Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links — at no extra cost to you.
If you’ve ever walked into a thrift store during the holidays, you know it’s a goldmine half nostalgia, half treasure hunt. The best part? Most people overlook the good stuff. With a little creativity, those “random” finds can turn into high-end holiday decor, thoughtful gifts, or cozy seasonal touches that look way more expensive than they are.
These thrift store finds aren’t junk they’re the secret to decorating smarter, not pricier. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just love the thrill of a good thrift store holiday decor find, this list will help you spot items worth grabbing before someone else does.
1. Vintage Glassware and Goblets
Thrift stores are full of old glassware — amber, ruby red, or clear etched glasses that instantly add charm to your holiday table. You can use them for festive cocktails, display them on open shelving, or fill them with tea lights for a glowing dinner setting. Don’t worry if the set isn’t complete; mismatched glasses create a curated, collected look that feels intentional.
Upcycle Idea: Turn them into mini candleholders or dessert cups for your next gathering. Add a ribbon or tag, and they even double as inexpensive party favors.
Shop Similar Finds:
2. Silver Serving Trays
Those tarnished silver trays most people skip? Grab them. A quick polish transforms them into elegant holiday accents. Use them as bases for centerpieces, candle displays, or dessert platters for your next gathering. They instantly elevate even the simplest setup and add that vintage sparkle modern decor often lacks.
Upcycle Idea: Line a tray with greenery, ornaments, and a pillar candle for a five-minute holiday centerpiece. Or hang one on the wall for an unexpected metallic backdrop.
Shop Similar Finds:
3. Picture Frames for DIY Art or Signs
Old picture frames are an easy thrift store upcycle decor win. You can repaint them, add seasonal printables, or use them to frame gift wrap, wallpaper, or fabric scraps. Large frames make stunning DIY holiday signs think “Merry & Bright” or “Cozy Season.”
Upcycle Idea: Remove the glass, paint the frame gold or matte black, and attach twine across the opening to hang Christmas cards or ornaments.
Shop Similar Finds:
4. Old Books for Stacked Decor
You’ll find tons of old hardcovers at any thrift store and they’re pure thrifted home decor magic. Remove the dust jackets, tie them with jute twine, and stack them on a coffee table or entryway console. Their worn edges and neutral tones add warmth to any holiday vignette.
Upcycle Idea: Use an old book as a base for a snow globe scene open it halfway, glue on a small tree and figurine, and sprinkle with faux snow.
Shop Similar Finds:
5. Wooden Candle Holders
Skip the overpriced store displays old wooden candle holders are easy thrift flip decor gems. Paint them white, gold, or even plaid for the holidays. They add height, texture, and warmth to mantels, tables, or shelves.
Upcycle Idea: Use wood stain and metallic paint for a “modern rustic” finish, or glue three together at different heights for an instant statement piece.
Shop Similar Finds:
6. Christmas Village Pieces
You know those little ceramic houses hiding on the bottom thrift store shelves? Grab them. Even if they’re chipped or missing a piece, they can be revived with a little paint or faux snow. You can cluster them on a mantle, tuck them into a wreath, or create a glowing mini village under a glass dome.
Upcycle Idea: Spray paint all your pieces white for a minimalist winter village or mix metallic gold and silver for an elegant holiday mantel display.
Shop Similar Finds:
7. Baskets and Crates
Baskets are one of the most versatile thrift store decorating ideas you’ll ever find. They’re perfect for holding blankets, gift wrapping supplies, or firewood during the holidays. Add a few sprigs of greenery or ribbon, and they instantly look styled.
Upcycle Idea: Line a basket with plaid fabric or burlap and use it as a base for a DIY holiday gift basket. It’s an easy way to personalize your presents.
Shop Similar Finds:
8. Vases and Vessels
From vintage milk glass to quirky pottery, thrift store finds like vases can be holiday showstoppers. Fill them with pine branches, berry stems, or dried flowers for effortless seasonal decor. Look for unique shapes or patterns to make your arrangements pop.
Upcycle Idea: Paint mismatched vases with matte spray paint in one color family white, sage, or bronze for a cohesive and modern holiday display.
Shop Similar Finds:
9. Linens and Table Runners
Don’t skip the textile section thrifted linens can be easily washed and repurposed. Vintage napkins, embroidered runners, or plaid tablecloths make beautiful foundations for your holiday tablescape. You can even use them for DIY projects like no-sew stockings or gift wrap alternatives.
Upcycle Idea: Cut an old tablecloth into smaller squares for reusable napkins or use a lace runner layered over burlap for a farmhouse holiday look.
Shop Similar Finds:
10. Holiday Tins
Old-fashioned holiday tins are equal parts nostalgic and practical. You can fill them with cookies, candies, or homemade gifts or simply use them as decor stacked on a shelf. They bring instant charm and a pop of color to your holiday kitchen.
Upcycle Idea: Use a few coordinating tins as mini planters for herbs or small evergreens on your windowsill.
Shop Similar Finds:
11. Ceramic Houses and Figurines
Ceramic figurines may look outdated on the shelf, but they’re gold for DIY thrift store crafts. Whether it’s angels, reindeer, or Santa sets, a coat of white or metallic paint makes them instantly modern. Cluster them on your mantel or mix them into garlands for a charming vintage twist.
Upcycle Idea: Spray paint a collection of mismatched figurines matte white for a minimalist winter village display.
Shop Similar Finds:
12. Mirrors and Wall Art
Large thrifted mirrors and framed art can transform a holiday space without much effort. A good frame, even if the artwork isn’t your style, can be updated with festive prints, wrapping paper, or chalkboard paint. Mirrors, in particular, reflect twinkle lights beautifully and make rooms feel cozy and bright.
Upcycle Idea: Turn a thrifted mirror into a “welcome” sign for your holiday entryway with window clings or vinyl lettering.
Shop Similar Finds:
13. Wreath Bases
If you find old wreaths at Goodwill or a thrift shop, don’t pass them up. Strip off the dated decorations and reuse the base — grapevine, foam, or wire for a thrift store DIY project. Add new greenery, ornaments, or ribbon to create a fresh holiday look for a few dollars.
Upcycle Idea: Wrap an old grapevine wreath with twinkling fairy lights and hang it on a mirror or above your bed for instant holiday glow.
Shop Similar Finds:
14. Garland Strands and Ornaments
Thrift stores are treasure troves for forgotten holiday decor. You’ll find strands of garland, ornaments, and lights that just need a little cleaning or re-stringing. Mixing vintage ornaments into your tree adds history and personality that new decor can’t replicate.
Upcycle Idea: Create a garland out of old ornaments and ribbon for your mantel or staircase.
Shop Similar Finds:
15. Holiday Mugs
Holiday mugs might seem small, but they’re perfect upcycle thrift store finds. Use them for hot cocoa bars, fill them with mini plants as gifts, or stack them on open shelves for a cozy touch. Look for mugs with unique patterns, sayings, or retro charm.
Upcycle Idea: Fill a mug with cocoa mix, marshmallows, and a candy cane, then wrap in cellophane for a quick, thoughtful gift.
Shop Similar Finds:
Thrift shopping for the holidays isn’t just about saving money — it’s about finding pieces with personality. Every chipped mug, vintage ornament, or dusty frame has potential. With a little vision and creativity, you can turn everyday thrift store finds into stylish holiday decor that feels both personal and festive.
If you’re ready to take your upcycling game even further, check out my post on Easy DIY Christmas Crafts to Sell This Season for more holiday inspiration.
