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.

A Kitschy Vintage Standing Lamp That Grew Too Big

Is This Quirky Vintage Standing Lamp Kitschy Or Creepy?

This quirky vintage standing lamp reminds me of the musical Little Shop of Horrors which featured 1960s style melodies such as "Skid Row", "Somewhere That's Green" and "Suddenly, Seymour".

Audrey II ?

The lamp, much the same as the out of control Venus Fly Trap looking plant in the musical...takes on a life of it's own. A hapless florist responds to the cries of the plant which calls out "Feed Me" . The plant named "Audrey II" is dying but comes to life after Seymour accidently pricks his finger on a rose thorn and Audrey II thirst for blood is quenched.

Perhaps The Funky Lamp Belongs On The Set of "Hairspray" Instead Of Little Shop Of Horrors ?

I can't quite make up my mind whether this lamp belongs on the set of "Little Shop of Horrors" or "Hairspray". There is something about the giant flowers that makes me want to see the oversized babe in a beauty salon. Doesn't the lamp evoke images of a hair dryer? I picture this funky lamp sitting beside two hot pink chairs in a hair salon with a black and white Linoleum floor. And under the dryer is John Travolta. The outrageous lamp is yours for the taking...hurray up to the Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut where the lamp sits in Arnie's booth waiting to be fed!.

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 1970s Kitchen Linens: Hello Pink, Green And Black!

Pink, Green, Black Textiles: Returning To The 1970s

Sometimes you just have to let a little 1970's into your shop or home. I couldn't resist these pink, black and green textiles which I found last week at a local shop. Now they are in my shop "Kitsch n Stuff".

I'm Partial To The 40s And, 50s

As you already know, I am apt to buy tablecloths and linens from the 1940s, and 1950s, but sometimes you just need a little change. And last week, I came home with an arm filled with 1970's tablecloths, towels, potholders, fabrics etc.

Classic 1970s Patterns

I'll be honest, it will take more time for these 70ish textiles to sell, but I had to have these treasures which were in mint condition and still with the original labels. The patterns are vintage Disco Age, flowers, mushrooms, geometrics, repeating patterns.

70's Stuff Move Slower Than 40s And 50s In Shops

Collectibles from the 60s and 70s move a lot slower in my shop which is in New England. In other markets, such as large cities or on-line there may be more interest.

I find it a little puzzling that the 60s and 70s sit longer in my shop. After all if you have been following the trends in retail stores, you are seeing more housewares and textiles in these very same colors. Younger women are buying items in these colors, but it is another story to get younger gals into antique shops.

Mushroom Dish Towels

Take a look at those mushroom dish towels ?
The design says 60s, but for sure the colors say 70s. For those of us who remember the 50s, 60s, 70s...you can just tell the color differences of each of the decades. And its not only the colors...but the combination of colors.

Pinks And Greens Vary By Decade

Pink and green kitchen collectibles from the 30s and 40s looks nothing like pink and green from the 70s. In the earlier decades, the colors are soft, sweet and charming. In the 70s......the colors are OUCH!

Mossy-Olive Green And Kelly Green

Its that Mossy-Olive Green color which screams 70s or the combo of Mossy Green and Kelly Green. Both were popular in 1970s kitchen and homes. At least the linens shown in these photos have some life to them. So much of the 70s were earth tones that were as exciting as a week old salad! Now that's a visual you want to forget real soon.

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.

A Look At Women's Fashion In The Early 1960's

Gallery of 1960's Women's Fashion
The Era Of Jacqueline Kennedy

Influenced by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, women in the sixties adored the Pill Box hat and dressed quite
elegantly even during the day. At the beginning of the decade, ladies looked very similar to gals of the 50s.

The Shirtwaist Dress

The shirtwaist dress was popular beginning the era in solid colors, stripes and plaid and then moving into exciting florals.
"Mini-Dresses" Came Later In The Decade

Eventually, British designers would influence fashion and Mary Quant's "Mini - skirt" was in style.

Not Till Later Came The A-Line Mini Dresses
A-line "Mini" dresses and sleeveless shifts with bright large flowers in tropical and neon colors were popular later in the decade.

1963 Simplicity Patterns

But in these photos taken from a 1963 Simplicity Pattern book, the hemlines are still very conservative. Gals wore matching handbags and shoes along with coordinated hats and gloves. Simple beads or Pearls were also worn.

In the 1960's I could wear these dresses as well as mini dresses. Now as a baby boomer...I'll stick to outfits that cover the leg!

Photos are from the collection at http://www.etsy.com/shop/kelleystreetvintage?ref=seller_info
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 Plaid Lunchboxes And Picnic Collectibles

Baby Boomers Remember Growing up With Plaids: From Lunchboxes To Picnic Wares To Socks

If you want to be catapulted right back into the 1950s', think PLAID. I can still remember my plaid lunchbox filled with one of the two regular sandwiches I carried to school....bologna on rye bread or tuna fish on white toast.

Aladdin And Ohio Art Metal Lunchboxes

Many of the metal lunchboxes you will find are made by Aladdin and may have a sticker which reads "Aladdin School Lunch Kit".

Aladdin began producing metal lunchboxes in the 1940s and began licensing popular character images in the 1950s.

When buying lunchboxes look for rust, dents, scratches, wear, shiny hardware. Complete sets are more valuable and be sure the cap to the thermos is original and the texture and pattern of the thermos and metal box are the same. If you look closely at the inside of the lunchbox shown, the plaids of the lunchbox and thermos appear to be different.

Ohio Art also made plaid metal lunchboxes and are very collectible for several reasons. Some people collect everything "Ohio Art" and others are after lunchboxes or everything plaid. I have seen prices for both the sets and just the lunchbox for around $26.00-45.00.

Weekend Picnics With Plaid Koolers And Thermos Containers

And then there were the weekends in the summer when my dad pulled out his plaid picnic coolers, tins and thermos containers. And guess what...more tuna or bologna sandwiches. Today my son creates very elaborate Sandwich Wraps or Panini bread extravaganzas!

The Scotch Kooler shown sitting on the bench is copyrighted in 1952 and was made by Hamilton Metal Products, Ohio.
Advertised as airtight and waterproof, you just don't find comparable products today.

Everything was PLAID....From Socks To Lunchboxes

But back to the 1950's when plaid was the name of the game. When everything was PLAID...from your socks to your skirt to your lunchbox. Today plaid accessories sell very well in shops. In fact plaid lunchboxes in great condition with the matching thermos bottle can fetch big bucks. I made the mistake of selling a set awhile ago for too little money. Live and learn.

Earlier Plaid Picnic Tins

By the way, plaid didn't start in the 1950s, it was around earlier, but boy did the Five and Dimes and catalogs feature lots of PLAIDS during the postwar years when families could relax and enjoy themselves. The 1950's was the generation of backyard barbecues and patio living and an increase in products to make homemaking easier. The plaid double handle rectangular picnic box shown is earlier than the 1950s but may have been used by 1950s families as it was passed down from previous generations. The 1950s began the popularity of plastics and vinyl and other materials commercialized during the postwar Atomic era.

Re-Cycling Plaid Picnic Wares Today

To my surprise, plaid insulated bags sell nicely. First of all they are very practical items for today's GREEN conscious home owner's and they are usually quite affordable. Of course plaid picnic collectibles seem to be everywhere this time of the year. Dealers pack away their seasonal items and than pull them out when the weather warms up. So if you really want to equip your home with some plaid tins and thermos containers. now is the time to catch the plaid rush before the pumpkins surface.

Photos courtesy of :
http://www.etsy.com/shop/kelleystreetvintage
http://www.etsy.com/shop/sassboxclassics
http://www.etsy.com/shop/bluebell
http://www.etsy.com/shop/FASHIONRERUN
http://www.etsy.com/shop/inwiththeold

Read More:
http://www.aladdin-pmi.com/about/history.aspx

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

Decorating And Design Tips For Antique Mall Booths

Paying Attention To "Fronts" And Entry Points in Your Antique Booth Or Shops

I have been studying how antique dealers concentrate on the "fronts" or entry points in their booths or shops.
The first places a visitor sees when visiting your booth are very important in an Antique Mall.

Creating Eye-Catching Displays

Obviously in a multi-group shop you want your goods to stick out and show off well. After all in a larger store, there are so many dealers that if you don't create an eye catching "front' how will you "pull-in" the buyers.

And another reason to pay attention to the front of your booths is to get as much bang for your buck as possible. In other words, when you are leasing booth space, you want every inch to count.

Here are some tips to consider when organizing your displays in an Antique Mall.

1. Create colorful displays for the "front" of your booth.
2. Stay away from brown or dark shelves. Re-paint shelves in lighter colors.
3. Use white or glass shelves for the front of your booth or outside edge.
4. Consider using open shelves that you can peek inside the booth.
5. Don't close your booth in.
6. Use attention getting objects on the entry to your booth., i.e. a quirky object, a humorous display, a good example of what you specialize in.
7. Add signs over your booth or on visible walls to attract folks to come to your booth.
8. Your glass cabinets should have mirrors and lighting.
9. Consider dressing up shelves with shelf edging or paint the edges another color.
10. Keep your displays interesting and not so crowded that you cant make out what is on display.
11. Hang objects on the sides and backs of shelves.
12. Dress forms with clothing and accessories are great attention getters.

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.

July 4th Weekend Rocks At The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford, Connecticut

Come See The Swap-A -Roos At The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford, Connecticut, July 4th Weekend

There is a lot of moving and shaking going on at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut.

Here's The Scoop.......

Here is the scoop, as of Friday, I counted NINE swap-a-roos of dealers moving their booths from one place to another in this 22,000 square foot former Waring factory on Route 44. Oh and that leaves about 90 other booths that stayed put. Collinsville Antiques Company is one of the largest and most successful Antique Malls in New England!

Kitsch n Stuff (My Shop) Is Now In The Front Section At The Collinsville Antiques Company

And you can count me in the mix...I moved my shop Kitsch n Stuff from the back of this awesome Antique Emporium to the front of the store. Hey...when good "real estate" appears...you have to go with the flow.

Just Ask......
So if you are a regular at The Collinsville Antiques Company and you can't find some of the dealers you frequent...just ask.....they are still there...but in a new spot.

The great thing about all these changes at The Collinsville Antiques Company is that the dealers brought in lots of NEW furniture, collectibles, decor etc.

So What's up With The Booth Swapping?

So why do you ask did the dealers decide to swap and move? The answer is simple...one person started the change and than before long it was a chain reaction.

Shlepping Is The Name Of The Game

At times this week, I thought the moving and shaking was kind of comical.....we all worked our tails off shlepping our stuff...but after all we are antique dealers...this is our way of life!

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 Hip Piermont Village Along The Hudson River In Rockland County, New York

Art Galleries, Cafes, Boutiques On The Riverfront In Piermont

If you love art galleries, boutiques, upscale restaurants and outdoor cafes then The Village of Piermont, New York on the west bank of the Hudson River is for you. According to an article in The New York Times, this former working-class river community was revitalized after director Woody Allen filmed the movie "The Purple Rose of Cairo".

18th And 19th Century Homes In Piermont

In Piermont, you will find charming 18th and 19th century homes steeped high on wooded hills overlooking the Hudson. Eleven miles from the George Washingtion Bridge, many city dwellers have left Manhattan and traded in small studio or one bedroom apartments for older homes or modern condos such as Piermont Landing which sits on the riverfront.

I stumbled across this charming riverfront village, part of Orangetown in Rockland County last weekend while on my way home from a wedding which was held in the nearby Dolce Conference Center.

Artist Rena Berger At The Piermont Flywheel Gallery

Of course I am in heaven when I can stroll around an artsy town visiting galleries and unique shops. One of my first stops was The Piermont Flywheel Gallery where Rena Berger was welcoming guests to her current show.

The Piermont Flywheel Gallery is Piermont's first artist-run gallery which opened it's doors in 1992. According to the gallery's website, twenty- four artists began this co-op gallery attracting artist from the New York tri-state area. Rena' s exciting exhibit showcases her colorful, whimsical mixed media collages

Master Watercolor Artist Eli Rosenthal

My next stop was to see the opening of Eli Rosenthal's Watercolors at The Piermont Fine Art Gallery which is next door to the Flywheel gallery. Eli, a master Watercolor artist works in a style which is bold, loose and delightfully colorful.

Piermont Attracts Celebrities

There are lots of other galleries, funky shops and plenty of eateries in Piermont. Favored by artists, actors, musicians, filmmakers, screenwriters, Piermont attracts lots of celebrities. The New York times reports that "The actors Alan Ruck (of ''Spin City'') and William Hurt live in Piermont, and there have been frequent sightings of Bill Murray, Ellen Burstyn, Al Pacino, and the singer Bjork, all of whom live nearby but not in the village".

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.

Break Out Of Your Boxed in World With A New Use For Vintage Wooden Boxes: Retro Hang-Ups Part 2

Add An Element of Whimsy To Your Hang-Ups: Hanging Vintage Boxes Vertically On The Wall

What do you always do with vintage boxes? I betcha you use them in the same old ways. But don't you feel boxed in sometimes?

Do You Need A "Boxed-In" Breakthrough?

Perhaps you need a "box" breakthrough. If you always go with the flow, it may be time to switch gears and add an element of surprise to your "boxed in world".

A Knack For Hanging-Up Vintage Knick Knacks

Take some advice from my friend Peter who owns a quirky Antique Shop in Canton, Connecticut called "Tree House Antiques". Peter has a knack for hanging knick knacks and likes to add some humor or interest to his wall displays in his cluttered shop.

Vintage Wooden Boxes Look Great As Wall Decor

For example, one of Peter's special gifts is to mount anything and everything on the wall, always adding an element of whimsy and surprise to his wall decor. In the top photo the display becomes unusual because the box is hung vertically instead of in the usual "horizontal" plane that you often see. And by adding the elongated vase to his 3-D display he has created a wonderful inexpensive artsy display.

The Vintage Cake Server Becomes Art

Or by displayjng a cake server as the focal point inside a mounted vintage box he not only has a clever way to show off his utensil but he has made "art" out of his
ordinary serving piece.

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.