Wondering what professional designers like to scoop up at the flea market? We were curious, too, so we polled six experts located across the country and asked what, exactly, they'll always gravitate toward without fail. It turns out that there are lots of worthwhile kinds of items to search for at the flea—below, we're detailing 12 categories that our pros insist simply can't be missed.

1. Objects Made From Natural Materials

Jamie Gasparovic always enjoys searching for pieces made from natural materials, which are key when it comes to adding texture and personality into a room. "Think handmade pottery, marble busts and brass figurines," says the founder of Studio Gaspo. "Before buying, I make sure objects are in good condition with no obvious cracks, chips or scratches."

Marya Karlton, the founder of Karlton Kelly Interiors, agrees and especially appreciates wooden boxes. "Always great to have for styling bookshelves or coffee tables, they bring a textural element that can warm up a room," she says.

2. Lamps

One can never have too many lamps, and the flea market is a great resource for finding a wide range of styles. "I have scored a few inexpensive lamps, including alabaster, that I have then had re-wired, and it's amazing how much more expensive they look when cleaned up with a new shade," Karlton says. "Splurge on a pretty new shade instead of an expensive lamp base!"

3. Books

Need some books for styling purposes? Be sure to see what's on hand at the flea market, Karlton offers. "My designer tip is to throw out the dust jackets," she says. "Often the original linen covers look great underneath and bring a lot of character and color."

4. Table Linens

Take a visit to the flea market prior to your next get together and you'll find plenty of pieces to help elevate your entertaining setup. "I like to buy cute sets of embroidered cocktail or dinner napkins, as well as tablecloths," Karlton says. "You can find nice handmade items, which can really elevate a table setting when mixed in with newer items."

5. Vintage Glassware

Speaking of hosting, don't underestimate the power of setting out a chic set of glassware the next time you invite friends over for happy hour.  Jaime Zehner, the founder of JZ Interiors, likes to look for vintage glassware while visiting flea markets, keeping her eyes peeled for coupes in particular. "This is a simple way to build a meaningful, collected bar over time, and these pieces always feel more personal than buying a full set all at once," she says.

6. Servingware

Of course, don't forget about actual serving pieces, either! "China and serviceware are at the top of my list, especially salad plates, glassware and flatware," says Cheryl Luckett, the founder of Dwell by Cheryl Interiors, whose tabletop is shown above. "I love to entertain, and layering in vintage pieces is such an easy way to elevate a tablescape."

7. Bowls and Trays

Luckett is all for decorative items that serve a function, such as bowls, trays and boxes. "They're perfect for organizing things like jewelry, perfumes or even mail and remotes, while still feeling intentional and elevated," she says. "Sometimes that looks like using a crystal dish for cotton balls in a bathroom or repurposing a vintage tray on a vanity."

8. Artwork

Shopping for artwork at the flea market is an excellent way to source one-of-a-kind pieces for less. "I tend to gravitate toward pieces that evoke a feeling; often a moody seascape or a soft floral oil painting," Zehner says. "There’s an authenticity to vintage art that’s hard to replicate, and it brings such warmth and individuality into a space."

Juliana Ghani Sullivan, the founder of G. Atelier Design, is also a fan of searching for artwork at flea markets. "I look for pieces with patina, a bit of age and sometimes a signature in the corner," she says. "You can usually tell when a piece is older by slightly faded, less saturated paint—and a bonus when you see thicker, more loose brushstrokes; it feels a little softer and more lived-in."

9. Picture Frames

Picture frames are valuable on their own even if the artwork inside of them is lacking, explains Stephanie Molster. "I gravitate toward pieces with old antiqued gold frames in particular," says the founder of Stephanie Molster Interiors. "When I swap out the original art I tend to select something more contemporary—I love the juxtaposition of the two."

10. Bud Vases

Small yet mighty, bud vases are another one of Zehner's favorite items to source at the flea. "They’re perfect for styling throughout a home, whether it’s with a single stem on a bedside table or a cluster layered into a tablescape," she says. "They add a quiet charm and are an easy way to incorporate found beauty."

11. Single Chairs

Don't be thrown off by "one-of-a-kind, one off, lonely chairs," Sullivan says. After all, "You can get a very sick cool chair for cheap since it's just a single straggler." What can you do with just one chair? There are tons of possibilities! "I love using them to create layered, slightly imperfect vignettes, like by a fireplace or placed in a bedroom corner," the designer says.

"I am always drawn to sculptural shapes or anything that feels special or different, and upholstery does not scare me since a piece can easily be redone in a new fabric."

12. Case Goods

Finally, keep in mind that flea markets aren't just for smaller items—you may very well come across case goods including cabinets and buffets while shopping, Sullivan explains. "Older pieces tend to have solid wood construction and tones that are hard to find today," she notes.

"Look for details like dovetail joints, matchbooked burl and slight imperfections...they add so much character. A little wear or a few scratches only make a piece better and help a home feel layered, comfortable, and lived in."