A Bargain Decorator's Dream: The Endless Yard Sale
Whether seeking antiques, collectibles, architectural salvage or an inspiring road trip like no other, head to Highway 127 the first weekend in August. Editor Leslie Judson shares finds from one day of shopping with fellow HGTV staffers.
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This assortment of bottles, some more than a century old, turned a gorgeous shade of purple over time. Great for bud vases and more, you'll enjoy the writing on the bottles as much as their beauty. All photos by Leslie Judson.
This pair of posters honoring the work of famed sculptor Alexander Calder would be an excellent decor choice for someone who appreciates art, color and historical value.
If you prefer a laid-back shopping experience, go yard saling! This little guy wasn't for sale but was accompanying his owners as they browsed. Consider a furry friend to add a level of unparalleled cuteness to any decor.
Add some urban sophistication to parties with these colorful, city-themed tumblers.
This lovely portrait, priced at $62, is a steal, especially considering its condition and beautiful frame. Place old portraits like this one in your home to add a touch of grace, romanticism and mystery.
This chair, and its matching counterparts, reminded me of the dinette set in my great aunt's kitchen. I love the color, the pattern and the washability of the surface.
I was enamored by the seemingly endless displays of quilts at the Endless Yard Sale. This colorful one on the end was priced at $25.
Tables like these could keep me entertained for hours. Old buttons are great little jewels in home decor. Think about how you could use them to make one-of-a-kind pillows, frames, gifts and more.
Talk about a blast from the past! Vintage pinball machines are often collector items and usually the hit of the party.
I love to stock my kitchen with handmade potholders, kitchen towels and other regularly used linens. Often sold for $1 or less, these are charming bargains that always make me smile.
If you need to buy furniture and other large pieces for your home, a large yard sale or estate sale is a smart place to begin shopping. This classical coffee table was priced at $38.
How many potential treasures can you spot at 20 miles an hour? Quite a few. If you attend the Endless Yard Sale, be prepared to pull over a lot, and spread out your spending. Trust me — you'll want to have money left over when you see that gem at the end.
Antique toys are a hot commodity. This working Suzy Homemaker stove is a steal at $10.
You never know what you're gonna find at a yard sale. Rev up the style in a man cave or den with these car parts. Use a little creativity to turn them into a focal point.
Another $10 find: this groovy ice bucket with accessories. Chic and functional.
Check out these antique cabinet drawers that once held a printer's typeset stamps. These are ideal for displaying small collectibles. Hang them as-is, or create a shadow box.
More examples of antiques that serve well as clever, present-day storage containers. These collectible Ball jars could hold a multitude of items and look beautiful on a shelf or countertop. The same is true for old, wooden tool-boxes.
Architectural salvage offers plenty of possibilities for bargain decorators. Retain the patina for shabby chic style, or refinish carefully for a look that's as good as new.
This antique rocker is decades old, but with a little love, it will last decades more. A good reason to buy antique furniture: They really don't make them like they used to.
This $100 cabinet in great condition held colorful, bulk linens. Why rent tableware if you can buy it for less? If you host large parties or know someone getting married, find this vendor at next year's sale.
I'd be remiss not to mention our group's lunch stop as a yard sale highlight. Serving up down home country food, the Cookie Jar Cafe in Dunlap was the ideal place to refuel for the second part of our shopping marathon. The setting was as satisfying as the food. Mmmmmm.
Speaking of food, there's no shortage of fresh produce and canned goods at the Endless Yard Sale. Come hungry, eat often, and bring bags to take plenty home. (And save some change for the children peddling their wares. We were delighted with these budding merchants.)