Vintage Alphabet Nursery Blocks A Popular Collectible

Children's Building Blocks Have Been Around  For Centuries

It seems that everywhere I go, I'm seeing stacks of vintage children's blocks for sale. These colorful wooden playtime favorites have been around for a very long time with a variety of styles. Alphabets, numbers, animals, Disney characters and storybook themes are common designs on both paper and wooden blocks.

While most of the blocks that you will discover at yard sales or shops are from the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, you may be lucky to find some older   blocks from the Victorian Era and earlier. After all blocks date back to the 1600's https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toy_block. 

Wooden blocks were followed by the emergence of plastics in the 1950s, such as Legos, Duplo and other building toys. 


Buying Old Alphabet and Nursery Blocks



Many dealers will sell an assortment of blocks form different sets and time periods. Once and awhile you might find a complete set in its original box or re-boxed in a new container. For wooden blocks you want to look at how bruised they might be. Are they splintered, chipped, faded ? Paper or cardboard blocks get worn, ripped and faded. 

It depends what you are going to do with the blockz as to how picky you need to be. Surely for using as toys for your children or grandchildren you want to think safety first. 
Collectors may be more concerned with rarity, good graphics, intact sets. Garden variety blocks can be picked up for a few dollars, while unusual individual and sets of blocks can fetch hundredths of dollars.  

Wooden blocks were followed by the emergence of plastics in the 1950s, such as Legos, Duplo and other building toys. 

Decorating And Crafting With Vintage Children's Blocks 

Today, you will find many young people using vintage building blocks as decorative accessories, displaying on a windowsill or as part of a shelf vignette or craft project. Wooden blocks make great holiday accents and tree ornaments.


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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Florida Bungalow on Etsy.com Has The Most Amazing Colorful 1950s Abstract and Floral Barkcloth Fabrics

BARKCLOTH NEWS: FABULOUS FABRICS 
AT FLORIDA BUNGALOW ON ETSY.COM

I somehow stumbled onto the site of Florida Bungalow on Etsy.com and my eyes popped out of my head. She has the most amazing barkcloth I have seen in quite awhile. One of these days I need to talk with her directly and hear all about how she finds these gems. Right now, drop everything and take a look: Here is the link: https://www.etsy.com/shop/floridabungalow?ref=l2-shopheader-name


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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Catching On To The Ins and Outs of Nursing Homes

What Adult Children Can Expect When Their Parent is In A Nursing Home  

It's been awhile since my dad has been placed in a Nursing Home and I'm catching on to the ins and outs of long term care. In fact this is the second home my dad has been in so I am building up comparative experiences.

Keep Cool In Nursing Homes

Yesterday was Father's day and the weather outside was HOT, MUGGY and OPPRESSIVE. Dad, however was wearing an over the neck long sleeve sweater on top of a golf shirt circa 1962. I stopped by the lobby water cooler and served myself ice water before strolling to the back of the facility where dad holds court in his corner of the long hall.

On the way to dad I stopped off in the snack closet and brought him a soft cookie. He already had his "Sippy cup" filled with apple juice.

Count The Moments in Dementia Care

I brought him a colorful Father's Day card which he really liked, a sure sign of his deteriorating Dementia as he has NEVER liked any of my cards in the past. I actually was delighted that he liked my card. It could have been a Christmas card, but he liked it !

They say that when you take care of  frail elderly with Dementia you need to focus on the joyful moments. Small things matter, like offering a cool beverage or a favorite cookie when visiting.

Peddling Into Neighbors Rooms

Dad must be getting back to himself after a recent fall as he now has been peddling around in his wheelchair using his feet. I'm not sure if that is safe or not, but he is enjoying the mobility and the opportunity to "stroll" into someone else's room.  And dad isn't the only one scooting around as his neighboring residents have found there way into his room. One lovely woman likes to "borrow"his T.V. control and hide it. Nothing to worry about....it's not so unusual and the aides know who the kleptomaniacs are.

I'm catching on to Nursing Home life, I put a big sticker on his T.V. controls with his name on it and I've learned not to sweat the small stuff ( or the big stuff).

Here are some Nursing Home pointers:

1. Make sure everything that belongs to your loved one is labeled.
2. Less is better.....keep excess clothing and belongings at  your house or in a box in the resident's closet.
3. Focus on sharing joyful moments in time.
4. Simple gifts like offering a snack or cold drink go a long way,
5. It's hot in Nursing Homes (in all seasons)....visitors should dress in layers.

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Wake Up Your Antique Booth With Some Crazy Wild Colors And Designs

Bill Healy's Funky Art at Kitsch n Stuff

Sometimes you just need to wake up your antique booth with some crazy wild colors and designs. So that is exactly what I did after I bought a collection of artwork from a friend who was having a tag sale. Look how cool Bill Healy's work looks with my 1950s barkcloth pillow and drapes in the background. You will find some funky finds in my booth Kitsch n Stuff at the Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT   Also visit and "like" the NEW Facebook page for this amazing Antique Mall https://www.facebook.com/CollinsvilleAntiques/

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Displaying Magnets At An Outdoor Craft Show Using An Old Metal Street Sign On A Post

Clever Display Ideas From Eliza Dolittle Today

While visiting the Celebrate West Hartford Fair, I spotted a cool way to exhibit magnets at an outdoor show. This clever vendor ( http://elizadolittletoday.weebly.com/ ) used old metal sign to show visitors the magnets she was selling inside her booth. For more clever ideas from this digital photographer who


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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Bargello Needlepoint: Popular In The 1970s Is Back As A Needlecraft Hobby

Bargello Needlepoint Is Back As A Hobby

I spotted this Bargello needlepoint pillow recently at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT and remembered how this very old form of needlecraft was quite the craze in the 70s. Today everyone seems to be doodling or coloring for relaxation. In the 70s, we all were doing Bargello, a colorful series of patterns with geometric or abstract motif. You can find many finished and partially finished vintage Bargello pillows and accessories on Etsy.com, eBay and other online sites.  There are also many shops, books and websites to purchase Bargello kits and supplies. For more info: http://www.needlework-tips-and-techniques.com/bargello.html

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Guy Collectibles: The Rusty Truth About Collecting Oil Cans, Signs, Automotive Stuff

Guy Collectibles: The Rusty Truth About Collecting Oil Cans, Signs, Automotive Stuff  

Is there such a thing as guy collectibles? You know, "stuff" that men like to buy? What exactly would fall into this category........oil cans, old metal signs, automobile memorabilia etc. The truth is, not everyone who buys old rusty oil cans etc. is a guy. Yes..there are some women who also collect "guy collectibles" ...not as many...but they are out there. And I know many women who enjoy helping their boyfriends and husbands build their RUSTY collections.

You will find lots of "guy collectibles" at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT
Also visit I Antique Online.com for buying, selling and valuing what you have.

Read More About Collecting Oil Cans http://www.collectorsweekly.com/petroliana/cans



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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Using An Old Baker's Cabinet As A Home Work Or Craft Station

Vintage Baker's Cabinets Can Be Used For Home Office Or Craft Station

Surprise this post is not about the beauty of using an old Baker's cabinet or Hoosier cabinet in your kitchen. Have you ever considered turning one of these old cabinets into a work station or craft table. The shelves, drawers, lower cabinets and pull out table top make this unit a perfect versatile storage and work place for a home office or craft/art station.

Photo taken by C. Dianne Zweig 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.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Moving To A Nursing Home: What Kind Of Clothing To Bring

Packing Up Mom or Dad's Clothing For A Long Term Residence (Nursing Home) 

How do you know what to bring to a Nursing home when you are moving a loved one from their family home to their new residence? I guess one might think that the answer depends on whether you live in a warm climate or a cold climate? On the contrary,  the answer is almost the same for a variety of climates because elderly frail patients or "residents" as we say, have their own thermostats which may defy the real world.

Dad Still Thought He Lived In Florida, But There Was Snow on The Ground

When I brought my dad up from Florida to the Northeast a few years earlier,  I needed to buy him a winter coat, boots and warmer clothing such as sweaters and flannel pajamas. But dad  had dementia and was convinced he was STILL living in Florida !  In his apartment, before he was moved to a Nursing home, he preferred to crank up the heat and dress in tropical clothing, a short sleeved golf shirt and Bermuda shorts. He had a closet filled with pastel colored summer clothing which he was very attached to. While I was wearing a scarf and several layers of clothing, dad was in beachwear.

Bringing Favorite Outfits to Nursing Home

When dad's dementia advanced further,  he was no longer able to dress himself or to "dress for success".  He needed help with his clothing and now dressed for comfort (jogging pants and a zip up light weight sweat suit jacket, worn out golf shirt).  I brought his favorite outfits to the Nursing home and relied on his aides to help him with dressing.

Do Need Boots in a Nursing Home?

As I packed him up for the Nursing home, I wondered if he would need a winter jacket in the Nursing home....after all where is he going?  Or did he need his boots, gloves?  I wasn't sure if he would be cold or hot in his new environment? Would he need pajamas or would he be wearing the Johnnie gowns you see in hospitals? You will see below my answers and tips on these questions.

 TIPS FOR WHAT TYPES OF CLOTHING TO BRING TO A NURSING HOME

1. Most Nursing homes are kept very warm.....so short sleeves or -shirts are fine.

2. Many older people are cold no matter what the temperature is so sweaters and light weight type jackets are needed.

3. Residents do leave the Nursing home to go to outside doctor appointments so you need jackets, boots etc on hand.

4. Clothes get soiled very easily so don't give everything away when you are making the transition.

5. Even couch potatoes who don't usually do very much in the way of activities or socializing may change their ways in the Nursing home environment and may want to dress up every now and then.


6. Loosely fitting clothing is often needed when medical conditions warrant catheters, IV's etc.

7. Be sure all clothing is labeled. You can use a permanent laundry marker. Or the facility may have a laundry department which places labels on clothing.

8. Unless you are willing to say goodbye to family heirlooms such as handmade or special blankets don't bring these items in because  frequent laundering may damage them.

9. Pajamas are personal preference, but Johnnie gowns are always available.

10,  Bring sneakers or safe shoes to the Nursing home.

11.  Keep extra clothing as back up in your home and bring in when needed.

12. Bring a gift of a new sweater or article of clothing every now and then.



 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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Decorating Your Antique Booth, Shop Or Home With A Vintage Valentine's Day Theme

 Antique Valentine's Day Decorating

Decorating your Antique booth or shop for Valentine's Day is easier than you think if you just use a little creativity in the process. Today I am inspired by visiting The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford Connecticut.  The photos shown were taken by me at this 22,000 square feet Antique Mall. I'd like to share some ideas with you about how to set the stage for a Valentine's look. Traditional Valentine's colors are red, pink, white so that is the palette you will be focusing on.


Ideas For Vintage Objects You Can Use For Your Valentine Display 

The first step is to sort out what antiques, collectibles, decorative accessories that you already have such as white plates, milk glass, ceramics, glassware, vases, figurines, tablecloths, lace, doilies, books, planters, jewelry etc.  Next, you may want some accent pieces such as crystal, silver candlesticks, shakers or greenery such as a plant or floral arrangement.

Creating Vignettes for Your valentine Holiday Display

After you have gathered all your "props" together in one area, your next step will be to combine objects together to tell a story or create what we call a vignette. You might find a nice tablecloth in soft colors to use along with a decorative plate or tea cup and saucer. Or you might turn a wooden box over to create a  pedestal and add objects at different heights.

While this article is suggesting that you stick with pinks, reds, whites, you can also add some soft yellow or soft mint green as long as the dominant colors are sticking with your Valentine's theme.

Planters, bowls, tureens etc. can be used to display cards, jewelry, hankies, or textiles etc.

Pretty vintage candy boxes or older tins are also lovely to use for Valentine's Day.

While you do not actually have to add hearts or Valentine'
s cards to your displays,  they are lovely additions if you have them. I have also seen people cut out red and pink hearts or add some heart shaped candy to their booth. or home decorating.

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Pink Grapefruit Style on Etsy.com A Source For Vintage Sewing Notions, Cards, Decor, Crafts For Valentines Day

Visiting Pink Grapefruit Style: An Etsy.com Store For Your Valentine's Craft and Decorating Needs

Pink Grapefruit Style on Etsy.com specializes in vintage sewing notions, trim, buttons, holiday decor, cards, craft supplies. It is one of the sweetest shops online that I have visited over the years.


The 1920s-30s Valentine shown in this post is listed at Pink Grapefruit as having  some old glue, creases and aging but she would be wonderful for crafters and artists who like to incorporate interesting images in collages and artwork. If you like to make your own personal gifts for Valentines Day, this online store may be very helpful to you.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot 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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists
Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of

Retro Vintage: A Community That Celebrates Great Things From Yesteryear

The Kitschy Collector Discovers Retro Vintage:   

I have  been having a lot of fun this past week discovering some very busy Facebook groups and pages that appeal to those of us who love living in the past. RETRO VINTAGE is an online community   https://www.facebook.com/RETROVintage1/ which opened as a PAGE in 2013 covering all the "great things from yesteryear".  My followers will enjoy the variety of posts from the 50s and 60s covering home decor, family
life, pop culture, art and culture, decorating and more.


Visit Retro Vintage: https://www.facebook.com/RETROVintage1/

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT Has A New Facebook Page Managed By The Editor of I Antique Online.com

Visit The New Facebook Page For Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT



I spend way too much time on the internet...but I guess so do my readers. I now have added yet another exciting and informative site to my already crowded portfolio online. For the past few weeks I have been managing and nurturing the Facebook page for The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT.  Collinsville Antiques is one of the largest Antique Malls in New England with 22,000 square feet packed with dealers who carry everything you can imagine.

The Home of Kitsch n Stuff

The Collinsville Antiques Company is
also the place where I have my own booth called Kitsch n Stuff specializing in retro and kitchen collectibles. I have always carried Mid Century smalls, but now many of my co-dealers at our Mall are adding Mid Century furnishings as well.

Take A Day Trip To Connecticut And Antique

For those of you who like to take a day trip and hunt for  antiques, The Collinsville Antiques Company (open everyday 10-5) is located in an area of Connecticut with many antique and collectibles shops.  You can also have a delicious lunch right in The Collinsville Antiques Company at their retro cafe, "Crusin Cafe" (cafe closed on Monday and Tuesday).

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE NEW FACE BOOK PAGE
https://www.facebook.com/CollinsvilleAntiques/

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Please visit the Facebook page for the Collinsville Antiques Company and "Like" our page.

"Re-Creative" this Holiday Season With Recycled Holiday Gifts You Can Make With Your Children

Spending Time With The Family Making Recycled Holiday GIfts: Tips From The Topeka-Shawnee Library 

Are you close to the holidays and freaking out because you are just NOT ready?  Chill...help is on the way...think about a trip to your local library to learn about homemade gift ideas that you can make.  The Topeka-Shawnee library might be helpful as a start, with a blog that they posted on vintage inspired crafts you can create with your family. Included in their article is a   book suggestions titled  Re-Creative ,
a book craft source which  features projects that transforms "yesterday's trash into todays stylish and useful objects". What are you waiting for...check out your library and start crafting with the kids!

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Entertaining For The Holidays Using Vintage Mosaic Candy Dishes and Trays

Yo Yo Yo...A Mosaic Holiday for Retro Collectors 

Retro funky collectors, this hoiday idea is for you if you like to serve your family and guests holiday snacks in kitschy dishes. I spotted these wonder Mosaic trays and candy dishes at The Collinsville Antiques Company in New Hartford, CT a few weeks ago. If you are asking me whether I bought these tiled treasures...the answer is...I didn't YET...I'm hoping by some miracle they are still there when I retun in a few days. You can however find these type of Retro craft items on eBay, Etsy and in shops selling for generally under $20.00. Making mosaic functional items such as ash trays, candy dishes, trivets bowls etc. was a popular hobby in the 1950s and 1960s. Let me know if you find these treasures.

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Kitschy Retro Camper Decorating Ideas

Go Camping In A Retro Or Whimsically Decorated Camper: Ideas From Country Living

If your dreaming about a Kitschy Retro Christmas spent in a vintage Camper, than you will adore the decorating ideas Country Living featured in http://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g1808/unique-rv-decorating-ideas/?slide=2 I love how this designer  used a bold turquoiuse wall with a rustic chic Bohemian flair.


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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Making Christmas Ornaments From Upcycled Sterling Plate Flatware Silverware

Have A Merry Merry Upcycled Christmas

Here is a great gift for those of you who love a vintage holiday look. Artisans at Twisted Metal  creative beautiful Christmas tree ornaments upcycled from Sterling Plate Flatware Silverware. You will so find so many unique holiday gifts and functional art  made by artist Neva Starr. Here is the link http://www.spoon.fish/shop

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Inspired By Origami: Face Masks Made From Toilet Paper Rolls By Artist Junior Fritz Jacquet

Wierd Face Masks Made From Toilet Paper Rolls: Artist http://www.juniorfritzjacquet.com/

http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2014/08/toilet-paper-rolls-squished-into-funny-faces-by-junior-fritz-jacquet/

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

What To Do With All Those Extra Chopsticks

 Chinese Take Out Extras That You Can Re-Use In Your Kitchen Or Craft Room

If you visited my dad over the years and you opened his kitchen drawers you would find compartments of  "extra" condidments that came with Chinese food take out orders. There would be  Duck Sauce packets to last a lifetime. Amazingly he kept his inventory of packets of Soy sauce, Duck sauce, Mustard, Fortune cookies, Chop sticks etc very organized in designated drawers. His closing line after he called in his order was always "please give me extra____".  Every Sunday was Chinese take out from "Kings", a nearby restaurant that expected his order and his plea to send along "extra packets". So over the years dad had quite a collection of Take out STUFF.


Upcycling Your Chopsticks: Holiday Trees and More  

I wouldnt advise saving food packets for too long, (certainly not as long as dad did) but Chop sticks and empy clean containers are another matter. There are so many things that you can do with chop sticks from making holiday trees to using as skewers for fruit or marshmallows. Not to mention converting chopsticks into lamps and baskets. Check out the links below for tons of ideas.

 What To Do With Chopsticks

 https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/10-uses-chopsticks

http://www.networx.com/article/50-uses-for-disposable-chopsticks

http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2012/01/08/50-uses-for-disposable-chopsticks/

http://www.artistshelpingchildren.org/chopstickscraftsideasforkids.html

Holiday tree image spotted on Pinterest.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.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Organized Clutter Features Charming Alternative Christmas Trees Made From Vintage Housewares

Making Homemade Christmas Trees Using Vintage Kitchen Funnels, Sieves, Rolling Pins

I'll start off by saying that my experience in making homemade Christmas trees ended back in grade school when my pal Sharon and I created a giant custom coloring book to take to children in the hospital. However  after seeing this wonderful blog post on making  "Alternative Christmas Trees" on the popular website Organized Clutter  I'm feeling somewhat creative.


 Funky Funnels and More

It's easy to get inspired with holiday creativity when you poke around the Organized Clutter website. As a collector of kitchen collectibles, I was delighted to see these funky Christmas trees made from vintage household kitchen items such as funnels, sieves,rolling pins etc.

 

Add a few colorful balls and a stand and you are all set with a unique
Christmas Tree for the holidays.

Where to Find Vintage Kitchenwares

You can find these household kitchenwares at Flea Markets, Thrift stores, Yard sales, Antique Shops.
You might want to start collecting during the summer months when there are a lot of outdoor sales and you can generally find these kitchen collectibles at more reasonable prices. If you are reading this article close to the holidays, you may need to not only romp around  your favorite haunts but also look online.

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.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists