Be A Nifty Thrifty Housewife This Christmas: Decorating Ideas For Your Vintage Kitchen

Nostalgic Retro Christmas Kitchen Decorating And Gift Ideas

Ho Ho Ho...how does a nifty thrifty housewife create a nostalgic Retro Christmas Kitchen
when the clock is ticking away before the start of the holidays?

Well the Kitschy Collector has been buzzing around The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Hartford, Connecticut snapping some retro hip ideas for you .

Kitsch n Stuff The Place For Kitchen Collectibles

The photos shown here were taken from my shop Kitsch n Stuff which is located at The Colllinsville Antiques Company, a 22,000 square feet collector's haven.

1940's and 1950's Christmas Decor Make Great Retro Kitchen Holiday Gifts And Decor

Lucky for you, red, green and white were BIG colors in the 1940s and early 1950s so you are in luck. You will find lots of wonderful vintage kitchen collectibles and home decor in holiday colors. When you group a variety of vintage kitchenwares together that have similar holiday colors you re-create a very warm and comfy feeling.

Retro Christmas Ideas For Your Kitchen Using Kitchen Collectibles

1. Red or green pottery bowls from the 1940s or 1950s filled with fresh fruit.

2. Hang up hand crocheted red and green potholders, especially Christmas themed ones such as trees or bells etc.
Look for the white potholders with rosettes in the center. They were usually done in white, red and green.

3. Place a set of vintage red, white green floral tin kitchen canisters on your counter.

4. Cover the shelves of your kitchen cabinets with vintage tablecloth cutters or fabric remnants in holiday colors.

5. Make breakfast pancakes and serve the syrup in a 1940s or 1950s glass syrup pitcher. You can pick up a galss syrup for $8.00 -10.00.

6. Serve your guest their beverages in some hip vintage glass tumblers. you will find plenty in holiday colors. You will find lots of retro patterns out there for very fair prices.

7. Mix your eggnog in a vintage blender. I just bought a 1970's Waring blender still in the box, never opened for $15.00. I also bought a brand new almond color can opener still in the box for $10.00. Both came from The Yankee Peddler in Huntington, New York. There is a wonderful retro booth where you will find many vintage appliances.

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.

Visiting Korlates Fitness And Pilates Studio In Avon, Connecticut

Where Do The Hip Chicks Exercise In Avon, Connecticut?

Introducing Korlates Fitness And Pliates

Want to know where the Hip Chicks are exercising in Avon, Connecticut? Here is the scoop, they are stretching and grooving at Korlates Fitness and Pilates Studio at The Shops At Avon Green on Route 44 in Avon.

New Twist To Traditional Pilates

Kris Kory, a former dancer and owner of Korlates Fitness offers his own twist to traditional Pilates adding other movement and fitness principles set to fun music. O.K....so what will you find at this upscale beautifully decorated and equipped studio in the heart of Avon, Connecticut? You'll find me........The Kitschy Collector....stretching and kvetching as she vows to retire the couch potato gig and replace it with a new "reformed" healthier more flexible bod!

Wake Up Those Vintage Muscles

Oy vey, do you think it is easy to wake up vintage muscles that haven't been used in years? Well Kris is helping me with all this moving and shaking . Our routine incorporates rebounders, jump boards, hula hoops, dumbbells, resistance balls, kettlebells, TRX straps and other fitness tools.

I have to be totally honest with you...I have never had so much fun exercising before. Kris is a master teacher and keeps the sessions FUN and FRESH. You can sign up for private lessons or group classes.

Korlates Carries Lululemon Fitness and Work Out Clothes

The studio is extremely attractive and private. And wait till you see what the Hip Chicks wear . Kris carries Lululemon fitness, athletic and work out cloths. Lululemon makes specially designed clothes for Pilates, Yoga , dancing, running etc. If you want to know where to buy Lululemon in Avon, Korlates is your source.

Chris has also produced three superb fitness DVD's

Watch Kris, the dancer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUpASVvpvDY
Korlates Fitness
42 West main Street
Avon, Connecticut
8,60-677-8700


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.

Groovy 1968 Flower Power Snack Trays And Home Furnishings

Colorful, Bold, Flower Power Designs

Flashback time...flower power...the sixties. Everything was decorated with big and bold colorful flowers. From drapes, to tablecloths to
upholstery fabric.... psychedelic designs of abstracts and flowers in day glow colors prevailed.

1968 Redemption Catalog

Take a look at these pages right out of a 1968 gift redemption catalog spotted at Good Lookin Vintage. Everyone had these handy folding snack tables to put their Swanson T.V. dinners on. You have to admit....the idea of a snack table is really very practical.

Groovy Flower Power Folding Snack Trays

And what about that turquoise and floral chair
and ottoman? How groovy was that ? As I have written about before, catalogs are precious to get your hands on. If you really want to learn more about the kitsch you are collecting or selling, check out old stamp catalogs.

You will be surprised to learn that many of today's collectibles were once gift items for stamp centers such as S & H Green Stamps or hostess gifts for having home parties. Today expect to pay $12.00- 15,00 for snack trays.

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 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 Holiday Gift Wrapping Idea For Your Antique Shop

How Can You Attract More Customers And Help Others During The Holidays?

This is idea is for Antique Shop owners and others who would like to attract more customers during the holiday season. Have you thought about "complimentary gift wrapping" with a twist? The twist is that you collect a dollar gift wrapping donation for charity. How sweet is that?

Lot's Of Love At The Secret Garden Of Avon, CT

I shop in a lovely gift shop in Avon, Connecticut called The Secret Garden. Besides having a lovely collection of home and holiday gifts, The Secret Garden wraps all their gifts with festive wrapping paper, collecting a dollar donation for charity. This idea would work for antique stores and others.

Gift Wrap Donations Helps Charities

During a recent visit to The Secret Garden, the owner, Sharon, pulled out a huge binder with plastic pages containing thank you letters and press about all the local, regional and national charities that have been helped by donations over the years. A sign is posted behind the counter
listing the charities that will receive funds that month. The designated charities change monthly and during the holidays several charities are listed at the same time.

A Gift Wrap Fundraising Idea For The Holidays For Your Store

This seems to me like a terrific idea. After all, everyone wins . The shop gets more traffic, the charities get donations and the customer gets a little help with wrapping packages. Karen, the manager of The Secret Garden explained to me that over the years over $50,000 dollars was given to charities including The Salvation Army, Habitat For Humanity, Planned Parenthood, The Red Cross and many other local projects as well.

Nashville Wraps For Terrific Wrapping Paper

The wrapping used at The Secret Garden comes from Nashville Wraps and is just gorgeous. I happened to notice a nice feature of this quality paper, the flip side has a grid, making it very easy to cut along measured boxes to size your gift wrap. Now that a wrap!

The Secret Garden
51 East Main Street
Avon, CT
860-677-0357

The Secret Garden
41 Circuit Ave.
Oak Bluffs.MA
508-693-4759


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 http://iantiqueonline.ning.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 Handmade Vintage Christmas Gifts And Decorations

Have Fun Making Retro Christmas Gifts And Holiday Decor from Old Sewing Notions And Craft Supplies

If you love the retro vintage look in your home, now is the time to whip up some nostalgic Christmas decorations and holiday decor.

Hanging Around On Etsy You Find Lots Of Homemade Christmas Decoration And Gift Ideas

And by now you know that I hand around Etsy.com a lot and am always hunting for great retro stuff as well as old Christmas craft ideas and supplies. Its really is nice to be able to use up old things and add your own personal touch to your holiday gifts and decor. As you will soon discover in this post there are so many great ways to utilize vintage craft and older sewing notions in holiday projects.

Embellish Your Gifts With Vintage Sewing Notions And Millinery Supplies

Even if you are not the creative type, or you have little time for starting from scratch, you can still add some vintage sewing notions or craft supplies to your cards, wrapping paper and retro or vintage inspired gift to make them more interesting.

There is nothing like having a thrifty kitschy Christmas and recruiting your family members to help you up-cycle (create new uses for old things).

Introducing Pink Grapefruit Style For Christmas Trim, Notions, Vintage

One of the best sites online to find vintage Christmas sewing notions and craft supplies is Pink Grapefruit Style on Etsy.com.

Here you will find all types of odds and ends that you can use for vintage holiday sewing projects, handmade Christmas gifts, retro wrapping ideas and more.

What is so much fun on Pink Grapefruit Style is that this gal packages her notions in adorable collections which might include vintage ribbons, sewing bells, jewelry pieces, trim, decals, millinery supplies, corsage pieces and more.

Oh, my grandmother Esther would have done so well on Etsy. This women had drawers filled with old wrapping paper, ribbons and odds and ends from every party, shower, special event she attended. Beyond Etsy, you can find plenty of old sewing notions at flea markets, junk shops, consignment stores, thrift shops etc.

Lots Of Creativity At Pink Grapefruit Style on Etsy

You can just feel the creativity juices flowing as Pink Grapefruit Style always has a fresh supply for you to tinker with.

Vintage Christmas Craft Supply List

1. Old buttons
2. Old red, white, green yarn (or take apart an old torn sweater).
3. Vintage jingle bells,
4. Red, green, white ribbons
5. red or green thumb tacks
6. Red berries (from an old hat)
8. Red, green, silver, gold sequins
9. Red and green beads
10. Old Christmas cards
11. Vintage Christmas tissue paper
12. Vintage Christmas cards
13. Millinery supplies
14. Old floral supplies
15. Red and green rick rack
16. Old advertising from holiday packages.
17. Old feathers and flowers (can take off from vintage hat).
18. Old stickers, labels, cut-outs. (new old stock).
19. Fabric remnants.
20. Vintage tablecloth cutters.
21. Vintage lace, material, textiles.

What Can You Make With Vintage Christmas Sewing Notions , Craft Supplies, Old Paper

1. Add old sewing notions to your wrapped presents and gift bags.

2. Attach a vintage Christmas card to a gift.

3. Create your own gift tags using old images, vintage notions.
4, Make your own vintage inspired Christmas ornament.

5. Recycle old cards into a greeting card bowl

6. Add vintage millinery trim to a knitted or croqueted hat.

7. Use sewing notions, buttons and trim in making a Christmas wreath.
8. Decorate a Christmas stocking with vintage ribbons, trim etc.
9. Create a Christmas garland or pendant or banner.

10. Add embellishments to a hand decorated picture frame.

11. Make a Christmas bulletin board and add vintage trim.

12. Decorate holiday note cards or ornaments with jingle bells.

13. Make hanging collage art on a vintage plate.

14. Add red and green and holiday novelty vintage buttons to scarves, hats.

15. Create A red and green vintage button bracelet.

16. Make a pincushion and embellish with vintage sewing notions.

17. Paint a basket red and add vintage millinery trim such as berries the handles. and sides. Line the inside of the basket with an old Christmas hanky or vintage tea towel.

18. Make handmade Christmas window decorations.

19. Jazz up an old apron with vintage sewing notions, buttons, etc.

20. Cover an older glass jar cover with fabric and vintage notions.

21. Make a Shabby Chic holiday ornament.

22. Create your own Christmas stocking out of a vintage tablecloth.

23. Enjoy making a glittered snowflake ornament.

24. Try a homemade holiday favor cup.

25. Make vintage ornaments with old Christmas images.
All photo shown are the courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/shop/pinkgrapefruitstyle

More Handmade Holiday Ideas

http://www.squidoo.com/best-handmade-christmas-decorations-2010

http://rubyglen.com/articles/handmadechristmas.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.

The Art of Junk Shopping: Collectibles in A New Light

Junk Shopping At Night With A Midnight Blue Sky Light Shining Through The Shop Window

Junking shopping at night is a hoot. I had a blast seeing all the great treasures at The Junk Shop Of Canton Connecticut after the sun went down. Look how beautiful odds and ends look with a window background of a midnight blue sky.

Visiting The Junk Shop Of Canton At Twilight

I have been to Eric's Junk Shop Of Canton in the morning, in the afternoon and at closing and each time I visit, the lighting shows off the treasures in a new way. Perhaps there is something to be said for after hours shopping, you get to see junk in a new light (no pun intended).

Beautiful Junk

Here is something to think about....Would your STUFF (collectibles, kitsch, oddities, junk etc.) look BETTER with an evening glow coming through the windows or against a background with more contrast?

The Dramatic Effect Of Dark Backgrounds On Junk

It seems to me the pieces shown in this window sill have a more dramatic look as the outside dark sky creates a backdrop which offers more contrast for the collectibles shown in the foreground (the window sill). Lighter objects look more radiant with a dark background and dark objects stand out with a light background.

The bottom line is that your junk may look ten times better at night. It's worth thinking about. Lighting is everything.

The Junk Shop Of Canton
Route 44
Canton, 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.

Red And White Vintage Inspired Handmade Christmas Window Decorations

Visiting "Sweeets" In New Preston, Connecticut: Handmade Red And White Christmas Window Decorations

I had to share this adorable holiday decor in the window of "Sweeets", (spelled with three letter 'e' s ) a New England candy shop in the center of New Preston, Connecticut.

Vintage Style
Christmas Decor

These handmade holiday decorations remind me of an old fashioned Christmas. This charming small village Sweet shop is right out of a storybook. The whole street could be the set for a nostalgic movie.

Red And White Yarn Balls Used as Christmas Decorations

But let's get back to the special red and white yarn ball holiday decoration made by owner Dana Schulman. As you can see she has wrapped yarn around Styrofoam balls of different sizes and added holiday ribbons and flowers to the top of the balls.

And if you look real close you will see that Dana changes the pattern of how she wraps the yarn around the holiday balls. It takes some practice but once you get the hang of it (no pun intended) you will discover your own style of yarn wrappings.

Try Other Colors For The Decorative Yarn Balls

You could of course use other colors for the balls such as blue and white for Chanukah or silver sparkling yarn for New Years.

Hang The Holiday Balls From The Ceiling Using Fishing Wire

The balls are then hung from the ceiling with fishing wire to give the illusion of free floating balls.
Dana's holiday decor throughout the shop is spectacular. You really feel like you are visiting an old fashioned Sweet Shop with attractive red and white displays and a festive holiday spirit throughout this packed candy store.

Dana Schulman also owns D.K. Schuman Design in near by Washington, Connecticut, a fine stationary, invitation and gift shop. Dana has been featured in National and regional magazines.

Visit "Sweeets" Candy Shop

13 East Shore Road
New Preston, Connecticut

860-868-4400

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 "The Smithy" On Main Street In New Preston, Connecticut

s
Comfy, Home-Grown Produces, Gifts, Crafts At The Smithy In New Preston, Connecticut

"The Smithy" on Main Street in New Preston, Connecticut is one of those earthy, healthy country stores that you feel warm and cozy inside. Originally a blacksmith shop which closed in 1947, The Smithy was redesigned in 2006 using vintage materials and local craftsmen. The updated store retains the historical integrity of the original building.

The Smithy "Everything Local"

In 2007, The Smithy opened as a shop to promote local produce, bakery goods, handcrafted gifts, homemade accessories and local artists.
Quaint New England Charm In New Preston


This two level quaint shop is very inviting with exposed beams, wide plank floors, a wood burning stove and charming staff to make you feel welcome. You feel transported back in time when one stop General Stores were in vogue.

Visit The Upstairs Loft At The Smithy

On the main level you will find fresh produce, baked goods, gifts and a relaxing sitting area by the fire. Upstairs is a loft which is not only a gallery for local handicrafts but serves as a comfy coffee lounge surrounded my textiles, antiques , original artwork and crafts.

Currently The Smithy Website You Will find Recipes including:

Hunt Hill Farm's Apple Cheese Bread

1 1/4 Cups Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
1 Cup bran cereal (flakes or nuggets)
1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Baking Soda
3/4 Cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, melted
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
3 Eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/2 Cups peeled, finely-chopped Apple
3/4 Cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/2 Cup finely-chopped Walnuts
In a large bowl, mix together flour, bran cereal, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat butter or margarine with brown sugar and eggs, until well combined. Fold in apple, cheese, and walnuts. Gently combine this mixture into the large bowl containing the flour and other ingredients.
Turn the batter into a greased 9X5 or 10X5-inch loaf pan. Bake in a pre-heated 350 degree oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the loaf tests as done. Remove from oven, cool 5 minutes, and remove loaf from pan. Cool completely on a wire rack. Enjoy!
The Smithy
10 Main Street
New Preston, Connecticut
860-868-9003

Call before you visit as The Smithy closes during the very cold winter months and reopens in the Spring.

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 Blue House: Nice Old Things" Vintage Shop Opens In Canton, Connecticut

"The Blue House: Nice Old Things" Is A Vintage Shop With Lots Of Charm

A drum roll please.... I'm here to announce the opening of "The Blue House: Nice Old Things", a vintage store which just opened it's doors in Canton, Connecticut.

The Junk Shop Of Canton Has a Sister Shop

Here is the scoop, this shop is the sister store to
The Junk Shop Of Canton, one of my favorite junk haunts. Eric's wife, Kim decided to transform an abandoned but extremely charming shop down the road from The Junk Shop Of Canton on Route 44 and turn it into a "better second time around" store.

The Blue House Is An Upscale "Fine" Second Hand Shop

As it was explained to me, "The Blue House: Nice Old Things" will be a shop with the creme de la creme of second hand and vintage stuff. And unlike her husband's shop which is packed from floor to ceiling with good old junk, this store will be tastefully decorated with furniture, accessories, textiles and wall decor.

The Blue House Is In A Wonderful Old Building

First of all, for any of my readers who remember what this old building looked like years back you will be amazed to see the transformation. The interior and exterior came out GREAT. And I just love their sign outside...It caught my attention immediately! In fact if truth be known, as I was riding down Route 44 with my husband ...I spotted the new sign (before he did) and I gave out a shout.... STOP ...a new vintage shop..... boy was I excited!

Quasi-Antique Shop

Now let's get to the bottom line..what you will find in this very spacious multi-room quasi antique shop which is not an antique shop and is not a junk shop but is something in between all those descriptions. I will call it a vintage shop and leave it like that.

What You Will Find In The Blue House

I found lots of vintage and used furniture, rockers, doll collectibles, tables, chairs, tablecloths, holiday decor, ceramics, kitchen-wares, books, knick knacks, lighting, wicker, books, collections, textiles, nursery furnishings, tabletop, serving pieces, gifts, and more. The inventory is constantly changing as new items are acquired regularly.

Store hours are noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday Through Sunday

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 Holiday Windows With Homemade Marshmallow Garland

Charming Marshmallow Holiday Decorating Window Ideas

Hanging Marshmallow Garlands is such a groovy idea, I wish I had thought of it. Word has it that the department store Anthropologie has decorated their holiday windows in this sweet way, but the Kitsch Collector spotted this particular window shown at "Ben's Garden" in Huntington, Long Island.

How Do You Make Marshmallow Garland?

The big question is how do you create "Marshmallow Garland" ? I'm guessing you get yourself a long sewing needle, some fishing wire and lots of marshmallows and some elves to help you string these wonderful window treatments.

Add Some Pizazz To Your Holiday Windows

This is one of those elegant and simple holiday ideas which is great for budget conscious families who may enjoy a group activity. It is also a neat way to add charm to your antique shop or create in store visuals for some great eye candy (no pun intended).

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.

Attaching Your Business Card To A "Pixi Stix" For A Sweet Promotional Idea

"Pixelstick Photo Gallery" Attracts Customers With "Pixi Stix" Idea

I had to grab a shot of these "Pixy Stix" business card promotional giveaways spotted at "Pixelstick Photo gallery" at The Yankee Peddler Building in Huntington, New York.

What a cute idea, attaching a business card to
a Pixy Stix. Pixy Stix is a powdered candy which is wrapped to look like a drinking straw. And look how nicely you can display your "business card Pixy Stix".

Remember "Lik-m-Aid"...that's what I always called the stuff inside Pixy Stix which was made by the Sunline Company and acquired by Nestles.

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 Soda Fountain And Ice Cream Collectibles And Memorabilia

Loving Those Old Fashioned Soda Fountain Collectibles

Baby boomers and others are really enjoying re-creating the look of an old fashioned soda fountain or ice cream shop with collections of vintage drugstore or luncheonette furnishings, ice cream collectibles and vintage advertising from the 40s and 50s. While the birth of the soda fountain began in the early 1920s, this post focuses on collectibles of later decades.

Prices Are Competitive For Ice Cream Collectibles

Because ice cream and soda fountain collectibles are eagerly collected by so many different types of buyers including vintage paper collectors, soda pop collectors, ice cream enthusiasts, 1950s collectors, home decor buyers etc., the prices for these cherished nostalgic treasures continues to climb.

It is truly a delight to discover 1950s or earlier cardboard signs, dishes, equipment, furnishings, ephemera etc. And buyers beware..there are a lot of reproductions in this area of collecting. In fact there is an entire industry devoted to 1950s soda fountain and diner replicas.

Beginners should consider reading more about these collectibles and consult collector's groups and avid buyers and sellers who may be able to offer some guidance. If you grew up in the 1940s and 1950s it may be easier for you to remember some of these popular collectibles. I have a little edge on the topic, because I was born into a soda fountain family.

Collecting Soda Fountain Collectibles Are in My Genes:
My Dad Was A Soda Jerk

Perhaps it's in my genes...soda fountain collectibles that is... ...my dad was a "soda jerk". That is the correct way of describing the young person who worked in a neighborhood drugstore or luncheonette and made ice cream sodas.

Old Fashioned Egg Creams

Legend has it that my dad met my mom while cranking out "Lime Rickeys"
"Old Fashioned Egg Creams" , sundaes, malteds, ice cream soda's and more . In fact as the story is told, my dad was smitten with my mom and he added an extra cherry to her ice cream soda. That might of been the beginning of a high maintenance relationship.

Dad Was In The Fiz Biz

Not only was my dad in the fizz biz, but so was the rest of his side of the family. We come from a long line of soda jerks. My dad moved onto to own restaurants and others in the family eventually traded in their aprons for college degrees. While my dad and his dad rolled up their sleeves and scooped ice cream, I prefer to write about my scoops.

Collecting Ice Cream And Soda Fountain Collectibles

I love how much variety you will find in the area of Ice Cream Soda Fountain collectibles....there is so much to hunt for including: old soda fountain advertising, memorabilia, menus, store signs, die cut signs, ice cream glasses, banana split dishes, sundae dishes, advertising tins, candy racks, ice cream scoops,malted machines, mixers, dispensers, ice cream soda spoons, trays, ice cream cone holders, ice cream cartons, photos, postcards, cookbooks, etc.


Soda Fountain Stools

Look at these GREAT ice cream bar stools right out of the 1950s and in marvelous shape. I have walked by them several times (at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford ) seriously considering them for my kitchen. I think they would look great as stools for my Center island. I'm ready to funk up my kitchen with a blast from the past.

And who knows I may even carry the red theme a little more into the kitchen. It's time to have some fun!

Where To Find Soda Fountain Collectibles

You never know where you are going to find soda fountain collectibles so keep an open mind. While visiting Griswold Street Antiques in Glastonbury, Connecticut, I spotted some wonderful ice cream soda glasses and sundae dishes. The wonderful die cut sign of the ice cream sundae shown at the top was discovered at http://www.etsy.com/shop/inkpainter. The malted sign (shown with sandwich) is from the collection at http://www.the-forum.com. The Chocolate Soda Fountain Malted Float die Cut sign (very bottom photo) is from the collection at http://www.ecrater.com/p/6090781/chocolate-soda-fountain-malted-float

Besides hunting for stuff at your favorite shops and flea markets, you can also search online (see below). By the way, when searching online you might use terms such as "vintage soda fountain collectibles", "ice cream collectibles", "old drugstore", "vintage soda fountain advertising" ice cream parlor collectibles".

Resources On Soda Fountain And Ice Cream Collectibles

Learn More:

Books

"Ice Cream Collectibles" by Ed Marks, Schiffer Books

"Drugstore & Soda Fountain Antiques" by Douglas Congdon-Martin , Schiffer Books

“Ice Cream Dippers” by Wayne Smith.

"Sundae Best: A History of Soda Fountains", by
Anne Cooper Funderburg ,The University of Wisconsin Popular Press.


Collector Groups

Ice Creamers Collectors Group

Iantiqueonline.com

Museums

http://www.drugstoremuseum.com/sections/level_info2.php?level_id=3&level=1

http://www.drugstoremuseum.com/sections/level_info2.php?level_id=47

Background- History Of Soda Fountain Collectibles

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soda_fountain

http://inventors.about.com/od/sstartinventions/a/soda_fountain.htm

http://www.suite101.com/content/the-origins-of-the-soda-fountain-a39021

http://antiques.lovetoknow.com/Antique_Ice_Cream_Scoops

Where to Buy Ice Cream And Soda Fountain Collectibles

http://shop.ebay.com/i.html?_nkw=soda+fountain

http://www.etsy.com /search_results.php?search_query=soda+fountain+collectibles&search_type=vintage

http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/

http://www.gameroomantiques.com/SodaFountain.htm

http://shop.ebay.com/i.html?_nkw=soda+fountain

http://search.rubylane.com/collectibles/,id=1.30.5.html

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

Setting Your Table For Thanksgiving With Color, Whimsy And Creativity

Decorating Your Thanksgiving Table With Harvest Decor By The Little Round Table

This exciting table setting idea is by The Little Round Table. Candy awakens your Thanksgiving holiday with color, whimsy and vintage inspired charm. Candy mixes antiques, collectibles, seasonal embellishments and newer table top decor to create beautiful Thanksgiving themed table settings. What you are looking at in these photos is newer Fiestaware and table accessories which are contemporary interpretations of old styles set in a Country kitchen.

Discount Thanksgiving Table Settings And Decor

While Candy has a full collection of both vintage and new linens and also cabinets of entertaining collectibles the photos shown here showcase how to make the most of your Thanksgiving table setting using items from discount stores.

I thought I would share these photos with you and remind you that you could easily substitute vintage pottery,plates, candle sticks, glassware, linens etc to accomplish a warm and festive look.

Thanksgiving Harvest Table Decor

Candy calls this particular Thanksgiving table decor "Harvest Table". Many of the colors shown here were popular in the 1970s when Pyrex, serving pieces, dinnerware and accessories were in "Harvest colors" of brown, orange, gold and green . When you go out shopping for vintage kitchen and entertaining collectibles you that there are lots of items available in "Harvest" colors.

With the right combination of colors, you can have a really hip look, shaking up the 1970s in a new way.

Where to Shop For Thanksgiving Table Decor

Tablecloth - Fallani and Cohn Harvest Fruit Vegetables
Chargers - Home Goods
Dinnerware - Post 86 Fiesta in Scarlet, Tangerine and Lemongrass
Flatware - Macy's about 20 years ago
Goblets - Pier 1
Tumblers - Home Goods
Napkins - Joanne's Fabrics
Napkin Rings - gift from a friend
Votives - Michael's
Leaf plates and bowl - Home Goods
Corn Cob Candles - Home Goods
Ceramic Mushrooms - 2 of a set of 3 from Costco

I am in love with The Little Round Table. I can not say enough about their wonderful site. I hope
you will go visit Kathy 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.