Category: How To

So you’ve decided to put your coveted vintage t-shirt collection up for sale? You’ve come to the right place. Over the last decade, I’ve personally graded and measured roughly 10,000 t-shirts. My eBay feedback alone numbers 5,000+, typically, only a fraction of buyers leave feedback. In other words, I’m now clinically insane. But before the men in the white suits snatch me up, I’ve managed to put together this little guide for grading. Create a Proper Workspace Before you begin, make sure the area you’ll use for analyzing the t-shirt is free of all clutter. I have a spot directly to ... Read more

One thing is for certain when it comes to the vintage clothing business: inventory is hell. Whether you’re a little wet behind the ears, or even a vintage vending veteran – this guide is for you. It’s jam-packed full o’ tips from 10 seasoned pickers. We’ll help you tackle what will always be your biggest challenge: finding product in a highly competitive climate. As a side note – yes, Defunkd is t-shirt-centric, but this guide also works for vintage clothing in general. If you’re already visiting facilities with vintage inventory, you might as well pick for items other than just ... Read more

So you used our appraisal guide and realized you’ve got an extremely rare and sought-after tee in your hot little hands. Or maybe it’s one with sentimental value that you want to improve or preserve. In either case, let’s assume its condition leaves a lot to be desired. There are holes, rips, and loose seams. It has multiple stains – some of which are hard, paint-like marks. The fabric was once black but now very light grey.  Worse yet, the precious tag is about to fall off. What to do? Should you attempt to improve its condition, thereby upgrading its value? ... Read more

So you found an old rock tee while rummaging through your Grandpappy’s dresser. Have you struck it rich? You quickly call up a search on eBay for said tee and notice the very same design posted for sale at $1,000! Boom! Ipso facto, the value of your shirt is $1,000, right?! Wrong. What it’s listed for is not usually what it’s worth, so call off your plans for early retirement. There, there, don’t lose all hope. Depending on who is offering it for sale and their knowledge of the market, it could still be quite valuable. But in most cases ... Read more

You tried rubbing liquid detergent directly on the stain and you washed the shirt in a hot cycle. Are you ready to get serious now? Good. To create this guide I approached 20 sellers with vintage t-shirt expertise, begging them to share their top-secret techniques. These veterans definitely know a thing or two about removing tough stains given most of their enemies are decades old. Their techniques have successfully eliminated many vintage stains and will help you restore that grail in your vault. Defunkd Insider Sign-up Email*: Subscribe Traditional Stain Removal Methods Lemons and limes Fresh citrus is your best ... Read more