No gray in sight: Anna-Maija snaps up every porcelain swan: “I need cheerful colors around me”
For Anna-Maija Jämsén, browsing thrift shops is a sure way to lift her mood and awaken creativity: “Bold bargaining can often lead to fantastic finds.”
My thrift-shop hobby began... during my art high school years, when I first became intrigued by unique clothing styles. I had already visited flea markets as a child with my mother, but in my teen years, I got seriously hooked on thrifting. As a young adult, my enthusiasm expanded from clothes to home decor items.
I always keep my eyes open for... old toys. I collect them for both their nostalgia and cuteness. At the moment, I'm especially on the hunt for toys from my childhood in the 1980s and 1990s. You can spot 1980s My Little Pony figures in our decor.
I never buy anything... in gray for our home. I need cheerful colors around me.
“I've collected around twenty swans in various sizes. Not only do they serve as decorative items, they also work as planters and small-item storage.”
My secret weapon at flea markets is... an open, enthusiastic mindset. I usually find the best bargains when I'm in a cheerful, energetic frame of mind. Being bold enough to haggle can also often yield amazing treasures.
I’ve acquired far too many... different vintage fabrics for someone who isn’t that eager to sew. In the past few years, I’ve also felt compelled to buy every porcelain swan I come across. I've collected around twenty swans of various sizes. Not only do they serve as decorative items, they also work as planters and small-item storage.
I visit thrift shops whenever I... need a pick-me-up and a burst of inspiration. Surprising finds are sure to lift my mood and spark creativity.
Maybe someday I'll find... a comfortable, brightly colored corner sofa that fits beneath our loft. It's difficult to find a sofa that's both small enough and suits my taste, even in regular stores.
You can admire Anna-Maija’s finds on Instagram at @ihmemaija
