Part of the charm in cottage decorating is hand-me-down furniture, antique mismatched china, and vintage fabrics and linens, all of which can be found at garage and yard sales. This is the perfect time of the year to get out there and find all those treasures that you didnt know you couldnt live without!!

In years past, I would just get in the car on a Saturday morning and start cruising. Today, with gas charges soaring, its probably a little smarter to plan your day. Some of the best sales are the neighborhood or association garage sales. Its easy on your gas because there are many sales in a small area. Map out your route ahead of time to save on gas and time.

There are many strategies that have come from hard core garage sale shoppers. Usually held on a Thursday, Friday and Saturday, many will tell you to shop on the weekdays to avoid crowds. Some say to be there when they open to get the best selection, but frankly the best deals usually come on the last day of the sale within a couple of hours of closing. Sellers not wanting to box things up again, lower their prices. No matter what your strategy, be prepared to spend some time looking for just the right pieces.

Think outside the box when searching for decorating pieces and look beyond its intended use. Dont overlook a table full of vintage jewelry because you are not interested in jewelry, but think about the other possibilities. A crystal necklace or pendant can easily transform a chandelier or lamp, vintage pins can accent a favorite purse or tote, an old quilt or bedspread may have some worn areas, but maybe some of it can be salvaged to use for a pillow. I know a very creative woman who transforms vintage needlepoint into gorgeous one-of-a-kind pillows. I have used vintage tablecloths in the construction of both pillows and totes. If you like to paint, transforming furniture is a lot of fun and in the end, you have a totally unique piece. I have an affinity for old sewing chests. Even if you are not a seamstress, there are tons of other uses for these unique pieces. Just make sure that they are in sturdy condition, paint them the color of your choice and add some pretty cottage roses. If you dont have that artistic touch, a wonderful variety of stencils can be found at all craft stores and they are a great alternative. Purchase an old footstool and recover it with an old quilt or fabric from old draperies. Paint an old bar stool and use it as a plant stand or even a bedside stand.

Vintage china is another great choice. In my mothers day, it was a status symbol if all of your dinnerware matched! Today, some of the most gorgeous table settings are made up entirely of mismatched china. A common theme and color is all you need, plus a little imagination. If you find china that you like, but it is chipped, consider using it as part of a mosaic. Put a little votive candle in a teacup and you have a wonderful candleholder.

If you are looking for upholstered pieces, such as chairs and sofas, consider spending less on a garage sale find, as long as it is in clean and sturdy condition..then sew up some pretty slipcovers and change your dcor with the seasons. If you arent handy with a sewing machine, there are many readymade slipcovers that will do the trick. You end up with a great custom piece of furniture that fits your dcor and can be changed whenever the mood strikes you.

Whatever you do, keep your mind open. I have many times come home with treasures not having any idea of how I am going to use them. I may not use an item for its intended use, but many times I come up with something even better!

Marilyn Kelley is the owner of Casual Cottage, http://www.casualcottage.com, an online boutique for those who love romantic cottage style decorating.