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

When Black and White Is All You Need For An Engaging Antique Display

Artsy Antique Displays Which Convey Minimalist Style  

Some people like to stuff their antique booth displays with a lot of collectibles believeing that you need to use up as much expensive space as you can. Other dealers prefer a more artsy look and spend time displaying their objects with just the right balance of interest, shapes, graphic appeal.
I was immediatley draw to the minimalist look of this black and white display at The Harwinton Antiques Show. What do you think...is it too sparse or did it capture your attention and why?


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 Vintage And Antique Wooden Artist Palettes

Decorating With Old Wooden Painted Artist Palettes: Pickers Alert 

Did you know that old wooden artist palettes are very collectible and fetching considerable prices in today's collectibles market. Many collectors like to use these vintage artist palettes as wall decor arranging different shapes and sizes in interesting vignettes. I have even seen palettes propped on a small easel and showcased as "art" .

Palettes Can Be More Interesting Than Artwork

As a mixed media artist, I know that often our palettes are more interesting than the artwork we are making. There is something delightful about the spontaneity of splattered colors which have gotten layered on an old wooden palette. The palette shown in this blog was featured at The English Building Market in New Haven with a price tag of $75.00. So the next time you come across an old palette, you just may want to scoop it up or write me!

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

Pretty Pink Petunias Planted Into Vintage Baking Loaf Pans

Retro Petunias Planted In Baking Tins 

This is a sweet idea I spottted over the Mother's day weekend at The English Building Market, fabulous Retro store in New Haven, CT. Colorful pink Petunias were planted into vintage small baking loaf pans. These clever vintage planters were a darling gift item sold at this popular Chapel Street emporium this week.


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 Your Mums In An Antique Baby Buggy

Up-Cycle Your Broken Vintage Doll Carriage To Hold Flowers

Lately I have been seeing a lot of wicker vintage baby carriages. Sometimes yu will find them in wondrful condition and you can just imagine sitting your antique doll collection inside of them.

But what about the times when you find or have a old baby buggy and it is not in very good condition? Well here is a wonderful idea when you have a good top but a broken bottom to your carriage. Up-cycle it as a outdoor (or even indoor) planter to display a large plant such as the Mums shown here.

This idea spotted at The Blue House Vintage Shop, Canton, 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

Painting Vintage Bottles With Acrylic Paint

Colorful Fun With Old Bottles

What a simple decorating idea. painting old bottles with acrylic paint. Some people paint the outside of the bottle, but you can also pour the paint inside the bottle to coat the interior and then spill the excess paint out.

What i like about this idea is that you can customize your color scheme to tie in with a particular room palette. Look how fun the matching flowers look inside the bottle.

This fun idea was spotted 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.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Using Old Books As Shelves To Display Your Collections

Books As Shelves

Retro Hang-Ups

I have a house filled with books. There are books in every room. Even my closets are filled with books. But what if you have a house without too many books and you want just a few?

Well here is the perfect idea for minimalists who like their walls pretty empty. Try using a few vintage books as shelves for your collections. I spotted this idea on http://pinterest.com/pin/17895045/ Let me know if you try it.

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 AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Retro Brunswick Maine Home Features Colorful Whimsical Vintage Decor And Collectibles

Funky, Retro Vacation Cottage In Brunswick Maine

I wish I could be funky enough to paint my walls purple and install a black and white floor to show off a Retro enamel kitchen table. That is what these gals did in their Brunswick Maine vacation home.

HomeAway.com

This exciting property was found on the popular vacation website HomeAway.com, a site which allows home owners to feature their vacation properties.. I just knew my readers would want to see what I found. I haven't stayed here yet, but it is on my list.

Brunswick Main is close to Portland, Freeport, Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, Camden and Rockland.





Freedom To Express Yourself In Full Color

I just love it when I see women who are brave enough to express themselves in full color. This beach cottage is so happy....you just want to spend time there. FUN FUN FUN......a great look for Retro lovers. There is no time like the present.....time to paint your walls in happy palettes.

New Brunswick, Maine Summer Cottage

I just had to share these photos with you which were found on Home Away.com. This rental property is on the second floor and located one block from the downtown area.

Enchanting Decorating In Every Room

Every room and space is enchanting decorated in a very colorful whimsical Retro style. Walls are painted purple, chartreuse green, sunflower yellow and a wonderful orange color.

Black And White Look Great With Vibrant Colors

This cottage combines the warmth of older furnishings with the conveniences of modern living such as internet, cable, home theater etc. All of these colors works so well with the black and white tiled floors.Red accents are used throughout the house as an organizing color. White furnishing are a wonderful contrast to the vibrant colors of the walls.

This is one special property. Visit http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p340670 see more great photos of the interior and exterior of this sweet cottage 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

Introducing "Bronx Renaissance" : Decorating With Retro Showy Antiques And Collectibles

Have Your Heard of Decorating In "Bronx Renaissance" ?

It's A Colorful And Bold Vintage Style Which Is Back Again

They dared me at my Antique Mall (The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT.) to call the decorating style discussed in this article "Bronx Renaissance". But when I asked some of these same dealers to describe the style of the furnishings and accessories illustrated in this post, one dealer (who will remain anonymous to protect his identity) jested "Bronx Renaissance" Style .

Hollywood Regency Decor With A Twist

As soon as I heard this phrase, I fell in love with it. It was like "Hollywood Regency" with a twist: ...the glitz, the showy collectibles but not exactly the glamour of the rich and famous of The Golden Age of Hollywood. Think of "Bronx Renaissance" as the BRONX of yesteryear where so many of my readers had their humble beginnings.

Bronx Roots

The Bronx, one of New York's, five boroughs is nostalgic for many of us who had parents , grandparents and family who started out there. Today, the Bronx is both home to some of the poorest neighborhoods in New York as well as home to some of the most affluent areas such as Riverdale and Country Club.


Hollywood Style Or Vintage Bronx?

A lot of HOLLYWOOD folks (Woody Allen, Tony Curtis, Al Pacino, Anne Bancroft etc.) came from the BRONX.....well that's another article. So before I used the title "Bronx Renaissance" I wanted to do some homework and make sure I wasn't insulting anyone in the entertainment business or any other business for that matter.Who else used that phrase and what might it imply?

Yankee Stadium Was a "Bronx Renaissance"

To my surprise, the term "Bronx Renaissance" was not associated with anything fishy or any previously discussed decorating trend . The term has been used to describe the re-opening of the new Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. O.K. that seemed Kosher enough.....nothing controversial about that connection.

So I decided to put it out there......I was coining a new decorating style. For me "Bronx Renaissance" is exciting, colorful, flamboyant, just like the people of New York. I wasn't thinking baseball...I was thinking "OVER THE TOP" decor. In fact if truth me known, I was also thinking GAUDY (aka showy) and FLASHY.

"Bronx Renaissance" Is A "Hollywood Regency" Wannabe Decorating Style

While "Hollywod Regency" conjures up the 1930s glamour and glitz of the Hollywood Golden Age , a popular decorating style for Joan Crawford, in contrast, " Bronx Renaissance" reminds me of "My Cousin Vinnie" starring one of my favorite actors Joe Pesci.

Blitz, Gliz, Gaudy Decorating

O.K. I said it ! Now how many of you remember your childhood and visiting friends, neighbors, cousins who liked to decorate in this BOLD style? Those were the days of lots of blitz, glitz and gaud! Oh my.....it's back! Yes " Bronx Renaissance" retro decor meets Jersey Shore housewives meets vintage Hollywood meets all of the above and more.

Some Common Elements of "Bronx Renaissance" Decor Style

1. Animal prints
2. Large gaudy lamps.
3. Bright colors and palettes.
4. Faux everything.
5. Blitz, glitz, flashy accessories.
6. BIG everything.
7. Mix and match big time.
6. Tall mirrors and lots of hanging crystals.

and you can add some more to this list.

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 A Vintage Quilted Lingerie Tray To Display Small Collectibles In Your Antique Booth

Re-Purposing A Vintage Lingerie And Stocking Organizer

You have seen plenty of these quilted satin Lingerie Trays for sale which were originally sold for women to use as lingerie and stocking organizers. These days, I really do not see these lovely vanity collectibles flying out the door of any shops. But that doesn't mean we can't make use out of them in our displays.

Use The Compartments To Hold And Display Your "Smalls"

So what shall we do with these practical products of yesteryear? Don;t hide them in your booth. USE them in a new way. Consider displaying your "smalls" in the divided compartments . Costume jewelery, sewing notions, trinkets, medals etc will work well tucked into the sections.

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

Displaying Your Antiques And Collectibles In The Right Spot ?

Decorating Your Antique Booth: Where is The Good "Karma" ?

If you have been an antique dealer for a long time, you know that certain sections of your antique booth seem to do better than others. Some areas of your antique booth or shop get better light or exposure while other sections seem to get lost. But good lighting and visibility while helpful is does not guarantee that a particular display area will work out well. You need to factor in the issue of "karma".

How "Karma" Plays A Role In How Much You Sell

Don't kid yourself, some spots in your booth or mall have better "karma" than others. A case in point for me (no pun intended). I have this GREAT 1950s white metal kitchen cabinet that makes a wonderful funky retro display shelving unit.

Some Areas in Your Antique Booth Work Better Than Others

BUT things never sell out of it? I have no idea why? I love this cabinet because it is narrow, easy to move around and sets the retro mood in my booth. The problem is.....no matter where I place it or what I put on the shelves of this retro cabinet, nothing seems to sell off of it. It just seems to have bad "karma".

Displaying Collectibles On A Handmade Potting Table

In a less prominent spot in my booth is a darling soft green painted hand made garden potting table which I display vintage kitchen housewares or cottage style collectibles. The "karma" on this potting table is much better than that which surrounds my retro 1950s kitchen cabinet. The same kitchen collectible which is displayed in the metal cabinet will sell when it gets moved to the potting table .....go figure?

The moral of the story is that you should always move around the objects in your antique booth and learn where the best "karma" is!

Photos taken at my shop "Kitsch n Stuff" which is part of 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.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Using Ordinary Vintage Objects Such As Old Thermos Bottles To Create An Attractive Collection

Using Vintage Objects As Art

I like the idea of making artsy collections out of ordinary vintage objects. The Seymour Antiques Company in Seymour CT. has always provided me with plenty of inspiration and ideas.

Look how amazing these older thermos containers look when grouped together? The palette is limited to red, black and silver. The simple banded design, popular in 1930s and 1940s housewares is another organizing element making this ensemble were attractive.

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 Display Ideas: The Importance Of Color And Charm

How to Make Your Antique Booth Shop, Kitchen Look Attractive

Every now and then you have to mix it up and change your displays in your antique shop or mall. But what do you do when you sell lots of the same colors or types of collectibles? How do you stir the pot (no pun intended) to make things look different? This post will help you begin to imagine some changes you could make to impove your antique booth space displays.

Kitsch n Stuff Kitchen Collectibles

At my humble little ole booth (kitsch n Stuff) at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford Connecticut you will find plenty of kitchen collectibles in red, yellow, blue, green or some combination of those colors.
By far I have more red and yellow or red and white items than other color combination. And after a while the displays start needing a punch in the arm to wake them up. So here are some tips to help you improve the look of your displays.

Add The Color Turquoise Or Aqua To Red Kitchen Collectibles

Believe it or not turquoise (aqua) looks great with red and yellow objects. In fact you can pair turquoise with just yellow or just red or as part of a vignette of red, yellow, white kitchenwares. And as you can see in the photos shown, the turquoise (aqua) planter sitting on a kitchen canister has a plate propped inside it. And the cornucopia planter has a colorful red and yellow hot pad tucked inside. Remember to make your collectibles do double duty!

With 1940s and 1950s Kitchen Collectibles Go For The Charming Element

This may just be my personal preference, but it has served me well. After I create a new display for my kjtchen collectibles, I stand back and look table top display or shelf that I have just completed and I ask myself, "Is it charming?" That is when I look around my booth and pull out an adorable planter or figurine or object that completes the "Is it Charming ? " test.

Use A Colorful But Not Too Busy Tablecloth Or Fabric Remnant As A Shelf Liner
When I am out shopping for kitchen collectibles, I always keep my eye out for 1940s or 1950s remnants or tablecloth cutters that could be re-cycled as shelf liners. I keep a special box of such cloths handy and bring them to my shop when I am re- decorating. This is one area that you have to experiment with your ideas.

It Doesn't Always Have To Be Matchy Matchy
Sometimes a cloth may have a color that you thought would work but ends up looking too drab. Or, if you get too matchy matchy, your display is drabby. As I have talked about before....fool around with ideas....let things happen on their own.

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 Authors Guild, Inc.

Set A Table With A Colorful Vintage Tablecloth To Perk Up A Collection Of Vintage Dishes And Glassware

Antique Dealers Sell More Collectibles By "Setting The Table"

Anyone in the antique business will tell you that it isn't all that easy to sell sets of dishes and glassware. Every time I buy a box of dishes I am
sorry! BUT, like all dealers..... we keep buying anything and everything.

Dishes sitting on a shelf look boring. And they are usually very hard to display. So one way to help move them along to another home is to show your customers how "lovely" they will look when the table is set. Select a complimentary colorful tablecloth to perk up the ensemble and add a nice vase with fresh or dried flowers to complete the look.

Photo taken at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut

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

Decorating Your Baby's Nursery With Pictures From A Vintage Nursery Rhyme Book

Charming Vintage Nursery Rhyme Images From Kelley Street Vintage on Etsy.com

I am having such a wonderful time enjoying these delightful and colorful pages which came out of a Children's Nursery Rhyme Book. Once again I thank http://www.etsy.com/shop/kelleystreetvintage for these very special images.

Developing A Theme For Your Vintage Baby Nursery

Poking through old children's books is a great way to find affordable art for you baby's nursery or young child's room. Why not start with some favorite images and then build a room around your finds.

You can have your images professionally framed or you can buy ready made frames. If you are very creative, you can also find some older frames and re-paint them.

On-Line Shopping

You will find that there are many 0n-line sellers who specialize in vintage illustrations.
Grouping Vintage Pictures

While anyone of these book plates would sweet in your baby nursery, you might want to consider buying tow or three and grouping them together.

Because Nursery Rhymes are a common theme for baby accessories, it is easy to find vintage lamps, textiles, toys etc to match your theme.

Matching Painted Furniture

And how great would an older piece of furniture look painted red or yellow to go with the primary colors in these pictures. So much fun and a thrifty way to go.

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

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

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

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

Do You Need A "Boxed-In" Breakthrough?

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

A Knack For Hanging-Up Vintage Knick Knacks

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

Vintage Wooden Boxes Look Great As Wall Decor

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

The Vintage Cake Server Becomes Art

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

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

Displaying Salt & Pepper Shakers: Retro Hang-Ups Part 1

RETRO HANG-UP: Displaying Your Salt And Pepper Shakers on A Funky Flower Power Wall Mounted Couch

This post is the first in a series I am calling "Retro Hang-Ups", oh not the kind you bring to your shrink, the type you hang on the wall or elsewhere.

Do You Have a Funky Couch For Your WALL?

But wait a minute, today's hang-up does have a couch involved, but not for patients....the couch I am referring to displays salt and pepper shakers. Now this is getting confusing, a couch that hangs on the wall ? Oh did I mention that the couch is day orange with a flower power pattern....and that it is doll size?

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

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

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

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

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

Picking Up An Old Window On The Side Of The Road

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

Covering The Window With A Lace "Curtain"

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

Two Sides To This Wall Partition

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

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


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

Tips About Buying And Selling Garden Collectibles And Vintage Pottery Planters And Vases

Hurry Up And Beat The Garden Rush: Scoop Up Pottery Vases And Planters Now

Hurry...if you are looking for pottery vases and planters, now is the time to buy them before the garden season is truly here. Always try to shop for items you really want in the opposite season.

Garden Collectibles Are Hot

For example chances are that you will get a much better deal on a vintage watering can in November than in June. The same theory holds true for planters and vases. Scoop these treasures up in the winter before the rest of the world in is garden mode.

Display Vintage Vases And Planters By Color In Your Shop

If you own an Antique shop, it makes sense to group the same color vases and planters together. Many shoppers have collections of pottery in the same color palette and may buy more that one piece of pottery if they see their favorite colors grouped together. Also you can blend several shades of a similar color together, such as aqua with darker jade colors. Sometimes using two contrasting colors together is very effective.

Pastel Colored Vintage Pottery Vases And Planters Are Popular

You can have collections of "pink", "white" "yellow", "aqua" etc. Try to keep the same era together. And remember, planters and vases can be used in so many areas of the home.


Retro Vintage Baby: Using Pottery in The Baby Nursery

I learned that new moms like to use pastel colors in their vintage nursery. So consider integrating pretty vintage pink, yellow, green, aqua vases and planters with your retro baby collectibles. It's always important to show your customers how they too can use collectibles in home decor.


Mix Up Shapes And Sizes Of Vintage Pottery Vases And Planters

Also mix up the sizes and shapes when displaying vases and planter. Once again, one way to encourage customers to buy more from you is to show them how nice a collection of pottery looks together. Ceramic bowls and Tea Pots also look great along with vases and planters. You can turn a pottery bowl over and use as a pedestal for other objects.

Visit The T-Cozy For Inspiration

If you really want to be inspired about creating a wonderful collection, visit
The T-Cozy and you will see some fabulous photos of aqua pottery.

Setting Up A Garden Collectibles Area In Your Shop

It really isn't too early to get the garden displays going in your shop. Consider taking a nice sunny spot in your shop and turning it into a garden collectibles area. you can have several dealers participate in this display if you are part of a group shop.

Photos Shown Are Courtesy of :

http://www.nanaluluslinensandhandkerchiefs.com/

http://thecoffeetrade.com/

http://www.enchantedmakeovers.org/

http://www.ticklemepinkboutique.com/


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.

To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link:
C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff

Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com

Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com

Dianne is a member of:
The American Society of Journalists and Authors
The Authors Guild, Inc.

Decorating With Vintage And Antique Books

Using Vintage Books As Decorative Objects

Decorating with vintage books can be a darling way to bring color, warmth and charm into any room. While visiting Salmon Brook Shop Antiques in Granby, Connecticut today I was delighted to find many wonderful displays of vintage books.

Plant Stands Make Cute Book Shelves

First there was a sweet plant stand that was now home to a lovely collection of older books. This plant stand had four short shelves which held five books across making for a lovely petite display. For some rooms, like the kitchen or bathroom, a narrow plant stand is just perfect for a small book holder.

Look For Attractive Book Covers And Spines

Another delightful display at Salmon Brook was a collection of vintage books with interesting spines. Many people like to look for books with attractive covers and crisp and artsy details. Grouped together, older well designed books become lovely decorative objects. You may want to look for books in the same color family or choose a few selected colors to display. Another fun way to collect books is by series, such as poetry books or a particular author.

Displaying Vintage Books In A Variety Of Ways

Vintage books can be shelved upright, stacked or even placed on an easel. When shelving books upright you may want to use some wonderful older brass bookends or perhaps themed wooden bookends such as "dogs", "sail boats", "horses", etc.
Sometimes it is hard to find a pair of bookends, so consider using 'singles".

Mix And Match Book Ends

And bookends need not match either. Have fun using different bookends or a collection of similar bookends (all Scottie dogs). You can really save lots of money using "orphaned" bookends".

Vintage Books Can Be Used As A Riser Or Platform

I often used a few books stacked to serve as a riser or platform for other decorative objects. Books that are really too bruised for display can be used in places where you do not see them. Or other objects can be placed in front of them. Lamps may need a lift and books work well to add some height.

Break Up Book Displays With Other Collectibles

Having rows and rows of books can get boring. Vary your book displays by adding other collectibles and objects to the shelf. Also alternate standing books upright with books that are stacked. Some people like to display books by color. I recently did a display with only white or cream colored books.

Of course books need to be protected, so when using several books as a riser for plants, be sure to place a plastic or glass dish under the plant. And be careful!

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of Iantiqueonline.com an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.

To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link:
C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff

Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com

Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com

Dianne is a member of:
The American Society of Journalists and Authors
The Authors Guild, Inc.