A Kitschy Vintage Standing Lamp That Grew Too Big

Is This Quirky Vintage Standing Lamp Kitschy Or Creepy?

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

Audrey II ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Classic 1970s Patterns

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

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

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

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

Mushroom Dish Towels

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

Pinks And Greens Vary By Decade

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

Mossy-Olive Green And Kelly Green

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

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

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

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

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

The Shirtwaist Dress

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

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

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

1963 Simplicity Patterns

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

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

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

Collecting 1950s Plaid Lunchboxes And Picnic Collectibles

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

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

Aladdin And Ohio Art Metal Lunchboxes

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

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

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

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

Weekend Picnics With Plaid Koolers And Thermos Containers

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

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

Everything was PLAID....From Socks To Lunchboxes

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

Earlier Plaid Picnic Tins

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

Re-Cycling Plaid Picnic Wares Today

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

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

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

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

Decorating And Design Tips For Antique Mall Booths

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

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

Creating Eye-Catching Displays

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So What's up With The Booth Swapping?

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

Shlepping Is The Name Of The Game

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

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

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

Art Galleries, Cafes, Boutiques On The Riverfront In Piermont

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

18th And 19th Century Homes In Piermont

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

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

Artist Rena Berger At The Piermont Flywheel Gallery

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

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

Master Watercolor Artist Eli Rosenthal

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

Piermont Attracts Celebrities

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

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

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

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

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

Do You Need A "Boxed-In" Breakthrough?

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

A Knack For Hanging-Up Vintage Knick Knacks

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

Vintage Wooden Boxes Look Great As Wall Decor

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

The Vintage Cake Server Becomes Art

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

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

Using A Vintage Painted Shabby Drawer As An Easel For Decorative Plates

Featuring Decorative Plates In A Pretty Vignette Using A Painted Old Drawer

How sweet is this idea for featuring decorative plates....carefully exhibit them propped up inside an old painted drawer. Shabby collectors adore this idea of using a discarded drawer as an easel for displaying hand painted delicate plates.

Originally stored in China closets or hung on the wall, decorative plates look fantastic when styled as a mini-vignette inside a soft painted deep and narrow drawer.

Painting Your Cottage Style Drawer In Soft Romantic Colors

You can paint your drawer a solid color such as pink or white or add accented flowers or decals.
Perhaps you want at to line the drawer with vintage wallpaper or use remnants of old fabric or even tissue paper to stuff into the drawer to keep the plates and other objects stable. Use plates of different sizes for an interesting arrangement. Add other small objects to your display such as flatware, candle holders etc.

When choosing a color for the tissue paper or fabric pull out one of the colors from the plate to help keep your display eye catching.

Propping Plates On Plate Holders

For more stability for your plates, you can also stand the plates up on a small plate holder and insert the plate and it's holder into the drawer and than cover the plate base with fabric to hide the hardware.
I stay away from the wooden plate holders, they wobble too much. I like the inexpensive metal ones.

You will find so many more ideas about Shabby decorating in my book, Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes (Collectorbooks.com).

Top photo courtesy of:

Michele's Cottage Gifts
53 Main Street
Plantsville, CT
860-329-0033

Bottom photo courtesy of:
http://www.soshabbypink.com/

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

Exercising While Antiquing: Burn Calories While Junking

The Kitschy Collectors New Exercise Program: WALKING UP AND DOWN The Aisles of An Antique Mall

Have you ever thought of building an exercise program around ANTIQUING ? I am being serious.... antiquing may just be your answer to staying fit. Think about the endless possibilities.
How many Antique Malls could you cover in a week and perhaps rack up enough miles to go Olympic!

Keeping Fit While Antiquing And Junking

The idea is brilliant...why hasn't anyone thought of the idea of creating a fitness program around antiquing before me. In fact I think Antique Malls should sell pedometers. And when you think about this subject in more depth...you could vary your routines....try walking up and down the fields of a flea market or junk yard or swap meet or what about an Antique Show for goodness sakes. The options are plentiful....there are so many places to keep up a regular work out of exercising and antiquing! Isn't this exciting news?

Walking Clubs Meeting At Antique Malls

I'm thinking we could start regular Antique Mall walking clubs. For example, my own Antique Mall, The Collinsville Antiques company of New Hartford, Connecticut is 22,000 square feet.

That's a lot of walking. Just ask the dealers who have to rotate on the floor as staff opening up locked showcases and assisting customers. The idea would be to invite several friends to join you two or three times a week or even daily for regular antique walk work outs. Who is aboard on this idea ? And by the way, I'd love to hear more about how antiquing might work as exercise...feel free to weigh in here.

Photos Courtesy of The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford

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.

Decorating With Garden Antiques And Collectibles Found At The Colllinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford, Connecticut

Loving This 1940s
Flower Cart I Found At The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut

I have been out hunting for garden and porch stuff and lo and behold, I found fabulous finds at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut.

Shopping In My Own Booth

And where did I find these precious garden accessories?

Shabby Works

Yep...in my very own booth. Now how much fun is that shopping in your very own booth. (Of course I bought some of these patio collectibles from other dealers over the years, but now they made it into my booth. The yellow chair is a chippy shabby child's chair that has been in my booth with a box of paper collectibles resting on it. Look how cute it looks on the porch with a colorful plant.

Decorating With Vintage Garden And Patio Accessories

The price was right (taking home goodies from my very own booth)...so I felt really pleased. And I can't believe I actually decided to part with some of my 1940s kitsch n collectibles and USE my garden accessories on my very own porch! Up until now, I was not interested in "wasting" good collectibles that I could sell. But, guess what, I am making a breakthrough...and finally decorating my own house...inside and outside.
Wandering Into Patty's Booth At Collinville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

But of course I had to spend a little money so I wandered over to Patty's booth (she is in the first aisle on the left )
G R E A T
S T U F F and came home with
more planters and stands.

Visit The Colllinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, Connecticut

You will find lots of great ideas in my book, Hot Cottage Collectibles For Vintage Style Homes, Collectorbooks.com

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

"Vintage Postcards For The Holidays": Kitschy Collector Book Review

Vintage Postcards For The Holidays
Learn All About Collecting Cards For Christmas, Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter And More

Do you adore vintage holiday postcards but are clueless about the history and values of these very popular collectibles? Have you seen Vintage Postcards for the Holidays (Collectorbooks.com), by Robert and Claudette Reed. Now the task of collecting vintage holiday postcards is a lot easier. For those of us who have not get taken our collection too seriously this 368 page book will be a great start. The full color images are clear and attractive and the book is very easy to follow. I really enjoyed this wonderful resource book!

Product Description
Everyone has a favorite holiday, and they are all celebrated in this sweeping collection of vintage postcards. Christmas, Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter, and more are all memorialized in authentic postcards nearly a century old. More than 850 color images present the greeting selections of long ago in exquisite detail. This new and expanded edition features many vintage holiday postcards not included in the first edition, plus additional chapters such as April Fool's Day and Arbor Day. Authors Robert and Claudette Reed have carefully arranged this fascinating volume chronologically to provide reading and viewing through all the seasons of the year. A final special section includes early twentieth century postcards, paying tribute to birthdays, graduations, and other special occasions. You won't want to miss this exciting new edition of Vintage Postcards for the Holidays.

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.

The Complete Guide To Vintage Children's Records: Kitschy Collector Book Review

"The Complete Guide to Children's Vintage Records" A Terrific Source Book For Kiddie Record Collectors

Oh, the days of sitting in your high chair and listening to records of your favorite nursery rhymes or hanging out on the couch curled up with a cup of apple juice and listening to Captain Kangaroo....the good ole days before Ipods and smart phones. It was YOU and your record collection.

And now, Peter Muldavin, who describes himself as a sixty-something fella who is perpetually age six has compiled an encyclopedic reference guide called "The Complete Guide to Children's Vintage Records", published by Collectorbooks.com.

This 432 page full color price guide is by far the most complete guide you will find to date on the subject of kiddie records. Muldavin reviews the history of children's records describing such types as: Records That Are part of Package Designs ; Shape or Die-Cut Records; "Flexi" Records; :Magic" Records; Records Played in Synchonization with Filmstrips; Animation Labels; Personalized Recording And Home Recordings ; Phonograph Dolls.

Following historical information you will find a wonderful detailed synopsis of each and every record company who made children's records under the section titled "Label Notes And Identification".

After the reader is acquainted with the major record publishers, the remainder of the book covers the values of records, categorized by company. Images of records form headings on many of the pages.

Product Description

This long-awaited reference book represents a first of its kind: an almost complete listing and price guide to vintage children's records. Though coverage is mainly dedicated to 78rpm records, a few early 45rpms are included. Unlike previous price guides, this book attempts to cover all 78rpm kiddie records made in the United States. The dates of coverage range from the 1890s to the 1960s, with most of the listings being from the 1940s and 1950s, the 'golden age' of children's records. There are listings for nearly 14,000 records and 450 record labels, making this the most complete discography of its kind ever in print. Values are given for records in excellent/mint and good/very good condition. This book is sure to delight the young and the young at heart. Give it a spin!

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.

Making A Charming Lampshade Out Of A Vintage Embroidered Dish Towel

Turn An Embroidered Vintage Gingham Doggy Dish Towel Into A Sweet Lamp Shade

This gingham doggy dish towel has a new home, it is now part of a lampshade along with other darling retro textiles.

As you already know, the Kitschy Collector is always on the look out for news ways to up-cycle vintage dry goods. And for sure, a lot of handiwork went into these fabulous lampshades.

Introducing Sassy Shades

This lampshade project was found at Sassy Shades on Etsy.com. Handmade from a red and white embroidered towel, this pooch towel is accompanied by side panels of blue, yellow, red and green stripes and a back panel of red gingham.

Add A Whimsical Touch With Colorful Vintage Aceessories

I can picture this adorable lamp in a vintage inspired baby nursery, whimsical den, bedroom or
even kitchen setting. And see how lovely stripes and gingham go together. The doggy towel can be the beginning of a lovely theme to build a room around.

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.

How Do I Clean Vintage Tablecloths?

How Do I Clean Vintage Tablecloths? A Lesson From Dusty's Vintage

I am lucky to know the best Vintage tablecloth Guru's around, they sell under the name "Dusty's Vintage and live in New England. Michelle and Lori travel around the country and set up colorful booths with PILES of pristine original tablecloths that would knock your retro socks right off of you!

Linens That Are In Pristine Condition

When you look at the caliber of their linens, you are amazed to see how terrific they look. These women put a lot of time into their linens (something I never do). But I always wanted to know their secrets about how they prepare their linens for re-sale.

These gals are very sweet and have printed an instruction sheet for their customers on how to clean the linens, titled "How We Clean Our Linens". Notice they are saying what works for them. I am going to share their tips. Remember, nothing in life is guaranteed. With linen cleaning as well as everything else in life.....you give it a try!


"How We Clean Our Linens" By Dusty's Vintage

1. PRESPOT: on dry item, spray any spots generously with "Simple Green: full strength. Let sit for 24-72 hours.

2. SOAK**: in your top loading washing machine put one cup "Clorox Bleach, one cup of "Biz" and 1/4 cup of "All". Fill machine with warm water and agitate to mix detergents. Add linens. Soak for 3-24 hours. (DO NOT USE "TIDE").

3. WASH: When soaking is complete, let washer go through full cycle. (Normal cycle for print and gentle cycle for finer whites).

4. DRY: Dry linens in hot dryer.

5. IRON: Use light steam and "Niagara" Heavy Starch (blue can).

"Biz", "Simple Green" can usually be found at "Wal-Mart", "K-Mart" and "Target".

**With dark blues, purples, blacks and browns on the print use less bleach or no bleach and soak with the lower time.

Postscript: The "Chlorox bleach" part is scaring the heck out of me...but this is what Dusty's Vintage does. I welcome all of your feedback. Don't shoot me, I am the messenger. These gals must know what they are doing....their linens say it all!

More Information:

You can also check out http://www.vintagetableclothsclub.com/stains.htm
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.