For tech you definitely should NOT buy new, the minerals they use to build tech are coming at the expense of thousands of Congolese lives where there is a genocide happening in the name of endless electronic consumption.
While I understand your first point about "used" upholstery fabric, current sofa construction is NOTABLY worse than in the past. From an article on Dwell: "sofas made in the past 15 years or so are absolute garbage, constructed of sawdust compressed and bonded with cheap glue, simple brackets in place of proper joinery, substandard spring design, flimsy foam, and a lot of staples." And it's not just Wayfair, but more expensive brands like Resto Hardware. Whereas old pieces are still around for a reason. If you need a sofa, it's best to learn the basics of sofa construction/quality to ask the proper questions if you choose to buy new, or to be able to evaluate older pieces.
I've heard SUCH bad things about RH furniture and can't believe they are able to charge around 10K for a sofa... Personally I'm keeping my eye out for something vintage and leather with solid wood construction
That's a valid point! I based my opinions and talking points on my own personal experiences and those of people close to me. It seems like we both agree that vintage furniture often has superior craftsmanship so we're definitely on the same page there.. Still, while the construction quality of many modern sofas may be lacking, my focus in this video was more on the external materials. Nonetheless, thank you for watching and offering your perspective ◡̈
I discussed this with my upholsterer who did a quick repair job on my 15 year old sofa. He said the cheaper the sofa, the quicker it will end up on landfill as it can’t be repaired & it would cost too much to do anyway. My advice for sofa buyers is to buy a 3 seat sofa in a classic shape in a mid/dark color with removable, washable seat & backrest covers in a quality construction with no button details. Avoid trendy shapes & colors. Sorry to say this costs money & they need hunting down. Decide what you’re going to use the sofa for & how often eg to put your feet up, watching TV, business entertaining, chill, sleepover guests & who will be using it eg you, friends, family (old & young), kids, pets, clients etc. Go into a store & try sofas out. When I was a kid, my mother & I went sofa hunting. We were very keen on a particular model. While we were deliberating, a very large man came into the store. I asked him to sit on the sofa. The sales associate’s jaw dropped when I asked him to sit & bounce up & down (a good test of the springs!). We bought the sofa as did 5 other people. It’s been passed to many different generations in my family and is still going strong today.
Something to consider when buying a rug: If you educate yourself about Persian rugs you can find beautiful examples in establishments that sell them. An antique Persian carpet (50 years or more) will actually increase in value. I love to buy art at thrift stores and estate sales. I have a large painting of a panda and an older woman dressed in a ball gown sitting beside it like they are old friends. I wasn't sure but I happened to have my mother with me and she said, "If it speaks to you, buy it." I'm on the fence about old portraits of people I don't know, though I think it would be fun to create a fun story about one of my ancestors.
Also, please take your lamp to be rewired. Professionals exist to do this very thing, and it doesn't cost much. In the past we as a culture had a much better commitment to repairing instead of just throwing away and buying something new.
Agree with much of this,, but you can replace the wiring of a lamp yourself for very little money. Hardware stores sell kits with all the parts you need. It’s pretty easy.
not one to comment usually but just wanted to say i love your content! it's really helpful and provides a ton of inspo while just being chill/not clickbait-y. keep it up!
I'm glad you brought up art and frames. Vintage frames are the best and there's so many out there. You have to make that separation of art and frame and have it become a mindset. You have to at times look past the art in the vintage frame because if it's not for your taste you can and envision something in the frame that you like. The frame is such a difference maker. Just disassemble the art from the frame and measure the opening and figure out if you want a matted new piece or something that goes edge to edge. They are often standard frame sizes and if it's not a standard size then do some of your own art that fits. The frame is an accessory and an eclectic touch that can make an impact. This is the same thing to do if you find a piece of art with a frame that does not match your taste. It's an easy fix.
I agree with almost all of this! I prefer leather for the durability in general but it can be so expensive that it's honestly unattainable if it's not secondhand. And pottery/books can be crazy expensive new as well. The only things I'm okay with are vintage lighting (because my husband is an engineer who can rewire it all) and buying new art from artists that I love. It's an investment to buy new handmade art (don't get me wrong, I love a thrifted piece too) but as an artist myself I find that filling my home with art that inspires me is key to feeling creative. Right now for me that means buying prints from artists who are still alive or buying vintage art and thrifting frames! Getting things professionally framed is such a sticker shock that I was not prepared for... luckily it's not super hard to thrift a professional frame and swap the art.
Agree on the art! I feel like a lot of interiors channels talk about buying art secondhand and that is definitely a step up from buying HomeGoods or Target mass produced imagery, but there is something so cool about buying art from an artist you've met, knowing you're supporting them. It's not celebrity artists just for super rich people, there are lots of small gallery openings when you're in a big city and pieces are often less than you'd think. There's also student art sales and the option of going for prints if you can't afford an original. Maybe it's just because I have multiple artist and illustrator friends, but it's just so special to know you're directly supporting an artist's livelihood.
Oh, professional framing is crazzzzyyyy expensive. I remember a long time ago (when I knew nothing about design or decor) I found a couple art prints from a website I loved for I think around $50-$60 each. I went to get them framed and the framing alone was around $300 per art print. I ended up doing it anyway cause their dimensions basically made me need to get custom framing but I couldn't believe how pricey it was... beautiful results though!
I sold new upholstered furniture for 5 years. From 2017 - 2021. High-end. I left my job because I was tired of customers complaining. And I felt I was selling upholstered furniture I didn't believe was worth the price. I personally believe it's worth buying antique/vintage furniture and having it reupholstered. A good upholsterer will let you know if he/she needs to reinforce the framing, add new springs, etc. Worth the price. Regarding wood... I'm with Ethan... antique/vintage wood furniture is the way to go. Or I recently commissioned an Amish company to build a new dining room set for me. Solid oak. Shockingly cheaper than junk PB, RH, C&B, CB2. The craftsmanship is top-notch. So, go Amish. There are plenty of styles to choose from. Or if you're lucky enough to find a complete antique/vintage set (dining table with chairs) that suits your style, BUY IT! Regarding books, accessories and art, I'm with Ethan 101%. The best way to express your style is through the "frosting on the cake" or the special touches that make your house a home. There are millions of unique finds out there. I love the hunt. Thank you Ethan for your video. Please film Round Two for us! (-:
You can get your lamp rewired at a lamp shop, or there are kits for sale (internet and lamp shops) for rewiring them yourself. It's not dirt cheap, but certainly better than throwing away a unique lamp with bad electricals and it's a fairly easy DIY project. This is good to do any time you buy an older lamp thrifting, some of the original cords should be replaced for safety even if they look okay. Just factor a good rewire into the cost of the thrifted item and see if you still think it's a good deal (it usually is)
Thank you for the introduction to Kotn. I have skin allergies and hence need cotton bedding and clothing that has durability, but finding ethical sources can be difficult. Thanks again!
I'm always cautious of what I purchase from thrift stores, I've been lucky to find a few art pieces like a water coloring and a lithograph. Please share where you purchased your bookshelf beside you?
I so agree about used electronics and appliances. I lucked out with one vintage lamp that was a designer steal and I've had it for over twenty years. But any other tech or appliance I have bought second hand was a gamble. I recently purchased an Ikea lamp and it looks vintage so I'm cool with that. For coffee table books don't overlook your local library. No, you can't keep the books but you can switch out your curation frequently at no cost. People tend to forget libraries have art books. I'm a librarian, trust me on this. And be really careful with bed linens. I ordered a linen set from Quince and the sheets have literally ripped and have huge holes. They did not hold up and I've barely had them a year. If anyone knows of another source for good sheets, I want cotton percale this time in a rich dark blue or dark green, let me know. I still find the only great ones I ever owned were Macy's Hotel Collection so I may go back to those if I can't source anything else.
I've had a really good experience with Piglet in Bed and I've heard a lot of people love Brooklinen. Piglet is expensive and definitely more of an investment than I would've liked but their linen is SO nice (they have cotton options as well but I can't speak for those). I've had my sheets/duvet cover for a little over three years and they are only more soft than when I got them. My cat literally zooms around/gets stuck/hangs off of them and she physically wasn't able to put any holes in them. The color is completely retained and I was even able to get a wine stain out of the light striped fabric without messing up the pattern. If you're only thinking about cotton because of a bad linen experience, I'd give Piglet a try!!
I honestly had no clue libraries carried coffee table books! I'll have to go check them out. The ones I show in this video from Kotn are incredible but I also plan on doing an entire video all about my favorite bedding, bed care products, tips + such!
I agree with all your takes with one caveat. Textiles for dining table can be great finds if free of stains. Also sofa pillows. I have found gems in second hand stores. And I always wash them. Just came across your channel and I enjoyed it greatly. Overall, from a long time thrift hunter, you’re spot on!!❤
Also if you have money to shell out and live in a rural area, look to see if there are any Amish communities near you. Many make wooden furniture like they used to. My parents have a tv stand and bed frame made by an Amish furniture maker. It’s grade A stuff
Please rewire your lamp! It’s so easy. Just watch a couple RU-vid videos and it will take five minutes, and it will make you so happy once it’s fixed. 😁
i buy electronics 50/50 but never from thrift store but from real people on Marketplace lets say so I always text with them to make an idea what kind of person they are and than obviously try it in person before buying
Would love a part 2 Ethan! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences re: buying new vs used. This is very helpful. Hubby and I are new to vintage/antique shopping and we’re enjoying it.
100% agree - wooden furniture is so much better made in the past! They are so much better as an "antique" and much less money than the useless new stuff.
A well spoken beautiful male model telling you how to save money on furnishingss and Decor, what could be bad? You go! I've done everything you speak to for years! Im in the decor field. You're poised to have your own TV show. Its obvious. Cheers!
Goodwill is horribly expensive. You might as well go buy brand new, as far as clothes go. Great seeing you. Hope puppy is doing good. Have a great summer 🌞.
I follow all of you "Do" rules, but I regularly break all of your "Never" rules. I buy electrical stuff and appliances from dealers who offer a warranty. I've only ever used the warranty feature once in more than 15 years, and the dealer was totally cooperative about replacing the item. (Unlike problems I've had with too many new items.) I don't buy used bed sheets, mostly because I cannot determine what size they are and the thrift shops usually don't sell complete sets. I do purchase used throws, comforters, decorative pillows and towels. I frequently find new or almost new linens for really cheap, and I always look them over closely for stains, pulls and tears. When buying upholstered furniture, be sure to check it carefully and use common sense as to stability and hygiene. If a piece is dirty, a steam cleaner will work wonders without much effort. Ditto for used rugs. Use common sense with lamps and inspect the cord and plug. If necessary, rewire. Rewiring lamps is an EASY DIY project. Go to the hardware store and ask someone in the electrical dept. or watch YT. By having all those rules about what not to buy used, you're missing out on lots of great stuff at great prices. It makes sense to buy as much used stuff as possible because of the huge savings and the interesting items you wouldn't find otherwise.
I totally agree with almost everything you said. We love getting a great deal at a thrift store or vintage store So happy I found your channel. Just went to your instagram as well Would Love another video like this one
Is he mocking us in his intro? I will never look this good in my best days while he’s sick. That is the first video I ever saw from him and I already "friendly" hate him 😅
I had a very old 4 arm chandelier re-wired and it cost $30. I also have re-wired many lamps from the thrift myself and I am a terrible instruction reader. If I can do it, anybody can do it. Buy the used/vintage/antique lamps!
I am a first time viewer of your channel. I loved it and you made everything very interesting. I would look forward to a part two!!! I love to thrift, antique, estate sale shop! I hope to pose some questions for you, but for now I simply wanted to say Hi. I am from Birmingham, Alabama and live in a two bedroom condo located on a mountain overlooking downtown Birmingham! Looking forward to more interesting ideas!!! Thanks Ethan!!!
if you have a friend who knows computers/electronics he can change plug in 10 minutes. Its one of the easiest jobs so dont ever be scared broken lamps.
The chief benefit with leather is it can be professionally cleaned and conditioned to look as new, and as you point out it develops a beautiful patina as it ages. I did ponder getting rid of my Italian leather sofa, but it’s cognac colour is beginning to age nicely so I’ve changed my mind and saved myself around $2000.
Thank you! I’ve spent months potentially years in the loop of trying to figure this out. Stuck in a loop of guilt from consumerism but never quite finding what I need or looking for second hand.
I'm not sure if this comment is directed at me, but I believe there's plenty of overflow in landfills for everyone to make use of thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales. Encouraging people who can afford to buy everything new to do so doesn't seem practical or environmentally sensible to me.
Aren’t you a cutey patooty! New subscriber and am enjoying your content but I have to be honest. Please lose the background jazz music. It’s distracting from what you’re sharing with us. Not throwing shade. Just trying to be helpful.
Love love love your icks tiktok series but gotta personally disagree with every buy new point lol. Sustainability and ethical sourcing is at the top of my list, and nothing beats 2nd hand for that, especially big ticket items that take enormous amounts of resources like electronics, large furniture, rugs, etc. I've gotten 2nd had all the things you said to not: bedding, upholstered furniture, electronics, lighting etc, but to be fair I've been in the thrifting game a while and have gotten really good at evaluating the condition of things from pictures or in stores as well as leveled up my repair and renovation skills. The deals you can find if you're willing to invest the time and effort to clean a piece is well worth it for anyone. For example, I bought linen sheets to replace my cotton ones. The one I got 2nd hand was the same price of one I got new but the quality is soooooo much better, it's thicker, softer, with a higher thread count, whereas the new linen sheet I got was so thin it was transparent. If you thrift or buy vintage clothes, there's no difference to 2nd hand bedding. If you stay in a hotel or somewhere else, you are sleeping on "2nd hand" sheets. You can wash fabric if you're doing laundry already. And as far as electronics go, remember to test the product and evaluate it carefully, but you can find some amazing deals on appliances that people grew tired of. My hot water heater, Vitamix, food processors, sound bar all work great. I buy refurbished cell phones to avoid contributing to the slavery and labor exploitation in areas where they mine the minerals. With all the trash being sent to landfill and the horrendous worker and land exploitation, I always always always encourage to people to shop 2nd hand first, and then consider other options if they can't find what they're looking for.
PAY FOR LIVING ARTIST WORK!!! Stop taking this gross design focused take on art where the focus is designing a space vs investing in the powerful cultural device that is art!
