Need to shop for Thanksgiving decorations on a budget? You might want to add “second hand stores” to your list of things you’re grateful for. No need to break the bank – thrift stores like the Arc Store have you covered. Here’s four great ideas to spruce up your dinner table – and make your guests think you’d planned weeks ahead!

Dishware

This one seems like a no-brainer, but it’s an easy one to overlook. If you’re in need of some table settings, dishware is an easy find at most second hand stores. Whether it’s a set of fancy glasses, large bowls for serving dishes, or even cookware for the kitchen, chances are you’ll find whatever you need at a thrift store – and it’ll probably have some stylish character as well.

Books

Using old hardcover books as improvised decorations is a cool new trend that’s both classically vintage and distinctly modern. Books can be used as alternative raisers to present whatever figurines or displays you may have at your table. They’ll give a retro sophistication to your table, and after the holidays, you’ll have some neat shelf fillers – or even some new reading material!

Vases

Vases are a common find at second hand stores, and few decorations are more versatile. You can fill them with a flower arrangement, use them as a candle holder, or you can grab a shallow one and fill it with autumn leaves for a great seasonal piece. You can use leaves from your yard, but you’ll also probably be able to find decorative fake ones at a thrift store.

Wall Decorations

Here’s a neat DIY idea: take one of those old landscape paintings that are ever-so-common at thrift stores and repurpose it into a festive seasonal piece. Just find one with rustic fall colors and paint a message of thanks and good tidings on it. This is a great way to breathe new life into an art piece that will wow your guests.

Hopefully this made your Thanksgiving planning a little less stressful. If you want to try any of these this year, come to the Arc Second Hand Store in Chico, Paradise, or Oroville and see what you find!