Glasbake Kitchen Collectibles: McKee's Ovenware

Who Made Glasbake? The Kitschy Collector Gets To The Bottom Of This Mystery

Today I am getting to the bottom of the term "Glasbake" ? Here is the scoop....In 1917 The McKee Glass Company introduced "Glasbake Ovenware to compete with Pyrex ovenware which
was made by Corning Glass Works.

Glasbak was the original spelling for McKee's ovenware, but was changed to Glasbake sometime later.

"Glasbak" Versus "Glasbake" : History of Glasbake

According to Cathy and Gene Florence (Kitchen Glassware of The Depression Years) "Glassbake" was originally referred to as "Glasbak Ware" An early product brochure advertises "Glasbak" as "A Sanitary Baking Ware and Serving Ware Combined" which is made of glass.

McKee Glass Company

Later Glasbak would be spelled with an "e" Glasbake (1917-1953, followed by "Glasbake by McKee Divison of Thatcher Glass Corp., 1951-1961 and "Glasbake by Jeannette Glass, 1961-1983. Thatcher Glass sold the Mckee factory in the 1960s to Jeanette Glass.

Markings

Glasbake made by Jeanette after 1961 usually have a J prefix followed by a number on the bottom of each piece. (Kitchen Glasswares off The Depression Years-Cathy and Gene Florence. You will also see sellers refer to their items as "Glassbake". And some sellers refer to every kind of ovenware as "Glassbake" .

Glasbake: From Oven to Refrigerator
The beauty of "Glasbake" was that it was designed to be able to be used for cooking, serving and storing. More and more, returning to the use of glass in today's kitchen is becoming popular on environmentally conscious homeowners.

Can You Put Glasbake in The Microwave?

The term "Heat Resistant" is used on many Glasbake products instead of "Oven Proof". According to Cathy and Gene Florence (Florences Ovenware, Collectorbooks.com) , heavier Glasbake mugs can withstand use in the microwave. You will find some later editions of Glasbake mugs actually marked Microwave safe.

The Florences suggest testing earlier mugs by putting them in the microwave for ten seconds and seeing if the mugs gets hot. If it does, it may not withstand the microwave. The Florences do not discuss other types of Glasbake ovenware pieces. pieces.

Patterns and Styles Of Glasbake

Flamex

The "Glasbake" product was made in a variety of glass styles and patterns. For example, Sears and Roebuck sold "Crystal" Glass Cookware called "Flamex" which came in sets or individual pieces. Are you holding onto your hats? Flamex sold as a ten piece set for $1.49 back in the day.
You could even find a huge oven roaster (think Turkey) for $2.25. Mark Hargreaves produced a CD on Flamex, for more information about this topic visit: http://www.oldstuff.com/

Safe Bake

Safe Bake is a "Glasbake" product in heart shaped baking dishes. This product has a "Saben Glass Company" but is Glasbake.

Cameo With "Urn" Glasbake and "Cameo" Glasbake

Made by McKee Divison of Thatcher Glass manufacturing Company. Cameo Glasbak was advertised to serve oven-to-table in glass that looked as lovely as china. The advertisements read " Cameo in Glasbake contrasts classic Grecian figures in white against a background of soft Olympic Blue. There is also a "Cameo" pattern.

Currier and Ives

The Jeanette Glass Company issued a Glasbake pattern called "Currier and Ives". Currier and Ives is also made by Federal and Fire-King wares according to Cathy and Gene Florence. A full boxed set of this style would sell for $140-150.00.

"Wild Rose" Glasbake"

A floral rose pattern on white glass, this pattern is quite attractive and sought after.Prices are higher for these pieces because of their sweet look. You will find lovely photos of "Wild Rose" in a butter dish, refrigerator dish (two sizes) and also in a lovely covered canister set in Florence's Ovenware book by Collectorbooks.com.

Bakers and Casseroles of Glasbake

Probably most of us are familiar with this cute individual bakers. I have heard many people refer to them as "soup bowls". But they were originally advertised as "French Casseroles". They come in a variety of colors. Some complete sets come with serving tiles to place under the baker or casserole.

More Ovenware Patterns Of Glasbake

Blue Floral
Blue Fruit
Brown Floral
Daisy Days
Fleur de Lis
Grecian
Green Floral
Ivy
Mushroom
Red Floral
Snowflaake
Wheat
Queen Anne
Hen baker
Glabake patioware
Glasbake baking Shells

Other Glasbake Products

Hottles (serve coffee, soup, hot beverages).
Measuring Cups
Cereal bowl
Florette platter
Flamex saucepan
Mix Master Bowl Sets
Mugs
Percolator
Glasbake & Range-tec
Covered individual casseroles

Read More;

Florence's Ovenware by Gene and Cathy Florence, Collectorbooks.com

Kitchen Glassware of the Depression Years by Cathy and Gene Florence, Collectorbooks.com

McKee Kitchen Glass of the Depression Years by Barbara E. Mauzy, SchifferBooks

Flamex Information: http://www.oldstuff.com/

Photos Courtesy of :
http://www.etsy.com/shop/vintagejunque
http://sewshesews.wordpress.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BusyBree
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PreserveCottage

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.

SNEAK PREVIEW: Hot Kitchen And Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Beyond SECOND EDITION

SNEAK PREVIEW: Hot Kitchen And Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond SECOND EDITION

My ever popular book in its new expanded edition is coming out this summer 2010. (in ONE MONTH) But you can order it now at Collectorbooks.com or Amazon.com or your favorite bookstore.

Here is what is NEW in my book Hot Kitchen and Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Beyond Second edition: You will find everything you love about kitchen collectibles and MORE. Twenty five plus contributors also added many new images to my personal huge collection.

There is a brand new chapter on American Dinnerware (Pottery Guild, Universal, Harker etc.) with all new images.

A fabulous NEW amazing chapter on toy kitchen collectibles. You have never seen a collection like this before.

And then there is a brand new section on chef themed collectibles. This is so much fun.

Housewares galore.....love my new pages on kitchen decals.
Loving all the new photos of vintage housewares and collectibles.

And now 60's and 70s kitchen collectibles have been added.

Product Description

Buckle your seatbelt, hold on tight, kitschy kitchen collector C. Dianne Zweig, editor of Iantiqueonline.com continues the informative and nostalgic journey back to the colorful eras of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s in this revised second edition. Hot Kitchen and Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s, and Beyond is a favorite among collectors. Board the retro express, back to a time when homemaking and home décor was the key to keeping you and your family in stylish comfort. Readers who enjoyed going up and down the dime-store aisles or cherished their catalogs from Montgomery Ward or Sears will have just as much fun once again. This charming and well-researched 304 page resource book will capture your attention with over 500 full-color images of your favorite kitchen and home collectibles including kitchenware and pottery; everyday textiles; laundry, sewing, washday products, and accessories; bath and beauty essentials; vintage recipe and appliance booklets; magazines, advertising, and prints; as well as nursery and baby notions and décor.

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.

Collectors Adore "Cheezy" Anthropomorphic Kitchen Collectibles

Collectors Enjoy Cheezy Ceramic Kitchen Novelties

Question: Is there such as thing as "cheezy" kitchen collectibles? You betcha your kitschy cheese spreader there is. I am pretty educated on this matter...as you may recall, I told the world about about my Grandmother Esther's Bingo adventures in the Catskill Mountains of New york back in the 50s and 60s.

Learning At Bing Games About Future Collectibles

This is when I learned all about the "cheezy" kitchen-wares which were given out as Bingo prizes that were destined to become today's sought after kitchen collectibles. For more background on this topic of bingo prizes and my Shabby Thrifty grandmother, read the introductory section in my book, "Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes". Of course if you want to learn all about kitchen collectibles...you will love my book, "Hot Kitchen Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s (coming out next month in a second expanded edition).

Smiley Face "Anthropomorphic Tableware"

But now let me return to the matter at hand..." cheezy" ceramics which were generally imports and the type of kitchen accessory that you might find in your local Five and Dime store. These inexpensive housewares might be salt & pepper shakers, creamers, relish jars, tea bag holders, cruet sets, tea pots, spoon rests, cheese holders and trays etc. Often these novelty pieces had kitchen, fruit or vegetable themes with smiley faces and are called "anthropomorphic tableware". Of particular interest are the ones from PY/Miyao (Japanese imports).

Values of Kitchen Novelties Going Up

Today you would probably find these type of "cute" knick knacks at a "Dollar Store" or "The Christmas Tree Shops". But the kitchen-wares from the 40,s and 50s are hardly in the dollar category anymore. It is not unusual to find PY ceramics selling as high as $45.00-150.00.

For more about kitchen housewares and novelties please see my book "Hot Kitchen Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s (and beyond), soon to be released in a second edition July 2010. And a must read is Py Miyao Fun Kitchen Collectibles by Belinda Euans. You will see a great collection of "anthropomorphic tableware".

Read more:

Py Miyao Fun Kitchen Collectibles by Belinda Euans. http://www.amazon.com/Miyao-Fun-Kitchen-Collectibles-Reference/dp/0875886582

http://collectibles.about.com/cs/kitchenkitsch/gr/blBRpymiyao.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthropomorphism

http://www.crazy4me.com/

Collectibles Photos courtesy of Dawn Forbes http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/photo/album/show?id=1813674%3AAlbum%3A115300&xg_source=activity

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 B. Johnstone A Posh Vintage Shop In Kent Connecticut

Mixing Prada Shoes With 50s Kitsch

Introducing "B. Johnstone", a trendy boutique on North Main Street in Kent, CT which successfully mixes 50ish (and 60th) kitsch and collectibles with new and vintage clothing.

Trendy, Posh, Vintage

As luck would be, I found myself at the side entrance of this shop and I wandered inside. Hm...."Am I in a clothing store?" ...."Is this new stuff or old?" ...."Are those collectibles on the shelf"? ...."Where am I?"

I didn't want to ask too much too soon (very preppy guy at the desk). After all, if the clothes and decorative items were not second hand...I might be sorry I asked. So I wandered around a bit and returned to the desk. I was politely told that the shop carried a little bit of everything......whoa...I was in my comfort zone. The prices were fair...I stayed.

Schmaltzy Second Hand

As I started to spot vintage clothing, beverage sets, lamps, plates, clocks, dinnerware, pottery, serving pieces, vases etc. I calmed down....oh yes this is a schmaltzy (over the top) second hand store.

Upscale Thrift

But let's be perfectly clear...this store was upscale. There was a certain "edge" to the collectibles on hand, as well as outstanding presentions by owner Bartley Inge Johnstone who is for sure a master designer!

B. Johnstone
4 North main Street
Kent, CT
860-927.1272

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.

Antiquing In Connecticut

I Love Connecticut For Antique Shopping:
The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford

If YOU adore RETRO - KITSCH - FUNKY

Crank up the car ...get ready.....it is
a shopping trip you will love!

Shopping for antiques and collectibles in my home state of Connecticut is SUPER. What are you waiting for, there is no time like right now for antiquing!

The Nutmeg State Is Really "The Antique Nut State"

Let me know if you're coming and I'll give you some of my tips and secret haunts. My home state of Connecticut "The Nutmeg State" should be re-named "The Antique Nut State".
We have the best variety of shops and prices far better than all our neighboring states.

Looking For Kitsch, Retro, Vintage

Of course you know that I am mostly interested in vintage, retro, kitsch, cottage, kitchen-wares, textiles etc. so I am always making the rounds looking for my kind of "heaven" as defined by places that have funky finds.

I have traveled many states in search of some good deals and always feel that my own hunting grounds have some of the best places for antiques, collectibles and secret "junk spots".

You Will Love The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford

My shop (Kitsch n Stuff) is in The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut. This place is by far one of the largest Antique Malls still around . With over 20,000 square feet of shopping goodies and an in-house Retro cafe....this destination is really worth the ride.

Finding Everything at Collinsville Antiques Company

You will find anything and everything at The Collinsville Antiques Company including fabulous furniture and decorating items to a huge inventory of very fairly priced jewelry, glassware, ceramics, pottery, silver, vintage clothing, garden, kitchenwares, books, textiles, tin, toys, vanity, tablecloths, retro, tools, paintings, prints, maps, advertising, old signs, memorabilia, sporting collectibles, dolls, military, holiday, table top etc.


Hey...We're Family

What I like about The Collinsville Antiques Company is that even though it is very large, it operates like a family. There are many dealers on duty on the floor helping visitors. Most of the staff have been associated with this Multi-dealer antique emporium for a very long time and know the other dealers in the group shop. The staff always seems to have the inside tract on what is hot and what is not and where to find the new treasures.

Visiting The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford

The Colllinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford gets its name from it original location in the Collinsville section of Canton. A few years ago they found a new home on Route 44 about five miles away from their former spot.

The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford
283 Main St. (Rte. 44)
New Hartford, CT 06057
(860) 379-2290
Open 7 Days, 10am - 5pm

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.

In The RED, With Red, White And Black Kitchen Collectibles

I'm In The RED, With Red. Black And White Kitchen Collectibles

What a ball I had in my shop Kitsch n Stuff when I brought in a vintage red painted shelf and an adorable 1960s red pocketbook and began to create a retro display of red, black and white kitchen and home collectibles.

Grouping together objects for this display was very easy. The inspiration came from my cute red shelf which I found a few weeks ago while visiting Camelot Village Antiques in Vermont and a great red pocketbook (Plantsville, CT).

I Came Home With The Red Shelf...Hooray!

The price tag had fallen off the shelf and I was worried that the shelf was NFS....Not-For-Sale. Nope the shelf would soon be mine (the staff member called the dealer and a price was agreed upon).

I Had To Have This Vintage Red 1960s Pocketbook

Next, I found the red pocketbook on another shopping trip. I'm guessing the pocketbook is from the 1960s. My grandmother had a closet filled with similar handbags. Oh how I wished I had saved them. Now what does a pocketbook have to do with kitchen collectibles? Nothing...but it was red and I liked the way it looked in my vignette. Once I decide on colors, it is simple to pull out the objects that go together. Don't be afraid to add objects to a display that do not make sense.....variety helps to create interesting presentations.

You might even say that the pocketbook goes with the kitchen collectibles. Think of it this way.....you need a pocketbook to hold the money that you use to buy the kitchen stuff!

Adding A Touch Of Yellow And Or Green Perks Things Up

I paired collectibles that had some combination of red and white or red and black or black and white or all three. And when I got bored with these matched objects, I threw in some yellow and a touch of green. Hey it all works. And do you love the large round red and white barbecue tray?
When I create displays, I always try to find a prominent item to use as colorful backdrop.


Using Vintage Canisters As Risers

Canisters are great for using as risers for small collectibles, You get double duty out of them because they help to prop up your collectibles but they can be sold as well so they are not taking up space for nothing.

So here are the items I added to my vignette:

Black and white three piece tea pot, sugar, creamer.

Black and White tin canister set.

Red pocketbook.

Red and White checkered tin barbecue tray

Black floral tin tray.

Polka dot fire chief dog planter (white, red, black).

White and red flour sifter.

Glass juice with red cherries.

S & P's Rooster (red, white grey).

Vogart pillow, (black, white, grey, yellow).

Yellow pottery planter.

Crocheted pot holders, rose pattern, (white, red, green).

Ceramic Rooster (red and white).

Syrup (green plastic top).

Green Pyrex bowl.

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.

Kitsch n Cottage: Romantic Cottage Collectibles At Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford

Announcing Kitsch n Cottage: My Beautiful Collection Of Romantic Cottage Collectibles Now In My Shop At The Collinsville Antiques Company, CT

I took the plunge, I took an additional glass showcase at my Antique Mall which is called The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford. I added an expanded collection of Romantic Cottage Collectibles.

Introducing My Collection Of Romantic Cottage Collectibles

You will find some of my favorite finds including:chocolate pots, Vanity items, Half Dolls,Lipstick holders, Tea Cups,
handbags, Jewelry, Mirrors, Pill Boxes, Crystal, Silver Plated, Serving Pieces, Salts, Mustache Cups, Creamers, Sugars, Vases, Doll Accessories, Small Doll Dressers, Decorative Plates and Bowls, Victorian Accessories, Sachets, Powder Jars etc.

Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes

As many of you know, I wrote a book about this topic called Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes. You will find over 50 contributors in this book with fabulous examples of their collections. I particularly love some of the gorgeous
hand painted romantic dining collectibles.
Sweet Vintage Linens And Textiles On Hand
I find that many people who love cottage collectibles, also like vintage tablecloths, hankies,doilies, tea towels and embroidered textiles. Delicate floral patterned linens, as well as lace textiles are always sought after when in good condition and priced fairly. I love these textiles, but they are a lot of work!

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.

Bring Out The Beachy Kitsch: How To Create A Hip Summer Display In Your Antique Shop

Hip Summer Time, Tropical, Leisure And Beach Collectibles Look Great Displayed Together In Your Antique Mall Or Shop

Are you up for a cool idea in this warmer weather? Try grouping together all your picnic, beach, vacation, leisure collectibles together to create an attractive beach themed display. You could have so much fun with this idea.

Look Around Your Antique Shop For Summer Stuff

Look around your shop and see what beachy stuff you have. Add your favorite summer sport collectibles to the mix as well. And what you will get is a wonderful attractive display.

Prop Up Your Display

You can also add some 'props' to your beach themed table. For example, sea glass, rocks, sea shells, beach design tablecloth etc. Keep the colors bright and funky.


Set Up
A Special "Beach" Vignette In A Prominent Place In Your Antique Shop

Perhaps you might set up a special table when folks enter your shop to show off your beachy kitsch collectibles. Here is a beginning list of objects you might use for your beach vignette.

Collectibles For A Beachy Collectible Display

1. shell collectibles
2. fishing rods
3. picnic tins
4. Hula gals
5. fishing lures
6. vintage beach postcards
7. beach prints
8. hotel memorabilia
9. boats
10. nautical collectibles
11. surf board
12. books about the beach, sailing, travel,
13. Vintage Florida tablecloth.
14. Tiki collectibles
15. Lemonade Beverage Sets
16. vintage tin sand pails and shovels

Please add your ideas to this post.

Thanks to Peter at Tree House Antiques And Art in Canton, Connecticut for The Inspiration And some of the photos for this post.

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

Florida collectibles; http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/floridacollectiblesthefabandthefunky
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.

Using A Large Vintage Window As A Wall Partition In An Antique Shop

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall:
Hanging On A Window Wall

Are you short on wall space in your antique shop and looking for a clever way to "make a wall" ?
Well here is yet another clever idea from Tree House Antiques and Art in Canton, Connecticut.

Picking Up An Old Window On The Side Of The Road

Peter has used up all his wall space (and floor space) at Tree House Antiques, so he picked up a huge window (at the side of the road) and converted it to become a wall partition.

Covering The Window With A Lace "Curtain"

He covered the huge vintage window with a pretty lace curtain and is using it as a wall . A sweet vintage vanity table is placed in front of the "wall" and a charming mirror is hung on the (window) all.

Two Sides To This Wall Partition

But here is the beauty of this idea. Peter has actually created two walls when he uses the window as a wall partition. One side is in front of the vanity and hold a mirror, while the other side of the "wall" is a place for hanging pictures.

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.

Call It Junk Or "Chazarai": Quirky Collectibles Sell In Antique Malls

Making A Living Selling Quirky "Chazarai" In An Antique Mall

Selling quirky "chazarai" is how many antique dealers make their "bread and butter" while they are waiting for the big ticket items to move.
What is Chazarai?
What on earth is chazarai you ask? Well let me try to help you understand this Yiddish word. Derived from the Hebrew word khazer "pig" , chazarai is literally 'piggery' or understood more commonly as junk, garbage, junk food. But like other words translated from one language to another... the meaning may not be as harsh as the actual interpretation. For example "chazarai' is often used in the same way as another Yiddish word, "tchotchke" which refers to trinkets or knick knacks.

Running Out of Room For Chazarai (STUFF).

My dad would always be cleaning out his garage and he would be heard saying, I am running out of room for all this 'chazarai". We might say we are running out of room for all our "stuff". His mother, my grandmother, liked to collect everyone's "chazarai" and give these hand me downs a new life.

Collinsville Antiques Company Has Plenty of Colorful Dealers

In a big Antique Mall such as The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT you will find high end antiques as well as a real variety of sellers who all seem to have their own style and collecting interests. While some dealers like to stick to a particular theme or time period, others are generalists who dabble in this and that and do very well with a little bit of everything.

Meet Lance: The King Of Knick Knacks

Lance, a seasoned seller at The Collinsville Antiques Company seems to have a knack for knick knacks. Don't get me wrong he does indeed have some very important treasures in his super sized antique booth, but odds and ends appears to be his forte. Lance is by far what I would call the King of 'chazarai'. And he does quite well selling his menagerie of both peculiar as well as charming "collectibles".

I Love Booths You Can Poke Around In

I always have a good time poking around in cluttered booths. Even though one could make the case that for many dealers they seem to buy anything and everything to re-sell. There is indeed an overall theme going on in their displays. Many dealers simply specialize in "STUFF" which is offbeat, funky, quirky. They are the mavens of 'chazarai'!

Chazarai (Yiddish, חזירײַ khazerai 'filth' or, perhaps more literally, 'piggery', from חזיר khazer 'pig' from Hebrew חַזִיר "chazeer", pig) – junk, garbage, junk food.

The Cute Quirky Photos Are Courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/shop/RetroRevival

The Wierd Quirky Chalkware "Tchotchke" is From Lance's Collection 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 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.

East-West Grille In West Hartford Connecticut: Asian Cuisine In A Retro Diner

Delicious Asian Cuisine Served In A Funky Retro Diner

What happens when a Laotian family takes over an old retro diner? You get The East-West Grille, an experiment of Eastern culture in a Western setting. Since the 1940s, there has always been a diner at 526 New Park Avenue in West Hartford, Ct.

In The 1940s, Originally, The Yankee Flyer Diner

But back in the day the "Yankee Flyer Diner' which was brought here from Massachusetts by owner Nicholas Sotirhos was simply an old fashioned eatery where you could get eggs over easy, burger and fries or a BLT and more. The food was fast, comfortable and simple.

Yankee Flyer Diner Replaced in 1960's - Keeps Name

In the 1960s, Nick's son in law (John Kokinis) bought a new diner from New Jersey to replace the original "Yankee Flyer ". John who still flips burgers part time at a local diner (not his) , remembers how his own diner was transported over the George Washington Bridge to its home on New Park Avenue in West Hartford. John's dad owned diners in Hartford in the 1940s.

Manola Sidara, Born In Laos Buys The Diner

John sold the diner in 1989 and The Yankee Flyer has been through many more changes with a few different owners. In 2001, Manola Sidara, born in Laos and raised in Colorado, bought the diner and established a Pan-Asian restaurant which offers a new combination of traditional and "fusion" dishes from Laos, Thailand, China, japan and Vietnam.

While the diner's original turquoise interior is long gone, the current retro style red decor is quite funky and reminiscent of earlier times. And, Manola still serves an American breakfast in the morning and reserves the Eastern menu for for lunch and dinner.

Rave Reviews For The East-West Grille

The East-West Grille has earned rave reviews from diners. Although located in a commercial section of West Hartford (across from Home Dept), the restaurant is superb and worth the visit.
The presentation of the food is exquisite, with lots of attention to detail, garnishing and extremely fresh ingredients. Manola, a professional pastry chef, learned the secrets of Laotian food from her mother, Phet Zamountry. The food is light, flavorful and fairly priced. This restaurant is excellent!


For information and menus visit: http://www.eastwestgrille.com/about/

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.

Displaying Vintage Jewelry Using Colorful Crocheted Edged Hankies

Edged Hankies and Vintage Jewelry Look Great Together

Using different colorful crocheted edged hankies or dresser scarfs to showcase estate and costume jewelry in a glass showcase can really bring your display up a notch. Placing white hankies with different colored edged helps on the glass shelves helps to organize your collection and invites buyers to browse by color.

Hankies can Be Used For Many Displays

Take a look at these photos taken at the Burlington Inn Antiques Center in Burlington, Connecticut. Didn't this dealer do a lovely job presenting her vintage jewelry? And when you think about it, you could also do the same thing for pretty glassware, silver, ceramics etc.

Keep Those Crocheted Hankies Crisp

The secret to the best display is to make sure the hankie (hanky) is crisp and white and ironed real well and that the edging is nice and wide and not wimpy! Then all you do is select out the colors that match the edging of the hankie. in these photos, all the turquoise, green and blue costume have been separated and displayed accordingly. Doesn't these displays look quite attractive?

Photo are courtesy of http://www.burlingtoninnantiques.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.