This is a difficult question. I love to shop at thrift stores - but it takes some looking to find what you want. I have just made it a hobby to tour the thrift stores once a month for fun.

Your best bet is probably to sign up for JoAnne's advertisment. Each time they mail you one there is a 40% off coupon. Even on the web you can get 40 and sometimes 50% off the fabric or item you buy. They have lots of vintage look fabrics.

What about an old handmade quilt for the bed and some old lace curtains? Set an old doll on the bed. Then you could just buy fabrics for some neat pillows. I see handmade throw rugs at the thrift stores all the time. Just some ideas.

As far as thrift stores go, if you want to try that idea, go to the church and independent ones if you can find them. They are much cheaper than Goodwill. Salvation Army is good. I love shabby chic, so good luck.

Leona,
I bought some Cottage style fabric on Ebay. I was quite fortunate to have no one bidding against me, so I got 4 yards of beautiful Cottage style Decorator fabric for under $15, including S&H. Give it a try!! :>)