11 Thrifted Hosting Gifts So Good You'll Want to Keep Them for Yourself

Stoneware Mugs

We’d put money on the fact that any thrift store you wander into will have a nice assortment of mugs. While not all mugs are gift-worthy, beautiful stoneware pieces or handmade mugs are an excellent thrifted gift idea. 

“You can find a variety of handmade mugs with a gorgeous glaze from the kiln,” says Elizabeth Pozniak, co-founder of Mumu Vintage. Add a bag of your favorite local coffee beans to complete the gift.

Cozy Blanket Upgrade

Everyone loves a thick, plush blanket, and you’d be surprised how many great ones you can find at the thrift store, says Morgan Pederson, interior designer and lifelong thrifter. “As soon as I get home, I throw them straight into the wash. Always wash on cold and let it air dry. Then, when it's almost dry, I toss it in the dryer for a quick fluff to finish the job.” 

Once it’s clean and dry, roll the blanket up nicely and tie with a ribbon. Slip in a small bundle of lavender or eucalyptus for a fresh scent and finishing touch. It’s a cozy, thoughtful gift that feels high-end, but costs next to nothing.

A One-of-a-Kind Vase

Vases are abundant in thrift stores, and adding a fresh bouquet of flowers (or an arrangement of long-lasting dried flowers) elevates the gift quickly.

Keep an eye out for unique shapes, colors, and designs—especially ones that reflect the host’s style or the vibe of the gathering. A sculptural silhouette or a pop of vintage color can turn a simple vase into a statement piece. 

Repurposed Art Frames

Don't skip the art aisle: The real treasure is often the frame, says thrifting expert Dani Dudek. Her advice? "Look for the most elegant frame that's in good condition and consider replacing the print or artwork with a picture your host will love. You can even consider framing something related to the theme of the party to make it that much more unique."

Large Platters

This is one of the best thrifted hosting gift ideas if you’ve been tasked to bring a food item to share. “A large platter or a plate can be used for so many dishes, including charcuterie boards or for chips and dips,” Pozniak shares.

“Bring it filled with local meats and cheeses and perhaps tie a thrifted scarf in a bow around it.” Along with traditional platters and large plates, consider beautiful wood cutting boards or tiered serving trays. 

Delightful Tea Towels

You’ll have to snuff out like-new versus well-loved pieces—but if you can find some gently used tea towels, these make for a wonderful thrifted hosting gift. "Look for vintage tea towels that reflect their interests," says PJ Gach, thrifting expert and author of The Grumpy Fashionista. "They’ll add flair to any kitchen."

Gauch recommends embroidered pieces, novelty print tea towels, and souvenirs from trips abroad. Make sure they’re cleaned, pressed, and consider tying them together in a pretty bow. 

Vintage Silver or Brass

People often overlook silver or brass at thrift shops because these items can look old and tarnished, but this also means you can score some incredible pieces for a great bargain. “You can shine that treasure up in minutes and have it looking brand new,” Dudek says.

Keep an eye out for vases, pitchers, large serving spoons (which you can dress up beautifully with a ribbon), candlesticks, and paperweights.

Retro Cocktail Recipe Books

Swing through the book section at the thrift store to see if there are any retro cocktail recipe books in good shape you can wrap up and deliver to your favorite host.

“Amateur mixologists are interested in the history of cocktails and enjoy recreating cocktails of bygone eras,” Gach says. “You can even pair the cocktail recipe book with a cocktail shaker or vintage cocktail tools.”

Pie Dishes

Depending on the party theme, a pie dish can make for a charming and practical thrifted hosting gift (especially if you're already planning to bring dessert). Fill it with a homemade pie, crumble, or even a savory quiche, and let the dish be part of the gift.

Look for a ceramic or glass dish with a bit of character, whether it’s scalloped, brightly glazed, or vintage-inspired. You can even personalize a plain, thrifted pie dish with a handwritten recipe. Learn how here.

Gorgeous Barware

Glassware is also abundant in thrift shops, which means there’s a high chance you’ll pop into any store and walk out with some gorgeous goods in tow. If your host imbibes, think about the type of party and choose glassware accordingly. Maybe it’s a pretty duo of coupes, some funky margarita glasses, or swanky martini glasses. “Pick up a bottle of wine or spirits from your local liquor store to elevate the gift,” Pozniak adds.

A Chic Ice Bucket

Similarly, keep a lookout for a beautiful ice bucket that you can fill with some ice and perhaps a bottle of wine, beer, or spirits. "Ice is a constant need at any party, so this serves as a functional and stylish item with many uses," explains Pozniak. "You could [purchase] margarita mix, Tajín, limes, and a fancy salt, and use the ice bucket as the gift bag."