Post #195043 by tikipedia on Wed, Oct 26, 2005 11:19 PM

For a couple of years, I would go to a thrift once every three months, or so. Of course, I never found anything and got most of my stuff from Ebay.

Then I decided to conduct an experiment and visit a local thrift on the way home from work, everyday for a month. This store had a high turnover rate, so they had new stuff constantly. I ended up getting a lot of stuff in that month. Ultimately, I tried to go at least every other day, and have gotten some really nice finds including a $0.95 Munktiki, and 9 coconut mugs from 'The Tahitian'.

Like everybody says, keep looking, and don't be afraid to revisit a place you may have just gone to a day or two before. It also doesn't hurt to network. Getting on the good side of thrift/antique store owners can also help you create 'agents' to find stuff.

Also, get a copy of 'Tiki Quest' (if you haven't already), and study. There is stuff that may not look like Tiki, but it is. Early on, I made newbie mistakes, and passed over some stuff (including a nice Frankoma piece) that I've been kicking myself ever since.

Finally, be sure to share your finds on Tiki Central. Best of luck!