How To Find Beautiful Vintage Furniture Online
January 07, 2011
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How I've sources beautiful vintage dressers and furniture on Craigslist.
I’ve had a little obsession that’s grown over the past six months or so…and I never thought it would happen. I used to be afraid of it, but I’ve learned to love -- Craig and his list. :)
I’m still not a big fan of the selling part. But I’m a complete convert on the buying part.
Part of the problem is it’s so accessible with my iPhone app – it is AWESOME. It’s so convenient – you can save searches, save preferences, and the best part – the pictures pop up in the list. It’s SO easy to use! And it was FREE. Score! (You’d think I was paid to say that, but no. It’s that good.)
I usually spend five minutes every day or two scrolling through, even when I don’t need anything. That’s how they get ya. :)
Last summer, Craig had me at hello when I did some searching and found this (Drexel!) dresser for only $100:
It was a perfect fit in our family room! I absolutely LOVE it.
I had hoped that dresser would fit in our foyer, but it was too long, so a short time later, I searched again, and found this buffet that ended up in our foyer:
Sahweeet! I was starting to fall in love…with Craigslist. :)
I’ve since bought a few more pieces, (one for an absolute STEAL – I’ll show you soon!). I mentioned last week that there was a dresser I saw for my office that made my heart go pitter pat. That particular one sold before I could get my hands on it, but the seller had another beauty she hadn’t listed yet:
I love her, I do.
The dresser, not the seller. But I’m starting to love her a little bit too – she’s the one that sold me the buffet in our foyer. ;)
I love her pretty detail:
Her little legs and curvy lines:
And all of her STORAGE. :)
Awesome!! Isn’t it just calling out for some beautiful glass knobs?
She’s old and solid cherry wood with dovetail drawers. There’s a medallion inside marked Huntley Furniture, which I had never heard of. (I did some research and found out the company started in 1906 and phased out around 1961.) I’m finding part of the fun of these finds is researching their history. :)
I don’t know yet if it will stay black (although I think just about any room can handle one black piece). I’m going wait a bit, see how the room comes together, then decide.
The two lamps on top are from Target, and I got them just today.
I’ve passed by them over and over for about two weeks, and drooled over them each time. I mentioned it on Twitter this morning, and I tell you what – it’s like having hundreds of girlfriends shopping with you, with their “Get them!,” and “Go now before they’re gone!” (put the fear in me) and “Do it, you totally deserve it!”
OK, I may have added the last one myself. Whatever.
Anyway, they are absolutely STUNNING. The pictures don’t do their pretty aqua color justice – but oh my, I adore them:
Thump to the chest at ya, Tweeps!! :)
I’ve learned a few things in my short time as a Craigslist convert that I always follow:
1. I email first, using an old email with my maiden name. Call me crazy but I don’t want anyone to know my first and last name unless I’ve communicated with them a few times. Actually, I still don’t tell them my last name, even when I buy. :)
2. GET DIMENSIONS (save yourself a drive, gas money, time, etc.)
3. If you go to check it out, bring someone with you, or at least tell someone where you’re going. And I never bring my son with me.
4. If you don’t like it, if it’s not right, if it’s the wrong size, you DON’T have to buy it. :) Just tell them it’s not quite right, and go on your way. If you feel weird, just say you need to check some measurements at home.
5. I always ask if the piece is wood. Especially with something like a dresser, where sometimes the top is laminate, the drawers are wood. I want something I can paint (fairly) easily and that’s a sturdy wood piece.
I found a few treasures just waiting for a redo on the Indy Craigslist that I wanted to share with you!
This vintage dresser would be absolutely stunning painted in just about any color:
Wouldn’t that be gorgeous in a small foyer or mud room? And it’s only $40!
I love this mid-century piece:
It’s possibilities are endless – perfect for an office, as a TV stand, even just a dresser. It’s priced at $250, which is a little steep, but the seller says it’s a Miller Desk piece. I hadn’t heard of that company, but a quick search tells me they were based in High Point, North Carolina. And most times, High Point equals high quality. :)
This one is very similar to mine, just a tad simpler:
It’s got great, deep drawers. The price for this one (wood throughout, vintage, dovetail drawers) is only $100! Just think about what it would cost to get a dresser with this quality and size at any furniture store – you can’t beat it!
I found a few tables I loved too – this sofa table could be gorgeous!:
And people, it’s only $20!! Five and a half feet long and $20? A coat of paint and it’d be good to go. If only I needed a sofa table. :)
This one looks like it came right out of the Pottery Barn catalog:
I LOVE it’s shape – so unique! And only $60. THIS is why I a Craigslist convert!
And this one is stunning as well:
Look at that detail! OH my. Wouldn’t that be a fantastic craft table? I’m drooling. It says to make an offer – and who knows what you could get it for? It’s way down on the list, which means it’s either sold and they never removed it (hate that!) or it’s been a while since they posted and are really ready to get rid of it! :)
So there you go – one of my latest treasures from my friend Craig, some tips from a newbie, and some fantastic inspiration to get you to just look already!! :)
Sooo…what fatabulous stuff have you found from Craig? Do you sell and a buy, or just browse (and occasionally buy) like me? Do tell!
P.S. The (free) app I use is called CraigsPro. You can pay to upgrade it, but I haven’t found a reason to do so. It rocks.
Mad score on that dresser. I have dresser envy for sure. And those lamps are gorgeous. I have to avoid the lamp aisle at Target. It's my weakness. Office is lookin' pretty swanky so far.
ReplyDeleteall the pieces you got are great.
ReplyDeletei too love craigslist. i got a few pieces on there...
Wow! They all look great! I sell more than I buy on CL, but you've definitely sparked my interest! Where do you find the space to put everything?! It all looks great though!
ReplyDeleteIt looks amazing! I love those lamps!
ReplyDeleteCraig and I go way back. I did a post about him, too, and my tips for a successful Craigs visit. You hit on a lot of the same points.
ReplyDeleteGood job on all your tips!
I've never had luck either way... but certainly can see why you love it! Maybe it's the area. Heck, I was trying to give away FREE stuff and I had a bunch of weirdos and no-shows galore, made it so not worth my time. I constantly search for things but it's all very 1980's stuff or if it's good it's always hundreds and hundreds of dollars! BUT, a smart phone app? Maybe that will be what changes it for me! ;)
ReplyDeleteWow, what fantastic items and redos. They look great, and the price is fantastic. I've always been afraid of CraigsList, you hear so many stories. But I might give it a try. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI love Craigslist! I have gotten some SWEET items on the FREE section! Also, I am a Freecycle junkie! At least I can admit it. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat finds!
Artful Blessings,
Kathryn
Some of my favorite pieces are from Craigslist! I have done selling on it too and it has always been a positive experience for me. Love that dresser...I was drooling a little over it and a little envious, in a good way! ;)
ReplyDeleteThose lamps are beautiful! I just bought a pair of lamps from Marshals that I couldn't get out of my mind. I went back and was happy to see they were still there! Within seconds of putting them in my cart, I had other women commenting on them and wanting to know if there were anymore (I had the only pair)...so glad I went back and bought them! I knew they would be gone if I waited any longer. Enjoy your new finds Sarah!!
Hugs,
Victoria
I am so inspired. I am going to go look on craigslist right now!
ReplyDeleteThat dresser is gorgeous! I love Craig! Santa left us an air hockey table from Craig's list rather than building one in his workshop :)
ReplyDeletexo - Carmel
I LOVE craigslist too!! I used to give alot of stuff on there for free (that is when the crazies come out), I have sold a few things, and bought a few things. But, I am always looking!
ReplyDeleteIt is funny that you mention always take someone with you or tell someone where you are going. I ALWAYS tell my mom and my sister when someone is coming to the house for anything. They are pretty great - if I don't call or text soon after they will ask are you alive? Now they have started to do it too - it is better to be safe than soory.
Sarah at Classroom Chic
I love it! But...I'm jealous! Like someone else said, maybe it's my area, but I just don't get amazing finds on there very often...sadness. I have had good experiences buying old windows though for my crafting :)
ReplyDeleteWow! You're an awesome shopper, i'm impressed. :) I love craigslist, but I mostly just browse the odd jobs sections, never the furniture ones...but now i feel that i need to go check out my local list of craig's and see what i can find!
ReplyDeleteI'm so going to download this app right. now. So fun! I'm really funny about craigslist too, I only go on the weekends and make my husband go with me. And like you NEVER take the kids.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you bought the lamps, they are gorgeous! And you do deserve them, especially after moving that big heavy couch :)
Love your dresser!! And those lamps are gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI've actually had horrible luck trying to buy stuff from CL. People never respond! It's beyond annoying. I have, however, had huge success selling stuff. I just sold our old bedroom furniture this week.. time to buy new stuff!!
I'm with you about not sharing names. I came up with a totally generic, name free email address I use solely for Craigslist.
My problem with CL is that I have no access to a truck or transport to hold that big. To get people to deliver I usually have to bribe them.
ReplyDeleteAwesome for you though!
I've been searching Craigslist for a sofa table for a year--wish I could have that one!
ReplyDeleteIf you're using your regular computer (not your mobile), you can use a great feature called CraigsEasy. It condenses your search findings into titles with pics only (I never even look at the ads that don't have photos). Give it a try!
Okay, so for reals every car I have sold has been on Craigslist and they sold in the first week!
ReplyDeleteI don't check enough, but since you're "getting paid" I will start...JUST KIDDING!! But I really will start. I am actually wanting glass knobs for my hall cupboards.
Thanks for the ideas!
Those are some great eBay deals!
ReplyDeleteI buy and sell. If selling, I only have the people come by when my husband is home and before dark. It's rare that someone comes by and DOESN'T buy something. I also look up each person I'm going to sell to or buy from on our state's court database to see if they have a record of any kind.
Although I have purchased on Craigslist, it's been awhile. I never go inside a person's house and I also ask that the item be outside or in an open garage. I also take my husband with me.
I meant "CRAIGSLIST DEALS." D'oh!
ReplyDeleteIf you ever DO look at Craigslist on your computer (which, just a farewarning...the addiction might lead to that), check out this fun feature. http://carbonattofam.blogspot.com/2011/01/that-was-easy.html
ReplyDeleteMakes it SOOOO fast and easy!
I'm in love too with Craigslist! I buy and sell equally. I try to make a search everyday, you never know when someone will post a great deal! Lately I'm looking for a small buffet for the dining room, wish me luck!
ReplyDeleteYou rock! Thanks for the tip on Craigslist! I was searching tonight, but I'm adding the app to my phone right now!
ReplyDeleteWhat perfect timing! I just got the cutest table for my daughter off of Craig's list today. But I have been thinking about the woman whom I bought it from all day. She listed her address and phone number. When I got there, her screen door was a jar and she told me to come in, not even seeing me first. I could tell right away she might be in trouble, hoarder trouble, and she was very over weight and not very mobile because of her weight. What if I was a robber or worse? The house was run down, but it was 7 blocks from the beach, so someone might think she has money...and come back. I don't know, it just bothered me the way she was ignorantly exposing herself on Craig's list...I feel like I should of said something to her. I use Craigsfusion add on via grease monkey on firefox, it rocks! Pictures and descriptions on one page. {sorry for the long comment, I just had to get that off my chest!}
ReplyDeleteHey -- a head's up to save you my disappointment -- that $40 little dresser? I bought her big sis a few weeks back and am finishing painting this weekend. She is LOADED with particle board. You can't tell until you sand her down some. If that doesn't bother you, some liquid sander + XIM does her well. And those medallions are plastic and easily removable. :)
ReplyDeleteI totally do not need another obsession because I am so overwhelmed with the ones I already have. But I just downloaded the app because that stuff is fabulous!
ReplyDeleteBtw I'm a new reader and I am loving your blog!
I LOVE CL, I think I have redecorated evey room with CL. I wanted carrera marble counters for my kitchen. Got a 5700.00 estimate from a granite place. Posted a want add for carrera marble slabs. within a week I had my counters. A guy that did demolition had to 5x5 slabs sitting in his shed. Total cost and he delivered them ... $175.00!!! Hired a handyman, bought a 50.00 diamond drillbit, paid the handyman 50.00 and a 20.00 circular saw blade and taadaaa...my kitchen is done!!!
ReplyDeleteI wonder if they sell houses on Craigslist cuz if you keep buying dressers you are gonna need a bigger house... LOL
ReplyDeleteI love old dressers too, they're so great for storage in any room of the house. In fact, if I had room for one in my master bathroom I would put one in there too!
Di
I too am a total CL fan. I just got a bench for our living room -perfect condition $20. And, my total steal- two saddle style bar stools $5 each!! I feel very blessed by CL!
ReplyDeleteSarah, I read your blog often and never comment but this time I must. I adore all of the great pieces that you've found through Craigslist. I'm sure that you are inspiring many ladies to try to do the same. To me, finding a great piece that is older is so much better than buying something new from a furniture store. I personally don't use Craigslist, but I might have to get the app just to play with in the car on a trip. Thanks for that tip!
ReplyDeleteOkay Okay, I guess it's time to check out craigslist...I've been hearing about it for years and you've really piqued my interest...
ReplyDeleteI had NO CLUE there was an app! I downloaded it before I even finished this post, NOW i'm in trouble! thanks!!
ReplyDeleteScore, Score, and Score! I'll admit it...I'm envious of your finds. Our CL normally had ads for stuff like plastic lawn furniture or 1980s loungers. The one time I found a patio set listed, the seller never called or emailed me back. So I'm not crushing on Craig too badly yet...maybe someday. ;)
ReplyDeleteI <3 Craigslist! It's fun to browse thru there and see what steals you can snag. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI love craigslist too. I'm not talented at decor and painting furniture as you are...but I've still found some wonderful things on there.
ReplyDeleteI never write my last name on the emails and a lot of times I'll send my husband since I have my kids at home with me.
I'm so thankful you posted where you got those lamps because I love them. Target will likely get a visit from me today.
I'm the opposite about Craigslist. I'll sell anything but hate buying. I love the deals but hate the pick up part. We had great luck selling all kinds of stuff on CL prior to our last move.
ReplyDeleteYour post just might make me go do a little Craigslist window shopping. I do have two kids rooms, a potential nursery and a basement/play room to decorate in the upcoming months....
Like you, I was a little iffy about Craigslist at first. Now I'm hooked and my husband rolls his eyes when he sees me searching! But even he admits how much money we've saved; have found both of my boys dressers (all wood with nice lines) - one is a newer Ethan Allen that I got for a steal! Have found a daybed for our guest room, and a small dresser for our entryway. There have been a few things that I haven't purchased after seeing them, but for the most part, it's fantabulous! I pretty much follow the 'safety' rules like you listed, never go to a look-see/pick up by myself, etc. It's awesome not to have to pay big money for furniture you have to assemble and probably won't last very long, and instead get quality furniture that, with a little elbow grease, will last generations.
ReplyDeleteI want that caned sofa table and the white table...
ReplyDeleteand I hate to do this to you but... if you're addicted to thrifting, Craigslist, etc... DO NOT check out shopgoodwill.com. There is no 12 step program for the kind of awesomeness found there! I bought most of my Christmas gifts there, and have stocked our mudroom with ice skates of every size [so friends can come skating] for about $5 each pair from there.
solongfarm.blogspot
She's a beauty for sure! I have to admit that I passed over the craigslist app for fear that I'll have such easy access to so many great pieces of furniture.
ReplyDeleteWay to go! I haven't done a ton on craigslist, but I'm happy with what I have done. Now we're running out of room for anymore furniture.
ReplyDeleteI love that you posted that "vintage" cream colored dresser. I have one almost identical (with 3 drawers instead of 4) but all the little details are the same and... I got it.... for free, off the curb. So I'm feeling even better about that now!
Those are all awesome prices for CL. I can't get a decent bench in Phoenix CL for under $100!
ReplyDeleteHowever, I did just buy a cute desk/hutch thingie for $40! He had it listed for $75 & I just told him I can't pay that, only $40 and he agreed. Yay for me! ;o)
So it doesn't hurt to ask if they'll take lower. All they can say is no, right??
You must try http://craigseasy.com/ . This site pulls from your Craigslist search and automatically uploads all the images and pictures. It makes shopping on Craigslist from your computer SO easy! Enjoy.
ReplyDeleteThis is so interesting. I was trying to find an accessory for my sewing machine and found an ad on craigslist in Michigan. I live in Connecticut. I emailed the person and we made a deal. It's in the mail. I don't even know how I found it! I really took a chance, but it wasn't expensive and I spoke to the guy several times before we cut the deal.
ReplyDeleteStunning stuff you've found! Im a CL addict and so is my hubby. Ive bought everything for my scrapbook/craft area, all kinds of various odds and ins and my hubby buys to much stuff to count. My favorite thing is actually selling my stuff! Baby stuff, scrapbook stuff, just any stuff I can. Love CL & loved seeing what great stuff you got. Cant wait to see what you get next!
ReplyDeleteCan I just say that all your talk of Craigslist is killing my blogging! Every time I see you post about it on your blog or Twitter I then kill an hour trolling Craigslist.
ReplyDeleteI need you to give tips for how to find the treasures!! ;D
I love Craigslist! I sell stuff on there from time to time and I am very careful with it. When I buy and sell I never give/except checks. Typically cash or Paypal. And I ALWAYS tell my husband where I am going if he or someone else can't come with. I love all your fab finds. I think the Indy listing have more to offer than the Boston. At least more affordable anyway!
ReplyDeleteWhat city are you in?! We never have stuff this pretty or cheap. It's usually much uglier and much more expensive. Bad combo. Congrats on all your awesome finds!
ReplyDeleteOkay, the vintage dresser you saw on Craigslist is like the vintage bedroom suite my great-grandmother left me when she passed away. I love the pieces but the paint has yellowed and looks icky against are cooler gray walls in the bedroom. I'd love to paint them, but then my hubby is like "those are vintage!" and then I worry that a family member will be sad if I change the color, too. I don't want to sell the pieces...What do I do?????????
ReplyDeleteThanks-
Jen
i love love craigslist and i have the app too :)
ReplyDeletei have gotten mirrors, refrigerators, a bedroom bench, etc from craigslist and i love all of it!!!
Craigslist.is.addictive. Yes, I said it. My only PURCHASE I made from CL was a pair of slipper chairs from a loft downtown Houston. It took me 5 months to find the chairs listed, and then they just appeared. I was insane I wanted them so bad. These were Pier One slipper chairs originally $349 each. I paid $50 each. Major Score.
ReplyDeleteI think in the future I will stick with wooden/household items....but my chairs are my CL awesomeness.
I look about every day at CL for furniture...even though I don't need anything.
Sad.
But a girl cannot resist a bargain.
Love your finds!! Love that they are all real wood, no junk!! I am a craigslist-a-holic, everyone I know is constantly calling me to help them sell stuff... this is a link to my blog, where I posted some helpful hints:
ReplyDeletehttp://ourtinyplace.blogspot.com/2010/11/craig-in-hoouuusee.html
LOVE those lamps, they are exactly what I am looking for for my living room!! Sadly, no Target in Canada :-( But now I know it's worth finding a way to get them from there anyway!
ReplyDeleteOK, you have convinced me! I am heading over to Craig's and his list now. I have several pieces I need and although I have been looking around for something I haven't found a thing (no matter the price). Thanks for the convincing! Have a wonderful weekend!!!!
ReplyDeleteI love all your clist posts...i am a clister also, both buying and selling.
ReplyDeleteA couple times I had re-done the item i purchased and then send the seller a pic and they buy it back from me...at a huge profit for me..
But, i just wanted to bring to your attention, NEGOTIATING. you didn't mention it and i hope you negotiate.
After i check that it will work and everything will fit, i go to see the item...i always start my offer at half of what they are asking. i ALWAYS get the item for less...you have to remember, you are there at their house willing to buy it then and there...it's not like they have a line standing outside waiting to come in!..
I love your blog and can't wait to see some of your other purchases!
It's so funny I saw this today! We just got back from picking up a solid oak headboard for...$20!! I saw it and thought it would be perfect painted black, but it's actually still quite nice as is. I have spent many hours drooling over things I've searched for on CL. If only I had more room in my house!
ReplyDeleteI too have found great stuff on CL, but I am so focused on those Target lamps you got, GORGEOUSNESS! Love. them. so. much. I found them on the website but they look very green there, is it the same one? IKEA also has something quite similar called Jonsbo Barby, but it's a bit more money. I picked up the small version of it already. Anyways, as always thanks for another great post!
ReplyDeleteI fell in love with Craigslist years ago when I bought a Howard Miller grandfather clock for only $125. The case was filthy and it needed a tune-up, which was no big deal since all grandfather clocks have to be serviced every few years. But new clocks start at $1200! I was hooked.
ReplyDeleteI like selling via Craigslist- we sold a truck, furniture, lots of baby clothes and toys. Now we're overseas and I miss being able to purge so easily!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE CraigsList! I recently (and VERY unexpectedly) had two boys a mere 13 months apart. Needless to say, they will be sharing a room for years to come! I was able to find the same exact crib & IKEA dresser from two different sellers that I was already using for my older boy so the room will coordinate and not be a moshpit of different furniture! I moved to CO weeks before boy #2 arrived, so the fact that I was able to obtain the EXACT IKEA dresser in EUC in a state where there is NO IKEA, in the exact time-frame I needed it was... mind-boggling! lol
ReplyDeleteAs far as safety goes... I did the shopping alone. I was very aware of the risks, so I would pray like crazy for my safety, text everyone I knew locally with my exact whereabouts, & I would also post all the info on my FB status so it was out there in cyberspace for EVERYONE to see in the event something happened to me -- EVERYONE would know my last location. Even though I was very pregnant, I would stare the seller down & carry myself as if I could round-house kick them in the face at any given moment, without warning. lol
Erin D.
I LOVE CRAIGSLIST!!! I also love that black table that you found. Been looking for one like that forever!
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm glad you got the lamps girl!
I too LOVE Craigstlist!! My BEST steal, I mean deal was this Summer. I found 2 hardly used white adirondack outside loungers COMPLETE with thick comfy pads & a matching little table to go in between AND a matching chair & ottoman both with their own comfy pads for only....$75.00. Not a mis-print! Originally they were listed for $275.00. I waited till I knew the seller would be desperate & then offered my sole $75.00 which due to pressure of moving she caved..Woo-hoo!!
ReplyDeleteHow funny, the whitish yellow vintage dresser you have pictured is actually my childhood bedroom furniture which I painted black and added silver hardware too a few years ago. I love it.
ReplyDeleteAlso, love those Target lamps. Are they available online? If so, can you send out a link? I couldn't find them.
k I love everything about this post!!
ReplyDeleteI too love Craigslist. My 2 favorite buys where a solid wood coffee table in great condition for $40, and a Big solid wood Armoire and we only paid $25 for it. The guy didnt know what he really had underneath all the guck. WE sanded it down and painted it. It was gorgous, but he had to sell both the coffee table and Armoire when we moved, due to lack of space in our new apartment. Love craigslist though!!!
ReplyDeleteHey, folks, I really appreciate it, and we'll keep the faith!
ReplyDelete(just landed Detroit, rushing a bit)
Craig
craig@craigslist.org
You've got some homeruns on Craigslist! We've sold a motorcycle, hot water heater, spiral staircase, and rented out one of our rentals.
ReplyDeleteAs for the furniture... I'm still hoping to score a living room set.
If you use it to sell, be prepared to have some no shows and get a few strange phone calls.
I love your new dresser! And the Target lamps...GORGEOUS!!!!
ReplyDeleteI used to check Craigslist everyday in the furniture section. I never found anything to buy but now I don't even check because I never have the money. Maybe someday soon I will. :)
I LOVE Craigslist! We've gotten some great items for ourselves but right now I'm really into finding poor, ugly furniture from Salvation Army (my favorite) or Goodwill or my garage, and giving it some love, paint, knobs, etc. Then I usually can sell it for at least double what I paid for it!
ReplyDeleteYou crack me up! I'm pretty sure Craig's List addicts are going to get their own branch of therapy through AA- Craig-a-non. :) Gotta love Craig's List.
ReplyDeleteI found a new add-on for my toolbar that makes searching craigslist even easier (sounds like your app for your phone) It's called CraigsEasy. Basically you can download a button that will pull up all of the pictures for your search so you don't have to look at every post. It's free, too!
ReplyDeleteI am totally obsessed with Craig and it is a recent obsession also. Sold about three things now and every time NICEST PEOPLE came to buy. As long as you weed out the freaks and there are definitely freaks or CL freaks as we affectionately refer to them. :)
ReplyDeleteYou just inspired me to paint an old dresser we have! I am trying to follow the blogs of such creative folks!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE those lamps -- just what I've been looking for for the living room. Do you have a link to them online? I haven't seen them in my local store. That dresser is gorgeous too!
ReplyDeleteI love Craig's List too! I've only purchased a floor lamp from it though, but have sold TONS of stuff. I sell toys and clothes my boys have outgrown, home decor items that no longer fit my home decor, appliances (just sold my 6 year old front loading washer and dryer set for $600!), any kind of old equipment that has any life left, and stuff I bought that I just had to have, but realized later (years later) I don't like it and can't return it. I get more for these items than I would get from a garage sale where everyone wants things for a quarter, I don't have to deal with shipping like on eBay, and I've never had a problem with someone coming to my home that was weird. I always talk to them in person on the phone, not just email, before giving my address. I only have them come here if my husband is home. I also offer to meet at the mall or other local, high traffic area like Walmart. I've had a few flakes who said they'd be there at a certain time and didn't show up, but considering how many things I've sold and how much money I've gotten out of items, it's worth it. I've even sold some toys I've bought at garage sales for my kids, that I've thoroughly cleaned up (sometimes they can be really gross) and purchased any missing parts, print off instruction manuals online and make 50-100% more than I paid. I bought a Fisher Price Laugh and Learn Kitchen thing that originally cost about $70, for $10 at a garage sale. It was filthy, disgusting and was missing all the accessories. I spent an hour cleaning it and $5 for the parts on Ebay and just sold it for $50 (after my youngest son stopped playing with it for a month). So, yes, I LOVE the list ala craig too. But mostly because it puts some spending money in this stay-at-home mom of 3's pocket and cleans out my house. :)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE CL too! I bought a little when we were in our small apartment, but really jumped in when we got our first house. I will never buy new again (except our mattress:)! We have gotten club chairs, our dining table, headboard, guest bed, hubby's desk, and a ladder shelf.
ReplyDeleteI don't feel too weird about selling on CL either (someone has to so others can buy right?:) I just try to make sure hubby is home with me and I only give out our address once they call to say they are leaving to come. I have sold a media cabinet, a pub table, scrapbooks, cabinets, speaker stands, small household items, desks, clothing, tvs, a sofa, you name it!
Really great finds! Love the pieces you bought! This is totally funny because I just wrote a post today about the very wonderful Craig's List. We just found a wonderful dresser that I LOVE! Big fan! Check it out ...http://www.missiondecorate.com/2011/01/thank-you-craigs-listagain.html.
ReplyDeleteYou scored some great pieces!! I heart craigslist too and after I read your post I went surfing through the furniture listings. I'm going to look at a dining room table tomorrow, even though we have a perfectly good one according to my husband. I blamed it on you! LOL
ReplyDeleteLove this post! I found an ikea sleeper sofa originally 700 for 250, an Ethan Allen apothecary chest for 100, a Bombay co wine buffet for 125, a set of coffee table and side table from pier one for 60, a pier one coffee table for 30, a teak bench for 50, and a sofa table for 50! All possitive experiences. I love Craig and his list too!
ReplyDeletewe've sold stuff on CL. hubby always comes along; and we make sure to meet in a very large, public parking lot.
ReplyDeleteI am drooling over those lamps!! We are moving into a new house and the formal living room is becoming my mom cave and i want to do turquoise and pink and they would look good!!!
ReplyDeletei love dressers too. i have a lot of dressers. mostly free off of craigslist! people in baltimore give a ton of stuff away for FREE!
With regard to that ebony dresser, I think the seller was refering to herman miller. Which they are 100% wrong. But thats CL for you.
ReplyDeleteYou have found some great pieces of furniture! That is my favorite thing to find on there!
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh. Did Craig of Craigslist just comment on your post?? That's fantastic. Great finds! I heart Craigslist, too. Missing my San Antonio Craigslist! Eastern NC isn't nearly as fantastic craigslistwise :( But, there's the beach, so it evens out ;)
ReplyDeleteFabulous finds for sure! When I used to live in Vegas I was addicted to Craigslist! It's such a transient area, people are always moving in and out of there, and usually in a hurry LOL so the deals to be found were aplenty! I loved it. Back home here in southeast WI it's ok but not like it was out there. Here everything is miles and miles away, while in Vegas (Henderson really) it seemed that everything that was for sale was within a 20 minute drive. Oh the stuff I used to find out there! I think that's the ONLY thing I miss about living there :)
ReplyDeleteI have your lamps in vase form!! Très cool!
ReplyDeleteI'm on the same mission myself. Finding and redoing Craig's list finds.It's great, but time consuming!!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE Craigslist. A majority of my furniture has come from CL. My most favorite thing I've bought off there is my bed. It's a queen size brass bed for $75. I bought it from this guy who lived at the beach and stored it on his balcony. The salt air had started eating away at it. My dad and I cleaned it up and it has the a beautiful patina to it now.
ReplyDeleteYeah for Craig! I totally know what you mean about the iPhone app, it's the only way to shop Craigslist - although there's a plugin for Firefox that allows you to see the image without clicking on the link. That helps too. I got married in May, and we've furnished our entire house from Craigslist. My $200 leather sofa is my favorite purchase still!
ReplyDeleteI'm convinced that Craigslist was created by the devil. There are too many tempting items on there for it not to have been.
ReplyDeleteSuch a great post! I'm always so intimidated of Craig's List but you definitely gave me a push to try it!
ReplyDeleteHey lamp-coveters...I just found one at my local Target store! I believe this is the one, even though the color looks so different on the screen.
ReplyDeletehttp://tinyurl.com/4ahbmze
Coming to you from High Point. Thanks for the kudos. Interesting tidbit for you- the wife of the man who owned Miller Desk is still living. She will be 103 years old on March 25. She is truly amazing!
ReplyDeleteYou are truly a girl after my own heart! Your most recent post about all the DIY projects you have in mind for the year...well, I could have written that post myself! LOL! And Craigslist, oh don't get me started!!! LOVE it! And now, after reading your post, I am about to head on over to ol' Craig's List b/c really, I had been good and avoided it during the holidays...trying to not spend money & all!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE craigslist! I've sold PLENTY of stuff through there. We also got our bedroom furniture for a whole $250 great vintage pieces that were easily updated with paint and new handles! I also met my fiance through craigslist, best find yet!
ReplyDeleteYou have changed my mind about "Craig" lol. I am always looking for that hidden treasure :)
ReplyDeleteFirst - OMG - LOVE LOVE LOVE the lamps from Target. In fact, I ran out and got two at lunchtime because I loved them so much. Imagine my delight to find them ON SALE!! Awesome!
ReplyDeleteAnd I do love me some craigslist. Last summer I bought a PB couch, chair-and-a-half, and ottoman, with white slipcovers (and an extra set of red ones) all for $1200. That's what one slipcover costs!
Love your bkog - i've been reading for a year and (bad me) never commented today. THANKS for the lamps! :)
Susan G
That vintage dresser was part of my bedroom set growing up! There is another piece (a mirror) that attaches to it and the 2nd drawer is actually supposed to be on top. I know that because it stuck one day and I pulled so hard to open it that it came all the way out and broke my big toe! I had the desk and canopy bed that matched too!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see what you do with each piece. You have inspired me! I'll be starting out little though when I attempt a few redos this year. Great finds!
ReplyDeletewww.keepitsimpleyay.blogspot.com
You found amazing pieces on Craigslist! I am never that lucky. Did you repaint the pieces you shared here?
ReplyDeleteExactly what app is it you are using? I tried a search and there were quite a few. Is it a third party app or one put out by craigslist itself. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteOh, how I LOVE me some Craigslist!! Thanks for the CraigsPro tip! So excited to check it out!!
ReplyDelete- {darlene} from
www.fieldstonehilldesign.com
I LOVE Craigslist too! In 2010 we bought a new home and doubled our square feet. I knew that we were going to have empty rooms..and my husband was NOT interested in going in debt for any new furniture. But I couldn't stand walking by my new dining room with this teeny, tiny table...Craigslist to the rescue! I got a awesome table with the plastic still on the seat cushions!! I also got a great desk for our home office and a bar for our basement! Why pay retail??
ReplyDeleteI bought the first vintage dresser that you found on Craigslist. I am going to post before and after pics on my blog!
ReplyDeleteHow funny! I have all of my mom's furniture from when she was a kid, and the vintage dresser (cream and gold) is exactly like mine! I was looking around on craigslist and found another piece just like mine!Hopefully when ever I finally can redo my room I will paint them teal or something! Love your blog, keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteI truly love your buffet! I found one similar to yours at a yard sale. They really dress up nice with a little paint and gloss.
ReplyDeleteThose lamps are beautiful!! I have always wanted glass lamps like that but can't bring myself to pay the price...even though they are totally worth it! Enjoy them!
ReplyDeleteHi! I have a question about the dresser you mentioned that was $40, the vintage dresser with the gold. I have a larger & longer one the same exact syle and i have the matching mirror & i was wondering how do you go about painting it? I have never done nohting like this so i'am clueless. If you could e-mail me at lil_lady_dz@yahoo.com that would be great.
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