ModredVintage

Birds Chasing Bugs

2010-10-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

While looking for Etsy treasury photographs for the Midwest Treasury Team one of my favorite shops is BirdsChasingBugs. It's a vintage store with great photography and items. It's primarily clothes and shoes, but it also has handbags and items for the home. I had to learn more about Amber and this great vintage clothes shop.

How did you get started selling vintage?:

I started selling vintage apparel while I was in college. There was a really charming vintage store/boutique that consigned vintage items of all sorts. I started doing it as a way to make back the money I spent on things that I would acquire at thrift stores. I’m totally manic about shopping at thrift stores, and selling some pieces that I found made me feel like there was balance to the equation. I’m always scheming to put my hobbies to work for me.

Why does vintage clothing appeal to you?:

Clothing will never again be constructed the way it used to be. Not en masse, anyway. I find vintage clothing utterly and truly captivating. Clothes used to be constructed from fine, natural materials, such as wool, silk, cotton, and fur. These natural materials make the world of difference when it comes to comfort. Also, the details that you find on vintage clothes are always stunning.

I love the freedom to pick and choose across genres and generations. I have this romantic idea that people of the past had more style and grace than your average person today, so there’s definitely some romanticism. Moreover, vintage clothes are fancy, and I love being fancy. Why put on jeans and a t-shirt when you can put on one fabulous dress? You would have done twice the work and you wouldn’t look half as awesome. Vintage clothes spark my imagination. I could wax on and on for days about why I love vintage clothes, but I’ll stop here.

What are your favorite vintage items to sell (shoes, dresses, etc)?:
I feel like I am still figuring this part out. When I look at my “items sold” list, it seems like I have the best knack for shoes, but I really would love to be able to sell more dresses. In general, anything fancy that you can put on your body is what I am interested in selling, at least in BirdsChasingBugs. I have another store in the works, PirateVintage, that is going to focus more on housewares and guy-friendly stuff.

What advice would you give to someone looking to buy or sell vintage clothing?:

If you are looking to sell vintage of any sort, treat your shop as if you are curating an art exhibit. Make it beautiful, make it genuine, and be passionate about it. If you don’t have passion, it will show.

If you are looking to buy vintage clothing, remember that there’s no such thing as “too fancy.” Also, that truly great vintage piece will last you forever, if cared for properly. Be kind to your vintage clothes, and they’ll be kind to you. Invest in the proper cleaning of your garments.

I enjoy the timeless designs and the items at BirdsChasingBugs. It really is a great vintage clothing store. I'll be sure to keep an eye out for your new store, PirateVintage. This was my first interview and it was fun to do, thanks Amber. Wishing everyone a happy weekend, and some great finds to vintage shoppers and buyers alike.

My Stupid and Exciting Day

2010-10-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I knew I was featured somewhere. The bookends to the left were up to 57 views in in just over a hour before they sold at my Modred12 store on Etsy. If you get views like that every day, congratulations. I however, do not. I didn't know where the views were coming from though, so I had to wait until today/24 hrs for them to show up in my Google Analytics. For a brief moment I thought I was in Etsy's finds e-mail, but since I've never been promoted by Etsy I have no idea why I thought that.

This morning I woke up, and checked my Google Analytics. They were featured in a very popular and cool blog called Apartment Therapy. My shop had over 100 more views than it does on a busy day. I was thrilled-click here for the article.

I guess I was so excited that I didn't check the time. I was taking my youngest to school thinking it was 8:30, it was actually 9:30. I looked at the car clock, thinking it had to be wrong. I started driving to school, no kids walking and no school traffic. Yup, I really goofed; I asked the pre-school if "parent stupidity" could count as the reason he was late when I signed him in. I mis-read the time when I got up and just checked the minutes after that. I was an hour off all morning and had to scramble to get my oldest to the dentist. Usually I'm very time conscience, so I'm not sure what happened today. Oh well, it was a stupid and exciting day all in one.

Sale at ModredVintage on Zibbet

2010-10-03T06:45:00.001-07:00

It's getting to be Halloween time. The leaves are turning and my black cat Modred is getting restless. It's his time of the year, when black cats decorate the neighborhood. In fact, when he lays on our front steps he's our best Halloween decoration-until he moves that is.

In honor of it being Modred's (or Mo as he's known around the house) month, my on-line shops are all decorated with a new avatar and banner. Also, my Zibbet shop is having a 20% off sale. I have a new stock of vintage patterns in, along with my usual home decor items like vintage glassware and pottery. I've been listing new items, so stop on by. Just click on the black cat, he wants to say hello.

Weekend Blog Hop

2010-10-01T08:30:00.000-07:00

It's time for the weekend blog hop. It's a fun way to discover new blogs and be discovered. If you're interested in joining in, just click below. Happy blogging and weekend to everyone!

Vintage Appliances

2010-09-29T05:12:00.000-07:00

My first apartment had a vintage refrigerator in it, of course I was young and it worked fine for me. Who cares if items left in the freezer turned into ice balls, or that I had to defrost it every once in awhile? Honestly, I didn't defrost it that much, hence the ice balls. I do remember standing there with a blow dryer, the whole freezer was becoming a block of ice.

I love the look of vintage appliances, but they aren't always practical. Besides the ice block above they are also big energy wasters, made in a time when "save the earth" wasn't too high on the list. I came across some great vintage looking appliances on the inter net, thanks to Stumble Upon. They are called Big Chill Fridge, and I love the look of their appliances. Stoves, fridges, ovens, they do it all. You can choose from a variety of colors and sizes, and they are new. Vintage looks with modern conveniences, you know this vintage woman is a fan.

An Example of Great Customer Service

2010-09-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

Since I ranted about my customer experience yesterday, I decided to talk about a great customer experience I did have. It was on Zibbet, and the shop was graphicdesignbytara.

I was looking for an ad. for Craftcult and Project Wonderful, and I contacted her. She promptly answered and I told her what I wanted. After some back and forth she made the advertisement up above. which I was very pleased with. All communication and delivery of the item were timely and I felt that my business mattered, which as a customer you always appreciate. You might have seen my ad., but if you haven't that's okay as well. In fact, this reminds me that I need to do some more advertising. I just wanted to add all my experiences on Zibbet have been great and I enjoy shopping there. If only I had more money...

New Uses for Old Jars and Customer Service Rant

2010-09-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

I love what MidwestFinds on Etsy has done. Have an old jar?-put a lid on it. Instant soap dispenser. It's another clever idea that I love. I also like the way it looks, if you have an old blue Mason jar at home, it would really add some vintage style.

And now for the second part of my post, if you sell on Zibbet on Etsy, please answer you "messages to seller/convos." Since the black cat is my thing, I stumbled across a funky pre-made shop banner that I thought would work for Halloween for my Zibbet/Etsy shops. I really like it. I sent a convo. and more than 24hrs later no reply.

Just so you know, I like to send convos before I buy. I had a bad experience on E-bay. Bought the item, and nothing. I sent messages to the seller, nothing. I filed a claim of non-receipt and did get my money back, but I guess she was sick and couldn't respond to my messages. Unless I'm in a coma I get to the computer and can respond to my customers. Part of running an online business means being able to check your e-mails. If you can't or are away, please put a message in the announcement so at least I know.

So, I will give the banner maker a little bit more time, but will likely end up going elsewhere. I really like the look of the pre-made one, but I don't and won't wait around for forever. After all, Modred is a black cat and Halloween is coming up, he's got things to do.

Box of Wooden Pegs

2010-09-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in the vintage trade, you come across items you're just not sure what to do with. At my last auction, I ended up with a box of wooden pegs. They could also work as vampire stakes, but since I'm not friends with any vampire killers I'm not sure what to do with them.

I haven't come across any this old. They likely marked property or a garden, as some still have some rope with them. They were then put in a barn and forgotten, until I came along. They will probably sit in my basement for awhile, as I'm not sure what to do with either. Thankfully, we have the room, and my husband tolerates my vintaging. Sometimes you just hold onto items until you learn more about them, or what to do with them.

I did learn people would make dolls from some wooden pegs. I remember being a child and learning about Laura Ingalls' doll she made with a corncob. In today's modern age, it's hard for me to relate to this. I don't know how we survived without the inter net, but survive we did. I would prefer a soft doll to a hard doll, but again, it's a different age.

The only marking pegs I see today are metal. Someone likely carved these from wood, taking time and care. I want to make sure whoever ends up with these realize that once upon a time someone cared about his work, and made these. That's also part of selling vintage, you want your items to find a good home. For now they will stay with me, until I find one.

Country Auction

2010-09-19T09:18:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time, someone mentioned that vintage sellers didn't work as hard as people who sell handmade because they don't put as much time in it. I'm guessing they've never been to a country auction. I attended one yesterday, the family had been there for four generations, but the place had been sold and it was time to move some very old items. There was a bunch of it I had to sit through, and as one woman said "we used our antiques," so mint condition wasn't an option. This is to be expected though, mint condition is a rarity with vintage, especially since some of the items dated from the early 1900s.

I got up in the morning, and it was cold and raining. It rained throughout the day, but I had my fingerless gloves from HamsaHealing, plus a jacket and coat because I am a bit of cold-weather weenie. The auction was at the farm in an out-building, so it could have been worse. You park along the road and walk-up, my feet got a little wet and muddy by the time I was done.

More rain. Most auctions have a friendly vibe to them, even if you're being out-bid. I sat next to one lady who took some of the items that no one was bidding on. She turned to me and said "I'm nuts." We both had a good laugh and I helped her move some our her items to another area, as space was limited.

I wish I could re-do furniture. Farm furniture is usually older and quality made, it just needs to be refreshed. Unfortunately, it's not a strength of mine. Maybe someday I'll have the room to buy it then re-sell it to people who can give it new life.

There were a lot of quilts and older linens. I don't know much about then, I think that's why I like reading the blog A Passion for Vintage Textiles. She knows her stuff and I'm always learning something. As a general rule, quilts hold their value. I have yet to go to an auction where they are going "cheap." I think every generation appreciates the quality and beauty of quilts.

All farm houses have to have a friendly dog, and this was no exception. His name was Clay, and even though he was wet I had to pet him. I have to admit, I gave him a french-fry. He wasn't too proud to beg, nice dog.

I made it through the auction, it was a full-day and time to go home. Sometimes with auctions if you can out-last some of your fellow-bidders you can get better deals. I had a good time and will be listing some of the items on my Zibbet and Etsy web-site as time allows. I hope everyone had a nice weekend, but hopefully yours was warmer with less rain.

Vintage Fashion - How Best to Display Shoes

2010-09-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

This post was originally going to be about vintage shoes, but when I searched for vintage shoes, well, some of the photographs on Etsy stood out as bad. I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, or be mean, so I won't show pictures of some of the offenders. And please keep in mind, this is just my opinion, from a buyer's point of view. I don't sell vintage shoes, and am by no means an expert.

I was searching for vintage boots, and clicked on a tall pair. Let's just say the close-up wasn't good. The person is wearing them, and I do want to say it may not be a good idea to show vintage shoes being worn. Vintage items are great, well-made, but if you do show them being worn on another persons foot, sometimes the mind does wander over to the "foot odor" area.

Also, if I can tell you're not wearing socks, that grosses me out a bit. Again, I might be picky, but if they're mis-laced and a person's bare feet are wearing an item I want to buy that doesn't conjour up any pleasant thoughts. When I go shopping for new shoes, I know people may have tried them on before I do, but I don't have pictures of them doing so. Also, some legs aren't meant for shoe close-ups. If you're really pale, and the shoes are black, your legs look really bright and hurt my eyes. I don't have good legs, that's why I don't have any leg close-ups.

Below is a picture done by BirdsChasingBugs on Etsy. Nice picture, classy, I even like the background. No one is wearing them, foot odor doesn't even occur to me. These would be a pair I would buy, the photograph sets a pleasant mood, which is important when buying on-line. Set the scene based on the shoe, and the photo will sell the item.

It's About Me!

2010-09-08T17:21:00.000-07:00

Hello, I'm going to toot my own horn here a bit, I've been featured on another blog. If you have a moment, check it out:
http://cyberhippiegypsies.blogspot.com/

They also have a store on Etsy, and if you're looking for some fingerless gloves I can recommend them from my own experience. I love the quality of hand-made.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HamsaHealing

I also want to thanks KawarthaBeads for featuring my Tupperware stacking bowls on her blog. I enjoy the blog, it has some good information as well as popular tags for Etsy's front page. I keep trying in vain to get a treasury on the front page. It would be more productive to hit my head on a desk, but once I try for something I keep going. If you have a moment, stop by and say hi.

http://kawarthabeads.blogspot.com/

And thanks to my blog followers, and enjoy reading the posts of other blogs as well as the comments left on my blog.

Shawnee Miniatures

2010-09-07T18:31:00.001-07:00

Looking for a bit of vintage decor, but don't have much room? May I suggest Shawnee Pottery Miniatures. They started production in the late 30s and lasted through the 40s. The miniatures come is a variety of themes, from small vases to the Puppy Dog at the left. They were used as party favors to aquarium ornaments, and could be bought in packages.

Since these are older items, paint loss and small chips are common. Finding one in true mint condition is rare. As with most Shawnee pieces, if there is gold on them they are worth more. The aren't marked Shawnee, they were marked USA or left blank. The USA mark was used by other pottery companies, not just Shawnee.

The size ranges from 3/4" to 3 1/4." Demand isn't as popular as it once was, but I wouldn't say they are easily found either. Keep your eyes out, as some people don't know they are Shawnee. Even if you're not a Shawnee collector, their cuteness and smallness can work well for decorating tight places.

80s Flashback-E.T. the Extra Terrestrial

2010-09-01T16:58:00.000-07:00

When E.T. came out in 1982, I wanted to see it. Every kid I knew wanted to see it. I lived in a rural area growing up, and people from miles around came to the one movie theater in the area. In fact, the original showing was full by the time we arrived, but they were doing a later one due to the crowds. We made the later showing, and sat on the floor. Since my sister and I were young, we didn't care. When you get older sitting on the floor is a bigger problem.

I only saw the movie that one time, and never again. I enjoyed it, but I watched it as a kid. I'm sure most of the references were over my head, and I missed subtleties that I would have picked up as an adult (for example, how did the mom manage to miss an alien in the house?). My sister asked a lot of questions and I tried to answer them as best I could. I do remember the end, and I cried a lot, it was sad when E.T. left.

Like most things from my childhood, I'm afraid of revisiting it. The ending won't be as sad, and I won't be sitting on the floor of a crowded movie theater answering questions. I liked the movie as a kid, I can't see liking it as much as an adult. I enjoy the memory the way it is.

Chosen Vintage

2010-08-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

Usually this is my vintage home decor section, but today I decided to do something different. I love vintage jewelry, it's unique, well-made, and has stood the test of time. Sometimes I come across pieces that are damaged, and I wish I had the talent to fix them, because they are still stylish pieces that deserve new life, but I don't.

That's why I'm glad there are shops on Etsy like Chosen Vintage. When I do have pieces that are less than perfect, I list them, and someone like her buys them, and gives them a beautiful new life. I've included three examples from her shop, aren't they lovely? Also, as a bonus her shop is running a sale. If you have a moment visit her shop, there are a variety of items and your jewelry won't look like everyone else's-and who doesn't love a sale?

Friday Blog Hop

2010-08-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Crazy Day, I'll spare you the details, but let's just say some things are still better done in person that on the Internet, no matter what you might hear. I'm going to participate in the Friday Blog Hop done by Graphic Design by Tara. It's a great way to check out some new blogs, and I love the graphic below. Happy Hopping.

New Uses for Test Tubes

2010-08-25T17:25:00.000-07:00

I wasn't the best at science, but I do remember the test tubes. They were kind of neat, but it wasn't like I was good enough to get to mix any dangerous chemicals like they showed in the movies. When I graduated high school I never saw them again, since I made sure to avoid science in college.

I now see test tubes popping up as bud vases, or for other decorative purposes. I think it's a cute idea, and original. The picture on the left looked like the ones I had in high school, it's for sale at polkadotHOME on Etsy. I've also seen beakers and other high school implements used as home decor.

I'm not sure how one comes across vintage science class items, perhaps a retiring teacher? I've never come across any, but I'll keep my eyes out. Like most vintage items, if I can't use it, someone else can.

Did you Blink?

2010-08-20T19:58:00.001-07:00

It's been a busy week, what with the kids starting back to school. Since the youngest is in preschool, I only get a couple of hours of "down time" and I'm amazed at how fast it goes. I still have a ton of items on my to-do list, both vintage and family related.

I took pictures of the squirrel bank roughly a week ago, but hadn't had time to get around and list it. I finally had a chance on Friday night, not the best time to list new items, but the kids are asleep and my husband is out of town. Even if no one is looking, I figured it was best to get it listed.

I also had to do some numbers for the month. I listed the bank (it is cute), then was looking over my sold items. A few minutes later, the bank showed up in my sold items. Wow, wasn't expecting that, I thought it was a mistake at first. When it wasn't, I was very pleased, but for the most part my items don't sell within minutes. Okay, there was that one time I had a cameo grouping that looking back I did under price, so I could see why that one sold fast, but even it wasn't this fast.

Tomorrow, it's off to the Post Office. I'll keep my eyes open for any more squirrel banks, especially if they are as adorable as the one I sold. Just goes to show you never know when you will make a sale.

Back to School, Vintage Style

2010-08-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week, I've been running around getting my kids ready for school. There are forms to complete, school supplies, doctor notes, and back to school nights. Once they're back in school, my day does get a little easier and I will be able to put more time into my shops and blog. I can also run errands to the grocery store without any complaints. In honor of back to school, I've picked out a few vintage items.

The schools of my youth had chalkboards, not wipe-off boards. The frame on this chalkboard is vintage, and it was re-made into a great chalkboard. It's for sale at mimiyaya at Zibbet.

I actually learned to type on a typewriter very similar to this. No, I'm not that old, our school was just that behind the times. Some had computer labs, I had this, but I digress. This is for sale at ChaseVictory on Etsy.

This old style school desk is for sale at queganga on Etsy.

My Award

2010-08-09T06:56:00.001-07:00

Look at me, I got an award for my blog! My thanks to Graphic Design by Tara for the award. Isn't it pretty? I enjoy blogging and reading other people's blogs, so it's always nice to be recognized.

Flawed Vintage

2010-08-08T07:50:00.000-07:00

In vintage forums, I often come across threads where people have been selling mint/high quality vintage items, and they are wondering if it's okay to sell pieces that are less than perfect. My answer is always, yes, so long as you are honest about the flaws, describe them, photograph them, and price accordingly.

Part of the joy of selling vintage for me it to find new homes for items where they will be appreciated, not sitting in a box somewhere or winding up in a landfill. If I come across some shelves that I know can be picked up with some paint, stain, or other touches because the quality of the wood is still good, I grab them. I don't have the talent to restore them, but someone else does. I price them low enough to still make a profit, but so that the person that is restoring them can profit as well.

What if you're looking for a mixing bowl for everyday use? You could go out, buy one, but it's likely made overseas and the quality or style might be questionable. Or, you could buy a vintage one, it has some scratches, but if it was made by Fire-King I know you'll love the decoration and quality. Also, you'll be helping the environment, some small business, or if you buy it at a thrift store you'll be helping some charitable cause. If you're looking for items for everyday use, it doesn't have to be perfect, so long as it works is what matters.

I have a planter in my Modred12 store that isn't perfect, but it will still work as a planter. There's some white that shows along the rim of the planter. You can still plant with it, and do anything you like, but I'm letting people know that if they have a McCoy collection of high quality this isn't the piece that they want. If you're just looking for a planter for everyday use, this would be a nice piece to have. The white hardly detracts from it, and it would still work fine. It has been priced accordingly, and not priced as mint.

So, if you have some flawed item that still works fine for it's intended use, list it. I might sell, it might not, but you never can tell. Always be honest with the flaws and price accordingly, and see what happens.

80s Flashback-The Water Bed

2010-08-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

In the 80s, my cousin got a water bed. Oh, I loved it so. I was jealous. Back then it was one big water chamber, and the whole bed would move. I thought it was the coolest thing ever, and I kept asking my parents for one, but to no avail.

I have to say, on this one they were right. Years ago we stayed at a friend's house, and they had a water bead. It was a one big water chamber 80s type of water bed, in fact I think it was a left over from the friend's childhood. To be fair, I don't think it was filled all the way, but this part of the problem with a water bed. Maintenance, it needs to be filled and taken care of.

My husband got in the bed, and I started going up and down on waves. At some point I did go to sleep, but then I somehow was wedged between the water bed cushion and the protective guide rails. This could be problematic for children, instead of annoying for me. I then had to re-adjust, waking up my husband. It wasn't a good night sleep.

I know water beds have improved since that time. My mom had one with individual chambers, so there was less wave action. If I tried a recent water bed I might even like it, but again, the maintenance, the water filling. I could seem them being kinder than a mattress for allergy problems, but since I don't have a big allergy problem, I'll just keep my bed.

Blue Mountain Pottery

2010-07-31T18:12:00.001-07:00

I'm a fan of Blue Mountain Pottery, and love coming across it. It's not as popular as McCoy or Roseville, I've seen it mis-identified a few times. Since it was a Canadian Pottery company, that might be the reason for some of the confusion. Unfortunately, it closed it's doors in 2004, a victim of cheaper imports. It was a popular pottery company, and there are plenty of pieces in good condition, as well as fan clubs that can help you should you have any questions. However, as time goes on it will become more unique.

The glaze always catches my eye, and I check the item out. If it's the real deal, the glaze is thick, and Blue Mountain Pottery did a double glazing with two different colors known as "reflowing decorating." Some of the pieces with a closed bottom are marked BPM, but other marks existed. The most popular color is the greenish shade(s), but they also did other colors, such as reds and golds. They did figurines to serving ware. Below are a few pieces from my own collection, and they aren't for sale.

This is an example of the open bottom, it won't be marked. One of my pieces still has a paper label, but just because it isn't marked doesn't mean it's not Blue Mountain Pottery. As with anything, there are fakes, so be cautious and know the dealer.

This cat is approximately a foot tall, I couldn't get him in the entire photograph. Please note the label. With vintage, it's not tacky at all to leave the label on, and it increases value.

The deer was being sold as a Frankoma, and I got the dog rather cheaply because they didn't know what it was. Fortunately, I did.

Vintage French Sofa

2010-07-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

I love treasuries on Etsy, and I love it whenever I'm featured in one. I discover new shops and items that I wouldn't have found on my own. I do think the treasury system is a little flawed in that I would love to see different shops and items picked for more variety on the front page, but I digress. Etsy didn't ask me.

I was featured in a French themed treasury by BirdsChasingBugs. I was checking it out and clicking the pictures, when I noticed this couch, or rather it "jumped out" at me. My family had one similar when I was growing up. I remember when I went with my mom and sister to someones house to get it re-upholstered. I'm not sure what happened to the couch, but the fabric on the one below looks great. It's for sale by bohemiennes on Etsy. Not only do I love the item, but the staging is perfect, in turn making it the perfect picture. I bet your neighbors don't have this couch. My parents did, once upon a time.

New Uses for Elegant Depression Glass Compotes

2010-07-26T18:43:00.001-07:00

I love Elegant Depression, but as anyone who tries to collect it knows, if it was a popular pattern, there are sometimes hundreds of pieces to collect. This is part of the fun and challenge, but why were there so many pieces? They had a compote, also know as a comport, for everything.

Jelly, it gets an elegant compote. Honey, yep, also slice off that cheese, it gets a flat one to go into. If you can think of it, it has a piece for it. Remember this when people talk of consumerism being a new thing, I can see housewives competing by setting tables. Who had the most elegant table, you or the Joneses? I have to admit, I would love to eat at these tables, but not set them up. I have enough to do just by cooking the Thanksgiving dinner, let alone getting a compote ready for everything.

I'm not trying to sound dismissive or harsh of the by-gone era by any means. That's why I love older glass, and vintage in general, there is a quality and elegance. If you're not a collector of Elegant Depression patterns, you can use some of the deeper compotes as pretty candle holders. If you don't need a comport for your jelly, why not add some water and add a tea light. The picture below if for sale at Modred12 at Etsy, and I think it would be a lovely centerpiece. Surround it with flowers for a wedding, or just do a simple votive. The glass is striking on it's own, and with some additions it can be a standout.

By the way, if you are setting any Elegant Depression glass table for any occasion, feel free to invite me.

Getting Ready for the Holidays

2010-07-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Since I'm back from my vacation I started listing some new items at both of my stores. In the next week or two, I'll start listing my vintage Christmas items. Too early you say? I can't be the only early Christmas shopper. I've found that if I plan out my shopping instead of waiting until the last minute Christmas is more affordable.

I'm also going to offer mailing directly to the gift recipient. You buy from me, and if you would like it mailed elsewhere just let me know know in the notes to seller when you check-out. I hope to start this in the next month or two, but I need some gift tags or mini cards, and haven't been able to find something I like. The black cat is my brand, so I need a realistic looking black cat with a holiday theme. If there are any card stores that you could recommend please put them in the comments. I'll be happy to take a look, and I prefer supporting small businesses like myself.

I have tried Alchemy on Etsy in the past. I was pleased with the product I received, I just didn't like telling the people that I didn't pick that I turned them down. I felt like a meanie, it's not like they did anything wrong. So, after doing that once I'm not a fan of the Alchemy format on Etsy. I may try the Zibbet forum if I can't find what I want, but hopefully one of my blog followers can help me out.

In the meantime, here's a couple of new items that I've listed, and much more on the way. It's time to get ready for the holidays.

I love the condition of this vintage Rival Juice O Mat juicer. It's for sale at Modred12 on Etsy.

These Fire King small bowls are for sale at my ModredVintage Zibbet shop.

I'm Back

2010-07-20T13:23:00.001-07:00

I have returned from what was a mountain heavy vacation. My husband and I met each other in Denver, and would head for the mountains as time allowed. We now live in a prairie state, but miss the mountains. For our trip, we visited Jackson and Yellowstone in Wyoming, then headed up to Glacier National Park in Montana. We then visited the Canadian Rockies outside of Calgary, Alberta (and avoided the Stampede). We have plenty of mountain pictures, even though they never do nature justice.

Random Updates, Trades and Zibbet Shoping

2010-07-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

My shops will be closing tomorrow, I'm going to be heading out on vacation. I'm looking forward to it, my husband and I will hit the Jackson Hole area, then up to Calgary. I'm will be seeing relatives and friends, and am glad my parents were so nice and agreed to watch our children. As much as I enjoy my Zibbet and Etsy stores, and my blog, breaks are always nice. I will still be in contact via the convo/contact system, but will be checking less frequently. Before I go, here's some of my pre-trip shopping and trading that I did.

I never have traded before, but I always wanted to try it. When HamsaHealing on Etsy contacted me, how could I refuse? I love the fingerless gloves and hat I received, and the process was easy. I adore the quality of handmade, and wish I had the talent for it. I "almost" can't wait for winter so I can wear them.

I needed some soap, so I got a four-pack from ForgetMeNotSoapShop on Zibbet. The wooden soap dish is from YourTime also on Zibbet.

One of my favorite jewelry shops is on Zibbet. It's called FeroshKittyDesigns, and since I'm going on vacation, I of course needed a new necklace. Isn't it pretty?

80s Flashback-The Facts of Life

2010-07-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

I'm a little embarrassed to admit this, but I used to love The Fact of Life. I was there from the beginning, the days of Molly Ringwald and when Tootie wore skates to try to hide the fact that Kim Fields was so much shorter and younger than the rest of the cast. It started as a group of girls at a boarding school, but soon became about four young girls and Mrs. Garrett.

Jo was by far my favorite. She was a "bad girl" because she rode a motorcycle, although now that I think about it they never actually showed her riding the motorcycle, it was all off screen. She got the other three in trouble and they had to work in the school cafeteria with Mrs. Garrett to pay off the damages they did to the school van. They came from fairly well-to do parents (except Jo), especially Blair, why did they have to work it off? Wouldn't they have been bailed out? The Facts of Life work plot lines work better when you're a kid.

Jo was from the working class, Blair the rich girl, and then there were Natalie and Tootie. They weren't focused on as much, and I can't think of any defining trait of either. They were both nice girls that would deliver a joke. The show seemed to go on forever, Edna was at the school, then opened her own catering business, which makes sense, and they all moved with her, which doesn't make as much sense. After the catering business burnt down she opened a trendy store. This one doesn't make any sense either, but the store seemed to do fine no matter how the economy was. They added characters, there was a boy and even George Clooney as a young handyman. Mrs. Garrett left, her sister came in. At this point I was long gone.

I went back and watched it when I was older, and it just isn't that good of a show. Why do these four always stay together? It's like Laverne and Shirley, when all their friends and family moved with them to California. This doesn't happen in real life, no one moves when you move unless you're married with children. The plots were very formulaic and nothing really groundbreaking happened, and I can't tell you a joke from the show. Oh well, it was the 80s, and it fit in well with the times.

Hazel Atlas State Glasses

2010-07-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up to rain, not the best way to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. However, in honor of the birthday of our country, I decided to focus on Hazel Atlas State Glasses. They are very collectible, and who doesn't love learning a little fact about the state you live in? They're also known as map glasses, as this was how they were advertised.

There are a variety of designs, variations, and colors. They are frosted, with greens, pinks, blues, oranges, or yellow. They are vibrant colors. They were made during the 50s and some are marked HA for Hazel Atlas, some aren't. Please note that Imperial Glass also made a line of state glasses during the same time period, and I've seen them mis-identified. In my experience, the Imperial Glass line is also frosted, but done with a red, and it's not as neon as the Hazel Atlas line is. If anyone else has something to add about the differences please do.

The glasses from the western states tend to see higher demand. There were also glasses done for souvenir spots, such as Pikes Peak. They are cool glasses, I like them. If you price them within reason they do sell, as they are unique and you don't see glass items like this today. I've included a couple of examples below.

This Nevada glass is for sale in my ModredVintage shop on Zibbet.

Here's a Nebraska glass I have my eye on. It's for sale on Etsy by FreshPikd4u. I better not wait too long, with vintage, when it's gone, it's gone.

Vintage Fashion-Vintage Swimsuits

2010-07-01T07:29:00.000-07:00

In honor of the upcoming summer weekend, I'm doing my vintage fashion a little early and focusing on the swimsuit. Any woman who has any "problem areas" doesn't relish swimsuit shopping. It seems that most of the swimsuits I come across today don't hide any of the problems. I think the 50s/60s had it right when it comes to swimsuits. They were sexy, showed a little skin, but not too much. I've pulled out three swimsuits from the time period that are unique, cover, but are still fun for summer.

This one dates from the 1960s and has boy shorts underneath. It's for sale on Etsy by 2blackbirds.

This one is from Planetclairvintage on Etsy. It dates from the 50s, and also looks like a fun dress.

Check out this Red Plaid Swimsuit for sale at Glamoursurf. It dates from the 50s as well.

New Uses for Old Jars

2010-06-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

I decided to look to Zibbet for inspiration regarding re-using vintage items, and I wasn't disappointed. I came across as store named ScreamingMonkey Circus, and it's tag-line is that it makes old technology new again. Of course I had to check out the items.

The store isn't that full, but I noticed the ball jars to the left. They're Mason Jar Lanterns, and you use them outdoors; whether you want a winding path or garden lit, they would be ideal. You want light, you pop the battery in, when you're done, take them out. The would also work well for a garden party or wedding. I can also seen them working great for Halloween, and lighting paths for trick-or-treaters.

I've seen Mason Jars in a variety of colors, so you could mix and match. Vintage lids and bands are used, they are 30 plus according to the listing, so it truly is re-using. It's a creative idea, and I think they're pretty. I just wish I had thought of it.

I Made the Front Page of Etsy

2010-06-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

I honestly thought it would never happen to me. I have been improving my photography, but what with there being thousands of treasuries in treasury east, the odds of me being picked were slim. The treasury that corrnucopia was kind enough to include me in made it to the front page. I'm the last item, the little cup. I'll say this, being on the front page is a good thing, the item sold, and several people hearted me. If anyone else would like me to be on the front page of Etsy again, I'm more than happy to do it.

Vintage Fashion-Vintage Wedding Gowns

2010-06-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

I'll be honest, I never was a bridezilla. However, every bride wants to stand out and be pretty on her special day. If you use a vintage wedding dress, it will be unique. There are also so many styles and time periods to choose from, you're sure to find something you like. The cost is often less than some brand new dresses, which is an added bonus. I've found three different styles on Etsy on Zibbet to use as examples.

This one is for sale by TheWitcheryVintage on Etsy. According to the information it dates from the 30s/40s, and has the elegance you see from that time period.

This is a wedding dress from the 70s by posypower on Etsy. It would be lovely for a wedding in nature.

This is a stunning vintage beaded wedding gown by Artemis53 on Zibbet. Almost makes me want to get married again, but to the same guy of course.

Fostoria Baroque

2010-06-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

Fostoria Glass made the Baroque pattern from 1936-1966. It comes in many colors, including crystal, azure blue, and topaz yellow, which are the more common. Other harder to find colors are green, cobalt blue, pink, amber, and amethyst. If you do come across any colored elegant depression glass that is reasonably priced, grab it. If you don't want it someone else will. Also, mixing and matching of colors is fairly common in collections, and getting all one color can be expensive, time consuming, and impossible due to scarcity of color.

The candlesticks done in the Fostoria Baroque pattern are especially striking, and appeal not only to elegant depression glass collectors but to candlestick collectors, which increases demand and price. Cream soups are hard to find in the Baroque pattern, as are punch bowl sets. I love the punch bowl sets done in depression glass, but they are rather rare and often sought after. On the rare occasion when one does come to market I've seen it go well above book value. Not a bad investment if you got one for free from a grandparent.

If you see any pieces that have a purple or pink tint do not overpay for them. They are newer. Lancaster Colony glass did them for Tiara glass in bowls and vases using Fostoria molds. The color doesn't hold up to the original. As with most quality glass, the colors done in elegant depression can't be equalled.

I have a couple of examples from my own store, Modred12 on Etsy. The top is a pair of candlestick and the bottom is the azure blue water stem.

80s Flashback-Michael Jackson

2010-06-21T18:46:00.000-07:00

I know this may seem hard to believe, but there was a time when Michael Jackson was king. No one was cooler than he was, he ruled the world. By the time of his death he was viewed in many different ways, victim, bad guy, or even worse, but musically he was in charge in the 80s. He marketed himself well.

He released Thriller in 1982, and it was one album that everyone had "back in the day." Rich, poor, black, white, everyone bought it. I remember my friends all buying posters of him, and another made her own version of his single sparkle glove. He also pioneered the music video scene, everyone wanted his jacket from Beat It. My favorite video of his was Billie Jean, still not sure why the squares lit up when he walked, but trust me, at the time it was genius. Several people in my school tried to do his dance, "the moonwalk," but they couldn't pull it off, and looked silly trying.

Since this is a post about the 80s I don't want to focus on his fall. It's always sad when people die young, especially if they have children. In the 1980s he really was The King of Pop. If you weren't there, you'll just have to take my word for it.

Vintage Furniture

2010-06-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

I'll be honest, I don't know much about vintage furniture. Oh, I love the look of it, but don't ask me any detailed questions. Vintage is like anything else, not everyone knows everything about all areas. There are so many areas, glass, jewelry, primitives, art, furniture, and the list could go on forever. That's why Antiques Roadshow have experts that handle certain areas, such as the pottery table or ephemera booth. Vintage furniture isn't one of my areas, but I love to learn more about it. I was surprised and pleased that Etsy had vintage furniture sellers, and some great items.

Domus Modern on Etsy has this Knoll Barcelona Chair for sale, and it's a classic yet unique style.

This great chair is for sale at FunkyQuailVintage on Etsy. This color would work with about any space, and would add a touch of the 60s to any room.

This is a clear Lucite chair and table that dates from the 60s, per the information given by brownsugarvintage on Etsy. Aren't they a great set? The only flaw is it wouldn't work too well for hide and seek.

New Uses for Jello Molds

2010-06-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

I love being in treasuries on Etsy. So you can imagine I was pleased when I was included in a great Keeping it Fresh treasury by jillhannah. It was filled with Tupperware, Pyrex, and all the small joys of life. I was also pleased to have my next blog article in one the the pictures, check out this great Jello Mold that has been re-used as a light. Hats off to BootsNGus on Etsy for this great idea.

I like to think of myself as a creative person, but this idea just would never occur to me. It's probably good it hasn't, because I have little knowledge of electricity, and might burn the house down. This would be such a fun light for a kitchen nook, or even a bathroom. You know it would be unique as well. I've checked out the store and this is just the tip of funky iceberg. This is another reason to be a fan of treasuries, you never know what items you might find. My thanks again to jillhannah for including me, and making such a wonderful treasury, and for introducing me to such a fun shop.

Summertime

2010-06-13T16:17:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy summer. I have both kids home, and as such I don't have as much time to give to my blog. When they are home I want to spend time with them, not on the computer. I need to enjoy the time while I can.

This summer has been play dates, doctor appointments, parks, and errands. Happily, the item I donated to the HelptheGulfCoast on Etsy has sold. It has been mailed and received. I also donated another item to a similar shop on Etsy, WildlifeAvatars. It's the little Shawnee Pottery puppy miniature, at left, and I hope it sells for a good cause.

This weekend we did a garage sale. It started off with rain, and then once the sun came out it was a humid day. It was a slow day, and we didn't sell as much as we would have liked. It was a boring Saturday, just sitting there waiting for people to come. What we didn't sell we will donate, so more items to a good cause.

I did come across some nice items at an estate sale on Sunday, it was some unmarked Fire-King Crinoline. Since it wasn't marked, they didn't know what they had and most people just walked on by. That's an advantage of being a vintage dealer in the "know." All vintage dealers have their areas of expertise, and glass happens to be mine. I'll list what I can as time allows.

Zibbet Showroom

2010-06-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

I've been on Zibbet for awhile now, and I love how they have made their web-site so much faster. I admit, it was slow, but no more. I love clicking on Showroom to see the different items for sale. It's random, no one can accuse anyone of favoritism, and the items are great. They also did a three month battle plan, which I'm looking forward too. In the meantime, I'll keep clicking showroom and see what's on Zibbet, as I come across a variety of vintage and handmade items. Here are three of my favorite items.

When I had questions on Zibbet, mimiandcolette were always happy to answer them. I can't imagine a nicer seller, and aren't these adult size Mary Jane shoes adorable?

I'm a big fan of pottery, and was pleased to learn that BlueSkyPottery is now on Zibbet. As you can see, this is no ordinary pottery.

This painting is done by DavisGalleries. It is aptly name Spring Stream.

Help the Gulf Coast on Etsy

2010-06-06T14:09:00.001-07:00

What is going in the Gulf Coast is making me sick. The stories of people losing their way of life and the pictures of oil covered animals are disturbing, and that's an understatement. While we go about our daily lives the oil is still flowing and more damage is being done.

I was pleased I came across a store on the Etsy forums, it's called HelptheGulfCoast. Etsy members are donating items, and the profits will be split between two worthy charities. I have dontated the Florida tray plate at the right, and once it's been purchased I will be happy to ship it.

If you have a moment, check out the store. Shipping is free, so you can find some great items and help out a worthwhile cause. A special thanks to flapperdoodle on Etsy for setting up the store and doing the work behind it.

Heisey Crystolite

2010-06-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

Heisey made Crystolite from the late 1930s-1957. It often has the Heisey mark, the H inside the diamond. Please note that not all Heisey pieces have this, they also used paper labels. I have heard people say it's not a Heisey if it doesn't have the mark, and that simply is not true. If you deal in glass, you can recognize the look, heft (weight), and appearance of true quality glass. If you can't, find a dealer you trust and who allows returns.

This pattern has a lovely pitcher with a swan handle. The handle looks like a neck with a swan head. You'll know if you come across one, but they are priced rather high, as they are desirable.

As most elegant depression patterns, dinner plates in good condition are hard to find. They are either scratched, or mixed and matched with china plates, so less were purchased. This pattern was made in crystal only. It's a well made Heisey pattern, and I'm still able to find pieces in this pattern, which I can't say for a lot of Heisey patterns. It's simplicity has a timeless quality, and it would work with any decor preference.

80s Flashback-The A-Team

2010-06-02T17:15:00.000-07:00

I used to love the A-Team. I can still remember the theme song to this day, I even made up words to the music only theme song. Okay, so the words were me repeating "the A-Team" over and over again along with the song, but you get the idea. I also loved the spoken word introduction "...and if you can find them, maybe you can hire the A-Team."

It was an enjoyable show for a young person. It's a world where you could shoot machine guns and flip cars, yet no one got hurt. Face was my favorite, he was the con man. I didn't think he was handsome, I just liked the way he was tricky. My dad thought Howlin' Mad Murdock was funny, and Mr. T playing B.A. Baracas was the favorite of most of my classmates. This was my first introduction to George Peppard, I had no idea he had a career that included Breakfast at Tiffany's prior to this. They also had a girl character named Amy, but she didn't stick around long and truth be told I didn't really miss her, but I would ask my dad occasionally what happened to her.

I stopped watching in the second or third season. Even as a kid, it was too formulaic. The plot was the same, some person needed helped, they hired the A-Team, the A-Team got caught or goofed somehow, then B.A. would make some awesome machine gun tank or something similar and they won in the end. Throw in B.A.'s fear of flying and how they had to trick him or drug him and you had the show in a nutshell. It even included the classic 80's montage.

There's a move version of the A-Team coming up, which isn't surprising. It does stir up a sense of nostalgia, even though Hannibal is now being played by Liam Neeson. Face is way more handsome in the movie than he was on the show. I doubt I'll go see it, but if it starts with the same theme song that would be nice.

Summer Cabin

2010-05-31T07:30:00.000-07:00

Last summer we were fortunate enough to spend some time with the extended family in a cabin by a lake. It was a wonderful time, and a wonderful cabin. It was a large wooden cabin, well made and decorated. We were able to do some boating and I really enjoyed it. My oldest had a good time as well, he still talks about it. If I were ever fortunate to enough to get my own cabin in the woods, I would love to decorate it with vintage items. These are three I found on Etsy while searching under vintage cabin decor.

I wish I had a lamp for this lampshade. It's for sale at BellwetherWares on Etsy.

I love ducks in a cabin, it's a must-have. These duck book-ends would look great with some vintage titles in between. They're for sale at onelovelyrosebud on Etsy.

This is a great piece of vintage wall decor for sale on TheLovelys on Etsy.

New Uses for Old Bottles

2010-05-29T06:52:00.001-07:00

When I was a child, we had an old outhouse by the house we used to live in. The house had once been a hotel, and the outhouse hadn't been in use for awhile. The walls had blown down on the outhouse, but the toilet and concrete base remained. It was a distance from the house, and tucked into the trees. A few feet from the outhouse was a pile of bottles. Looking back now I realize most of the bottles had to come from the depression era, if not sooner.

I love older glass. It has a thickness and quality to it that I admire. You lift it, and it has a "heft" to it. The same holds true with older bottles. The top image is from my Modred12 store. It's a lovely amber brown bottle, that comes from the 1960s at the earliest. It can stand by itself as a pretty item, but it can also work to hold flowers, whether a single bud or a bunch.

I have a similar bottle for sale as well, and they could "bookend" a larger item, whether a bigger vase or pottery piece. You can even mix and match, and the Good Seasons bottle would work with the brown bottle. It can be a eclectic mix, and one that will stand out.

So keep this option in mind when you're out looking for estate sale finds. Older glass can be beautiful by itself, but could hold flowers, or other pretty items such as glass beads, pebbles, or other small pretties. The quality of older glass is to be admired, as are well-made vintage items in general.

A Couple of Random Updates

2010-05-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

I'm having a sale at my Zibbet shop-20% off. I usually don't do sales, but it looks like we're going to need some basement work done. It's currently at the "need to send a camera down a pipe" stage, but the options don't look good. At some point, the floor will be ripped up. Since this is where I store my vintage items I will have to take them off the shelves, box and move them. I would rather just sell them instead of move them upstairs and make sure they stay away from young kid hands and cat paws. That's why they are in shelves in the basement to begin with, it's cat and kid safe.

At this point, I'm not doing a sale at my Etsy site yet. This is one thing I wish Etsy would add, the option to have a sale. I have 100+ items and going through each listing is very taxing. I'm thinking if I do have one it would be through the shop announcement, but I'm taking a more "wait and see" attitude. I might change my mind when it gets to the "rip up the floor" stage.

An off vintage topic is that my boys are home for the summer and we're off to a good start. I enjoy being a mom and like their company. I just made some cookies with my oldest and put them in the oven. I'm not the best cook, but my chocolate chip cookies are getting better. My youngest is napping, so I made sure I saved some chocolate chips for him. It looks to be a good summer, even if our basement floor does get ripped up.

Vintage Fashion - Vintage Sundresses

2010-05-25T05:09:00.000-07:00

May is ending, and we are unusually warm. In fact, the air conditioner had to come one, something I try not to do unless I absolutely have to. Since it's so warm I decided to show some of my favorite vintage sundresses on Etsy. I like sundresses, they are casual and can help you stay cool. I love the light and airy feel of the fabric. I've tried to show you some different styles and colors. Even though I usually prefer dark colors, that just doesn't work very well during the hot summer days. Summer dresses work best in more feminine styles.

This one is for sale at VioletFolklore on Etsy. It's pretty in pink, and ready for summer.

This is such a simple blue summer dress. You can put it on and go, or add some jewelry is you want to dress it up a bit. It's for sale by CarnivoreCockatiel on Etsy.

This style of sundresses remind me of the 1980s. It's for sale at jessjamesjake on Etsy.

Roseville Pinecone

2010-05-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

I love books. The internet is great, but when it comes to vintage research I look in my books first. I have several Gene Florence books on glass, and some pottery books, but I don't have books for everything I collect. I thought I would go the library and check out a Roseville book, and I grabbed Roseville, In All it's Splendor done my Jack and Nancy Bomm.

I've always recognized the Roseville Pinecone pattern. It's very pretty, and easy to recognize, you just look for a pinecone. I knew it was their most popular pattern, and it's still highly collected and sought after. However, until reading the book above I didn't know it was originally rejected by Roseville when it's creator, Ferrel, first made it. The sample was rejected and placed in a museum, where a salesman came across it. He was sure he could sell it, and it saved the company in the 1930s. I guess management not recognizing what the people want has been a common theme not only in this day and age.

Color plays a part in collectability. Pink is the rarest, so it tends to run more. Blue is also highly sought after. Since this pattern is easily recognized, you might not be able to find a bargain. If you do come across a piece at a garage sale that it reasonably priced, grab it. Even if you don't want it someone else will. Also, it still works great for home decor, and is very unique.

This sample is from PrissyAntiques on Etsy and according to the listing is in great condition. I just love the blue color. Wouldn't it look nice on a dresser with flowers in it?

80s Flashback-She-Ra

2010-05-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

I grew up in a rural area, without much television. Then, we moved to a less rural, but still rural area that had cable. It was a joyous time in a tweens life, because there were all sorts of new shows. Cartoons weren't limited to Saturday morning anymore, you could also watch them after school.

There were a lot of my favorites, but I remember She-Ra. She was the Princess of Power and she was invincible. Even at the time, I thought they actually made her too tough (and He-Man as well). The people she fought alongside (The Great Rebellion) didn't seem to do much, so they looked weak in comparison. In fact, the bad guys (Hordak and the Evil Horde) were also very weak. She always defeated them, easily. She would jump out of the way and two bad guys would crash into each other. If you have the Three Stooges on you payroll, odds are you won't last long being a bad guy. The Evil Horde still ruled over Etheria though, even though She-Ra could have driven them out rather easily.

The animation also left a lot to be desired. They re-used frames, pictures, and poses. In fact, I can still remember the one they used every episode that was half of She-Ra's head, a close-up of her talking while she dispensed some moral lesson. I'm not sure how she got to be so moral, since she was kidnapped and raised by Hordak, but as a kid I didn't question that plot hole.

She-Ra still has a place in my heart. There weren't a lot of strong females that were leads in the 1980s, so I did appreciate her. I'm also a sucker for sword fighters, it still lasts to this day. I'm just glad that children's cartoons have gotten better. The bad guys are much better and tougher, as are the "fight scenes." The better the bad guy, the better your hero or heroine looks.

Fruit Salad Bowls

2010-05-20T10:37:00.001-07:00

I love spring and summer. It's the time of year for hanging out with friends at parties and enjoying food from the grill. One of my favorite themes is how the fruit salad is served. Fruit salad is healthy and even someone with my limited skills can manage it. Here are some of my favorite serving dishes for fruit salad found on Etsy.

I love this leaf shaped bowl done by Deb Babcock at Blue Sky Pottery. Vintage or recent, I love pottery pieces, and her shop has some really unique and pretty pieces.

This one is from Modred12 on Etsy. I love eating fruit out of fruit shaped bowls.

A pedestal would make a nice fruit holder, but it could also work for fruit salad. If your buffet/table space is limited, a pedestal adds extra room, or could hold a bowl it needed. This one is for sale at VintageMementos on Etsy.

And more fruit shaped bowls, this bunch is for sale at MaryandGrace. After the party, you could also use it to serve cut up apples to your children.

New Uses for Old Pottery

2010-05-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

I've seen it time and time again at auctions. There is always some unloved, chipped piece of pottery that no one wants. It goes for $10.00, maybe $15.00 because of a hairline crack. It's not practical for day to day use, or displays, but is still a good decorative piece of pottery.

Why not buy that piece of pottery, and once the weather gets warm, take it home and use it in your rock garden or garden area? It will be a unique piece, and can add some color and panache to the area. If it's chipped, you don't have to worry about damaging it further. Also, like the top green planter, you could add some more flowers, colorful rocks, or whatever would work for your garden.

The Roseville Vase below is for sale by gracetimeline on Etsy, so I would advise against putting it in the garden since it's still in great condition. In fact, it still has the original foil label. Let's pretend that you come across a similar one at a second hand store or estate sale though, and it's not in the best condition. Wouldn't it look lovely outside surrounded by tall flowers. If it's chipped in the back on one is likely to be able to tell. It would be a perfect garden decoration, vintage style for outside.

Vintage-A Peek into the Past

2010-05-17T10:43:00.000-07:00

I wish I could sew, or had the patience for it. I love quilts, they are warm, handmade, and last forever. When they come up for auctions, I've never seen a good quality made one go at an undeserved price. They really seem to hold their value. They are a way for the designer to express themselves through sewing, and as I get older I appreciate the quality of handmade items more.

I stumbled across some vintage quilt magazines at an estate sale this last weekend. The one on the left is from 1977, and it's an interesting peek into the past. The "grandmother" is dressed in the mode of Aunt Bea from the Andy Griffith Show, very prim and proper. I think the purpose is to show quilting being passed from one generation to another, but the little girl looks bored to me. I also love the title has "quilt gossip"- I wasn't aware this a big draw in 1977.

Collecting vintage items such as these are an interesting peek into another time, whether it be magazines or glass items. You can see how tastes and styles change. Some looks and items are timeless, why others can "date" a period. When you design your own space vintage items give you unique options for designing, as can handmade items. If you can sew your own quilt, you can design a bedroom around the color scheme of the quilt, using vintage and handmade items. You also have a very unique look, and I'll be jealous of your quilt and sewing abilities.

Vintage Fashion - Perfect Black Dress

2010-05-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

The perfect black dress varies from woman to woman. Some prefer different styles or lengths. For me, the perfect black dress is vintage. Vintage clothing isn't a strength of mine, but vintage clothing is well made and often timeless (well, maybe not some of the collars, but I digress). I also like to show a little leg. Whatever style of dress you prefer, the perfect black dress is a must-have, as well as some matching jewelry.

I searched Etsy and found my perfect black dress at dakotasvintage. It dates from the 1940s.

I've been a fan of feroshkittydesigns every since I came across it on Zibbet. This necklace isn't vintage, but the store designs are vintage inspired. I've posted a necklace below, but there is a great selection of matching pieces that would work well with the perfect black dress.

Depression Glass Time Frame

2010-05-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying I think Gene Florence is the expert on depression glass. I have some of his books and consider him the "star" of the depression glass field, he was one of the first. So, it's not surprising that I agree with him on him on how to categorize depression glass, which is to use the time guidelines of 1920 through 1940. The latter periods are then considered glassware from the 40s/50s/60s.

I think this prevents confusion, first of all, quality mint condition depression glassware is hard to find due to the time period when it was made. If you're looking for 90 year old glass, or anything for that matter, it's hard to find non-chipped items. Also, the latter glassware has a charm of it's own, it doesn't need to be categorized as depression glass. I know there are some glassware books that call glassware from the 40s-70s depression glass, but to me it's not. In fact, several of these other books thank Gene Florence and use him as a resource, which further confirms to me who the true expert is. The 40s/50s/60s glassware was made differently, more automation, and it just doesn't sound right calling it depression glass. The great depression happened before World War II, not after. When I do searches for depression glass, whether on Etsy of the internet, and patterns that didn't start until the 60s show up, it can be frustrating as a customer.

Also, just a word of caution when buying. Make sure it's a reliable dealer, check feedback. Some patterns have been "copied" or molds purchased and used by other companies. Also, read the details, as stated above true mint depression glass is getting harder and harder to find each day, check the store's return policies. If you do collect, enjoy, it can be fun, and you'll find a lot of unique pieces. I have a couple examples of depression glass below.

This is a Queen Mary bowl for sale on Zibbet by CalloohCallay. The pattern was made by Anchor Hocking from 1936-1949. Even though the entire production time wasn't in the depression glass period, as portion does fall before 1940, so this is depression glass.

This is a Cameo plate for sale by BethVT on Etsy and the pattern was made by Hocking glass company from 1930-1934, making it true depression glass.

80s Flashback-Leg Warmers

2010-05-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

Leg warmers were originally worn by dancers, but made it mainstream in the 1980s thanks to movies like Flashdance, and the general aerobics craze. When I was a little girl in the 1980s I had a pair, because everyone else had a pair. Mine were in neon pink and blue, reflecting the bright 1980s colors.

I didn't wear them they way you should, however, since I didn't do much aerobics as a youth. Any dancing that I did was tap dancing, a skill that has never been put to use in my adult life. When the snow would hit, I would put them on over my jeans. Again, why I thought this was a good idea is beyond me. They didn't work too well when I was playing in foot high snow. The snow would become ice, and freeze to my legwarmers. Instead of my legs staying warmer like they should have, my lower legs were encased in ice. Eventually I did stop wearing them, because no matter how cool I thought I was when I was wearing my leg warmers, running around in ice legs weren't worth it.

I'm not sure what became of those leg warmers, they were discarded long ago. Leg warmers occasionally pop up again as a fashion statement, albeit in less bright colors. Now that I'm older I can never see myself wearing them again. My legs just never really get cold.

-Picture from BethAKABetty on Etsy. If you're looking for vintage clothing, why don't you stop by?

Beach Lovers Bathroom

2010-05-13T07:37:00.000-07:00

I love the beach, the color, the smell (well, most of the time). You can call it coastal, shore, or beach, but it's a great style. If you've ever rented or owned a house by the beach there is at least one room done with this theme, and some people are such fans that they take it home to with them from the beach. I've previously shown a Capri blue vase and a milk glass vase, either of them would work with this style as well. There's so much on Etsy, I'll likely be re-visiting this again, but here are some of my favorite items.

This is an upcycled lighthouse towel hanger done by monkeyandsquirrel on Etsy. I would prefer a white or blue towel for my bathroom.

And these would be cute with some seashell shaped soap, or any type of soap, since they are in a seashell shape. They are for sale at Modred12 on Etsy.

Okay, I know it's not vintage, but I've been such a fan of beachgrasscottage on Etsy since I started I had to put this in here. The entire store is dedicated to the shore, and has great items.

New Uses for Tupperware

2010-05-11T07:41:00.001-07:00

Tupperware has been around since 1946, so most of us have come across it and remember our moms having it. Tupperware works great for food storage, whether it's a head of lettuce or a cake carrier. There are also glasses, salt and peppers, and other dishes available.

However, there is another use that I like using it for, organizaion and storage of non-food items. I was walking my children down to school on the same day that garbage was put on the curb. I noticed a plastic container that was flimsy and broken. It was on it's way to a landfill, and would remain there for awhile. I could tell it was a new plastic container by the design, and they didn't get a lot of use out of it. Re-using items such at Tupperware can help keep newer items out of landfills.

Tupperware was well made, solid plastic. I bought a box at an auction I attended, and some of it was in poor condition/scratched. However, I do have a work area downstairs, and one contaner holds my papers and thank you cards, one one my tape, and I re-used a cup for my pens. It doesn't matter what it looks like, it gets the job done.

Kids areas are another area that could always use some organization, the containers work well for cars or crayons. They were also made such bright colors, so they add a bit of style and uniqueness to a shelf. I realize that Tupperware won't suit all your storage needs, due to the smaller sizes, but if you have a craft area or smaller items that do need organizing, think Tupperware.

Vintage Style: Whiting and Davis Purses

2010-05-09T14:08:00.001-07:00

I'll admit, I'm not an expert on handbags, but I do love the mesh style of Whiting and Davis. The most popular vintage purses are from the 1930s, however the company is still around and making handbags that are worn by celebrities such as Eva Longoria or Shakira. New, they can run in the ballpark of between $100-$300 depending on the bag. So why not by vintage bags?-they are no longer in production and you'll still look great, and are often priced less. Here are some of my favorites from Etsy. This silver one is from AbigailPrada on Etsy. Isn't it pretty?:

This one is from RaeofLight on Etsy. Doesn't the gold just sparkle?

And of course, we need basic black, this one is for sale at Modred12 on Etsy:

Capri Glass

2010-05-07T12:14:00.001-07:00

I have to admit, blue is not my favorite color, but I do love blue glass. It's so pretty and versatile, and the way the light shines through it is pretty. It can work with any coastal or water theme, and brighten up a room. Just look at the vase on the right for sale by CheshireCatAntiques on Etsy. As lovely as flowers are, would they look twice as nice in that vase?

Capri Glass made by Hazel Ware in the 1960s. It's still a reasonably priced pattern, that hasn't fully caught on with collectors. I'm not sure why, it's just beautiful. Please note, Capri refers only to pieces in the pattern that were made in blue. If it's in purple it's Moroccan Amethyst, and the same molds were used in the 70s for the colors crystal, amber, and green. I've often seen this pattern mis-identified, one time the seller claimed it was a lovingly hand blown piece.

Capri was done in Seashell (last picture), Swirl (top)and Colonial (middle picture)-the Colonial can also has some Swirl to it. It was also done in Tulip, which is the rarest. It has a petal edge and circular dotted center. The Seashell pattern it the most common. This is a wide ranging pattern, from ashtrays, plates, tidbits, and tumblers.

If you're looking for a little or lot of blue glass consider this pattern. There are many pieces available for a reasonable price, which may not last if collectors fall in love with this pattern the way I have.

80s Flashback-The Hair Bands

2010-05-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

Chris Rock once said of the Spice Girls, regarding their albums, "How come I don't know anyone who bought one?" The same could be said of the hair bands. Most people are ashamed to admit that they were once fans and purchased albums. You don't hear people discussing the great music of Poison, for example.

I admit, I loved the hair bands. Well, not all of them, but I did have a Poison and Skid Row poster on my wall. I had a huge crush on Sebastian Bach, the lead singer of Skid Row. I liked guys with long hair. I cranked up the songs and enjoyed them. I took them for granted, thought they would always be around, not aware that tastes and styles changed, including my own.

I caught the last big tour of Skid Row, and as a sign of what was to come their opening act was Soundgarden. Tastes did change, and the hair bands faded. The look of men growing out their hair was also gone, haircuts were given to most of the bands. I did have a couple of friends that for years after the look was popular would point to a guy and say, "look, he has long hair." I didn't matter what he looked like, they thought I would like him just because he had long hair. I just laugh at it now.

I also have to laugh at the music. It wasn't great, the themes were common, women, drinking, and parties. The bands would release a "hard" song for their street creed, then release a love ballad for record sales. I didn't matter if the previous song was rude to women, so long as a power ballad was made all was forgiven. It was a formula.

Sebastian Bach is now a reality show contest, as is Bret Michaels. They tour on a feeling of nostalgia, when their fans were younger and didn't have kids. The more I learn about Sebastian Bach the more I know my crush was mis-placed, he doesn't seem to be brightest bulb on the front porch. Then again, tastes change, what I loved as a teenager no longer holds true as an adult.

-----My thanks to PortableGraffiti on Zibbet for the buttons picture. If you're interested in buttons, 80s or otherwise, check it out on Zibbet. The selection is amazing.

A Vintage Milk Glass Table

2010-05-05T04:56:00.000-07:00

Milk glass isn't as popular as it once was, and I'm not sure why. It tends to fall into love it/hate it camps. I'm in the love it camp. There are some beautiful patterns and well made glass done in white. Also, it's versatile and easy to decorate with, since white matches just about anthing. We're going to decorate a table with vintage milk glass. White "pops" better against a darker color, but in honor of mother's day, let's put a pink tablecloth on our table. If you don't have pink it's okay to change it, again, this speaks to the flexibility of milk glass.

Let's start with a Paneled Grape vase listed on Etsy by BlueHouseVintage. There's enough of this Westmoreland pattern available that you could do the whole table with it, but I like to mix and match. Make sure you put some pretty pink flowers in there for mom:

Now we need some plates, jadeitekate on Etsy has the perfect style of plate to go with our pink/white table:

We need some glasses for water, juice, or mimosas, depending on your mom. These are from my store, Modred12 on Etsy:

And finally, let's add some napkin rings for mom, even if they aren't glass. This is a great buy from NewEnglandVintage on Etsy, you even get the napkins:

What mother wouldn't want a nice brunch at this table? Of course, make sure she doesn't cook or lift a finger, it would defeat the whole purpose. If you're not a fan of all the vintage items above, or have some items of your own you would want to use, that wouldn't be a problem at all. Vintage glassware, in fact most vintage items, are flexible enough the you can mix and match modern with vintage. Good quality vintage truly does have a timeless quality about it, and can fit into any area of your house. I hope you enjoy my vintage table.

New Uses for Vintage Ashtrays

2010-05-04T08:40:00.001-07:00

Do you ever watch the old television shows? Desi smoked, Lucy smoked, even Andy Taylor would light up on his porch at night. The television has been the focus of a room for awhile, but there was a time when the second focus had to be the ashtray. Functional yet decorative, it would be sitting nearby on an end table or coffee table.

People don't smoke like they used to, and when they do it's outside. If you're standing outside your office door the need for function or beauty isn't there, you just use a nearby trash can. Even if you do smoke in your house, most of the ashtrays don't have the inique style of a California Pottery made one. However, vintage ashtrays still exist, and even if you don't smoke, can still be used around the house as an unique decorative item.

I'm using a Frankoma ashtray I have for sale as an example. It can hold candles, and we know it's fireproof. It's deep enough you could fill it with water, and have some lovely tea lights floating in it for your next party. It can also be a stylish catch all on a dresser. Need something to hold the buttons that pop off?-the ashtray can work. It can also hold car keys, beads, and other small items. It's a beauty that could still have a functional purpose, even if it's no longer being used as an ashtray.