Junk Collectors Have Type A Personalities: "A" For Addicted

Collectors On The Couch Series
Kitsch n Shrink Discusses:

Are the personalities of junk collectors WNL (within normal limits) or off the charts? In a nutshell (no pun intended) junksters (junk collectors) have Type A Personalities ...and that's "A" for ADDICTED TO JUNK. Junksters like hanging out with other junk maniacs and consider themselves perfectly SANE in a crazy material world.

The Lines Of Normality Are Blurred For Junk Collectors

Lets face it , when you are talking to another dumpster diver the lines of normality are completely blurred. Come on, only a fellow junk addict could stomache hearing about rescuing an old broken, rusty plant stand from a pile of manure and not passing any judgment on this outrageous behavior.

The Sweat, The Dirt, The Cooties, The Joy

Junksters (addicts) completely understand it when another Type A collector explains the ups and downs of picking (hunting for antiques and collectibles and other valuable or useful junk). The sweat, the dirt, the cooties........the JOY!

Type A collectors immediately sympathize with other junk friends who develop a wicked Poison Ivy rash after stomping around the grounds of abandoned house looking for goodies..What's a bottle of Calamine lotion to an addicted collector who can turn a rusty pipe into towel bar?

Let's talk Amongst Ourselves

And to be totally honest, who cares what the real shrinks say? Let's just talk amongst ourselves. We love what we do, we are a creative, passionate, loyal bunch of junk collectors who would sell the shirt off our backs to the right buyer.
Photos courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/shop/sushipot


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.

Wake-Up Baby Boomers: 1940s -1950s Playsuits , Rompers, Jumpers Are Back In Style

Remember Wearing Rompers And Playsuits?

Hold the presses.....1940s and 1950's Playsuits, Rompers and Jumpers have returned. But after spotting these cute numbers at a local trendy shop this weekend, I'm wondering if anyone over size 6 could actually wear the blousy Rompers without looking like a pumpkin.


Vocab For Playsuits, Rompers, Jumpers

Here is the scoop...Playsuits, Rompers and jumpsuits are generally one piece. Back in the day, Playsuits described casual summer wear which could be for "play" or swim. Rompers were similar to Playsuits but sometimes a bit more blousy, Jumpsuits could be short or long.

Just like the vintage cuties, you will find the updated versions in solids, exciting tropical prints, abstracts, plaids, geometrics. And it seems they are making them in plenty of easy care fabrics and styles to choose from.

Playsuits And Rompers Attracting Twenty-Something Gals

Ooh La, La, a trendy boutique in Avon, CT had a store filled with these retro inspired comfy apparel (newly manufactured) and the twenty something gals were thrilled to try them on. They had no idea their moms and grandma's wore them back in the 1940s and 1950s.

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.

Tips About Renting A Booth In An Antique Mall Or Group Shop

Location, Location, Location......Where Will Your Antique Booth Be Located ?

I swore when I moved into The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut a few years ago that once I moved into my assigned spot, that I was never moving again. I mean I had SO MUCH stuff ...the thought of moving (even from one space in the store to another) was insane. Well after plenty of time in the back of my Mall, I gave in and decided I could pack and move after all.

Moving Uptown (Upfront)

So after a better piece of real estate materialized, I packed up my booth and moved "uptown" (to the front of the store) a few weeks ago. I am happy as a lark. The new location is fabulous. And what perks the new spot has...I am a stone throws from the powder room and close to the entrance to the shop (easier schlepping ).

Challenging Spots In An Antique Mall

Now I have been in many different Group Shops over the years and have a good deal of experience with all kinds of spaces. I happen to like odd spots....I enjoy the challenge of making them work. I have even had an annex spot in the bathroom of one of the stores I rented from.

The truth is..if you have items of interest to others....people will find you, no matter where you are in a big Antique Mall. But if you had to decide where in the shop to go....there are some issues to consider..

Questions To Think About When Renting Antique Booth Space

So what can I tell you about getting ready to rent a space in an Antique Mall
mall? Here are some ideas to think about.

1. Does your booth have good lighting?

2. Do you have built in wall space? (Important if you have a lot of pictures).

3. Is your booth on an end of an aisle where traffic is? (Premier space). Can you place shelving units towards the aisle?

4. Who is next to you, near you, across from you? (Will you be buried, lost, overshadowed?) Are you near similar or different dealers. What is your preference?

5. Which way does the traffic seem to flow in your Group Shop? (Watch the movement)

6. Can you hang lighting fixtures for sale and other items above your booth?

7. Are there any built in shelves in your booth? Are their natural walls? Are their any structural "quirks" taking up your space?

8. Is your booth large enough for furniture? Can you fit a showcase in your booth?

9. Is there electricity in or near your booth?

10. Are you close to the front desk? (I was rented space next to the register..great location).

11. Do you mind being on the second floor or basement level? Is the rent much less for these options?

12. Is there a lot of staff on the floor to help customers and to open showcases? Watch the activity first hand.

Postscript: Often it takes time before you learn about the premier spots in any given Antique Mall. In very good Antique Malls you may have to work your way up to the better real estate.
If there is truly a waiting list in the mall you are after, keep checking with the owner. Many times it is all a matter of timing. Stick with it, and be wary of a place that has a lot of openings....
busy and successful Antique Malls are worth the wait. And by all means talk to as many dealers as you can before hand and get the inside scoop.

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.

Dish n' Dat: A Hip Retro Inspired Diner-esque Restaurant in Canton, Connecticut

Go Antiquing Nearby And Dine At Dish n' Dat

I'm not sure what took me so long to visit Dish n' Dat, a hip retro inspired diner-esque restaurant located in The Shoppes Of The Farmington Valley, Canton, Connecticut ...but I'm a big fan now.

Fun Dining In A Retro Chic Place

This grand sized FUN casual restaurant is decorated in upscale urban chic with a retro twist. And the food is delicious and worth the visit. You can come with the family for an enjoyable afternoon lunch or supper, dine with friends for dinner, meet and greet at the bar, throw a party or indulge in a dellcious weekend breakfast.

Just like the old fashioned diner, Dish n' Dat offers lots plenty of comfy menu options and generous hours of operation, but hey...let's be totally honest ...this place aint' no diner! Their menu is creative, eclectic and re-freshing. (My favorite is The kitchen Sink under salad options).

Sample Selections From The Dish n' Dat Menu

Here are some sample dishes from their on-line menu:

The Kitchen Sink 9.
romaine, tomato, cucumber, beans,
feta cheese, crispy corn tortilla, balsamic


Junkyard Dog Burger 13.
bacon, Swiss cheese, bbq pulled pork, cole slaw

Greek Salad 8.
romaine, cucumber, feta, olives, tomato, red onion,
fresh mint, oregano, crisp pita, red wine vinegar

DISH Specialty ~ Tortellini Rose 16.
four cheese tortellini, sweet Italian sausage,
mushooms, spinach, tomato cream sauce

Hebrew National All Beef Hot Dogs 9.
double dogs, spicy mustard, bbq onions

Jersey Breakfast Burger 12.
Taylor ham, fried egg, American cheese

Soup ‘n Sandwich 9.
choice of: chili, daily soup, matzo ball, tomato
choice of: chicken salad, tuna salad, egg salad
no choice of side with this item

Lots of appetizers, desserts, milk shakes and specialty drinks.

Dish n' Dat
Shoppes Of The Farmington Valley
110 Albany Turnpike
Canton, Connecticut
860-693-4927

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.

Collecting 1950s Anodized Aluminum And Metal Housewares

Popular 1950s Kitchenwares

These kitchen collectibles are right out of a 1950s kitchen for sure. I had to share these wonderful
examples of Atomic Era housewares which I discovered on Persimmon Lane on Etsy.Com.

1950s Aluminum Beverage Set

Look how great these colorful aluminum beverage tumblers look. It is so hard to find them in such good shape and in a complete set.

These tumblers are marked "Hawthorn" and include eight "glasses" total with two of each color, red, blue, gold and greenish yellow.

Metal Canister Set For Tea, Coffee, Flour, Sugar

And those of us who grew up during the 50s, remember the metal canister sets that were so typically found on Mom's Formica counter top to store coffee, team sugar and flour. This set is also from the collection on Persimmons Lane.

Paper Towel, Foil, Wax Paper Wall Dispenser

Last but not least is the metal wall dispenser (from Persimmons Lane) which held paper towels, foil and wax paper. Oh yes, wax paper was very big back in the 50s. These dispensers seem like such a great idea, I wonder why they lost popularity?

Need I tell you that when you buy aluminum or metal kitchen collectibles, be sure to look for scratches, dents, rust and wear. By the way, I have a wall dispenser in mint condition in my shop. I took it out of its original box to display it..peeling plastic wrap off the metal. So if you want more than one of these... you now know where you can find two!

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 Wallpaper is Charming For Your Country Cottage Or Retro Kitchen

I am always after great kitschy kitchen wallpaper, especially patterns of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. I have decided to show you some adorable kitchen samples from Hannah's Treasures, a terrific on-line resources with a large inventory.

While working on my second book, Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes, I discovered Hannah's Treasures and showcase many examples of their wonderful papers in my book.

Country Cottage Kitchen

The papers shown in this post were first presented in my chapter "Country Cottage Kitchen" in Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes. Whether you use papers like this in a cottage home or in a retro kitchen, the overall look is charming and attractive.

Kitchen papers were typically patterns of ivy, plaids, cherries, bricks, florals, lattice, geometrics, stripes, tweeds, housewares, plates, leaves, bouquets, fruit, farm scenes and more.

Color Palettes Of 1930s, 1940s, 1950s Kitchen Wallpaper

Color palettes in the 30s and 40s were generally softer than the later decades. Soft pastels of yellow, green, blue, gray, rose, beige, cream were typical.

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.

Red, Green, Yellow Kitchen Collectibles Warm Up Today's Kitchen

1930s And 1940s Kitchen-wares You Will Adore

I melt over red, yellow, green kitchen collectibles and generally buy these items quicker than other color combination. To me they represent visiting my "Grandma Sophie" who I have talked about often. (See Hot Kitchen And Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s).

Grandma's Red And Yellow Kitchen

While I grew up in the 1950's, grandma's kitchen was a combination of 1930s and 1940's decor. As I have mentioned previously, red and yellow remind me of the times I sat at grandma's kitchen table watching her make chicken soup or cheese blintzes.

You'll Find These Vintage Kitchen Housewares At Kitsch n Stuff

These precious collectibles shown in this post are now in my shop Kitsch n Stuff which is part of the Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut.

I just added the hand painted goose today. Isn't his (or her) polka dot bow tie adorable? And the canister set...have you ever seen a set like this before? It is stamped "Maid Of Honor". The set has four tin canisters with different floral designs.

Last, but not least is the wonderful tulip beverage set. I'm guessing this red, green and white pitcher and glasses is from the 1940's. It was in surprisingly great shape. The printed tulips are
nice and clear and intact.

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.

Collecting Rooster And Hen Collectibles...Cock-a-doodle-doo

Chicken Lovers Adore Rooster And Hen Collectibles.....

Cock-a-doodle-doo....finally a post on collecting roosters and hens. First of all what is the
difference between a rooster and a hen? Well to begin with they are both chickens! The rooster is the male chicken and the hen is the female chicken.

What Do You Call A Male Chicken?

Now cover your ears...the male chicken (Gallus gallus) is also called a cock. Oy vey...I told you to be prepared.O.K. now that we have introduced you to the world of chickens..guess what they call an immature male chicken? The answer is that a male chicken under 1 years old is called cockerels. But here is my 64 dollar question? What do you call an immature cock over one years old? I betcha, a lot of you can fill in the blanks.

Collecting Roosters And Hens

So back to collecting roosters and hens. How can you tell the difference between whether you have found a rooster or a hen? And can you apply chicken theory to collecting figurines and kitchen-wares? According to my on-line sources, male chickens (rooster) have bigger egos and females (hens) tend to be short and fat. But the key difference is that roosters crow and hens don't. Yikes...that won't help us when we are shopping for a ceramic figurine...will it?

Roosters Are Colorful And Guard The Nest

Roosters tend to have more colorful feathers and are generally standing up and showing off. While hens are hanging around on their nest watching Oprah. You will find that it's easy to find lots of lovable roosters and hens for all different budgets. Many of these popular collectibles are unmarked and were probably Dimestore imports.

So Many Types Of Rooster And Hen Collectibles To Buy

Buyers will discover rooster and hen images on so many vintage kitchen collectibles including canisters, bowls, textiles, plates. refrigerator dishes, cookie jars, match holders, beverage glasses, coffee mugs, clocks, etc. You will also come across plenty of rooster and hen figurines in pairs or singles used as salt and pepper shakers, planters, wall pockets, toothpick holders, egg cups, decorative figurines, spice shakers, molds, spoon holders etc.

Check For Chips, Missing Paint, Cracks Etc.

When buying these collectibles check to see if the item is part of a pair or single. The price should reflect that difference. Examine your items and be sure there are no cracks or chips, paint or parts missing . You can find these collectibles in all price ranges. Royal Copley and Holt Howard collectibles are priced higher than everyday Japan novelties. Milk Glass hens and roosters are also popular. There are lots of reproductions out there so buyer beware.

Rooster tablecloth photos courtesy of
http://dancinglady.tripod.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.

The Joy Of Junking: Antiquing Is The Great Escape

When Crazy Get's Too Crazy: You Can Always Count On A Mini-Antique Road Trip

Collectors On The Couch Series

I am sure I can speak for the great majority of fellow junksters that when we are out "antiquing", we are completely at rest.

Is there any better solution to the hustle and bustle of everyday life than to go on a little junking excursion? When the "crazy" gets too "crazy", I can count on a mini-antique road trip to sooth the nerves.

Antiques And Collectibles Don't talk Back

The best part of coming home with a trunk filled with goodies is that they DON'T talk back to you in the car. They sit quietly in their musty bags or dusty boxes and wait patiently to arrive to your home where these vintage fellas will soon get a refreshing bath or comforting polishing.

No Kvetching, Whining, Teasing..Junking Joy.

Unlike family members who "kvetch" (whine), argue, fight, annoy, tease etc., collectibles mind their own business and thrive on nurturing and care. In fact, before I sat down at my computer to post this article, I unpacked my shopping spree from Tuesday.

As I unwrapped the retro glassware, refrigerator dishes and roosters that were packed into three boxes, I could sense that the "good feel" hormones were kicking in. Oh, yes, the joy of junking!.

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.

Funky Three Dimensional Wall Decor: Everything But The Kitsch N Sink:

Retro Hang-Up Series: Wall Decor Gone Mad

Take a look at this grand wall decor assemblage, a kitschy "collage" made of all things vintage and then some. Old chairs, "Paint By Number" paintings, bowls, mirrors and more are all arranged together and mounted on the wall.

This is out of control fun organized in a wonderful mix of objects of various shapes, textures, colors and uses. But as they say in the biz....."IT WORKS".

Come on, be honest, don't you want to try this at home?
And look how the objects are overlapped.....great for those of us who hate measuring and spacing out our frames etc.

To be honest, I do see a resemblance to this wall decor assemblage and the inside of my garage.


This Retro Hang-Up was spotted at:
Anthropologie

Evergreen Walk
300 Evergreen Way, #316
South Windsor, CT 06074

(860) 432-4964

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.

Visiting Silk City Antiques And Decor In Downtown Manchester, Connecticut

Silk City Antiques And Decor
Retro, Vintage And Country Kitchen-wares,
Furnishings And More

I was off to Silk City Antiques in Downtown Manchester, Connecticut today on a buying spree. This is one place I reluctantly want to tell you about because it is one of my secret haunts.
I find lots of bargains here and I love their selections.

Since I moved my shop Kitsch n Stuff to the front of The Collinsville Antiques Company, I'm getting much more exposure and many of my kitchen collectibles seem to be finding new homes. lately, lots of my advertising tins and containers are being bought.

And some of my kitschy kitchen things which have been in my inventory for awhile have finally gotten the attention they needed in their new location.

Silk City: An Eclectic Group Shop

Let me get back to telling you about Silk City Antiques. I would call this place a medium size group shop with a lot of special dealers. You will find a very eclectic mix of vintage, retro, country, cottage, antiques and collectibles at Silk City. In my last trip to this fun mall, there were lots of cabin collectibles that were very very unique. Today, I found plenty of 1940s kitchen collelctiblels. The prices are generally very fair and the items tend to be unique and fresh each time I visit. I always come home with a few boxes of goodies.

Owner Beth Ringo Buys Lots Of Kitchen Stuff

Beth Ringo, the owner is very pleasant to work with and runs a very organized shop. She has been in the business for a long time and seems to like many of the same things I adore. Beth has a lot of contacts and is called to many homes for estate liquidations. She seems to find lots of kitchen collectibles and plenty of 1930s, 1940s and 1950s small and accessories.

Today I bought the following:
Roosters
Chickens
Refrigerator Dishes
Sailboat Glasses
Salt & Pepper Shakers
Books
Picnic Tin

NOW THAT WAS A GOOD DAY!

Silk City Antiques And Decor
845 Main St
Manchester, CT 06040
860-533-1263

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.

Going Back To The "Old Neighborhoods" : Returning To Fresh Meadows And Bayside Queens

Going Back Home To Queens, New York: Remembering The 1950s, 1960s and 1970s

This post is about going back to the "old neighborhood'. It's been over twenty five years or more since I visited the house of my teen years. And even longer since I returned to the Garden Apartment of my Elementary School Days.

Country Village In Bayside, New York

So I decided to venture back home to Queens, New York to see what the old neighborhoods were looking like. To my pleasant surprise, my Bayside house looked just great. The lawn was still as green as when my dad fussed with it. All the homes in "Country Village" were well cared for.

Earth Tone Interiors Back In The 1970s

Back in the 1970's, my mom had what she described as an "expensive" Burnt Orange tiled floor in the entrance way. The large tiled floor coordinated with all the Oranges, Olive Greens and Golds that were found throughout our very first "dream-house". Boy, I can still remember the Mushroom Green velvet drapes hanging in the Master Bedroom. But compared to our humble previous apartment, this earth-tone house was a palace!

Neighbors With A Black, White and Kelly Green Living Room

Next door, in the attached house, were our longtime neighbors who did their 1970's home in Black, White and bright Kelly Green. The image of their living room is forever stuck in my memory as clear as can be. I believe I also had a bathing suit which "matched" this color palette. Oh, yes the 70's were indeed an interesting decade for "unique" decor!

Returning To "Meadow Lark" in Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York

And when I returned to "Meadow Lark", our family's first apartment complex, the place also looked amazing after so many years and tenants. Oh, how I wished I could re-visit the interior of that apartment as it was in the 1950s and 60's.

I would find pink Ballerina wallpaper in my bedroom; white "brick" Faux textured wallpaper in the dining room; plastic fruit inside a Milk glass bowl on the table; beige flat carpets in the living room; Venetian Blinds on the windows; Gravel artwork over the couch and lots of Mosaic tiled, bowls, trivets and accessories made my my dad.

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.

"Good 2 Go" Is A Retro Cool Place For Hot Summer Take-Out Dinners, Avon Connecticut

"Good 2 Go": Delicious Easy To Travel Meals Retro Style

It's too hot to cook.....so the way to get through this sizzling summer is to dash over to "Good to Go" and have Billy send you home with a great easy to serve take out summer meal. Billy calls his place "comfort food for a busy world".

Of course you know that I only write about places that are are retro cool with great food. And "Good 2 Go " is just that kind of place.

Visiting Old Avon Village

Located in the charming "Old Avon Village" of Avon, Connecticut, "Good To Go" is a cute little eatery decorated in 1950's style. This is quite a change for the Village which evolved from a old fashioned country styled shopping village years ago to a newer "updated" shopping center.

Getting Back That Neighborhood Feeling

"Good 2 Go" makes you feel like you are back in your neighborhood coffee shop, but kicked up a notch with today's version of retro. A slick but casual black and white tiled counter with red Formica and vintage decor make this place a comfy hang-out or adorable place to pick up take -out.

Try The Chopped Salad

My favorite light dinner is Billy's Chopped Salad with Grilled Chicken. Other delicious easy to travel complete meals he makes which are quite good are Grilled Salmon, Stuffed Shells, Lasagna. Most of his entrees are large enough for two people.

A Sampling From Billy's Menu
(in Billy's own words"

Billy's Blue Plate: Open Faced Meatloaf Sandwich - Thick Cut Cheddar Meatloaf with Hunter Style Gravy and Shoestring Fries

Italian Tuna Salad Salad - Our "secret recipe" Italian tuna salad ( no mayo) over crisp romaine, cucumber, grape tomatoes, artichoke hearts, shredded carrot, red onion and house made croutons - topped with Asiago cheese

Cheeseburger Club Sandwich - 8 oz. top sirloin patty with American cheese, Applewood smoked bacon, lettuce and tomato on toasted wheat bread with a side of Cole slaw

Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla- Lightly breaded chicken breast with diced tomato, cherry peppers, shredded carrot, cheddar cheese and tangy buffalo sauce on a Southwest tortilla - salsa and sour cream on the side

My Favorite Grilled Cheese - American and provolone cheeses with honey ham, bacon, sliced tomato and sweet n' hot mustard on over-sized griddled rye bread with a side of tater tots


Good 2 Go
11 East Main Street
Avon, CT.
860-676-8646
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.

Hot New Releases In Kitchenware: Hot Kitchen And Home Collectibles 2nd Edition

Are You Ready For Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles 2nd Edition ?

In my new book, (about to be released) I have added kitchen-wares of the 60s and 70s as well as a new huge chapter on toy kitchen collectibles; another great chapter on retro tablecloths: dish towels; aprons; curtains; hardware; chef themed collectibles; more 1930s and 1940s dinnerware and ovenware; plastics; gadgets; advertising;shelving paper; recipe booklets; Home magazines; catalogs; drugstore; vanity; holiday; housewares; pantry and more............
This book is published by 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.

Buying Kitschy Housewares For Your Vintage Kitchen

Collecting Retro Housewares In Their Original Package

Vintage housewares in their original package are favorites among retro kitchen collectors. Kitschy and clean gadgets in their original wrappings are hard to come by. but a real treat when discovered.

Finding Gadgets In Their Original Package

Let's face it there is something about getting a houseware in mint condition that sure beats browsing through a bin of dusty, rusty , musty fellas. Wouldn't you love to have these 1950s
" Squeezit Mustard Dispenser s" ?

Kelley Street Vintage on Etsy.com seems to find the best examples of beautifully packaged housewares. You go gal!

Fun Graphics

Some collectors are after the graphics, others want a particular item such as an apple corer or a meat thermometer. And yet other buyers actually use their retro treasures and want the good ole stuff because they are much better made than the imports of today.

Cheap Thrills

And the nice thing about collecting vintage housewares form the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s is that you can pick up these items for $6.00-12.00 usually. Now that's a hobby you can live with!

Getting Started On Your Housewares Hobby

My favorite book on the topic is by Brian Alexander and called Spiffy Kitchen Collectibles.

And of course another terrific resource is my own book, "Hot Kitchen And Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s, coming out in a few weeks in an expanded SECOND EDITION

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.