thrift store finds
About six months ago, I was leaving the gym in the morning and spotted this Otomi Indian-made tapestry from across the street, in a little thrift store that I never go into. I immediately shut off the car and ran across the street to take a closer look. I’ve been wanting one of these for years, but only saw them in expensive magazines or design blogs – and the source was rarely quoted. (Or the shop would be in Mexico, or they were upwards of $200….)
Turns out the people in the thrift store hated the thing, and had a bet going that no one would buy it. After discussing the price among themselves for a few minutes, they said “$20!” I was ready to pay quite a bit more than $20, but what can I say. Some days you just get lucky.
Update: laviva-home.com sells these [via Domino Nov.08 issue] and so does Jacaranda Home
Responses to “thrift store finds”
Patricia
August 14, 2008 at 7:32 amWhat a score! I have an Otomi embroidery in my son’s room, and I love it, but the monochrome palette on this one is fantastic!
susan macgill
January 2, 2009 at 11:39 ami am looking for this fabric for runners for a wedding this summer and cannot find the fabric anywhere reasonable! how can i find a store that will sell the fabric or a thrift store like you found?
ellie
January 2, 2009 at 12:30 pmHi Susan – Otomi tapestries are embroidered, and I would be surprised if you’ll be able to find them by the yard. It is possible that you might find an otomi-inspired printed fabric, but I haven’t seen anything like that unfortunately! I also very rarely see them in thrift stores, and you are right that the prices are often way too high. A graphic designer or pattern designer could help you create a pattern to use with Spoonflower (http://www.spoonflower.com). Please email me if you are interested in using spoonflower! In the meantime, I will keep my eyes out for otomi-inspired fabrics by the yard.
-eva- via flickr
January 29, 2009 at 10:01 pmnice!
Emmy A
May 10, 2012 at 1:28 pmI have been obsessed with these since I saw a headboard made from one on Design*Sponge. I stumbled across this picture on your blog and even though I know it’s a few years old, I’m so incredibly jealous of your awesome find! Maybe someday I’ll get that lucky. I hope you are still enjoying it.