.

Stay Elegant

Homedit.com

3. Old Signs

Keep an eye out for interesting old signs. They can be used as art, nestled on a mantle or above a window.

Better Homes and Gardens

Funky Junk Interiors

4. Crusty old corbels or architectural elements

Bellina Designs

A pair of these can turn a plain old wood board into a fantastic shelf …

Inspired by Charm

A single piece can make an interesting focal point on a bookshelf …

Painted Lady

5. Vintage Books

Etsy

You can find tables and tables of these at most flea markets. It’s worth it to spend a little time searching through to pick out some gems. They don’t have to be in perfect condition. Just look for titles and colors you like.

If you have large bookshelves to fill, this is a great way to fill them for cheap! But I also like small stacks on tables or consoles around the house. If you have a small spot that just needs a little something, try a stack of 3 vintage books topped with a small vase or interesting artifact from your travels. Books can elevate it to greater importance.

Elizabeth Ann Designs

6. Antlers

These babies can be pretty pricey at home design stores and boutiques, but I’ve gotten some for $10 a piece at flea markets. A great sculptural piece for your mantel, coffee table, bookshelves or centerpiece.

Wednesday Custom Design

7. Old Crates

There are so many ways to use old crates … as planters, trays, shelves or tables. Keep an eye out for sturdy ones with great typefonts or color.

Caisa K

Kristinel Dridge Photography

8. Old Art … even if it’s ugly!

Just look at the frames. You can buy ugly art for really cheap … and sometimes the frame is the best part. Take it out the old art and replace it with art that makes you swoon. It instantly gives it an heirloom-quality look. And a whole wall of it would be stunning.

FromTheRightBank.com

9. Anything else that speaks to you …

Chicago Home + Garden

An old beverage dispenser … who knew it could make a fantastic lamp? And what IS that above it on the wall? But it looks kinda cool, doesn’t it? If it makes you swoon … go for it!

Hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend! Happy treasure hunting! Let me know what you find!

What to scout for at the Flea Markets

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