Tuesday, November 20, 2007 12:10 AM CST
Mattoon's Treasures & Trash gives quality used goods a second chance
By NATHANIEL WEST, Staff Writer
nwest@jg-tc.com
MATTOON — At Treasures & Trash in midtown Mattoon, “Looks are free,” said owner Lisa Jarvis.
And even though her merchandise itself obviously costs something, Jarvis’ resale furniture, electronics and collectibles still cost less than goods of equal or lesser quality at discount stores, according to Jarvis.
“I have everything from beds to pots and pans,” she said.
The store at 1518 Broadway Ave. opened about two months ago.
Jarvis said she was inspired by her father’s practice of restoring that which others deemed “junk,” and also her observations and personal experiences related to the need for cheap but durable household items when beginning a new chapter in one’s life.
Her father, Paul Payne of Odgen, made items such as coffee tables and benches from discarded materials. “Things other people thought were junk and were throwing them away, he would make something out of them,” Jarvis said.
When two of her children reached adulthood and left home, Jarvis noticed how difficult and time-consuming it was for young people on a budget to find affordable furniture and similar items.
“I thought this (resale store) would be a good idea for people starting out (or) getting divorced, who don’t have a lot of money,” said Jarvis.
By scouring yard sales and estate sales herself, Jarvis effectively cuts out the middleman.
With furniture in particular, she tries to find items made of solid wood, not particle board. She also makes minor repairs when necessary.
Jarvis said a $50 to $75 used solid wood dresser at Treasures & Trash is still better than a new $100 particle board dresser at a discount store, for example.
“I try to keep stuff in here that’s decent,” she said.
Treasures & Trash is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Contact Nathaniel West at nwest@jg-tc.com or 238-6860.
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