Thrifting tips from a former picker
Ah, the good old days of “picking”! Did you know that before I came to real estate, I spent 10 years working as a picker, and ran a stall at House of Vintage? I’m here to share that know-how and let you know the best places to pick up cool old items.
Once shops open up again, it will be crucial to support these collectives and the pickers who make them so special!
Here’s me cleaning out my stall on my last day at House of Vintage!
House of Vintage, obviously
This is a Portland classic. Room upon room upon room of curated stalls with items ranging from old Pyrex to vintage band T-shirts to the occasional vintage Blazers gem. I recommend being plenty hydrated and not going with an empty stomach – there is a LOT to see here.
This woman-owned collective is a vibrant part of the Woodstock community. Similar to House of Vintage, it’s made up of stalls that are independently curated by different people. Fun fact: I actually still sell ‘90s silver rings out of a stall here!
Goodwill Airport Outlet
Affectionately known as “the bins”, because unlike other Goodwills items are in large bins that you dig through, and everything is priced per pound. It takes a little patience, but can result in gems.
Goodwill Hillsboro Outlet
Another “bins” location, this one is located in Hillsboro. It has a donation center adjacent, so you can easily drop off things you’re done with to make room for new gems.