Episode Six: How to Buy the Best of Everything Online
In the last episode, we shared our top secret thrifting tips because we wholeheartedly believe that you should try to shop secondhand as much as possible. And then there's everything else you need to buy new to make your house feel like home—which is a lot. This is a very quick overview of each category, so please understand it's not comprehensive by any means. But hopefully it'll provide at least a bit of guidance.
Rug:
Cost is based on cost of labor where its made, what it’s made of, how it’s made (handmade vs machine made) and generational skill of worker. Wool and silk are most expensive, best quality fibers. Cotton and other natural fibers like seagrass or sisal are less expensive alternatives. Avoid polyester, if you can.
Some favorite rug vendors:
Upholstered furniture:
Think of the 3 Fs:
- Frame: Choose a sturdy frame. Hardwood construction like kiln-dried oak, beech, or ash is durable and long-lasting, as opposed to composite board/MDF etc.
- Filling: Research the filling and interior elements. Look at the joinery, any mention of hand-tied springs (they're the best) and quality foam.
- Fabric: Depending on your lifestyle and your needs, opt for durable fabrics that can withstand wear and tear of daily life.
Other things to consider: measurements, sit do you like, arm height
Some favorite upholstered furniture vendors:
Tables (dining, coffee, side) + case goods ((dressers, nightstands):
Look for solid wood not wood composites or plastics. How often will you be eating here? Do you have little kids? Do you need something more durable? Opt for solid wood: pine, maple, oak, walnut. Look to see that the base is same wood as top or if its a veneer (which can mean it's not as high quality). Look dovetail or mortise and tenon joints, as well as any mention of closing mechanisms, soft-close glides. Reference vendors in bullet point above.
Lighting:
The general rule is that you want at least three light sources in a room. Consider the quality of the material, i.e. does the metal look cheap? If you don’t have a super solid vision for a space, you might want to stick with neutral lamp. But also, lamps are a budget-friendly way to play with trends.
Some favorite lighting vendors:
Curtains:
Consider the quality of the fabric when selecting your curtains (linen, velvet, etc). Does it have lining, what's the construction/style? If it's pinch or box-pleated at the top, it'll be more expensive (more labor intensive). Make sure to get samples if possible.
Some favorite curtain vendors:
Bedding:
You want to consider quality of fabric, looking for words about the material (avoid poly if you can). Make sure it's machine washable. This is a helpful article to further guide you.
Some favorite bedding vendors:
Wallpaper:
The quality of the paper and the length of the roll determines the price. Is better quality wallpaper more expensive? Yes. Is it easier to apply and does it look better? Yes.
Some favorite wallpaper vendors:
Hardware:
Some favorite hardware vendors:
Here are this episode's 3 takeaways:
- Opt for solid woods and natural materials.
- Put your skeptical glasses on: read reviews with squinty eyes, always check return policies, always measure
- Save the trend for decorative accessories.
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