5 Things Design Experts Always Buy From the Dollar Store

There are very few things we love more than a good deal. Sure, we’re happy to pay top dollar for a cozy sofa or premium mattress, but there’s something special about buying an insanely practical item for a steal.

Interior design experts aren’t immune to the allure of cheap thrills, either. They may have access to some of the most luxurious furniture and accessories around, but it turns out they love dollar stores just as much as we do. Craving an affordable shopping spree? Here are five things lurking in designers’ dollar store carts:

“I like the craft section, they have things like old school pencil sets and crayons. And the party decoration section because you can cover any light in crepe paper.” —John Robshaw, textile designer

“To remove any sticky adhesive that could have been left behind from a sticker.” —Monica Wilcox, interior designer

“Fresh flowers, what a great touch! This is such an easy way to add color to a room. Dollar stores have plenty of vases to choose from!” —Monica Wilcox

“Zip ties are ubiquitous. Do you really want to spend three times as much at a big box store for essentially the exact same product? Does anyone take pride or base their personal value on how much they paid for zip ties? Stock up whenever you see them. They are perfects for securing cords and cables and indispensable when hanging holiday decorations. Combine two or more for larger jobs and always trim the excess.” —John McClain, interior designer

“Plastic party table covers make wonderfully inexpensive drop cloths for painting or craft projects. You’re going to want to toss them when you are done, so don’t waste your money. Just be sure to secure the table cover with painters tape to prevent floating or slippage.”—John McClain