Flea Market Time: Turning Garage Clutter into Cash
This past Saturday, the mission was clear: grab all the "treasures" cluttering up the garage and basement and head to the local flea market to see what we could sell.
It all started with a deep dive into the garage shelves. It's amazing how much you can accumulate over the years!
We found toys the kids haven't touched in a decade, kitchenware that no longer fits my style, and—ironically—a few past flea market finds that never quite found their purpose.
When we arrived early Saturday morning, the van was packed to the gills!
Preparation is Key
I made sure to do my homework last week. To give everything the best chance at a new life, I spent days:
Cleaning: Every item was dusted and wiped down.
Repairing: I tightened loose parts and ensured everything was functional.
Pricing: Every piece had a clear price tag to make browsing easier for shoppers.
By Friday night, we were packed, loaded, and ready to roll.
The Secret Weapon: A Great Salesman
While I'm not much of a talker, Mr. RLC is a total pro. He's my official spokesperson and a top-notch expert in the "art of the deal."
I'm so grateful he's always there to lend a hand and handle the haggling; he makes the whole experience so much smoother.
What Sold (And What Didn't)
Our very first sale was a surprise: a Thomas the Tank Engine set and train table. Interestingly, it wasn't for a child—an adult collector snapped it up!
A few other highlights from the "Sold" list:
A custom-painted whale crate (a last-minute DIY transformation!).
This hand-painted sign HERE and an old window art project.
Small essentials: a basket set, a chafing dish, shoe storage, and even a skateboard.
Admittedly, some of my larger furniture pieces—like the bench and the demilune—didn't find buyers this time.
Bringing Home New Treasures
You can't go to a flea market without doing a little "research" of your own, right? Even though I was there to sell, I managed to snag two incredible finds for just $20 total: a tabletop mannequin dress form and a French-style upholstered armchair.
I am absolutely in love with the chair. The carvings and detail work are stunning, and it even has that perfect "chippy paint" vintage patina.
Round Two?
The biggest surprise of the day? Mr. RLC told me he wants to do it all again next month! I had no idea he enjoyed the hustle so much. Since we still have plenty of items looking for a new home, how could I say no?
I'll see you next month at the flea market!
In the meantime, some other projects you might like:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.remodelandolacasa.com/2016/05/flmktvr.html?m=0&media=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvlwuvgJfzme7mlDTV6wd3wqxgNm0dp4GD1c2oiqcWGoA_j2GtdgBhsB2U3Pb7dpdADfHEUSA6Sao4jdnUGB858veDjY0jFnU3APuNYYuIcQx0IpQcy6TzP-38QlEPovJuLvrSbtA6PSi/s72-c/arm+chair+-+upholstered+seat+detail.jpg&description= Â Flea Market Time: Turning Garage Clutter into Cash This past Saturday, the mission was clear: grab all the "treasures" clu...){kind=link}
Hi Cristina, Well, I am always amazed at what sells and what does not sell at these open fleas and yard sales. My sisters & I are constantly trying to put reason where there seems to be none - the weather, other sales going on, parents busy with kids' sports, Mother's Day weekend, people saturated with sales in general - whatever the reasons. It's hard to believe all that beach stuff didn't sell, although I had two half tables like yours aqua one (white with aqua chevron on one, aqua stripes in middle on other), and only one sold at our recent yard sale. It's nice that Mr. RLC took the lead in talking, and was there to unload/load. Love your chair too. Looks like it was fun!
ReplyDeleteHi Rita, you made me smile because at the end of the day we were doing just that, finding reasons for the lack of sales. Of course, the weather was No. 1 - we've had lots of rainy days lately. And yeah, we went thru many of the ones you mentioned. This was the first time ever that I tried to set pretty displays - I think your posts on how you arrange and re-arrange your booth helped a lot! ;) My problem: I didn't have walls! :) I'm trying to find solutions for when we get there next time. Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteI can't imagine your pieces not selling! I would buy something for sure! Anyhow, it's all about timing, you know that very well, just like this gorgeous chair!
ReplyDeleteThat chair is a beauty. I can't wait to see what you do with it.
ReplyDeleteAll I can say it must not be a well traveled flea market and not many vintage shoppers.
ReplyDeleteI would have purchased the chair for $20
A mà como me gustan esos mercados de la pulgas ,, qué pena que no hubo mucha venta ,, para otra vez será ,, y esa silla esta preciosa ,, un gran hallazgo
ReplyDeleteMy husband, despite being an extrovert, does NOT like to work garage sales with me! Glad you have a husband who will do the talking and wants to go back!
ReplyDelete~Sheila
Making the Most of Every Day