Second life

We all love the idea of bringing home a bargain from an op-shop or antique store. But how can you ensure you're sifting treasures from the trash? In their new book The Family Home, dedicated thrifters Courtney and Michael Adamo reveal their top 10 tips for finding preloved homewares.

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Be consistent and persistent

Visit op-shops, markets, emporiums and vintage retailers whenever you get the chance. You never know what special treasure is sitting there waiting for you. We joke that Courtney can't walk past an op-shop without stopping in! But the persistence pays off.

Don't forget the fabric bin

Op-shops usually have fabric offcuts. We've found so many pretty vintage fabrics this way. We also love looking in the linens section for vintage tablecloths – again, we've found some really pretty vintage pieces which can be used as they are, or repurposed.

Keep an open mind