Saturday, January 29, 2011

Ideas For Your Yellow And Black Vintage Kitchen

Collecting Yellow And Black Vintage Kitchen Collectibles

Today I began my YELLOW and BLACK journey for kitchen collectibles. I have so much fun putting together different color combinations in my shop "Kitsch n Stuff". And it is time for a marriage of yellow and black.

Inspiration For Kitchen Ideas

All it takes for me to get started on a particular palette is to see an appealing display in a shop I am visiting and I am off and running with new ideas for my own shop.

Yellow, Black, Gray Is a Great Vintage Palette

Sometimes I will use the colors on a vintage tablecloth to help me figure out a new color combination .... or in the case of today's yellow and black vintage
kitchen, my inspiration came from a display of yellow, black , gray coffee mugs spotted at Salmon Brook Antiques in Granby, CT.

Yellow And Black Works For Bumble Bees (and Kitchen Collectibles)

Lets face it.....yellow and black has always worked well for Bumble Bees! Now I'm challenged to find yellow and black housewares and kitchen accessories to show you how great these collectibles look together.

Ideas For Vintage Kitchen Collectibles

Yellow and black (and gray) kitchen-wares, tables and decorative items were especially popular in the 1950s.

Also Look For:

1. Plastic kitchen canisters
2. kitchen scales
3. beverage glasses
4. lemonade pitcher
5. Pyrex (Gooseberry pattern)
6. Formica tables
7. aprons
8. tablecloths
9. stools
10. tin picnic basket

Table and Chairs Photo Courtesy of http://www.classickitchensandmore.com

Picnic Tin photo Courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/shop/RollingHillsVintage

California tumbler photo courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/shop/RetroRevival

Plastic canisters photo courtesy of http://www.ronebergcairns.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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Friday, January 28, 2011

Old Village Antiques, Avon, CT Having BIG Estate Overflow Sale January, 29th and 30th, 2011

HUGE Tag Sale Old Avon Village "Old Village Antiques" , Avon, Ct.
I stumbled across a BIG Estate Sale taking place Saturday January 29th and Sunday January 30th at Old Village Antiques, LLC. Owner Stephen Gero has filled the building next to his store, Old Village Antiques with what he is calling his "Estate Sale Overflow".

Whopper Indoor Tag Sale at Old Village Antiques Annex

While shopping at Old Village Antiques during the week, the gal working the desk spilled the beans and told me Stephen was next door getting ready for a whopper indoor Tag Sale. Stephen let me into the building ahead of time to take some photos to show you what he will be letting go of this weekend at Tag Sale prices.

What You Will Find At The Avon, Connecticut Estate Overflow Sale

You will find lots of old books, ceramics, glassware, paintings, prints, decoys, hammered aluminum, pictures frames, furniture, Mid-Century, lighting, kitchen-wares, Depression glass, serving pieces, chairs, mirrors, candlesticks, decorative accessories, rugs and more.

Stephen Gero is well known for his high quality antiques and decor. He told me that when he is offered an estate sale and goes to "clean out" homes he accumulates so much stuff that he needs to liquidate the overflow.

Bargains At Old Village Antiques Tag Sale

I found many very fairly priced items at this very exciting Overflow sale which will take place on Saturday January 29th and Sunday January 30th from 9:00 to 4:00 P.M. next door to Old Village Antiques. The sale is located at 25 east Main Street, Avon, CT in the Old Avon Village Complex. 860- 674-8621

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Using A Styrofoam Cone Shape Form To Display Vintage Costume Jewerly

Look how cool these vintage yellow flower pins look displayed on a green Styrofoam cone form. The form is sitting on a tray alongside a sweet picture frame.

I can see this idea working for all kinds of whimsical costume jewelry pins, especially colorful 1960s Flower Powers styles.

Styrofoam is inexpensive and comes in so many different shapes. You will find balls, blocks, rings, cones and other shapes.

Can you spray paint Styrofoam? Ordinary spray paint will melt Styrofoam. For more information on paint Styrofoam read: How To Paint Styrofoam.

You could also cover the Styrofoam form with vintage material or wallpaper.

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Fresh Frugal Ways To Preserve Lemons

Preserving Food Tips For Retro Homemakers
The Thrifty Kitschy Housewife Series

Are you keeping your FISH LEMONS CHEESE mixed in with your milk or butter? Shame on you. You clearly are not running a well run kitchen! Read on and you will see just how you should be preserving your strongly flavored food

Learn From A Vintage Balabusta

I know something about this topic because while I'm buried in SNOW (and can't go out hunting for antiques and collectibles) , I have been reading every page of "Household Hand Book", a booklet published long, long , long ago. I am becoming such a kitchen maven . My secret source is Lily Haxworth Wallace, A Edwardian Era balabusta. I am actually picking up a lot of useful information from this properly prepared award winning homemaker, author, lecturer.

So, I will share with you her ideas about FISH LEMONS CHEESE

"or any strongly flavored food, should not be placed in the same compartment with milk or butter.

Steps To Preserving Lemons
The Old Fashioned Way By Lilly Haxworth Wallace

"1. A kitchen economy is to grate the rinds from lemons as soon as the come in from the store,or at any any rate while they are still fresh.

2, Add an equal quantity of sugar, place in small jars and cover closely.

3. The fresh flavored essential oil is preserved, and the lemon rind is ready for use when needed for frosting pies or puddings or for flavoring , instead of being wasted as is so often the case where only lemon juice is called fro in a recipe.

4. Incidentally, the lemon juice, mixed with thick sugar will also keep for several weeks if kept tightly closed and in a cool dry place."

If you try this, let us know how things turn out. Remember this post is based on Lily's ideas .

By the way, Lily Haxworth Wallace was the author of Rumford Cook Book and a dozen other books on cooking and home management. According to a blog called "On Food and History" Lilly emigrated to the United States from England in 1900. She was a specialist in home economics and lectured and taught cooking skills to women throughout the country.

Lemon Pie Recipe
2 Tbsp. corn starch
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup boiling water
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 Tbsp. butter
2 eggs
Salt
Grated rind 1/2 lemon
2 Tbsp. sugar

Combine corn starch and 3/4 cup sugar. Add water slowly, stirring constantly. Cook over hot water, stirring constantly, until thick and smooth. Add slightly beaten egg yolks, butter, lemon rind and juice, and a few grains salt. Cook 2 minutes. Pour into baked pastry shell. Cover with meringue made of the egg whites and 2 tablespoons sugar. Bake in slow oven (325 F.) 20 minutes.

Read More about Lemon desserts:

http://joyofdesserts.blogspot.com/

http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,2126/title,Luscious-Lemon-Desserts/

Top image courtesy of http://joyofdesserts.blogspot.com/
Juicer photo is courtesy of http://augustvintage.blogspot.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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Visiting "Retro Genie" A Vintage Clothing And Collectibles Shop In Northampton, Massachusetts


Northampton Massachusetts , Dubbed NoHo Of Hamphire County, Massachusetts

I'm glad to know that there are still groovy gals out there who appreciate Retro clothing, clothing and accessories.

Introducing "Retro Genie"

One long established shop which caters to the vintage set is "Retro Genie" on Market Street in Northampton, Massachusetts.

Northampton Is A Funky Artsy Town

Northampton is a funky, artsy college town, home to Smith College, lots of lively musical and art programs, fabulous eateries, trendy clothing stores and often dubbed the NoHo of Hamphire County.

Smith College Part Of Five Colleges

Smith College is part of what is called The Five Colleges, including Hampshire College, Amherst, U Mass and Mount Holyoke all nearby to Northampton.

Northampton Has A Vibrant Downtown

Northampton has always been known as a vibrant downtown which is home to street musicians, festivals, cultural activities, Gay friendly, politically active young residents and a counter culture vibe.

Finding Vintage Shops On Market Street

On a recent visit to this very popular eclectic town, I made my way to Market Street, a quiet charming older setting which has a half a dozen retro/vintage shops and a Multi-dealer Antique Center. "Retro Genie" is a very hip shop packed with lots of 50s, 60s, 70s skirts, dresses, coats, aprons, shoes,hats, scares, jewelry, accessories and more.

Hello Atomic Era

While they carry clothing from other decades, you can't help but feel like you just went back in time the Atomic Era and Psychedelic 60's.

Mixed in with racks and racks of clothing covering every inch of this small , stuffed but organized shop are Retro home collectibles such as barware, beverage sets, serving ware, picnic ware, kitchen collectibles, books, etc.

Retro Genie

15 Market Street
Northampton, Mass
413-584-4364

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Funky Frugal Ways to Clean Kitchenwares

Cleaning Tips For Retro Housewives
The Thrifty Kitschy Housewife Series

Skip the Brillo ...hello potatoes
....clean with potatoes?....now that is a really kitschy GREE
N way to be a frugal mom (dad) and "housewife" .Yes I said you can clean with potatoes and even bread.
Imagine that, I have just discovered a new use for all the crusty bread sitting on my kitchen counter. Hang in there...this will all become clear in just a moment.
I am watching the snow fall....again...and I have stumbled across some totally fruity ideas that appear to have worked in kitchen back in the day. I'm not saying that these pearls of wisdom will work for everyone......but if you are still using older pots and pans or like kitchen collectibles...you may want to keep some of these tips handy.
If you try any of these ideas......let us know..

To Clean Aluminum:


use a fine metal or silver polish. Use nothing that will scratch it. If food should scorch in an aluminum pan, cover the burned area thickly with salt. Let stand for several hours, rinse and use more salt to rub off the scorch.

To Clean Copper or Brass
:

if copper or brass is very dirty, put some fine salt on a plate, dip into it a cut lemon and rub on the metal. The strong acid will remove the worst stain.

Metal Coffee Pots
:

should always be bright on the inside to insure good coffee. By occasionally boiling soap, water and washing soda in them they will be kept in excellent condition.

To Clean Rusty and Bl
ackened Knives:

use half a raw potato dipped into brick dust.


To Clean A Frying Pan:

rub with a hard crust of bread, and wash with hot water and washing soda. Never scrub it or the next food fried in it will be be likely to stick.

Saucepans and Baking Dishes:

should be filled with cold water immediately after using, so as to prevent fragments clinging to them. By doing this they may be cleansed in half the time otherwise required.

Source: Edwardian Era Booklet "Household Hand Book " By Lilly Haxworth Wallace

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Antique Booth Ideas: Using The Center Of Your Booth

What Is In The Middle Of Your Antique Booth?

If you sell antiques in a booth in an Antique Mall you know that space is very precious to you. Here is an important question....what does the middle of your booth look like? Some dealers like to keep the middle of their booth open and airy, encouraging people a good view of the contents of the booth. But you can also gain more display space by using the center of your booth in a number of clever ways.
Creating A Center Aisle In Your Antique Booth

With proper planning, you just may be able to create plenty of walk around space and still utilize the center of your booth effectively. Many dealers have created a center aisle in their booth using narrow shelves and or tables which essentially cut the booth into two halves. This idea works well when you have a full booth which can support a center divider made of low and open shelves. Remember you do not want to make the center aisle to tall so that visitors can not see whats in your booth.

Using The Middle Of Your Antique Booth With One Main Shelf Or Fixture

An alternative to creating a row of slender shelves in the middle of your booth is to add just one shelf in the center of the booth. You can angle the shelf as is shown in the second picture or use one central fixture which can be accessed from all angles as is shown with the pink wide shelf shown in the bottom picture.

Photos taken at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Retro Baby Nursery Gifts Made Out Of Vintage Colorful Tablecloths

Do You Need A Baby Gift For A Retro Mom & Baby?

New moms who like Retro accessories for their baby will enjoy "Vintage Whimsy Wipes". I found these terrific items on Etsy.com at a shop called "Shop Southern Yankee".

Made Out Of Old Vintage Tablecloths

These handmade fabric covered baby wipes are one of a kind and simply adorable. What a cute idea for a handy holder for wipes when traveling.
And I adore the bright exciting color combinations ribbon and button trim. These fun and funky baby gifts would go great with a coordinated retro diaper bag. You can find plenty of shops on Etsy.com that also make handmade diaper basg out of vintage fabrics and tablecloths.

Up-Cycle Fabrics


This gal makes her Whimsy wipes out of old tablecloths and other vintage textiles.

Rescue Vintage Fabrics And Make Something Useful

Jennifer is a one woman shop who likes to " rescue vintage fabrics and handcrafted textiles from resale & consignment shops, flea markets and garage sale and turn them into something useful & beautiful".

According to Jennifer " "Through our collecting, we pass on the fabrics of our mothers & grandmothers to our daughters & granddaughters".

Shop Southern Yankee has other creative Retro inspired nursery gifts including, vintage baby planters filled with cute vintage baby stuffings such as blocks, spoons, old baby cards etc.

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

1950's Pink Striped Shirtwaist Dress: Lucy Would Love

You Will Adore Metro Retro Vintage on Etsy
I can't wait for Spring so I can wear this delicious pink striped Shirtwaist dress, I spotted on Metro Retro Vintage

Here is what Metro Retro Vintage says about the dress they are featuring description below if from their website.

50's Lucy Style Shirtwaist Dress


Such a fab combination of colors makes up this adorable vintage early 50's Lucy style rockabilly shirtwaist dress with multi-colored stripes and pink accents.

The swingy dress almost has a two toned waitress look, and comprised of a cotton fabric with thin vertical stripes in lavender pink, teal blue, pale gray and charcoal, with pink collar and pink sleeve cuffs.

It has rolled cap style sleeves, v-neckline with shirt style collar that have tabs, fitted bodice, hidden metal side zipper, two woven string belt loops (no belt) and full pleated shirt.

Wonderful condition – with colors still vibrant and dress intact.

Please note measurements as follow and be sure to allow for ease.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust – 34 inches
Waist – 23 inches
Hips – Open
Length – 38 inches


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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Vintage 1950s Faux Fur Leopard Cheetah Swing Coat Featured At Metro Retro Vintage

Warm Up In This Retro Faux Leopard Swing Coat

I could swear my mom owned this very cool jacket I spotted on Metro Retro Vintage , BTW very clever name for an online vintage clothing store on Etsy.com. Metro Retro Vintage is also a member of my site I Antique Online.com

Here is how Metro Retro Vintage describes this wonderful faux leopard jacket:

1950's Faux Leopard Jacket

You’ll love swinging about town in this cool and rockin' vintage 50's faux leopard print swing coat. Throw on a pair of black pencil pants and some cat-eye glasses, and you’re ready to go!

The posh rockabilly style coat is animal-free and comprised of a synthetic "fur" in a leopard spotted pattern, in colors of golden orange/brown color with black and beige.

It has a notched bib style collar, long sleeves, oversized brown buttons and round patch pockets.

The neat coat has a good solid weight, and is fully lined in a brown satin fabric with small patch of red on the bottom inside lining (see close up pic) – however this is hidden inside the coat and neither shows nor detract.

Wonderful condition, with fur vibrant and intact.

*Remember – bulky coats may add an inch or more on the outside, but fit smaller within, so please note the following measurements and make a generous allowance for ease.

MEASUREMENTS
Bust – 42 inches
Waist – 42 inches
Hips – 42 inches
Length – 28 inches

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Monday is Wash Day: Hints For Thrifty Housewives

The Proper and Systemic Method of Doing Housework
The Thrifty Kitsch Housewife Series


Back in the day, many pamhlets and booklets were published to help women conduct the proper and systematic method of of of doing housework! Lily Haxworth Wallace, a Gold Medalist Graduate of the National Training School of Cookery compiled a booklet for Rumford Baking Powder on how to run a well planned household.
(Edwardian Era).

"Monday: Although it is the habit of many to wash on Monday, and while this method has much to recommend it, it has also some disadvantages, the principal ones being that it necessitates either soaking the clothes on Sunday, or leaving them in the water from Saturday night, neither of which is advisasble (sic)."

Tips On How To Put The House In Order On Wash Day

Monday is the day to keep free. Monday is the day "that the average house will be found to need rather more thorough attention".


1. Sort linens and mend holes before washing.
2. Keep Monday for doing needlework, repairs, etc.
3. Have the maid boil clothes while breakfast is prepared.
4. The Mistress must undertake the care of the bedrooms and also wash the breakfast dishes, so the maid can devote all her time and attention to the washing.

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Using A Piece Of Oil Cloth As A Kitchen Backsplash

Oh The Wonders Of Oil Cloth
The Thrifty Kitschy Housewife Series

Here is a neat idea which I discovered in a booklet from the early 1900's about using oil cloth as a protective wall covering behind sinks and stove.

Using A Piece Of Oil Cloth As A Backsplash

"If the wall around the kitchen sink is not tiled, put a large piece of thin table oilcloth on it.
fitted carefully around the sink itself, fastened with thumb tacks, or better, if possible, with a narrow molding which will hold closely to the wall. Splashings of water or grease can be wiped from the oilcloth much more easily than from the wall"

Source: Household Hand Book By Lily Haxworth Wallace undated

Photo courtesy of http://oilcloth.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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Friday, January 21, 2011

"Bundling" Antiques: How Pickers And Dealers Buy More For Less

How To Wheel And Deal When Buying Antiques And Collectibles

Learning From The American Pickers About Bundling 101


If you have been watching the popular television show "American Pickers", you know that Mike and Frank frequently talk about "bundling" items when they go out picking. The T.V. hosts call their gig, "Bundling 101". Many seasoned antique dealers (and of course pickers) who are out hunting for inventory, have discovered that when you group items together and then negotiate a price you often make a better deal with the seller.

Bulk Buying In The Antique Business

This strategy of "bulk buying" is also operating when you buy collectibles in what is called "a lot", generally referring to a box of stuff or a grouping of similar objects. You can buy "a box lot" of tools or " a box lot" of glassware etc. Or "a lot" of plain old junk.

Bundling Creates A Buzz For Buyers And sellers Of Antiques and Collectibles

When you buy collectibles and antiques as "bundle" or as "a box lot", the seller is generally averaging out the high and low values of the grouping or collection you have just "picked".
For both the buyer and seller, a certain degree of energy or momentum is created as the seller realizes that the buyer is not going to just buy something for let's say $10.00 but now has put together a "bundle" or grouping of collectibles that may now add up to $100 bucks or more.

The Psychology of Buying More Antiques For Less

The psychology behind this deal is that you sell more for less but you are moving stuff. Many antique dealers sit too long with everyday items that they could be moving out the door if they were a bit more realistic and playful in their negotiations. Lose the rigidity..... and you will would sell so much more.

No One Throws In A Picasso To Sweeten The Deal
And before I leave this topic of "bundling", I want to point out to the newbies (new in the biz) out there, that when you are caught up in the frenzy of a bundling deal.... take a moment to reflect on what you are in the middle of buying. It is very rare to pull one over anyone anymore....if it is too good to be true......something is fishy. No one is throwing in a Picasso to sweeten the deal!

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Antique Booth Display Ideas: The Importance Of Planning

Setting Up An Antique Booth Space In A Group Shop Can Be Fun: But Plan First

Are you getting ready to rent space in a Multi-Dealer Antique shop of an Antique Mall? Or are you ready to make some major changes in your current booth space? This post is for folks who need a little help with getting on with the task of setting up an Antique booth.

First Take A Tour Of The Antique Mall

To start the process, I encourage prospective dealers to take a very serious tour of the Mall they are considering. Come prepared with paper, a pencil, a tape measure and perhaps even a Digital camera. Stroll through the Antique Mall. Take some photos of the booths that get your attention or that you observe a clever display idea.

Taking Photos Of Your Antique Mall Booth Space

Also take photos of the booth or space that you will be going into. It's not a bad idea to capture some photos of the existing dealer in the space and then later, the space empty, if that is an option. Be sure to also take some photos of how the booth meets the aisle and what booths are next to yours.

Examine The Elements of Your Antique Mall Booth Space

The exercise of taking photos, allows you to really examine the elements of the space you are considering. Where are the walls? Do the wall go from floor to ceiling or are they partial walls? Are there columns? Is there a window in your booth? What about built in shelves? Is there a short ceiling or a tall one? Can you hang things from the ceiling? Where are the electric outlets? If there already is a display case in your booth, is it lighted? How many shelves does it have? Can you add more shelves? Is it locked?

What Fixtures Can You Buy Or Borrow From The Previous Dealer Or Other Dealer At The Antique Mall

Is the previous dealer interested in leaving or selling any fixtures, display cases etc? Does the owner of the Mall have spare display showcases or shelving to loan you or to sell to you? Also let the manager of the shop know that you may be interested in buying fixtures from another dealer who may also be leaving.

Floor Space In An Antique Mall

Do you want to put a rug down before you move in? How much floor space do you have? Make a drawing of your space. Add all the nooks and crannies. Than go home and measure some of the cabinets, shelves, display units you may want to bring to your space. Play around with a floor plan on paper first. You may not end up using the space in the same way as you imagine, but you will have begun to think through some of the ups and downs of the space and plan accordingly.

The Photos in this post were taken at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

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 I Antique Online 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 Society of Professional Journalists

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Red And White Kitchen Collectibles Featured At Kitsch N Stuff

You'll Find Plenty Of Red And White Vintage Housewares And Kitchen Collectibles At Kitsch n Stuff

My shop Kitsch n Stuff is packed with lots of red and white kitchen collectibles.
I am delighted with the look of red and white, colors that remind me of visiting my Grandma's kitchen in Brooklyn, New York. Many of the items that she had in her kitchen were from the 1940s when red and white kitchens were popular.

While I tend to buy a lot of vintage kitchen-wares in primary colors....I also acquire lots of pastel colored kitchen collectibles for my shop. Pink, a 1950s color is also sought after by Retro kitchen enthusiasts and collectors.

Red And White Kitchen Collectibles Are The Most Popular Color Combination

But now let me show off my red and white kitchen-wares which are by far the most popular color combination.

Before I pull apart my booth at The Collinsville Antiques Company to make room for a pastel collection, I thought I would show you some of my favorite red and white kitchen collectibles.

Always Fresh Finds At Kitsch n Stuff

I'm always bringing in aprons, kitchen canisters, spice jars, kitchen tools, doilies, enamelware, salt and pepper shakers, bowls, glassware and more.
Many people ask me where do I get my kitchen-wares? The answer is...I have built my collection or inventory that is for sale...one piece at a time. I'm always out shopping and bringing in lots of red and white collectibles, which I adore.

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 I Antique Online 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.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

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