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Thrift stores can be hit or miss, but during the holidays, they often fill up with older decorations people have held onto for years. Mixed in with the plastic ornaments and novelty mugs, you might come across pieces that were made with more care, better materials, and real craftsmanship. Some of them are worth money, while others may add a certain feel you just don’t get from brand-new décor.

Here are the Christmas items worth looking for when you’re thrifting at the thrift store this season.

beautiful ornaments — Image Credit: The Thrifty Apartment

Vintage Christmas Textiles

Older holiday linens are easy to spot and often worth picking up. Look for:

Plaid tablecloths
Poinsettia or holly prints
Cotton or linen fabric
Simple embroidery or lace edges

Vintage textiles can be both collectible and useful, instantly making holiday decorating feel more personal.

Spode and Other Holiday China

Spode Christmas Tree pieces are especially popular. Signs you’ve found a vintage one:

An ivory-toned background
A deep green border
The tiny Santa figure at the treetop

Single plates sell well on their own, and full sets are even more valuable.

Vintage Nativity Sets

Older nativity sets often have a gentle, handmade look that people love. Keep an eye out for:

Ceramic, chalkware, or wooden figures
Slightly faded paint
Detailed features like straw textures or gold touches

Even incomplete sets can still be collectible.

Santa Mugs and Holiday Drinkware

Classic Santa mugs are easy to find and always in demand. Look for:

Hand-painted faces
Older ceramic styles
Sets of matching mugs

They’re fun to use at home and can be resold for a decent amount.

Mercury Glass Ornaments and Kugels

Older glass ornaments have a weight and shine that newer ones don’t. Look for:

Soft metallic finishes
Signs of age on the caps
Unique shapes or colors

True kugels can be especially valuable.

Glass Tree Toppers

Vintage glass toppers can be used on the tree or as simple decorations. Look for:

Hand-painted details
Older glass with light wear
Unusual shapes or colors

They’re often overlooked and priced low.

Bottle Brush Trees, Putz Houses, and Village Pieces

These small decorations are popular among collectors. Watch for:

Cardboard Putz houses with glitter
Older bottle brush trees
Village pieces from well-known brands

These items look great grouped and can have resale value.

Silver or Brass Serving Pieces and Candleholders

Older metal pieces are usually solid, well-made, and easy to clean up. Items to look for:

Brass or silver candlesticks
Serving trays
Small decorative bowls

They add a classic look to a holiday table and tend to hold their value.

Vintage Holiday Books and Photos

Old Christmas books and early holiday photos are simple finds that add character to your décor. Look for:

Worn copies of classic stories
Vintage children’s Christmas books
Early family Christmas photos

They’re inexpensive and easy to style.

Tamara White

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Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.