One of my absolute favorite pastimes is hunting for new props. I can’t fully explain why it delights me so much, but the thrill of discovering an interesting object never gets old.
Even while wandering through Paris and Amsterdam, the places that excited me most were the little shops and cafés—those tucked-away bookstores I’d never seen before, the abundant housewares stores, and the charming markets that always had something unexpected.
I thought it would be fun to share a few recent purchases and give you a peek into my personal prop collection. Together these finds might seem eclectic, but each one fits perfectly into my growing assortment. Here are seven things I picked up this week…
1. A paint brush I found at a small antique shop just outside Atlanta—$5. The shopkeeper mentioned they’d initially thought it was African in origin, but it turned out not to be. I didn’t care much about provenance; I loved the shape and the worn handle, and at that price it was an easy buy.
2. A set of two coiled nesting baskets—the small one was $1.50 and the larger one $2. I also like some painted tassel versions of coiled baskets, though they tend to be pricier. These plain ones are versatile and photograph beautifully.
3. A dollar sign stencil for $3, picked up at the same shop as the paint brush. Stencils are such handy little tools for adding graphic details to a scene.
4. A cutting board I actually bought while in Amsterdam a few months ago. It wasn’t a recent purchase, but I love it enough to include here—made by one of my favorite brands, HAY. The simple silhouette and subtle curve make it a great backdrop for styling.
5. A vintage black enamel pitcher. It has a little rust near the spout, but for $6 it’s a charming piece with plenty of character—perfect for styling or holding dried stems.
6. A Dansk ceramic creamer for $8. I don’t have a concrete plan for it yet, though I suspect it will be used in coffee-related setups. It even comes with a lid, which makes it useful for both food styling and tabletop scenes.
7. An alligator piñata. I wasn’t much of a piñata person before, but once I added googly eyes to this one, I couldn’t resist. He’s become a favorite—quirky, playful, and a little weird. I’ve named him Larry.
I love the mix of practical and whimsical finds—vintage housewares, textured baskets, small tools, and the occasional oddball piece that adds personality. These objects aren’t just props; they inspire setups and spark ideas when I’m styling shoots or arranging a corner of my home.
Which item stands out to you? What types of pieces do you enjoy hunting for when you shop? I’d love to hear about your favorite finds and the treasures you keep coming back to.