Saturday, June 26, 2010

Using A Vintage Painted Shabby Drawer As An Easel For Decorative Plates

Featuring Decorative Plates In A Pretty Vignette Using A Painted Old Drawer

How sweet is this idea for featuring decorative plates....carefully exhibit them propped up inside an old painted drawer. Shabby collectors adore this idea of using a discarded drawer as an easel for displaying hand painted delicate plates.

Originally stored in China closets or hung on the wall, decorative plates look fantastic when styled as a mini-vignette inside a soft painted deep and narrow drawer.

Painting Your Cottage Style Drawer In Soft Romantic Colors

You can paint your drawer a solid color such as pink or white or add accented flowers or decals.
Perhaps you want at to line the drawer with vintage wallpaper or use remnants of old fabric or even tissue paper to stuff into the drawer to keep the plates and other objects stable. Use plates of different sizes for an interesting arrangement. Add other small objects to your display such as flatware, candle holders etc.

When choosing a color for the tissue paper or fabric pull out one of the colors from the plate to help keep your display eye catching.

Propping Plates On Plate Holders

For more stability for your plates, you can also stand the plates up on a small plate holder and insert the plate and it's holder into the drawer and than cover the plate base with fabric to hide the hardware.
I stay away from the wooden plate holders, they wobble too much. I like the inexpensive metal ones.

You will find so many more ideas about Shabby decorating in my book, Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes (Collectorbooks.com).

Top photo courtesy of:

Michele's Cottage Gifts
53 Main Street
Plantsville, CT
860-329-0033

Bottom photo courtesy of:
http://www.soshabbypink.com/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Exercising While Antiquing: Burn Calories While Junking

The Kitschy Collectors New Exercise Program: WALKING UP AND DOWN The Aisles of An Antique Mall

Have you ever thought of building an exercise program around ANTIQUING ? I am being serious.... antiquing may just be your answer to staying fit. Think about the endless possibilities.
How many Antique Malls could you cover in a week and perhaps rack up enough miles to go Olympic!

Keeping Fit While Antiquing And Junking

The idea is brilliant...why hasn't anyone thought of the idea of creating a fitness program around antiquing before me. In fact I think Antique Malls should sell pedometers. And when you think about this subject in more depth...you could vary your routines....try walking up and down the fields of a flea market or junk yard or swap meet or what about an Antique Show for goodness sakes. The options are plentiful....there are so many places to keep up a regular work out of exercising and antiquing! Isn't this exciting news?

Walking Clubs Meeting At Antique
Malls

I'm thinking we could start regular Antique Mall walking clubs. For example, my own Antique Mall, The Collinsville Antiques company of New Hartford, Connecticut is 22,000 square feet.

That's a lot of walking. Just ask the dealers who have to rotate on the floor as staff opening up locked showcases and assisting customers. The idea would be to invite several friends to join you two or three times a week or even daily for regular antique walk work outs. Who is aboard on this idea ? And by the way, I'd love to hear more about how antiquing might work as exercise...feel free to weigh in here.

Photos Courtesy of The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Displaying Salt & Pepper Shakers: Retro Hang-Ups Part 1

RETRO HANG-UP: Displaying Your Salt And Pepper Shakers on A Funky Flower Power Wall Mounted Couch

This post is the first in a series I am calling "Retro Hang-Ups", oh not the kind you bring to your shrink, the type you hang on the wall or elsewhere.

Do You Have a Funky Couch For Your WALL?

But wait a minute, today's hang-up does have a couch involved, but not for patients....the couch I am referring to displays salt and pepper shakers. Now this is getting confusing, a couch that hangs on the wall ? Oh did I mention that the couch is day orange with a flower power pattern....and that it is doll size?

Spotted At:
Tree House Antiques
220 Albany Turnpike
Canton, CT 06019-2520
(860) 693-1600


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Decorating With Garden Antiques And Collectibles Found At The Colllinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford, Connecticut

Loving This 1940s
Flower Cart I Found At The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut

I have been out hunting for garden and porch stuff and lo and behold, I found fabulous finds at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut.

Shopping In My Own Booth

And where did I find these precious garden accessories?

Shabby Works

Yep...in my very own booth. Now how much fun is that shopping in your very own booth. (Of course I bought some of these patio collectibles from other dealers over the years, but now they made it into my booth. The yellow chair is a chippy shabby child's chair that has been in my booth with a box of paper collectibles resting on it. Look how cute it looks on the porch with a colorful plant.

Decorating With Vintage Garden And Patio Accessories

The price was right (taking home goodies from my very own booth)...so I felt really pleased. And I can't believe I actually decided to part with some of my 1940s kitsch n collectibles and USE my garden accessories on my very own porch! Up until now, I was not interested in "wasting" good collectibles that I could sell. But, guess what, I am making a breakthrough...and finally decorating my own house...inside and outside.
Wandering Into Patty's Booth At Collinville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

But of course I had to spend a little money so I wandered over to Patty's booth (she is in the first aisle on the left )
G R E A T
S T U F F and came home with
more planters and stands.

Visit The Colllinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut

You will find lots of great ideas in my book, Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes, Collectorbooks.com

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

"Vintage Postcards For The Holidays": Kitschy Collector Book Review

Vintage Postcards For The Holidays
Learn All About Collecting Cards For Christmas, Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter And More

Do you adore vintage holiday postcards but are clueless about the history and values of these very popular collectibles? Have you seen Vintage Postcards for the Holidays (Collectorbooks.com), by Robert and Claudette Reed. Now the task of collecting vintage holiday postcards is a lot easier. For those of us who have not get taken our collection too seriously this 368 page book will be a great start. The full color images are clear and attractive and the book is very easy to follow. I really enjoyed this wonderful resource book!

Product Description
Everyone has a favorite holiday, and they are all celebrated in this sweeping collection of vintage postcards. Christmas, Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter, and more are all memorialized in authentic postcards nearly a century old. More than 850 color images present the greeting selections of long ago in exquisite detail. This new and expanded edition features many vintage holiday postcards not included in the first edition, plus additional chapters such as April Fool's Day and Arbor Day. Authors Robert and Claudette Reed have carefully arranged this fascinating volume chronologically to provide reading and viewing through all the seasons of the year. A final special section includes early twentieth century postcards, paying tribute to birthdays, graduations, and other special occasions. You won't want to miss this exciting new edition of Vintage Postcards for the Holidays.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

The Complete Guide To Vintage Children's Records: Kitschy Collector Book Review

"The Complete Guide to Children's Vintage Records" A Terrific Source Book For Kiddie Record Collectors

Oh, the days of sitting in your high chair and listening to records of your favorite nursery rhymes or hanging out on the couch curled up with a cup of apple juice and listening to Captain Kangaroo....the good ole days before Ipods and smart phones. It was YOU and your record collection.

And now, Peter Muldavin, who describes himself as a sixty-something fella who is perpetually age six has compiled an encyclopedic reference guide called "The Complete Guide to Children's Vintage Records", published by Collectorbooks.com.

This 432 page full color price guide is by far the most complete guide you will find to date on the subject of kiddie records. Muldavin reviews the history of children's records describing such types as: Records That Are part of Package Designs ; Shape or Die-Cut Records; "Flexi" Records; :Magic" Records; Records Played in Synchonization with Filmstrips; Animation Labels; Personalized Recording And Home Recordings ; Phonograph Dolls.

Following historical information you will find a wonderful detailed synopsis of each and every record company who made children's records under the section titled "Label Notes And Identification".

After the reader is acquainted with the major record publishers, the remainder of the book covers the values of records, categorized by company. Images of records form headings on many of the pages.

Product Description

This long-awaited reference book represents a first of its kind: an almost complete listing and price guide to vintage children's records. Though coverage is mainly dedicated to 78rpm records, a few early 45rpms are included. Unlike previous price guides, this book attempts to cover all 78rpm kiddie records made in the United States. The dates of coverage range from the 1890s to the 1960s, with most of the listings being from the 1940s and 1950s, the 'golden age' of children's records. There are listings for nearly 14,000 records and 450 record labels, making this the most complete discography of its kind ever in print. Values are given for records in excellent/mint and good/very good condition. This book is sure to delight the young and the young at heart. Give it a spin!

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Making A Charming Lampshade Out Of A Vintage Embroidered Dish Towel

Turn An Embroidered Vintage Gingham Doggy Dish Towel Into A Sweet Lamp Shade

This gingham doggy dish towel has a new home, it is now part of a lampshade along with other darling retro textiles.

As you already know, the Kitschy Collector is always on the look out for news ways to up-cycle vintage dry goods. And for sure, a lot of handiwork went into these fabulous lampshades.

Introducing Sassy Shades

This lampshade project was found at Sassy Shades on Etsy.com. Handmade from a red and white embroidered towel, this pooch towel is accompanied by side panels of blue, yellow, red and green stripes and a back panel of red gingham.

Add A Whimsical Touch With Colorful Vintage Aceessories

I can picture this adorable lamp in a vintage inspired baby nursery, whimsical den, bedroom or
even kitchen setting. And see how lovely stripes and gingham go together. The doggy towel can be the beginning of a lovely theme to build a room around.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

How Do I Clean Vintage Tablecloths?

How Do I Clean Vintage Tablecloths? A Lesson From Dusty's Vintage

I am lucky to know the best Vintage tablecloth Guru's around, they sell under the name "Dusty's Vintage and live in New England. Michelle and Lori travel around the country and set up colorful booths with PILES of pristine original tablecloths that would knock your retro socks right off of you!

Linens That Are In Pristine Condition

When you look at the caliber of their linens, you are amazed to see how terrific they look. These women put a lot of time into their linens (something I never do). But I always wanted to know their secrets about how they prepare their linens for re-sale.

These gals are very sweet and have printed an instruction sheet for their customers on how to clean the linens, titled "How We Clean Our Linens". Notice they are saying what works for them. I am going to share their tips. Remember, nothing in life is guaranteed. With linen cleaning as well as everything else in life.....you give it a try!


"How We Clean Our Linens" By Dusty's Vintage


1. PRESPOT: on dry item, spray any spots generously with "Simple Green: full strength. Let sit for 24-72 hours.

2. SOAK**: in your top loading washing machine put one cup "Clorox Bleach, one cup of "Biz" and 1/4 cup of "All". Fill machine with warm water and agitate to mix detergents. Add linens. Soak for 3-24 hours. (DO NOT USE "TIDE").

3. WASH: When soaking is complete, let washer go through full cycle. (Normal cycle for print and gentle cycle for finer whites).

4. DRY: Dry linens in hot dryer.

5. IRON: Use light steam and "Niagara" Heavy Starch (blue can).

"Biz", "Simple Green" can usually be found at "Wal-Mart", "K-Mart" and "Target".

**With dark blues, purples, blacks and browns on the print use less bleach or no bleach and soak with the lower time.

Postscript: The "Chlorox bleach" part is scaring the heck out of me...but this is what Dusty's Vintage does. I welcome all of your feedback. Don't shoot me, I am the messenger. These gals must know what they are doing....their linens say it all!

More Information:

You can also check out http://www.vintagetableclothsclub.com/stains.htm
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Decorating With Funky Chunky Old Storefront Letters

Add Some Whimsical Touches With Vintage Salvaged Sign Letters

Everyone seems to love vintage alphabet "storefront" letters. Take a look at these funky finds. Can you see one of these colorful salvaged letters mounted on your Great Room wall? How cool would that be?

Or used as a funky sculpture as spotted at http://www.etsy.com/shop/AustinModern

I love the way the red letter "C" works so well with the vintage Herman Miller fiberglass shell chair.

What Storefront Letters Are Made Of

Vintage store front letters can be made of wood, metal, enamel, brass, aluminum, bronze, plastic, Lucite , etc. You can find letters that are reflective and ones that light. Check out http://www.rehabvintage.net/ Depending on size, materials and age.....you can find plenty of basic salvaged letter available in a wide range of prices.When looking for these items use terms such as "vintage sign letters", " salvage storefront letters", "storefront facade letters ". You will find them on-line as well as in salvage yards.

I've Seen These Letters before...But Where?

I'm guessing the funny shaped alphabet letters shown below which I spotted at The Farmington Antique Show in Farmington, Connecticut last weekend were from an amusement park or circus.

What do you think, who would have letters like this? Have YOU seen these letters before...they seem so familiar.

Here is a cute blog on the topic: http://www.sfgirlbybay.com/tag/letters/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Make-Over Old Chairs With Yellow Paint And Colorful Whimsical Fabric

Retro Inspired Whimsical Vintage Chairs For Your Breakfast Area

COLOR...that is what lots of old dark chairs need....a color make-over. And not just
W H I T E .....bright happy colors. All it takes is some whimsical visions..... And what about the upholstery? Can you picture in your mind a funky color and than letting yourself go with some great patterned CHEER (chair) covers.

These yellow chairs were spotted recently at The Farmington Antiques Weekend at the Farmington Polo Grounds , Farmington, CT. I bet they started off as dining room chairs.....and now they make a great look for your retro inspired breakfast area.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Buying Kitchen Collectibles: Something To Crow About...Cocka-Doodle-Doo

Finally, A Shopping Trip To Crow About......
The Kitschy Collector Scores BIG


Cocka - Doode - Doo did I find some fun kitchen collectibles and retro linens today. And of course I came home with two bundles full of these kitschy kitchen collectibles.

Loving Queen Anne Antiques

After too many hours blogging (and I do love blogging), I finally left my computer (and brand new hard drive I might add) and ventured out to one of my favorite haunts, Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, Connecticut. Let me go on record...hunting for kitchen stuff trumps blogging! But you all get that right?


All From One Estate: The Best Kitchen Collectibles


This little shop was packed with great stuff after the owner acquired the contents of a home (part of an estate of a family friend) . The dear deceased women had closets filled with items with the tags still on them. April, the owner is unpacking a few boxes each day. She promises me that she will call me when the rest of the kitchen collectibles are marked and put out for sale.

Keeping Tabs On April At Queen Anne Antiques

I have been visiting her shop all week because the goodies keep coming. A few days ago, (April wasn't opened but she was there) I wandered into her shop and came home with two great vintage summer hand bags. Today, April had a pile of retro linens she was marking. Guess who came home with all the good stuff?

Roosters, Bowls, tools, Advertising, Linens

And then there were the rooster...and the kitchen-wares. I also bought the packages of vintage straws and a bunch of pantry items. Stay tuned for the rest of the kitchen collectibles I will be coming home with. By the way, many of these gems are headed for my shop, Kitsch n Stuff over the next few days. And don't be surprised if April visits my shop in a few weeks and buys some of my kitsch.

Visit

QUEEN ANN ANTIQUES. Rear of 163 Albany Turnpike, Route 44, Canton, CT (860) 847-2094

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Second Hand Rose Has Original Vintage Wallpaper for Your Kitschy Kitchen

Adorable Kitschy Kitchen Vintage Wallpaper At Second Hand Rose

If you are looking for adorable original vintage kitchen wallpaper, check out the Second Hand Rose Wallpaper Shop now in it's new location on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan And On-line.
Visiting The Second Hand Rose Gallery

I had so much fun checking out the gallery of wallpaper on the Second had Rose website. When I see wallpaper with bricks and or Ivy's I have a flashback to my kitchen back in the 1950's. If you want to see over 5000 patterns of wallpaper for every room in your home, including a large collection of vintage kitchen styles than one of the best resources is Second Hand Rose.

Second Hand Rose Just Moved Uptown

Martin Dinowitz has managed this shop (now on Fifth Avenue) for forty years. We talked recently about his stock of kitchen wallpapers of the 30s, 40s, 50s.

Dating Kitchen Wallpaper

Many patterns stayed popular for many years and it is hard to really date some of these papers. But the paper shown in this post are from the Colorful Eras (1930s, 1940s and 1950s).

Owner Suzanne Lipschultz Bought Out Wallpaper Inventory
From Old Hardware And Paint Stores

Second Hand Rose was started by Suzanne Lipschultz in 1965 when she was straight out of college. She would buy out wallpaper inventory from old hardware and paint stores and over time amassed one of the largest collections of papers from the 1860's-1970s.

Martin tells me that many of their papers are used by set directors in movies, T.V. shows and by major clothing stores who like to create vintage vignettes.

Common Themes of Vintage Kitchen Wallpaper

Older wallpaper made out of paper and produced largely in the USA at the time had themes of Ivy, gingham, florals, fruit, potted plants, step ladder patterns, grids, fruit, polka dots, lattice, bouquets etc.

How Much Does Vintage Kitchen Wallpaper Cost?

Sold in double rolls, expect to pay about $100.00 and up. I am told that if their website shows the pattern you like...there is plenty of wallpaper to meet your needs.

Visit Secondhand Rose, 230 Fifth Avenue (27th Street), (212) 393-9002 Second Hand Rose

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Farmington Antiques Weekend At The Farmington Polo Grounds, Connecticut, June 12th and 13th, 2010

Join Me At The Farmington Antiques Weekend This Saturday And Sunday, June 12th and 13th

Hooray...the Farmington Antiques Weekend is just around the corner, June 12 and 13th , 2010 at The Farmington Polo Grounds in Farmington, Connecticut. The show features two hundred dealers from around the country who exhibit in tents and outdoors in this lovely country setting just off exit 39 on I-84. This show is about two hours from New York and two hours from Boston.

Lots of Variety At The Farmington Polo Grounds Show

This show will have a nice selection of garden ornaments, architectural salvage, factory chic,
furniture, wicker, jewelry, pottery, vintage linens (Dusty's Vintage Linens is AMAZING!), country antiques, lighting, phonogrpahs, glassware, silver, retro, paintings, ceramics, Folk art, vintage books etc.

Times They Are Changing: Farmington Antiques Show Is Now Relaxing

I live a mile or two down the road from this show and have been going to the show for more years than I can remember. In fact in the early years of this very popular show, the crowds were so thick, that traffic was backed up for miles in any direction . Those were the years, I ventured out to the show in the wee hours of the morning to avoid the storm of people that flocked to this show. And those were also the days when the show had double the amount of vendors.

You Will Enjoy This Antique Show In Beautiful Farmington Connecticut

But, chill , the show is still terrific, but times they have changed. This show still attracts lots of great vendors and plenty of visitors. But the whole atmosphere is calmer and more relaxing and the visitors come in a manageable pace. And for me, it helps that I'm not pushing baby carriages anymore. Last year, I took my Sheltie, Jacob with me.

Bring Your Furry Friends To The Farmington Antiques Show

That is when I discovered how tricky it is to try to photograph with a dog in tow. But he had a wonderful time and so did I. We enjoyed saying hello to some regulars and met plenty of new dealers. That is the best part, meeting some fresh vendors.

Food Vendors Are Lovely At The Farmington Antiques Weekend

There are always some lovely food vendors and plenty of refreshments. Wear a hat and comfortable shoes. I'm advising you to wear suntan lotion, now if only I could take my own advice.

While in the area, you can visit some great antique malls and shops. Take a look at my section
"Antiquing in Connecticut".

For more information about the show visit: http://www.farmingtonantiquesweekend.com/

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Collecting Vintage Dog And Cat Collectibles For Your Kitschy Kitchen

Collecting Sweet Pampered Pets in Your Vintage Style Kitchen

Who Could resist these adorable kitty cats and pooches? If you are setting up an antiques and collectibles shop always keep a healthy inventory of vintage pooches and kitties on hand. These fellas are great sellers. In fact these cuties priced right will fly out the door.

Dimestore Pooches And Kitties

Once Dimestore knick knacks, often imported, these ceramic or plastic pooches and felines were popular companions during the colorful eras of the 30s, 40s,m 50s and 60s. Today, collector's hunt for vintage dogs and cats that remind them of their pampered pets. (I'm always looking for Shelties if you come across any).

Tips About Buying Kitchenwares


When buying these collectibles, look at the bottom of the items to see if they are marked. Older ceramics tend to be heavier than newly made knick knacks. Look for cracks, chips,
missing pieces etc. Is the paint faded? If you are buying salt and pepper shakers, are they from the same set or a mismatch? Don't worry about missing the cork, corks can easily be replaced.
Because these collectibles are so adorable, may people will gladly buy an orphaned creamer without the sugar or part of a canister set. etc. You can also go on-line to Etsy or eBay or other sites to look for missing mates. To meet and exchange interests with other collectors be sure to also check out the wonderful collector groups at http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/

What You Can Collect In Vintage Dog And Cat Collectibles

If you are beginning a collection of vintage dog and or cat themed collectibles you will find, salt and pepper shakers, cookie jars, creamers, towels, textiles, figurines, glassware, coasters, pot holders, calendars, decorative plates, and more.

Poodles and Scotties fetch (no pun intended) a little bit more money. And so do famous dogs.

Read More About It:

http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/%22dog%20collectibles%22

http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/2009/04/dog-collectibles-are-kitschy-companions.html

Photos Courtesy of:
http://www.jazzejunque.com/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CinderellaCellar

C. Dianne Zweig
is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

African-Americana by Barbara E. Mauzy: Kitschy Collector Book Review

African Americana: An Important Reference Book On Black Americana and Collectibles

Are you familiar with Barbara E. Mauzy's book out called "African Americana", published by Schiffer Books?
Barbara is a veteran author of books about kitchen collectibles and now has once again worked very hard to contribute a superb resource book on a topic which is not only complex but evokes lot's of powerful feelings.

Black Memorabilia Increases In Value

Many collectors are quite interested in Black memorabilia and collectibles and the values for these important objects have sky rocketed in recent years. This is the type of collectible which crosses over into many different and overlapping areas. Barbara's book concentrates on collectibles of the kitchen an home.

Black Americana Collectibles: Whimsical Treasures Or Memories of Despicable Times

For many lovers of kitchen collectibles, objects often bring cherished memories of family and special times. Many kitchen-wares that are collected have special meaning to the individual buying them or are part of a collection of a themed grouping, such as "salt and pepper shakers" or "chalkware". For many casual collectors or buyers, they do not yet appreciate the social or historical significance of the Mammy cookie jar or wall pockets they are buying. These collectors may have their own reason for buying such kitchen-wares, including the possibility that mom or grandma had similar ones sitting on the counter or hanging on the wall in their kitchens.

Preserving The African American Legacy

Yet another collector of African Americana may be interested in the historical, social and cultural significance of these collectibles. For example, many ceramic and chalkware kitchen-wares show stereotyped images of African Americans, perhaps with exaggerated lips or wide opened frightened eyes, or even a slice of watermelon in hand. Such stereotypes were used to reinforce notions of racial superiority and are painful reminders of American history. But as despicable as these times were, they are important markers of the legacy of African Americans.

Black Memorabilia Once Considered Politically Incorrect Kitsch

Once considered politically incorrect kitsch, black memorabilia, housewares, ceramics, ephemera, photography etc. is now prized by many collectors of all backgrounds who cherish a significant aspect of American History, the African -American experience.

Mauzy's Book On African Americana Is A Price Guide Which Covers The Cultural Context Of These Collectibles

Barbara Mauzy's book is a price guide which not only showcases a huge collection of Black Americana but also presents the historical and cultural context of these artifacts. There is so much to learn in this 192 page full color book.

Topics Include: Ephemera, kitchenware, housewares, figurines, spice sets, decorative plates, wall pockets, planters, ephemera, advertising, barware, wall decor, photographic images, pinback buttons, ceramics, laundry,banks, clocks, books, games, dolls, ash trays,novelty items and more.
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C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Authors Guild, Inc.

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