Thrifted Treasures | A Large Vintage Mixing Bowl

When I need something “new” for our home, I like to thrift a gently used version before I search for a new item. The typical reasons apply; it is better for the environment and also more affordable, but the big deciding factor for me is also how much more beautiful home items used to be and how high the quality was back in the day. Vintage is beautiful, but it is also efficient and made to last. This large mixing bowl attests to that.

I thrifted this beautiful mixing bowl from the indoor flea market in Bethlehem, CT, for only $30! Bowls like this brand new are very expensive and used and vintage ones are too! Vintage bowls in this style and size typically begin between $60-100. The reason why this one was so affordable is that it was from a flea market instead of an antique store, and it also had a noticeably sharp chip in the top.

Because of the chip, I almost didn’t go for it. But then I had an idea; what if I could sand down the chip a little bit to make it smoother? I figured it was worth a try.

With a very fine sand paper I carefully sanded down the sharp chip until it was less noticeable and smooth to the touch. I was afraid going too far would cause more damage so I stopped where I did and I am please with the results.

The little chip is much smoother, and only noticeable when you look close. Overall, it adds a bit of charm to this old bowl.

It has been a perfect companion to all my recent baking. A large bowl is great for mixing because my flour does not spill out over the edge as I stir and mix. It has been especially useful while making pie crust from scratch.

If I am bringing useful and needed items into my home, I like them to be made to last and to be beautiful to look at. This thrifted mixing bowl is simply lovely.