1917 Sheila Young Betty Bonnett Doll Print

Discover Goodwill home decor decorating ideas for spring! Shop thrift stores for unique items and give them new life. A good reason to thrift and refresh your home on a budget!

Goodwill Northern New England and I Team Up

I’m eager to introduce my new collaboration with Goodwill Northern New England, where I’ll be sharing Goodwill home decor ideas and new finds each season!

From bedding accessories to vintage kitchen treasures, I’ll explore local Goodwill organizations across Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine to uncover unique thrifted pieces.

Whether flipping, repurposing, painting, or decorating, I’ll bring you fresh inspiration with a new blog post on the first day of spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Be sure to follow along as I reveal my seasonal thrift store hauls, styling tips, and DIY projects.

Copper tea kettle and bouquet of faux spring flowers on vintage wooden box at Goodwill New England.

Who is Goodwill Northern New England?

“Goodwill Northern New England is a nonprofit that helps people achieve their life and work goals. This may include job training and career placements, health care supports that allow people to achieve their personal goals, and jobs directly provided through their retail and cleaning enterprises. The stores sell affordable goods donated by members of communities across these three states. In addition to providing flexible, stable jobs, the stores divert 50+ million pounds of donated goods from landfills annually.

Headquartered in Gorham, Maine, Goodwill NNE has a three-state service area comprised of Maine, New Hampshire, and nine northern counties in Vermont. Learn more about Goodwill Northern New England.

Follow My Goodwill Adventures on Instagram

Plus, catch me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes shopping at Goodwill stores—so if you see a store you love, you can go treasure hunting, too!

Thrifting with the Gals

It’s the third Thursday of the month, and that means it’s time for Thrifting with the Gals. The time when the gals and I all get together to share our favorite monthly thrifted finds with you, along with a few tips and tricks in vintage home decorating.


We are excited to welcome our guest host, Brooke of The Junk Parlor, back with us this month. Today, Brooke is sharing all about What is Thrifting?, which I know you will love!

Goodwill Thrift Store Portsmouth, NH

Goodwill, Portsmouth, NH

Located at 720 Lafayette Road in Portsmouth, NH, this Goodwill Store & Donation Center operates daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. As part of the Goodwill Northern New England network, this store offers a diverse selection of home decor items, including furniture, artwork, and kitchenware, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to refresh their living spaces. And NH is tax-free! Get Directions

Goodwill Store New England in Portsmouth, NH.

Goodwill Home Decor

Stepping into Goodwill home decor heaven at Goodwill Northern New England in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, felt like hitting the thrift store jackpot! And let’s not forget—tax-free shopping makes every find even sweeter.

Before I even made it inside, a charming antique desk sitting outside caught my eye—adorable, in great condition, and just begging for a new home.

Inside? A treasure trove of unique items waiting to be discovered. From a gleaming copper tea kettle to aisles upon aisles of glassware, baskets, frames, and furniture, this place had it all.

Need kitchenwares? Check. Cozy pillows? Got ‘em. Looking for sporting goods or even collectible toys? You’re covered. Even the televisions were in great shape!

The best part? Every visit is an adventure—you never know what new finds will await you next time.

This spot is a good reason to make thrift shopping a regular habit!

Goodwill Home Decor finds in shopping cart. Frames, scarves, boots, baskets, candles, and more.

Goodwill Home Decor New Finds

My Goodwill Northern New England shopping trip in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, did not disappoint!

The first thing that caught my eye? A vintage Hitchcock rocking chair in fantastic condition—with fresh caning, original stenciling, and a price tag of just $20. Would you thrift this? Because, honestly, I had to do a double-take!

Black Hitchcock rocking chair in Goodwill home decor store Northern New England.

Then there was that antique desk sitting right at the entrance—just waiting for a bit of love. A quick Restor-a-Finish job (my go-to for vintage furniture) would bring it right back to life, making it a great way to add character to any eclectic or antique-style home.

Thrifted Boot Decorating Ideas

And let’s talk spring finds! I stumbled upon tons of rubber boots, which makes sense—hello, Maine and Vermont mud season! But have you ever thought about using them as decor? Picture this: a pair of wellies by the fireplace or on your porch, filled with fresh tulips or even a little tea serveware setup. So cute, right?

Pink wicker frame in hand at Goodwill Store.

Cottage Style Wicker Frame

I also found the prettiest pink wicker frame—so vintage-looking that it felt like a collectible straight out of an old summer cottage.

Decorating with Scarves

And I couldn’t resist a pink and green scarf. But scarves aren’t just for wearing!

I love using them in creative ways—like wrapping one around a terracotta pot to add a soft, colorful touch for spring. (I just wrote a post about terracotta decor, and now I’m fully convinced that scarves + terracotta pots = the easiest way to warm up any space.) Plus, let’s be real—our Bernese Mountain Dog, Ella, looks adorable in a scarf for walks and photos, too.

Silk Scarves

Silk scarves are a great way to add charm and color to your Goodwill home décor finds.

Drape a scarf inside a vintage basket before stacking plates, silverware, and trays glasses for an elegant alfresco dining setup. These budget-friendly scarves, often just a couple of dollars at Goodwill, also make beautiful gift basket liners or stylish accents tied around picnic basket handles.

Goodwill Home Decor Baskets

And of course, I had to grab baskets! One is going up on our ceiling wood beams, adding to my growing basket collection. The other? It’s my new go-to for outdoor dining, perfect for carrying dishes, linens, and serveware out to the patio this summer.

Every Goodwill home decor trip feels like a treasure hunt, and this one definitely delivered. A sale like this, with so many hidden gems, is exactly why I thrift!

Because in the right space, even a simple basket or rocking chair can become a piece of art.

Goodwill Home Decor Candles

Thrifting candles at Goodwill is an affordable way to add charm and warmth to your home decor.

I found a beautiful blue glass candle for just a dollar or two, reminiscent of a vintage apothecary jar, and it now glows softly on an antique wooden table in our Coastal Maine home.

With rows of candles to choose from, you never know what unique, scented treasures you’ll discover to create a cozy ambiance.

Goodwill Northern New England, Biddeford, Maine

Located at 420 Alfred Street, Suite 110, in Biddeford, Maine, this Goodwill Store and Donation Center operates daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. As part of the Goodwill Northern New England network, this store offers a diverse selection of home décor items, including furniture, artwork, kitchenware, toys, books, and clothing, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to refresh their living spaces. Get Directions

Goodwill store with black store front in Biddeford, Maine. Norther New England.

While smaller than the Portsmouth, New Hampshire location, the Biddeford store is densely stocked with a variety of items.

Goodwill home decor bin with LL Bean Snowshoes.

During a recent visit, numerous new bins were being rolled out, including one filled with L.L. Bean snowshoes, highlighting the unique treasures shoppers can discover.

Find more Snowshoe home decorating in these posts:

Goodwill Biddeford: A Treasure Trove of Home Decor Delights

Goodwill Biddeford may be a bit smaller than the Portsmouth, New Hampshire, store, but don’t let that fool you—it’s packed with incredible finds!

Books

The first thing that caught my eye when I walked in was the rows upon rows of books selling for around a dollar each. Books are one of my favorite home decor elements—they’re perfect for stacking on coffee tables, dressers, bookshelves, mantels, and anywhere you want to add some charm. And let’s be honest, finding books in bulk at a great price isn’t always easy.

But here? Bring a box, fill it up, and you’re all set!

Goodwill store with rows and rows of books.
Vintage Styled bookshelves with dog prints and blue suitcases and lots of books.

Pro Tip

Learn more about decorating with books in this 20+ Collectible Vintage Books Rare Decor Ideas to Try post.

Vintage Cameras

As I wandered through the aisles, I stumbled upon a collection of vintage and antique cameras—such a fun decor piece! I already have a small collection on display, so I passed this time, but Goodwill is a fantastic place to start or grow your own collection.

Vintage camera with case in hand at Goodwill Store in home decor.

How to Decorate with Vintage Cameras

Goodwill is a goldmine for vintage camera lovers! I spotted shelves full of antique cameras just waiting for a new home—proving that Goodwill is the perfect place to start or grow your own collection without breaking the bank. Unlike antique stores where these relics can cost a fortune, you can score a full set at Goodwill for a fraction of the price.

Vintage cameras on shelf in Goodwill Home Decor section.

And the best part? Decorating with vintage cameras is just as fun as collecting them!

Use them as bookends, stack them on a bookshelf, line them up on a dresser, or even make them part of a quirky Halloween centerpiece (yes, I’ve styled a skeleton with vintage cameras, and it’s so fun).

Whether on a desk, a windowsill, or a home office shelf, these cameras add character, nostalgia, and a touch of vintage charm to any space.

Goodwill Home Decor Thrifted Silver

Then, I spotted rows of silver—platters, pitchers, plates, sugar bowls—you name it!

Silver platter in hand at Goodwill home decor store.

These are such a steal at just a few dollars, and with a little silver polish, they make stunning hors d’oeuvres trays, flower vases, or display pieces.

Here are just a few silver treasures I have thrifted along the way and how I have used them in decor.

Vinyl

There was also a fantastic vintage vinyl collection that added to the treasure hunt feel of the store.

Need an old record player? You can find that at Goodwill, too!

Vintage vinyl collection at Goodwill store for home decor.

Collectibles Toys

And let’s not forget stuffed animals—yes, I always check them out because my Bernese Mountain Dog, Ella, absolutely loves them!

I grabbed a bunny and a puppy for her, each just two dollars, and I knew they’d bring her so much joy.

Cutting Boards

Another fun find was a vintage crumb board—traditionally used for cutting bread while catching the crumbs underneath, but I have plans to use it purely for display. It’ll be perfect on a kitchen counter, tucked into a basket, or styled on open shelving for added texture and warmth.

Crumboard for bread cutting in hand at Goodwill store.
Vintage flowers and candles on a wooden cutting board.

Pro Tip

You may also find inspiration in this 15+ Simple Ways to Display Vintage Cutting Boards post.

Goodwill Home Decor Chargers

And, of course, I couldn’t leave without checking out the dishware! Rows and rows of plates and dishes in every color lined the shelves, and I picked up a gorgeous set of six white plates with beautiful detailing.

They’ll make the perfect chargers for our spring table setting! See more in this Easter Tablescape Vintage Ideas for Easy Spring Decor post.

Spring tablescape with thrifted white chargers stacked under green and white bunny pitcher.

That wrapped up my Goodwill haul for today, but I already can’t wait for my next trip.

Goodwill Northern New England: Manchester, NH

On my way back from Maine to Vermont, I stopped at my third Goodwill Northern New England thrift store—this time in Manchester, New Hampshire—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Located at 165 John E. Divine Drive, this Goodwill is more than just a thrift store—it’s a full-on treasure hunt. Get Directions

Goodwill Northern New England Manchester, NH.

Unlike your typical Goodwill, these Northern New England Goodwill stores feel like department stores, packed with an ever-changing selection of home decor, furniture, books, seasonal finds, kitchenware, and more.

And the best part? New Hampshire is tax-free, making your thrifting deals even sweeter!

If you’re in the area, this store is absolutely worth a visit. Now, let’s take a peek inside…

Goodwill Home Decor Finds

In the Goodwill Home Décor section, I scored two beautiful finds that will add a vibrant pop of color to our spring decor.

I couldn’t resist a large red wooden bowl and a stunning blue glass vase—both of which were 50% off! These pieces are the perfect way to bring in some bold, fresh hues for the season.

And just in time for our new living room ottoman, which I’ll be sharing more of soon.

Filled with magazines or vintage books this red bowl brings a ray of spring sunshine to this cozy room.

What else would you fill this red wooden bowl up with for spring?

Here are several Spring thrifted Bowl Decorating ideas:

  • Small Ironstone pitchers or dishes
  • Vintage rolling pins
  • Handmade fabric carrots & bunnies
  • Decorative bird nests & feathers
  • Faux cherry blossoms & greenery
  • A collection of white candles
  • Old silverware bundles
  • Terracotta pots with herbs
  • Green apples, lemons, or oranges
Cozy cottage style living room with white ottoman, pellet stove and red bowl styled with spring flowers from Goodwill home decor.

1917 Sheila Young Betty Bonnett Doll Print

During my visit to Goodwill, I discovered a professionally framed 1917 Betty Bonnet’s College Cousins paper doll print, illustrated by Sheila Young, for just five dollars.

And the BLUE tag meant it was 50% Off.

This charming piece exudes historical nostalgia, capturing the fashion and grace of a bygone era. It’s a delightful addition that would look adorable on a bookshelf, in a bedroom, or in a craft room space.

1917 Sheila Young Betty Bonnett College Graduate Cousins Paper Doll Print

Historical Context and Value

In the early 20th century, paper dolls were a popular pastime, reflecting contemporary fashion and societal norms. Sheila Young, a renowned illustrator of the time, created the Betty Bonnet series, which appeared in publications like the Ladies’ Home Journal. The “College Cousins” edition from 1917 features Betty Bonnet’s cousins dressed in collegiate attire, showcasing the era’s fashion trends and the increasing visibility of women in higher education.

These original uncut paper doll sheets are considered collectibles today. In its time, such paper doll prints were more than just children’s toys; they reflected societal values, fashion, and the evolving role of women in society.

Goodwill Home Decor Cake Stand

I recently started a collection of cake stands, and this latest Goodwill find was too cute to pass up!

It’s a small, clear glass cake stand, perfect in size and simplicity, unlike any I already have. I love using cake stands beyond just serving desserts—they add height, dimension, and a touch of elegance to bookshelves, kitchen shelving, and tablescapes.

This little gem will fit right in with my spring collection, bringing both function and charm to our home decor!

Amber glass cake stand with blue and white vintage tea and toast plates in white dish rack in eclectic interiors kitchen.

Pro Tip

You may find more kitchen and cake stand inspiration in this How to Style Eclectic Interiors with Timeless Style post.

Another Goodwill Home Decor Basket…

I just couldn’t resist picking up one more basket from Goodwill! The quality was fantastic for the price, and honestly, you can never have too many—especially in the spring.

Whether for gathering flowers, holding fresh fruits and veggies, or displaying a favorite plant, a good basket is always a versatile and timeless decor piece. This one is definitely coming home with me!

Blue shopping cart in the Goodwill Home Decor section with a basket and other finds in aisle of well stocked store.

Bringing Spring Charm to Goodwill Home Decor Finds

Thrift it, style it, and give it new life for spring!

With a mix of vintage collectibles and budget-friendly Goodwill home decor finds, I’m refreshing my home for the season using unique pieces that add charm and personality.

Goodwill home decor shopping cart in dishware aisle filled with finds.

Shopping secondhand is like a good sport—you never know what treasures you’ll find, from digital cameras and film to musical instruments and more, all at unbeatable sale prices.

A vintage white bookcase adorns the living space, showcasing a delicate violin elegantly suspended from its shelves.

Pro Tip

You may also find inspiration in this How to Decorate with Old Musical Instruments post.

You can find a wide variety of Goodwill Home Decor items and more at Goodwill, from everyday essentials to unique treasures. Shoppers can discover sporting goods, sneakers, boots, dresses, and sandals, along with accessories like shoulder bags. For the home, there’s an ever-changing selection of bakeware, small appliances, coffee and tea sets, serveware, trays, and glasses. Collectors can also find collectible toys and vintage gems, making every visit to Goodwill a chance to uncover something special!

You can find a Goodwill makeover by exploring creative transformations of Goodwill Home Decor items through blogs, social media, and DIY projects. Many decorators and thrift enthusiasts share how they flip, repurpose, and style Goodwill finds into stunning home updates. Follow along with my seasonal series, where I’ll showcase before-and-after makeovers using Goodwill treasures from Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, turning secondhand finds into beautiful, budget-friendly decor!

While Goodwill doesn’t have official house designers, many decorators, DIY enthusiasts, and thrift bloggers showcase how to style Goodwill home decor finds in creative ways. You can find inspiration from home decor influencers, YouTube channels, and blogs that focus on transforming secondhand pieces into beautiful, curated spaces. Follow my seasonal series, where I’ll share how I repurpose Goodwill treasures into stylish, budget-friendly home decor ideas!

At Shop Goodwill, you can browse a curated selection of secondhand treasures, from Goodwill home decor to unique collectibles. Items often include furniture, vintage decor, artwork, rugs, lamps, bakeware, serveware, trays, and glassware for the kitchen. You can also find clothing, sneakers, boots, dresses, sandals, shoulder bags, sporting goods, small appliances, and collectible toys—all available for bidding or direct purchase online!

Goodwill accepts donated furniture and resells it in stores or online to support its community programs. Many locations offer a variety of furniture pieces, from vintage to modern styles, giving shoppers the opportunity to find unique, budget-friendly home decor. Items in good condition are cleaned and displayed for purchase, while those that cannot be sold may be responsibly recycled or repurposed.

Thrifting at Goodwill Northern New England is always an adventure, with treasures ranging from vintage-inspired home decor to unexpected finds like large luggage, backpacks, and accessories—perfect for adding character to any space.

Whether it’s classic rotary phones accessories as a statement piece or a beautifully aged basket for spring styling, Goodwill proves that vintage charm is just waiting to be discovered!

Find a Goodwill Northern New England Near Me Today!

Your Guide to an Eclectic Style~

I’d love to hear from you! If you have thoughts, questions, or just want to pop in and say hello, feel free to leave a comment below. And if you have a vintage-loving friend, don’t forget to share this post—they might find a little inspiration here too.

Do you have a flair for all things vintage, too? I would love to see and feature you in our Reader’s Showcase Series. A place for you to share and be recognized for your talents and passion for all things thrifting, vintage, and antique decor-related inspired by your time here with Dabbling & Decorating. Email me at [email protected]

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9 Comments

  1. Ann!
    What a fantastic haul!! So many different treasures. I’m partial to the paper dolls and the wellys. I just recently visited the Goodwill in Portsmouth. I love their handpicked section. I love your tips on how to use different items. Like the scarves. And the cake stands. Yay!! So many ideas for our booth and my home now!! Thank you!
    Cara :).

  2. Hey Ann. Welcome to the world of G. W. Boutique! I’ve been a shopper there for 40 years, huge fan of “the bins”. Our local store in Pa took them out and I’m going through withdraw, even though its been at least 2 years ago. After seeing your “crumb board” I looked at my husband and said “Now I NEED A Crumb Board”!!! It’s fun to see you enjoy things that I also draw to. I bought a crystal knife prop, and soo enjoyed your finding them while in France. Enjoyed this as always!

    1. G.W. Boutique, I love it! Isn’t the crumb board so fun? LOL! I’m glad someone else appreciates a good thrift find, I’m really crushing on the white chargers I found too. And those knife rests, the best! Thanks so much for your sweet note Barb! Made my evening.

  3. Lora Bloomquist says:

    What a fun collaboration for you! Perfect for Thrifting with the Gals:) It was fun to shop along with you. I loved the pink wicker frame and that fun vintage pattern frame. Awesome finds!

  4. Robyn Huff says:

    You have the best goodwill finds up there, Ann! I always love to see how you style them too!

  5. Brooke | The Junk Parlor says:

    I love your collection of silver pieces/vase photos! Gorgeous!! A black Goodwill!!! I’ve never seen one not on brand! And I don’t know why I find it interesting, but I don’t understand why there are different Goodwill chains?? Not really sure what to call it, but I think we have at least 2 in state. So, ones close to me don’t offer rewards, but if I drive a couple hours that chain/region does!

  6. Kimberly Westby says:

    Oh how I love to live vicariously through others thrifting adventures. Kim