"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

Creating s Junk Wall: Spotted On The Whimsical Website "Organized Clutter"

Creating a Junk Wall Using Old Wooden Boxes and Collectibles

I found this really fun website called Organized Clutter which features a section on decorating with collectibles. I thought you might enjoy seeing a Junk Wall. I would love to do this in my home, but I just haven't gotten the nerve to carry it out get. Using old wooden boxes to create vignettes is really charming and leaves plenty of room to move things around when you feel like re-decorating. You not only get the inside of the box to use as a display space, but you can use the top of the box as well. This Junk Wall is organized quite well...I guess these gals who run this site really do specialize in   Organized Clutter!

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

Handmade Scottie Christmas Ornaments Will Charm Collectors

Puffin Patchwork On Etsy.com Showcases Her Delightful Felt Ornaments For Christmas 

I get very nostalgic when I see handmade felt toys and ornaments, because my grandmother Sophie used to charm me with her crafts. In the spirit of the season, I wanted to introduce Puffin Patchwork on Etsy.com. a delightful shop specializing in vintage and Retro inspired felt ornaments. You will find adorable Glamper caravans, Scottie dogs, Dachshunds, Poodles, Owls, Elephants, cottages and more. Puffin does such a lovely job adding plaids, ginghams, buttons and other trimmings which really make her sewing creations extra special.

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

Collecting Matchbox Cars: What Grandparents Need to Know

Matchbox Cars are More Than Toys: They Are Collectibles 

I spent the Thanksgiving weekend parking cars...Matchbox cars that is. For three days straight I played with my grandson on the floor rolling vintage Matchbox cars down a homemade ramp I made from a piece of Foam board. After the cars rolled down the ramp, we parked the cars. When the parking lot got too crowded it was down the ramp again. After three days of parking cars...you get to know them really well.

Now my company is gone and I am packing away the cars. I am also wondering just how well do I know these little die cast cars? The answer is, I know squat about the history or value of these cars which are very collectible. What I do know after doing some simple research is that some of the cars we were rolling down the ramp are worth a bit of change. I had no idea these little cars could sell for $20, $40, $90 dollars etc.  Of course prices are related to year made,
condition, rarity, boxed etc. Whoa ...it is time to do some careful analysis of the matter before we play again.

Here are some great resources to check out:

Top Image from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/investing/5990026/Real-money-from-your-toy-collection.html

http://www.collectorsweekly.com/model-cars/matchbox

http://matchboxclub.com/

http://www.toycarcollector.com/matchbox_lesney.htm

http://play.matchbox.com/en_US/

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

Kathryn Frund Assemblage Artist Created a Whimsical Sculpture to Talk About How Balloons Are Killing Wildlife and The Envirnment

Assemblage Artist Kathryn Frund at Erector Square

On Saturday I visited the art studio of Kathryn Frund who delights in finding meaningful found objects that she reassembles to make an assemblage which communicates an important message. In this re-cycled Chandelier construction Kathryn has taken balloon, string, ribbon remnants that she found on the beach and as created an attractive assemblage
attached to old street sign signage.

Balloons are killing wildlife on land, sea, air. Read more at http://balloonsblow.org/impacts-on-wildlife-and-environment/ 

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

Rediscovered Fabric Designs From the 1950s: The Kissing Fish Archive of Michale Nicholson

Michael Nicholson: 1950s Designer

Bopping around the internet looking for inspiration for my current series on 1950s Mixed Media art pieces, I came across an online website called Midcentury Magazine  which has wonderful articles on living a Contemporary lifestyle.  In this post on The Kissing Fish Archive, designer Michael Nicholson's fabric designs are uncovered by his nephew  Ben. You can read the article at http://midcenturymagazine.com/furniture-objects/kissing-fish-archive-fabric-designs-1950s/

 

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

Design Icon Irene Apfel Collaborating With Happy Socks For "Funky Chic" Prints

Knock Your Socks Off....Irene Apfel Is Designing For Happy Socks! 

My absolutely favorite designer, Irene Apfel is collaborating with my absolute favorite Swedish sock company to feature six new prints that will knock your sock off! At 95, Irene is such an inspiration! You go girl. Here are some links you will enjoy:

In Style article:http://www.instyle.com/fashion/iris-apfel-launches-happy-socks-collection

Happy Socks Company: https://www.happysocks.com/us/colabs/local-heroes/

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

Picturesque 1950s-1960s Gravel Art Featured On Facebook Page

Gravel Art: Favorite Hobby in the 1950s and 1960s...Now on Facebook


Glenn Waters has taken the time to establish both a website and Facebook Page dedicated to the popular 1950s and 1960s hobby of making Gravel and stone Wall Decor artwork. These kits kept many  postwar dads and moms busy. My dad has made the Queen and King below and Im wondering if this image I came across could actually be dad'd work. I also fondly remember a set of parrots he carefully crafted at our dinette table.

Popular Gravel kit themes were exotic birds, Geisha girls, poodles, jesters,  Asian landscapes, musical instruments, florals, seascapes, religious themes, wine and fruit and more. Also check out: https://www.pinterest.com/jolene2628/gravel-art/

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

   

Susan Waggoner's Nostalgic Holiday Books Delight Baby Boomers

Christmas In October With Susan Waggoner's Delightful Holiday Books

I recently discovered Susan Waggoner's  series of books on Nostalgic topics: My readers will LOVE LOVE LOVE these books. The pictures bring you back to your childhood days and you will adore vintage images of your favorite memories! While the titles appear to be Christmas focused, the books will dazzle you with photos and advertisements of  your  favorite holiday catalogues, toys, shopping, gatherings, decor and more. These books are for everyone !

 For more titles see: https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Waggoner/e/B001H6WE8W/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

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

Visiting Lamothe Sugar House in Burlington, Connecticut

The Sweetest Wedding 
Favors at Lamothe Sugar House

On a scouting mission to find party favors for my daughter's wedding I found myself at Lamothe Sugar House in Burlington, CT.  Lamothe  has to be one of the most charming farm-gift shops I have visited anywhere in New England.  Tucked away off a Country road in a residential area

is this sweet (no pun intended) Maple syrup business which  sells syrup, candies, books, baking goods, kitchen utensils, breakfast items and more. Be sure to ask about tours and group talks.



C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles 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
bles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of

Vintage Scrabble Sets Re-assembled Into Personalized Works of Art

Scrabble Collage Is A Unique Holiday Or Special Gift 

If you are a Scrabble maven, you may really like this "Personalized Scrabble Word Collage" art-gift  I came across at a Craft Show in Avon, CT. Kate Smith, the artist collects dozens and dozens of old scrabble sets and creates a special board which is re-purposed into a work of art to give as a one of a kind gift.  Kate arranges the scrabble tiles with the important milestones, names, locations, college, hobbies, interests which represent that special person you are honoring.

What was so special about Kate's exhibit of sample work was how many different scrabble boards she has collected. And I guess if you are missing a particular letter in your own set...I bet Kate has it!
You can contact Kate at Foxxmolder@aol.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

New Life Chairs: Artisan Company That Re-Purposes Children's Wooden Chairs and Tables

Giving A New Life To An Old Children's Set of Chairs and Table

Have you noticed that it is becoming harder to find a sturdy children's set of wooden table and chairs? You are apt to find plastic sets, but the really nice wooden sets are not as easy to  find.  Recently I came across a small Artisan company called "New Life Chairs". Robert, takes older children's chairs and tables and gives them a new life. Antique dealers and others should take note that if you find a wooden set in rough condition, these items are still very desirable to artisans who scout for these sets to re-do and sell as re-purposed children's furniture.

Visit: http://newlifechairsct-com.3dcartstores.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

Happy Versus Unhappy "Hoarders" : The Inside Story On Clutter

Do You Have A Lot of Stuff ?

People often refer to themselves as a "hoarder" even when they are not really a "hoarder" but  shall we say are rather robust collectors. Now their collections can be NEAT or SLOPPY and they can feel proud of their COLLECTIONS or miserable about their stuff...too much stuff you might think as an outsider.  But I am convinced that just having a lot of stuff  does not label you a hoarder, so those of you who are reading this blog can relax in knowing that the size of your piles does not count towards level of craziness or
unhappiness for that matter.

Compulsive Collecting 

Now I'm not making light of  people who are troubled and who indeed live in home situations where their behavior of holding on to massive amounts of un-needed things is getting in the way of living a safe life. Nor am I minimizing the difficulty depressed people have mobilizing themselves to clean up.

Happy Collectors

I am pointing out that many people either enjoy being surrounded by STUFF or are so busy they can't keep up with their accumulations both old and new. These folks may look like hoarders but are really not, they are perfectly content, happy, reasonably normal ...they just have a lot of STUFF!

Read more: http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/collectors%20on%20the%20couch 


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

Tips When Looking at Nursing Homes For Mom or Dad Even When You Are Not Looking For One

I Never Wanted dad In A Nursing Home....But He is There. 

Well I finally got to the point where dad has been transitioned to a Nursing home. I cried the entire weekend he was admitted, but I gotta tell you..he's doing better with other people around.

He was taken to the Nursing home directly from a near by hospital ER after he fell and banged up his face pretty badly. The decision was made at that point to have him in a long term facility because he was falling too much at home.

 I had already looked into Nursing homes a fews years back and had a heads up on the selection process and was lucky that one of my top choices had an available bed.

6 Tips When Looking at Nursing Homes For Mom or Dad 


1. Even if you think your loved one will not be going to a Nursing home, I would still go visit Nursing homes and become familiar with ones in your area.

2. Choose the best Nursing home which is closest to your home or work, so you can conveniently visit.

3. Fill out applications and have on file, because it's often tough to get into a better Nursing home,

4. Stop agonizing about placing your mom or dad "in a home", if you choose wisely you may actually be improving their quality of life.

5. Don't assume you know whether mom or dad would like a single or double room if given the choice. Sometimes older people want a roommate because they are frightened to be alone or they want company.

6. Even if mom or dad did not eat or engage in activities at home, they are apt to behave very differently in a new setting. The bottom line, is as well as we think we know our loved ones, you will find out that there are a lot of  unexpected and positive changes that may happen.

Read more articles on this topic: http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/older%20adults


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

Don't Toss Out Defective Tupperware: Trade It In

Your Defective Vintage Tupperware May Be Covered Under Their Lifetime Guarantee 

I was out strolling the booths of a Flea Market - Country Fair last weekend and I stopped into a Tupperware booth and learned something new. I wasn't aware that even old and defective Tupperware  can be traded in  under their lifetime warranty. Here is what their company website says:   

Covered By The Tupperware Lifetime Guarantee Tupperware products are guaranteed by the Company against cracking, warping, peeling and chipping under normal domestic use.

http://tupperware.com.my/quality_lifetime_warranty.php

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

Creating Attractive Shelves With Wooden Boxes to Display Antiques and Collectibles Outdoors

Displaying Antiques and Collectibles at an Outdoor Flea Market or Antique Show

I spotted this wonderful display of antiques and collectibles at a local Flea Market this past weekend. Wooden boxes are easy to find and create cubbies for showcasing your wares in unique ways.
These simple make shift shelves are terrific for using both indoors and outdoors and can also serve as a way to  pack and cart your merchandise.          


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

Preparing For Passover...Lot's of Quality Time in The Kitchen

Nostalgic Times: 1950s Passover

I'm getting ready for the holiday of Passover, a time which will bring me into my kitchen for some real "quality time". Don't get me wrong, I do spend a lot of time in my kitchen now, but nothing quite racks up special domestic time like Passover. Yes, I know that the holiday of Easter consumes a good deal of family cooking preparation, but Passover is a double whammy and then some... two big holiday meals or Seders followed by an entire week of special Passover foods and recipes which take over the kitchen.

I was reminded of my childhood Passovers when I saw this picture posted on Pinterest.com. If you look closely at the little girl she is wearing MaryJane shoes and ankle socks. Oh boy do I remember going shopping for new clothes and new shoes for the holiday. It's been a very long time since I saw mom and daughters in the kitchen wearing a dress with an apron. Not to mention high heels!

 
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

Turquoise Pyrex Chip and Dip: A Great Retro Bridal Shower Gift

Have A Retro Bridal Shower

Here is my big question...why spend oodles of money on Bridal Shower gifts when you can go Retro and buy something as fabulous as this  "Turquoise Chip and Dip Two Tier Stacked Bowl" with original gold stand on Etsy.com. This amazing item just sold for $35.00. Now that's a deal!

Photo courtesy of  https://www.etsy.com/listing/170069990/rare-vintage-pyrex-chip-dip-square-aqua?utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share

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

Folded Pot Holder, Recipe, Spatula Hostess Gift

Quiltex Expressions: Handmade Hostess Gift

I'm not handy in the sewing or quilt department, so when I come across an adorable handmade item that I wish I could make, the next best thing is to share it with my readers. I was poking around the internet on one of my secret missions when I discovered a super blog for quilters called Quiltex Expressions. Here is the link https://quiltexpressions.wordpress.com/2013/11/26/gift-inspiration-day-ten-folded-pot-holder/.

I fell in love with this tutorial on making a Folded Pot Holder, Recipe, Spatula Hostess Gift. You will find a very well done lesson on how to make your very own. Let me know if you try this.


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

C. Dianne Zweig Announces May 2016 Workshops on Contemporary Mixed Media-Collage at Dick Blick Art Materials, Plainville, CT

Let Loose With Collage and Mixed Media Classes This Spring: Four Exciting Workshops at Dick Blick in Plainville, Connecticut

Letting all my readers know that I will be giving a series of Workshops on Contemporary Mixed Media and Collage this May, 2016 at Dick Blick in Plainville, CT. Since I spend a good deal of time at Dick Blick buying the mother lode of art supplies,  I decided to share my process with others in the form of four Wednesday afternoon sessions:

Let Loose With Collage & Mixed Media Workshops: 

Leave your inner critic home and join others in the art of creating Mixed Media artwork and collages using painted papers, print making techniques, textures, mark making, dry and wet media. Emphasis on helping students "loosen up" and work more spontaneously with a variety of materials and products. All levels of students welcomed. Day/Time: 4 sessions on Wednesdays 1:00-3:00, May 4, 11, 18, 25. Fee $120.00  For more information visit http://www.cdiannezweig.com/workshops/



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

1950s Record Album Designer Saul Mandel

Abstract Design Dominates Advertising, Products and Design in the 1950s 

As a Contemporary Mixed Media artist inspired by Mid Century design, I have been studying designers of 1950s record albums. This 1950s Igor Stravinsky album cover designed by Saul Mandel is a great example of the growing interest in abstract design during the Atomic age and the use of   popular 1950s colors of turquoise, corals, aquas, turquoise and grays.

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

Red and Yellow 1950s Plastic Household Kitsch on Pinterest.com

Plastic Housewares Adored  

                                       

If you were a 1950s housewife you had plenty of kitschy plastic housewares in your kitchen. Red and yellow were colors from the late 1940s through the early 1950s. Shortly after, pink and turquoise   took over in the Mid Century kitchen. Mail order catalogs and the neighborhood Dimestore were places to find lots of kitchenwares such as napkin holders, salt and pepper shakers. If you really want to see lots of plastic housewares, visit my 1950s  Plastic Kitchen Board on Pinterest.com   https://www.pinterest.com/kitschnstuff/1950s-plastic-kitchen/

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