Here's a store that appeals not just to buyers, but to sellers as well. The Sensibly Chic consignment store in Duluth specializes in home decor items, particularly those large pieces that homeowners don't want anymore. The sellers bring those items into the shop where buyers can pick them up at bargain prices. The proceeds are split 50-50 between the sellers and the shop.

"We get a lot of people moving out of state, going through a divorce, downsizing to something smaller, and they don't want to pay to have the furniture moved or stored," said Maria Siebold of the Sensibly Chic staff. "We get different things in all the time, so we have customers who come in weekly to check out the stock. Somebody always likes something. Just when I say, 'No one will buy that!' — it sells."

H.M. Cauley / Special (ENLARGE)

A beige recliner, priced at $150, features arm rests that pull up to reveal storage pockets for remote controls.

H.M. Cauley / Special (ENLARGE)

A butcher block dining table has painted Windsor chairs match a blue china hutch.

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What you'll find

With new merchandise coming in the door each week, there's a constantly evolving selection of goods. On any given day, shoppers may check out collections of dishes, china, crystal, silverware, rugs and mirrors. There's usually a variety of lamps and lighting fixtures. Less frequently, they'll find complete sets of bed linens.

A recent visit uncovered several shelving units, painted vases, framed artworks, throw pillows, wine glasses, club chairs, baker's racks, wicker tables, Windsor dining chairs and a butcher block kitchen table. A child's wooden rocking horse was $49. A marble-topped dining table was tagged at $500. Foyer tables, sofas and a set of La-Z-Boy recliners (complete with pockets for remote controls and beverage holders) were $150, as was a blue hutch with two glass-fronted cabinets.

"For the most part, furniture prices are from $500 to $1,000," said Siebold. "One of the most expensive sets we had was 14 antique chairs for $14,000."

After the initial price is set, it gets marked down 10 percent each month. After about three months, the sellers decide whether they want to take the items back or split a price set by the store.

Best sellers

Buyers are big on unusual furniture pieces, and anything with a painted, distressed patina. High-priced items such as Waterford crystal don't stay in the store long, either.

Trends

Consignment goods always seem to have a market. But the trends follow the current market. For instance, dated colors are hard to move. "People generally don't want the pale blues and pinks," said Siebold. "They want neutral colors, the creams and beiges, or black."

WHERE TO FIND IT

Sensibly Chic

3131 Main St., Duluth

Info: 770-497-1012, www.sensibly-chic.com

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday

In the area: Just a block off Buford Highway in downtown Duluth, this store is part of a small enclave of shops in refurbished old buildings along Main Street. Nearby is the Park Cafe for lunch and dinner. Those looking for an authentic small-town dining experience will want to stop at the Rexall Grill in the drug store nearby.