Are My Parent's Old Things Valuable? Selling Antiques And Collecitbles On-Line

Cleaning Out My Parent's House: Is It Junk Or Valuable?

When the time comes to gather up your parent's collections, how do you know what is "JUNK" and
what belongs in the category of "antique" or "collectible"? To answer that question, I would like to get you to wonder about two key terms, "junk" and "valuable".

Junk Shop Versus Antique Shop: It's Just A Name

Why is it that some shops call themselves "Junk shops" and sell really neat stuff and other stores call themselves "Antique shops" and sell JUNK?

What makes a place a true JUNK shop? Can you be both....part JUNK and part ANTIQUE? Think about some of the shops you like to visit......would you buy a really expensive lamp or table in a place called "JUNK Shop"? Or do you expect only bargains and throwaways in a "JUNK Shop"? The answer is you can find all sorts of things everywhere!

Do You Know What Is Valuable In The Basement?
When you look at your parent's stuff, are you really sure that you know what the "junk" really is? Perhaps you think the "junk" is in the garage or in the basement? And you assume the "good stuff" is in the living room? Hold on...you may be assuming too much.

Reality T.V. Show On Antiques Love Finding Treasures

For starters, an entire industry of Reality T.V. shows are
based on the idea of finding hidden treasures in all the "wrong places". These made for T.V. pickers prefer junkyards, storage bins, garbage piles for the "good stuff". The premise of these popular shows is the thrill of discovering something "valuable" buried in a pile of "junk".

Is Mom Or Dad's Old Things Valuable?

But what exactly do we mean by "valuable"? As The American Pickers have shown us, there is a good deal of "value" in rusty old bicycle frames. But how many of you want an old bicycle frame? Would the lovely "Antique Shop" in the center of your town want pop's old bicycle frame? Perhaps not, but that doesn't mean there isn't an eager buyer somewhere else. So value really comes down to what is important to an individual buyer and you will discover that there are unique markets everywhere for everything.

Good Bye Antique Price Guide, Hello Internet

Before the internet, many folks relied on books such as Antique Price Guides to help them determine "value". Now, going on-line has replaced looking in books and is a very easy way to learn about the "value" of objects in the market place. And what the internet has done is create a global buying field.

Internet Is A Global Marketplace For Antiques And Collectibles

Many antique dealers have learned that they can get much more for a collectible on-line than in their shops, because they have the entire world competing to buy a particular "collectible". And size doesn't matter. Anything can be shipped and the right buyer will pay for shipping if you have what they really want.

Selling Your Parent's Antiques And Collectibles On-Line

So if you are getting ready to sell off antiques and collectibles that you have acquired , you might want to consider using some of the many on-line selling venues. To learn more about selling on-line, visit http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/ and go to the many group forums which focus on the growing number of online selling sites . Here is a partial list below (featured on I Antique Online.com.)

If you want someone to come into the house and take over the sale of the contents of the entire house visit my information website: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation for more resources.

Selling Your Antiques And Collectibles On-Line : Visit These Information Groups

These are group forums where you will hear about the experiences of others who are selling antiques and collectibles on these popular selling venues. You can joion these discussion for FREE
eBay Connection
Etsy Connection
Bonanza Collection
Ruby Lane
Ruby Plaza Connection
eCRATER Connection
Go Antiques.com
Tias.com Connection

The photos featured in this article are from The Junk Shop Of Canton, Canton CT. Eric, the owner is always buying, so if you are looking to sell the contents of a house, contact Eric.860-693-6039.

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

Tree House Art And Antiques Has His "Ducks In A Row" Even During The Winter Season

Visiting "Tree House Art And Antiques" In New Hartford, CT During The Winter

You might say that Peter of "Tree House Antiques and Art" in New Hartford, CT. really has his "ducks in a row" , even during the cold weather season. Peter, a compulsive collector and antique dealer, has managed to keep his stuffed shop even more stuffed during the winter months.

Peter Shops For Antiques and Collectibles All The Time

Peter, you see, has even found outdoor flea markets which are open in the winter. He gets up very early in the morning and brings back lots of new finds all the time. Despite freezing cold temperatures, Peter is out hunting for bargains.

Tree House Antiques Is Near The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

I really enjoy visiting Peter's shop on Route 44, just down the road from the Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford. You just never know what Peter has brought back to the shop on any given day. And if you are in search for something in particular. just ask Peter, he has secret hiding places in his shop.

Peter Has Hiding Places In His Stuffed Antique Shop

A few days ago I was making the rounds looking for a cast iron frying pan. Peter, didn't have a pan, but he pulled out several cast iron pots tucked under a skirted table. Most of the fresh inventory ends up near his "business counter" so be sure to snoop around the display spaces near his "office" area.

Tree House Antiques Has Several Packed Rooms

" Tree House Art And Antiques" has many different rooms as well as tent space and front yard space. I am always puzzled as to why Peter brings in so many collectibles into his shop. When is enough enough? I guess, to a compulsive collector, it is hard to resist a good deal. Peter likes to 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.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Creating A Retro Inspired Display Space Outdoors: Great For Antique Or Craft Dealers

Red, White, Black Retro Kiosk For Outdoor Craft Show

While visiting the Christmas Holiday Market in Union Squjre New York I was amazed to find a street vendor who converted his tiny kiosk into a RETRO inspired selling space. He used a Formica table top on top of a red painted file cabinet to shocase some of his handcrafted wares. The drawers served as
a useful space to store receipts, supplies and other materials needed to conduct his business.

And what about the black and white floor? Mind you this little space was no bigger than a tiny walk in closet. How clever was this use of space?

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

Chippy Green Painted Wood File Cabinet Makes Great Display Space In Your Antique Shop Or Home

One way to double duty your antiques and collectibles is to open up the drawers of cabinets. desk, dressers etc. and USE the drawers as display space for other objects.

I spotted an older wooded painted file cabinet at
the store Anthropologie.
As you can see the drawer si stuffed with products that they have for sale. And look how hip the chippy green paint looks with yellow jars. What an attractive color combination.

Now you can think twice abut passing up old cabinets. Perhaps they would make GREAT display space in your shop or home?

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

Antique Booth Space Ideas: Hanging Vintage Potholders On A Cute Handmade Shelf

Display Ideas For Your Antique Booth

What do visitors see when they walk down the aisle of your Antique Mall to visit your Antique booth space? At The Collinsviile Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, you will find that my space called "Kitsch n Stuff" has many different "spots" that the eye will catch when approaching my booth.

I like to maximize my real estate so that I use every inch I can for display space.I have used the side of a bookcase to display small pictures or at this time, vintage crochet potholders.

I discovered a cute handmade shelf, made to look like the screened door front entrance of a cottage. The picket fence
is so adorable. Below the shelf are small hooks which work so well for hanging vintage potholders.

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

Finding A Low Income Or Subsidized Assisted Living Apartment For Mom Or Dad

When Your Parents Need A Low Income Assisted Living Apartment

It is hard enough making the decision to transition mom or dad into a new apartment or into an Assisted Living facility when they want to stay where they are. But it is even more difficult to have to downsize parents when mom or dad has run out of funds and needs subsidized housing. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers seniors designated housing arrangements which are considered low income. How much rent the senior pays is determined by their current income and financial history.

What Is Senior Congregate Housing ?

In this category of subsidized housing (low income), are apartments in which seniors live independently in what is termed "Congregate housing" where mom or dad (or couple) has their own apartment but may share activities or meals and other services such as weekly house-keeping and transportation to doctor appointments. etc. In most subsidized housing complexes, seniors are offered studio(one room with an efficiency kitchen) or small one bedroom apartments. And in fact one bedrooms are often saved for couples. It's hard to think of a parent in "one" room but remember, most senior complexes have plenty of "living" space outside the room and want to encourage seniors to mingle and not stay isolated.

Adding Assisted Living Services To Senior Housing

Some Congregate Housing complexes also provide another level of care called Assisted Living. where clinical staff is generally contracted from an outside agency to provide nursing, social services and physical therapy services. Each complex varies on their staffing schedules and amount of services available. These nursing services are generally covered under entitlement programs.

Many Low Income Assisted Living Facilities Will Surprise You With Excellent Options

I have visited many low income senior housing complexes. Some are called "Low Income Assisted Living" and some are termed "Subsidized Congregate Housing " (with Assisted living options). To my surprise some of these facilities have as many bells and whistles as the "expensive" private Assisted Living facilities. For example, some senior subsidized residences I have toured had in- house cafes, grocery marts, beauty salon/barber shops, computer rooms, exercise rooms etc. in addition to recreation rooms, dining rooms and other standard programs which you will find for this age group.

Low Income Senior Housing Does Not Mean Substandard

The bottom line is that "low income" DOES NOT necessarily mean sub standard. In many communities housing authorities and local agencies together have managed to offer seniors some very comfortable and well managed options. And I might add, that a pretty lobby or carpeted halls does not mean "better". It is important to visit many places and evaluate your options. By the way, you might want to tour some of the private Assisted Living facilities to see how similar some of the low income places really are to the "fancy" ones.

For more help: Visit: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation

Photos courtesy of Tickled Pink Antiques in Seymour, CT

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

What To Do With Antique And Vintage Christmas Cookie Cutters

Creative Christmas Holiday Ideas With Vintage Cookie Cutters

Tis Christmas eve and by now any Thrifty Nifty Retro 1950s inspired homemaker has already baked her holiday cookies . In fact, plenty of hip guys have also finished their batch of sugar cookies by now.

And let's agree, there is nothing like using the old style cookie cutters. Now that you have finished baking your cookies, here are some ideas of what do do with vintage cookie cutters.

What To Do With Vintage Holiday Cookie Cutters

1. Make holiday garland out of cookie cutters.
2. Altered vintage cookie cutter ornaments
3. Cookie cutter wreath.
4. Cookie cutter tree.
5. Cookie cutter cakes.
6. Cookie cutter photo ornaments.
7, Shabby Chic cookie cutters.
8. Jeweled cookie cutter ornaments.
9. Snow Day ornaments.
10. Colorful glitter ornaments.
11. Cookie cutter tree garland.
12, Tree ornaments with colorful cookie cutters.

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

Decorating Your Antique Booth To Look Like A Vintage Woolworth Toy Counter During The Christmas Holiday

Setting Up A Vintage Woolworth Counter At The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

In every Antique Mall I have rented space in, I have always delighted in the odd shaped, challenging booth spaces . In my present location at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, my current space borders an area that tends to get the hard to place larger items.

Sprucing Up Your Antique Booth For The Holidays

In other words, STUFF gets ....shall we say " placed" right near my booth. Right now there are two funky pinball machines that are GREAT! But sometimes not so wonderful items migrate to my end of the store. So when a terrific antique glass showcase ended up next to my booth and began to become the collecting cabinet for rusty GUY STUFF I needed to rescue the glass cabinet and create an attractive alternative. I analyzed the showcase and immediately thought of Woolworth's at Christmas time. I had a plan B!.

Creating A Colorful Woolworth Toy Counter

I asked the owners of the Mall if I could transform their glass case into a "Woolworth" inspired Five and Dime toy department for the holidays, This idea would be something visitors with families might enjoy looking at. Doug and Cindy, owners of The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT were pleased with my idea. I quickly gathered up as many vintage toys and holidays collectibles as I could find and mixed Christmas collectibles to creat my Faux Woolworth Counter! As yo can see the tree was adorned with vintage potholders...red, green, white...it works!.

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

Thrifty Vintage Holiday Entertaining Ideas At "The Blue House" In Canton, CT

Thrifty Glitz, Blitz And Holiday Ritz At The Blue House In Canton, CT

The Blue House in Canton, CT is one of those Vintage shops that shows you how to entertain for the holidays with inexpensive vintage finds. Banish the word "cheap" from your vocab...call it nifty and thrifty. You really do not have to go to Bloomies to look Bloomingesque! All it takes is a little ingenuity.

Have A Merry Retro Christmas

The Blue House is chock full of glitz,ritz and blitz. And it's all affordable sparkle. You can decorate your table in "Sparkling Aluminum 50s", "Darling Danish 70's", "Mod 60's", " Merry Made In Japan", "Cozy Crystal" etc. If you have no table to set your table on, hush, The Blue House has tables, chairs, tablecloths etc. And if your humble home needs light, fear not, The Blue House has plenty of vintage floor lamps and table styles.

And for your holiday table, there is lots of Retro and Vintage Christmas decor, dishes, glassware, candy dishes, trays, bowls, cake plates, wine glasses, decanters, cookware and more.Oh, I almost forgot the nice collection of vintage barware. The place is packed.

The Blue House

Wed - Sat:	11:00 am	-	5:00 pm
Sun:	11:00 am	-	3:00 pm

860-352-2532

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

Cozy Vintage Holiday Cabin Decor And Collectibles At Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT.

Holiday Shopping At Queen Anne Antiques, Canton, CT

Right now Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT. is on the top of my good find list after I discovered a turquoise blue 1950s foot rest there a few weeks ago. This Mid Century treasure was purchased for my art studio at The Farmington Valley Art Center in Avon, CT.

Turquoise 1950's Foot Stool?

I know it is hard to believe that you would find a hip vinyl turquoise stool at a place called Queen Anne Antiques, but that is typical of this small, tucked away popular antique shop. One often finds odds and ends that don't always seem to belong in this shop.

Styles Your Will Find At Queen Anne Antiques

At one time, April was on a kitchen collectibles kick and of course that is what attracted me to her store. But as I have explained to you before, April goes in and out of phases. Currently, aside from the fact that she allowed a 1950s hassock into the store, April 's store has no resemblance to the Atomic Era or any era for that matter that I can figure out.

From Global To Cabin Style: It's All There

A few months ago, I wrote about her "Global Style" when she seemed to have an awful lot of African masks and carved pieces keeping company with textiles from here, there and everywhere. But now most of her East meets West stuff seems to be gone.

April Is Full Of Surprises At Queen Anne Antiques

So what is April currently collecting for the store? I guess I would have to say, cozy holiday cabin style collectibles and decor. But hurry over there, because I have no idea, what the place will look like in a week or two. Let me know what you find.

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

Visiting Boston's Bazaar Bizarre At The BCA Cyclorama

Quirky Handmade Gifts At The Bazaar Bizarre In Boston

On a whim, I traveled to Boston this past weekend to attend the Bazaar Bizarre Holiday Craft Show at the BCA Cyclorama on Tremont Street in the South End of Boston. I had some clue with a name like "Bazaar Bizarre " that this holiday craft show was not going to be "usual". And of course my instincts were correct.

A Funky, Whimsical Craft Show
Let me try to describe what this fair is like. The vendors are young, hip, creative with obvious ties to their parents who lived through the 1960s and 1970s. This is NOT your usual Christmas craft craft show at the local church or community center. And that may be a good thing if you are looking for more whimsy and less granny.
The plush toys shown here are made by Hbou Designs
also on Etsy.com

Nifty, Gifty Holiday Crafts And Gifts

Yes there were scarves, pot holders, handmade textiles and plush toys. But all the artisans seemed to elevate their goods to nifty gifty Christmas stuff. There were plenty of retro inspired crafts items such as brooches made from old plastic buttons and jewelry crafted from bottle caps.

One fella made "toys" with the parts of crab and lobster shells. O.k. I admit (and so did he) that his pals are a little strange. His company is called "Bearded Tales of Woe" .My daughter pointed out the pop culture soaps and the edgy note cards. While she went for products with attitude, I concentrated on the colorful and well made jewelry. DIY Christmas Sewing Gifts

And if you prefer to make your own gifts, "Gather Here" packaged her sewing materials for you to take home and DIY.

The Bazaar Bizarre began in Boston in 2001 when a group of crafty friends peddled their goods in this offbeat extravaganza. In 2004, the show spread to Los Angeles and then to Cleveland and San Francisco in 2006.

For more information about future shows visit http://www.bazaarbizarre.org/

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

Strolling Throught The Holiday Decorated Streets Of The South End Of Boston

Visiting The South End Of Boston During The Holidays

It was fun strolling through the holiday decorated streets of the South End of Boston (next to Boston's Back Bay district and close to Beacon Hill). The South End, lined with Victorian brick row or townhouses is known for great restaurants and cafes, artsy shops and galleries, boutiques and Jazz. The area reminds me of the West Village of New York with a diversity of cuisines and trendy residents.

I finally figured out how to take photos at night with my aging digital camera. So here are some lovely shots of my visit to the South End of Boston as I was on route to a wonderful cafe called The South End Buttery, an award winning local eatery known for casual fine dining.

Bizzare Bazaar

After attending the Bizzare Bazaar (Holiday Craft Show) at 539 Tremont Street on Sunday I was ready for a cup of Hot Chocolate and decided to take a walk to The South End Buttery
at 314 Shawmut Street (after a tip from a local business owner).

When I arrived to this charming corner bakery and cafe, it was almost time for dinner. The gals at the coffee bar/bakery
( front of the cafe) told us that we could stay for dinner which was starting at 5:30.

South End Buttery, Sound End Of Boston

So I nudged my party of three to skip the Hot Chocolate and head to the back bar area where dinner is served (as well in the lower level) . Our dinner was superb! I highly suggest a visit to The South End Buttery. It was a magical find in South End of Boston.


South End Buttery

(617) 482-1015

314 Shawmut Avenue Boston, MA 02118

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

Using Vintage Costume Jewelry To Make A Framed Menorah

Crafty Chanukah Ideas

Oh my , I finally found a great way to use up all the boxes of junk vintage jewelry that I have been saving from tag sales, broken jewelry, grandma's piles etc.....make holiday themed art! I

The Menorah is just one of the handcrafted items at Moon Diamonds a shop on Etsy.com. The gal who makes these whimsical wall hangings is retired and has a found a way to re-cycle vintage materials in holiday works of art. She carries Christmas themed art as well as Menorahs.


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

Celebrating Chanukah With A Traditional Menorah: Check Out Antique Malls

Celebrating Chanukah With A Traditional Menorah

With Chanukah approaching it's time to start thinking about the holiday decorations. Antique stores are a great place to find vintage holiday decorations and Jewish ceremonial objects such as the traditional Menorah used to commemorate the eight days of Chanukah. Many older Menorahs you will find are imported from Israel.

Chanukah Menorahs have nine candle holders. The tallest candle branch is called the "shamash" "helper" or "servant" and is the candle used to light the other candles. The Menorah, like the Star of David is a traditional symbol of Judaism. In older Menorahs, the "shamash" holder is generally in the center of the Menorah. More contemporary Menorahs distinguish the "shamash" in a variety of ways, not always in the center.

You will find Menorahs made of metals, silver, ceramic and glass. Inexpensive common Menorahs are generally made of brass. While many of the newer Menorahs are modern in design and costly, browsing an Antique Mall will offer you the opportunity to bring home an older classic style affordable Menorah. Browse through your local Antique group shop to find a nice Menorah. YOu can also search online at sites such as Etys.com or eBay.com.

Sources:

Older black and white photos of Chanukah are from Frugal Cafe Blog Zone
Bottom Menorah courtesy of http://curiousnewyork.blogspot.com/2010/11/origins-of-hanukkahhannukahchannukahcha.html
Menorahs shown are courtesy of eBay.com and Etsy.com.

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

Chocol'Art Holiday Exhibit And Open Art Studios At The Farmington Valley Art Center, Avon, CT. December 10th, 2011, 10-4

Don't Miss Chocol'Art at The Farmington Valley Arts Center!

This Saturday Chocolate lovers will be in heaven as The Farmington Valley Arts Center is featuring free chocolate treats in each of the open art studios. The Farmington Valley Arts Center, just off Route 44 in Avon, CT is a wonderful complex which features studio artists, an ongoing community art school and two terrific galleries.

Visiting The Main Gallery At The Farmington Valley Arts Center

During the holidays, the gallery is also a holiday gift shop featuring artisans from all over New England. The gallery is simply gorgeous an d packed with festive artisan designed holiday gifts including, jewelry, textiles, pottery, glassware, collage, sculpture, photography, holidays cards, decorative accessories, paintings, serving pieces and more.

FVAC Art Studios To Visit

In the studios which are on two levels, will will see a nice selection of landscapes, abstracts, still life, sculpture, nature and animal art, portraits, photography, illustrations, cartoons, paper cuttings, etchings, mobiles and more .
Be sure to visit my Mixed Media Abstract Art studio 9B (second level). There will plenty of chocolate to sample.

Farmington Valley Arts Center

25 Arts Center Lane
Avon, CT
860-678-1867

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

Hip Christmas Holiday Serving Ideas For Retro Moms

Bring Some Retro Holiday Pizazz Into Your Home This Christmas

This year bring some RETRO Holiday pizazz into your home by setting your holiday table with colorful hip vintage kitchen-wares from the 1940s,1950s and 1960s.. Re-set your holiday clock and take the express bus right back to your favorite kitschy eras.

Serving Holiday Snacks In A Vintage Lazy Susan

How much fun will your holiday snacks look displayed in a ceramic dish Lazy Susan ?
Or what about picking out some quirky polka dotted salt and peppers shaker roosters to add to your holiday table? Forget about the crystal, the silver, the red and green.......mix it up...get retro...have fun.

Think RETRO When Out Shopping

It's easier than you think to decorate for the holidays. Take a visit to your nearby Antique Mall or Antique Group shop and think RETRO. As you walk up and down the aisles, look for colorful bowls, vases, serving pieces, trays, accessories etc. that seem to work well together.

Organize your selections in some way. Objects with a pattern such as polka dots. Or perhaps you want a black, white and red theme. You may decide to keep the traditional holiday colors of red and green but this year kick up your "green" a notch with a retro green color such as chartreuse.

Create Your Own Holiday Color Palette

And don't be afraid to create your own holiday color scheme. Who said you can't use a wonderful 1960's orange vase with green snack dishes. You can...you can invent your own interpretation of a Retro Christmas or Chanukah. I'd love to see pictures of your Retro holiday. Send them to me at Dianne@cdiannezweig.com.

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

Collecting Vintage Housewares In Their Original Package

Five And Dime Housewares Are Fun Collectibles

I love retro housewares and have a hard time resisting buying good old Five and Dime packaged home goods whenever I spot them.. At my shop Kitsch n Stuff located in The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT you will find kitschy housewares from the 1930s, 19040s, 1950s, 1960s.

New Old Stock

While I often lament that it is getting harder and harder to come across vintage housewares and laundry accessories still in their original packaging, every now and then, you come across some new old stock. What I mean by new old stock, is that the stuff is original but has never been used. By the way, did you know they made covers for rolling pins? (see picture). Apparently, the homeowner who had this "non stick " rolling pin cover in her drawer or kitchen cabinet, did't do too much baking after all.

Collecting Old Thumb Tacks

I always wonder about the people who hold onto real old kitchen supplies so long? Did't they get the urge to purge all this stuff after the first 30 years of holing onto it?

A Dozen Packages of Thumb Tacks

Recently I bought a box lot (a dozen packages) of old thumb tacks (now we call them push pins).
I have no idea what I am going to do with so many thumb tacks. But the price was right and I love bargains!

Vintage Clothespins Are Popular Among Collectors

While I adore my thumb tacks, I confess I did have much more fun acquiring the plastic clothespins shown here. Now clothespins do not come that cheap . It appears that clothespins are more desirable than thumb tacks. I am embarrassed to say that I have actually bought old wooden clothespins fin their original packaging for $12.00 -15.00. The plastic ones shown in this post were $6.00.

Old Curtain Tie Backs

Vintage curtain tie backs are another house-ware product that collectors like. I generally see these items sell for $8.00-12.00 a pair. The tea pot tie backs shown are courtesy of http://teawithfriends.blogspot.com/2009/06/teapot-curtain-tie-back-holders_9964.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.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists