Give a Kitchen Character With Flea Market Finds

Some of the best pieces are found in dark corners of junk shops. This stepback cupboard, probably more than 100 years old, boasts original hardware and leaded glass doors. It was filthy and a piece of trim needed to be reattached, but it was otherwise in great condition. After a good scrub and some minimal repair, it was ready to be filled with ironstone, linens and cookbooks.

Flea markets and antique fairs can be overwhelming, so it's a good idea to show up prepared. Make a wish list with measurements for any furniture or rugs before the event, bring cash, prepare for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. When shopping for furniture, bring a tape measure so you'll be sure that it will fit in your space. Also, have a plan for transporting the furniture home, since most vendors will expect you to take it with you that day. Most prices at markets and fairs are negotiable, but be polite when asking for a better price; a vendor is not going to give a bargain if he or she feels insulted.

Farm tables and chairs are an excellent way to bring a sense of history into a modern kitchen. The patina of worn wood or the charm of mismatched chairs and plank benches can become the focal point of a boring kitchen. Look for pieces that are sturdy and practical for everyday use. Furniture that wobbles, shows signs of poor repair or has suffered extensive water damage should be avoided.

A kitchen can never have too much storage. Utilize wire market baskets, wooden crates, tool caddies and antique jars with zinc lids as stylish organizers. They're great for displaying pretty linens, family cookbooks, serving platters, flatware, produce and dry goods. Look for pieces that are in sturdy, usable condition and scaled right for the space. For instance, an oversize dough bowl would be fabulous on a huge island, but it would overwhelm a small galley kitchen.