Challenging economic times inspire people universally to make sound financial decisions. One culture that has always lived an austere but significant existence is the Amish. Increasingly, people are inspired by their lifestyle; and look for ways to simplify their own lives.

Lorilee Craker is the author of the new book, “Amish Money Secrets: Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving.” Examine their practices, extravagant in peace, family and community closeness. For them, thrift is a muscle that is exercised regularly.

Craker interviewed Amish people in Indiana, Michigan and Pennsylvania, including an Amish banker whose clientele is 95 percent Amish. During the Great Recession of 2008, your bank had the best year in its history. Amish experts and englishers’ (Amish reference to anyone who is not Amish), financial perspectives emphasize the book as well. Here, the money-saving habit of buying second-hand is highlighted.

Buying second hand is a key Amish secret to saving money. Thrift stores are an excellent source for many items, such as clothing, furniture, bedding, and games. Craker quotes an Amish woman who says, “You don’t have to buy something new to buy something good.” Here are some tips to complement your resale shopping experience:

Tips for buying used clothes

• Rethink it. Reject the belief that used clothing is disgusting because other people have used it. Buy clothes at a fancy store. Odds are good, even there, that others have tried it at some point.
• Mix and match. Pair something new with something you carefully used at a thrift store. Leave your findings to chance vs. a specific search.
• Try things on. Many thrift stores have nice, clean walk-in closets, so there is no reason to observe the fit.
• Don’t buy clothes you won’t wear. It is not a bargain if you do not take advantage of your purchase.
• Don’t limit yourself to favorite brands. It’s great to find old favorites, but once you develop your thrifty eye, you’ll appreciate pieces from unknown brands.
• Think accessories. There are many accessories available in thrift stores, such as jewelry, belts, and purses.
• Find out what’s hot. Google trends before visiting resale stores.
• Institute a one-in-one-out policy. Every time you buy something new, discard something old. Give or donate to an organization.
• Define your upper limit. What is your twitch point? It is the amount that compels the questions: “Is it worth it?” “Can I really use it?” and “Can I live without it?”

Tips for buying furniture and home decor

• Get informed with a great flea market magazine. Studying these magazines will give you a new perspective on the possibilities of home decorating through thrift stores.
• Think junque. Mix serious antiques with “junque.” Reconsider how and where you are going to decorate and furnish your home. The vintage style adds an instant legacy to any home. Vintage objects promote the expression of individuality and creativity on a budget.
• Buy only what you love. Home decor and furniture are resold at an average of one-tenth of the original cost. Ask yourself, “Do I love this or do I just like it?” “True love stands the test of time,” says Craker.
• Buy only what you need. Sure, buy smaller items for future anniversary, birthday, and bridal shower gifts. However, it makes no sense to buy something you don’t need, just like when it is a larger item.
• Buyer beware. Here are five guidelines when buying used furniture:
• Buy solid hardwoods like maple or oak that last. Some furniture only last for one owner.
• Look for a quality build. Check under the seats for bolts vs. glue, etc.
• Assess furniture odors. Odors from upholstery faults will never end; transfer the purchase. Wooden cabinets, chests and drawers placed in the afternoon sun will open the pores in the wood and release odors.
• Open drawers, sit on chairs, lean on tables. Watch for creaks, groans, or wobbles.
• Consider the original use sometimes. It’s okay to fill an antique porcelain hutch with towels, bedding, books, etc., but not electronics. Inadequate ventilation can generate heat and become a fire hazard.

Garage sales. “Garage sales are either a hit or a miss,” says Craker. Here are some tips to improve your shopping experience:

• Arrives early. The first AVE takes the earthworm Y the best selection.
• To be late. Show up later in the day and be prepared to haggle with the salesperson. Try bundling two or three items together and quote the seller a discounted price. They may have the opportunity for a sale in exchange for downloading the items.
• Look deeply. Scan all the offers and you may find some hidden gems.

You may have hated using resale stores in the past. We hope the above tips for saving cash have inspired you to at least visit a local store. You may be pleasantly surprised.