Flashback: 1950s Men's Beach Cabana Jacket... Retro Beach Time Fun at Acushnet River Antiques

Colorful 1950s Men's Retro Beach Jacket

Do you ever walk into an antique booth and spot something and get sucked into memory lane in such a powerful way? Well that is what happened to me yesterday when I was visiting an antique mall in New Bedford, Mass. A colorful 1950s cabana jacket called out to me and said...DAD is here...dad had this jacket or one way similar.

I immediately got a flashback to the pool and beach days when dad would be wearing one of these now RETRO beach jackets. Oh yes, I can see dad as clear as day with his overweight belly sticking through the jacket as he paraded around in his 1950s beach ourtfits. You remember ... the trunks and the jacket were coordinated as a set. FUN memory.

Image taken at http://www.newbedfordantiquedealers.com/AcushnetRiverAntiques.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 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

Colorful Vintage Metal Motel Chairs Lofted As A Display In A Small Antique Booth

Creating More Space In Your Antique Booth By Displaying Chairs On Top Of A Table

Many of us who rent space in an antique booth are always looking for better ways to get the mostroom our of our small booths. Have you ever thought of lifting chairs off the floor onto a table? This creative dealer took colorful outdoor metal motel chairs and raised them off the floor. The surface of the chair seat is used as a display. But there is also plenty of room under the table for storing or exhibiting collectibles. I like the use of a colorful chair . I was able to spot this dealer from a distance...and I was interested enough to visit the booth.

Image taken at Acushnet River Antiques in New Bedford, Mass.

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 Jewelry On A Rusty Old Car Muffler and Tailpipe

New Use For Exhaust Pipes: Displaying Jewelry

I get around, but this is as first for me, finding a shop in Portland Maine that displays their jewelry on an old rusty car muffler and tail pipe. The shape of the this vintage car component is great for showcasing  bracelets. What do you think? Do you like the idea, tell us if you would do this in your shop?

Do you have unique ideas to share about how you display jewelry?

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

Who Do You Call When You Need Help With Aging Parents?

 Senior Care Connections

Senior care services are popping up everywhere as the aging population is growing and growing.
Baby boomers are learning the lingo when looking online for people to help them with caring for elderly parents. You will find such terms as "Geriatric care managers", "Senior case managers", "Senior care consultants" "Eldercare advisors" and plenty more phrases to plow through.

The Aging Biz Is Now Very Popular

Meet Sheri of MY SENIOR CARE CONNECTIONS  

Recently, I helped a close friend Sheri Morris, LCSW,  a clinical geriatric social worker in Connecticut,  develop and launch her new expanded clinical practice called "My Senior Connections"  which will focus on helping families care for older family members. Sheri has worked in this field for over 35 years. She will cover the entire range of issues that clients need help with from comunity resources to alternate housing options. As we searched through the internet looking at similar types of practices, we were am
azed at how popular the "aging ind
ustry" had become.

We even made a few phone calls to inquire about how other consultants set up their Senior care management practices. After doing a great deal of homework on this subject I  wanted to point out some basic considerations for you to think about.

Check The Credentials of The Senior Care Manager That You Call

Ask what professional credentials the consultant maintains and at what level?  Are they are nurse, social worker, counselor, gerontologist, marketing and sales expert, estate liquidator?  Do they belong to professional organizations....which ones? What agencies, facilities, hospitals etc. have they worked for or are affiliated with? Is their company a private practice or are they part of a national franchise? How well do they know your particular  geographic area?  Do they work as a solo consultant or do they have a team they work with....who is their team?  How many years have they been in the "aging biz" ? Can they
share with you references or professionals in the community you can call for a reference.

Know What You Need When Callling A Senior Care Manager

Many people already have an idea about of what types of services they are looking for. Be sure that the consultant that you call is well versed in the matters that you are looking for help with.  

How Does The Senior Care Consultant Sound On The Phone?

When you call a particular Senior consultant on the phone to inquire about their services, do they answer the phone directly or have a answering machine or service?  How quickly do they return your phone call after you have left a message? How do they sound on the phone when you are talking to them about your loved ones? Are they business like or personable? Do you feel comforted by their responses?  Will your mom and/or dad relate well to them? Did you relate well to them?

I could go on and on but I'll continue more tips in future blogs.

For more information: Read http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/older%20adults

If you need help regarding Senior Care Services and Eldercare contact my friend Sheri Morris MSW, ACSW, LCSW a very experienced Geriatric Social Worker. Her website is My Senior Care Connection. 

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

Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon CT Features "Connections" Art Show And "Sketch Book Project": Opening Friday, June 28, 2013, 5:00-8:00pm

"Connections" Art Show Opens Tonight At Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT

Tonight is the opening of two delightful shows at The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT.  In the main Fisher Gallery, the professisonal artists who maintain studios at FVAC will be exhibiting selected pieces of art from their collections in a show called "Connections".  Tonights opening is from 5:00-8:00 pm and includes refreshments and live music.

Sketch Book Project

In the smaller Esther Drezner Gallery, a smaller  show called  the Sketch Book Project featuring artist sketch books submitted from young, teen and adult local and national artists.  You will also see some of  the completed artwork that was inspired by their sketches and swatches. The Esther Drezner Gallery is also a beautiful artisan gift shop selling handmade jewelry, textiles, glassware, pottery, artwork, gifts and more.

Arts Market In The Classroom

Be sure to also visit the Arts Market set up in the classroom which will offer jewelry, artwork, paintings, sculpture  and more and serioulsy discounted prices.

For more information visit: http://www.artsfvac.org/category/events/

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

Wetting Colored Tissue Papers In Mixed Media Art

Mixed Media Art With "Bleeding" Wet Tissue Papers

Mixed Media artists who like to come up with new ideas for  making papers to use in collages will like this idea. Colored tissue paper is cut into strips and layered and then spritzed with a water bottle. You guessed it, the papers bleed and the random color saturation makes for great papers.

This idea was demonstrated by my friend Lynn Gall who conducted a Mixed Media Boot Camp recently at The Farmington Valley Arts Center.

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

Colorful 1950s Plastic Flower Pots At Kitsch n Stuff Antiques And Collectibles

Adorable Kitschy Plastic 1950s Flower Pots

I just added the cutest 1950's plastic flower pots to my collection at Kitsch n Stuff. I bought an entire set of these wonderful vintage retro planters. They come in all the popular  50's colors, chartreuse, sunflower yellow, coral, royal blue, red, green etc. Truthfully, I would like to hold onto to them. But at the moment, they are on display at my shop which is in The Colllinsville Sntiques Companhy 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.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Are You Shopping For A Vintage Pink Straw, Rhinestone Studded Hat?

In The Pink With This Hat Which Will Add Some Height To Your Appearance

There are vintage hats and then there is vintage hats!
This  pink beauty is more like a tower than a hat. My oh my,  I can see how the designer of this hat channeled wedding cakes when designing this pink straw rhinestone studded, bow adorned fashion statment. I spotted this gem at The Burlington Inn Antiques  in Burlington, CT. Hurray up and grab this hat before some hipster wheres this to a summer party.

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

Way Off The Beaten Path Looking For Antiques And Collectibles

Getting Lost When Out Antiquing

When you are out antiquing, one small move out of the ordinary and you could find yourself on a country road in new territory. Some people frown because they are not where they are supposed to be. For me, it is as blessing in disguise. I love getting lost while out antiquing and discovering the smaller shops that just may not be on "the antique maps" that so many owners get together and print.

Following The Antique Trail To A Point

Don't get me wrong, local antique maps are great for following the trail of antique stores located in a particular geographic area. But often, the maps do not tell the whole story. Shops come and go and often the descriptions on these printed pamphlets can be deceiving.

Good Junk Or A Dump

Over the years, how many of us have been burnt, holdng one of these antique maps in our hands, and showing up in person to a store which sounded good on paper but is a miserable DUMP.  We eagerly thought we would be walking into a treasure trove when in reality we walk into the equivalent of
poop palace.

Good Junk Is Appetizing

Now let's be clear...there is JUNK which is fun JUNK.  But there is also JUNK that belongs in the trash.

Here is what I call junk that belongs in the trash .... lots of wet, smelly, moldy

boxes and bins filled with dusty, rusty,  broken garbage. There is very little in the way of collectibles, vintage or desirable anything.

Orderly Junk In An Organized Shop A-1 RATING 

On the other hand, a great junk store  (or collectibles shop) has a mixture of everything and is relatively a neat and somewhat organized place that is kept up. You enjoy poking through piles, boxes and front porches.
In a great store, you are not terrfied that something "live" will jump out at you. Photos  shown are from The Junk Shop Of Canton , CT  a  shop with an A-1 JUNK RATING.

Readers feel free to  share your thoughts. Also tell us about your A-1 Junk haunts.

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

Visiting The Art Studio Of Suzy Logue, Decorative Furniture Painter At The Farmington Valley Arts Center

Paint Obsession, Re-Imagining Old Furniture Into Stylish One Of A Kind Works Of Useable Art  

Suzy Collins Logue is a decorative painter obsessed with changing the look of vintage and antique furniture. From the wee hours of the morning until the sun goes down, you will find Suzy hard at work in her Farmington Valley Arts Center studio in Avon, CT. Suzy's business name "Paint Obsession" reflects her preoccupation with re-imagining old furniture into stylish, colorful, elegant one of a kind works of art which falls under the category of useable or functional art.

Hunting For Furniture To Makeover

Like other artists who up-cyle vintage finds, Suzy must balance her time between hunting for objects (furniture) to use in her work, while at the same time nurturing these finds into creative new interpretations of the original piece. For example, Suzy recently found a very handsome Tiger oak Empire sideboard or buffet which was popular during the Victorian era and sought after for many generations by buyers who like antique furniture.

Updated Versions Of The Old Look 

Today however, younger couples and shoppers are after updated versions of the old look. Suzy has successfully found a niche for buyers who like the quality and styles of vintage furnishings but want a fresher more colorful and contemporary adaption of chairs, table, cabinets etc.

Farmington Valley Arts Center Attracts Visitors Looking For Unique Works Of Art

Suzy located her "Paint Obsession" painted furniture business to The Farmington Valley Arts Center in late Spring to be surrounded by fine artists and artisans who attract visitors to the Center who are looking for unique and creative works of art.

Suzy's Furniture Is Her Blank Canvas 

For Suzy, her painted furniture is like a blank canvas which she approaches passionately with a both a sense of wonderment and novelty. Like someone working on a painting, Suzy must look at each piece of furniture as a challenge, creating something special that brings to life her vision and style.

Suzy Logue's art studio "Paint Obsession" is on the first floor of  The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Studio 10 A.  You can reach Suzy at 860-977-3545
       
 To learn more about The Farmington Valley Arts Center visit
 http://www.artsfvac.org/

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

Displaying Vintage Earrings On An Antique Tennis Racket

Vintage Jewelry Looks Great Displayed On The Strings Of An Old Wooden Tennis Racket

Vintage jewelry is not the easiest item to sell in an Antique booth when you have lots of other collectibles, textiles and antiques competing for attention. The small little things such  as costume jewelry generally get lost in the avalanche of STUFF. But one clever dealer I met at the Harwinton Antiques Weekend in Harwinton , CT resolved the jewelry issue by displaying her vintage earrings on   the strings of an
old tennis racket.

What I like about this idea is how terific the aged wooden frame looks as a display prop. The display is eye catching and
invites interest.

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

Mixus Celebrates 10th Anniversary At TheatreWorks With A Special Mixed Media Show, May 31- July 19, 2013

MIXUS Mixed Media Show Opening Reception: June 13th, 2013, 5:30-7:00pm. 

This is a very interesting post for me. Ten years ago I helped form a group of Mixed Media artists who named themselves "Mixus". Now to be correct Mixus was really mixus ( the first letter "m" was intended to be lower case).  But mixus is always promoted as Mixus, no matter how hard the group tries to be true to their original identity.

Mixed Media Art Show Runs Through July, 19th, 2013 At TheatreWorks 

Whether mixus is spelled with a capitol "M" or not, mixus will be celebrating their 10th anniversary in Connecticut's capital city, Hartford with a special show at Theatreworks from May 31- July 19, 2013. The public is invited to an opening reception Thursday June 13th, 2013, 5:30-7:00 pm.

Ten members of mixus will be presenting their Mixed Media artwork including Judy Cantwell, Elaine Edelberg, Joy Floyd, Betty Friedman, Vi Joshua, Hannah Libman, Jill Henderson Pasanen, Caroln Q Tertes and Gretchen Wohlgemuth.

The mixus show coincides with the current Theatreworks performance "Becoming Dr Ruth" .
  
Everyone knows Dr. Ruth from her career as a pioneering radio and television sex therapist. Few, however, know the incredible journey that preceded it. From fleeing the Nazis in the Kindertransport and joining the Haganah in Jerusalem as a scout and sniper, to her struggles to succeed as a single mother coming to America, Becoming Dr. Ruth is filled with the humor, honesty and life-affirming spirit of Karola Ruth Siegel, the girl who became America's most famous sex therapist
   
For more information about Mixus or the current production visit www.theaterworkshartford.org

Photo credits:

Top image: Mixus artist Carolyn Q Tertes
Middle image: Mixus artist Jill Henderson Pasanen
Bottom image: Mixus artist Gretchen Wohlgemuth

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

Holding Onto Vintage Baby Stuff When The Kids Are Out Of The House

Closets Filled With Collections of Baby Stuff And Old Collections 

Why on earth do we save so many things? And why do so many of us offer free storage facilities to grown up kids who have their own apartments or homes? I am holding onto a very delightful collection of vintage monkey collectibles which were destined to go back to my daughter's home  when she had a big enough place.  She has moved several times and each place gets bigger and bigger, yet the monkeys are still hanging out in one of my upstair bedroom closets.

Saving Chewed Up Baby Pacifers 

In that same closet are boxes of baby clothes, baby blankets and baby trinkets such as chewed up baby pacifers and rattles. I remember telling myself that the kids may want these boxes of cute baby tee shirts and onesies when they finish college, marry and begin to have their own children.  This is where the
symbol LOL really applies. Who am I kidding?  There is no way, my kids will want to allow their babies to mingle with baby stuff that hasn't seen fresh air in three decades or more.

Ready To Junk The Junk....Maybe

I thought about unpacking these boxes of baby memories and perhaps creating a Mixed Media baby art project assemblage or wall decor something or another. Yeah...right. Those boxes of baby things aren't going anywhere until I am ready to let go of them. O.K. I'M READY!

Readers, what's in your closets?

Monkey image courtesy of  http://www.etsy.com/listing/70528175/vintage-knickerbocker-curious-george

Rattle photo from http://www.flickr.com/photos/socal72girl/7117585807/

Stacking toy from  http://daydreamlabs.com/user/22021583@N03/collections

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

Sweet Doll's Dress Made From A Vintage Hankie

Projects Made From Vintage Hankies   

Recently I added a brand new group on I Antique Online.com  for collectors of  Vintage Hankies . This is a wonderful group for sharing images, stories and resources about collectble hankies and upcycled projects made from hankies.  While searching for photos to share with the members of the Vintage Hankies group, I came across a lovely post on making handdmade doll clothes from vintage hankies on one of my favorite blogs, 52 Flea. As discussed in the original blog, many of us remember how our grandmas would make orginal doll clothes for our Barbie dolls. My grandmother Sophie liked to crochet dresses and matching hats and coats. As shown here, this lovely Hankie dress was made from a charming colorful hanky.

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

Antiques And Collectibles On Scoop It: A Content Curation Platform

 What Is Scoop it?

Who misses toaster covers? I was thinking about toasters so I went snooping around online and discovered this adorable vintage pattern on http://www.scoop.it/ . Now I wonder how many of you reading this article have heard of scoop it? Scoop it is what is known as a content curation platform.

What is Content Curation?

"Content curation is the process of sorting through the vast amounts of content on the web and presenting it in a meaningful and organized way around a specific theme."
http://www.bethkanter.org/content-curation-101/

To learn more about scoop it, read Thirteen Things I Like About Scoop.it  

If you want to see what antiques and collectibles are on Scoop it
visit http://www.scoop.it/t/antiques-vintage-collectibles

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 an d cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Kitschy Vintage Crocheted Toilet Paper Covers

Baby Boomers Remember Handmade Toilet Paper Covers

Baby boomers will remember how our kitschy moms kept an extra bathroom toilet paper roll on the back of the toilet or on a shelf in a disguised handmade crocheted "thing" a.k.a  "toilet tissue cover". The "thing" could be a "poodle", "doll", "duck", "hat", "clown", "flower",  etc.  I can even remember  not knowing exactly what "the thing" was, but knowing exactly what was underneath "the thing" ! Toilet paper roll covers might change according to the season or holiday.

Themed Vintage Toilet Paper Covers For Holidays

There were a lot of Santas sitting on top of toilets back in the 50s, 60s and even into the 70s. While Santa was welcomed at holiday time, I must confess, I think Santa had competition with "Humpty Dumpty". Look how cute Humpty is with his with legs dangling over the top of  a shelf or the tank? Now that is kitschy cute.

You Weren't Allowed To Use The Extra Toilet Paper Roll

And please correct me if I am wrong, but you weren't allowed to use the extra toilet paper roll that was being covered up and sitting pretty behind the toilet or on a nearby shelf. No, no, no.....the extra toilet paper roll wasn't really to be used. If you took the toilet paper out from underneath "the thing", than  "the thing" would collapse and you would have nothingto  hold "the thing" up with.

Santa image
courtesy of http://campcactus.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-time-to-celebrate.html

Humpty Dumpty image courtesy of http://www.etsy.com/listing/16162471/vintage-crochet-toilet-paper-cozy-cover

Doll image courtesy of  http://www.ioffer.com/i/crochet-fashion-doll-toilet-tissue-covers-pattern-book-199937170

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

The Thrill Of Buying Collections Versus Acquiring Collectibles One At A Time

Buying Collections Can Be Fun

If you are lucky, every now and then you come across an already put together collection of this or that. I have bought collections of "cows", "poodles", "dolls", "head vases", "planters" etc.  While I  get a kick out of coming home with what in the antique industry is a referred to as a "lot" (a grouping of items) some people prefer to hunt for their treasures one item at a time. I have even heard people say that when they buy someone else's collection they don't feel the same thrill as when they acquire one collectible at a time. I'm wondering what my readers think? Are you a one at a time buyer or  do you get a kick out of finding a whole collection of similar goodies in one sweep?

Image courtesy of Special Joys Doll Shop, Coventy, 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.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

Rescuing Treasured Pieces In Mixed Media Collages

 Adding Mixed Media Collage Remnants To Notecards

 What do you do when a Mixed Media collage you are working on just isn't hanging together, yet you fall in love with some of the sections in that same collage?
Let's say you have added several lalyers to the collage but still you just are not satisfied with the total picture?

When I am at my wits ends, I tear the collage up into pieces and save the pieces that I adore to use in a new way. Recently I started added these treasured torn remnants to note cards or to other collages that need some embellishment.

 I like the way you get rough and ragged edges to torn pieces that have had several layers before.

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

Home Goods Selling Fiesta-ish Ceramic Dishes

Liking My Retro Junk To Be Original     

Home Goods just opened a new store in my area and like all loyal bargain shoppers, I had to make a survey visit to see just what's new in discounted home decor and kitchenwares.  A very colorful ceramic dish display caught my attention as I strolled in the front door of our new Home Goods store. My first thought was, "my it looks so Fiesta-ish", as in vintage Fiestaware. The colors were so vintage, so retro, so me. BUT I draw the line on what I will buy NEW.  I might buy a placemat or pillow in Home Goods. But when it comes to my kitchen, the kitschy collector has to have the real McCoy or Fiesta is this case. What can I say, I like my Retro junk..authentic!

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