C. Dianne Zweig - Kitsch 'n Stuff

Decorating With Colorful Vintage Ceramic Vases

2012-02-16T08:30:00.001-05:00

Thrifty Decorating Ideas Using Vintage Vases

Vintage ceramic vases from the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s are great to collect and use as decorative accessories in almost any room of your home. Some people like glazed pieces while others prefer matte finishes.

I have found that there are common colors that you will consistently find that these planters and vases came in: aqua, yellow, pink, soft green, jade, chartreuse, white, cream, sky blue. Less frequently you will discover ceramic pottery in crimson , grey, peach.

Shapes of Vintage Pottery

When I buy older ceramic vases or planters, I am looking for a variety of interesting shapes. In my living room, I have a collection of matte cream/white vases arranged on a built in bookshelf. You will find vases and planters with shapes that are rounded, scalloped, angular, tubular, curvy etc. You may also decide to choose vases with detail or one's that are plain.

Size Matters When Displaying Vintage Pottery

When using pottery in displays, you may want to keep all the sizes of your vases and planters consistent or you may prefer to vary the sizes. Collections of several pieces grouped together often look better with varying sizes. However, you may also want to mingle "single" pieces with
a book collection and have the vases stand out as solo pieces.

Hunting For Vintage Vases By Style

The fun part of collecting older pottery is that you can set your collecting parameters. Then, when you go out hunting you have a goal in mind. While prices vary somewhat according to the manufacturer. for the most part, I think it is safe to say that you can find plenty of choices from $18.00-36.00. That is not to say that some very lovely ones might be priced a little higher. When you handle a lot of older planters and vases, you become familiar with "ordinary" versus "less common". You also begin to appreciate which pieces seems to be made finer or with more decorative appeal.

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

Think Small, Comfy, Safe When Downsizing Parents:

2012-02-10T10:11:00.017-05:00

Helping Older Parents Move

What do you need to keep in mind when you are helping your parent's downsize into a smaller place. The key words here are SMALL and temporary.

I know it is a hard concept to swallow, but when you move a loved one into a small apartment whether it is in an Assisted Living facility or a private apartment complex...think small, comfy and safe. It's important to take along sentimental items, but NOT everything. It's a tough time for
everyone. Sometimes an older person is comforted
if they know that family members will hold onto some of their keepsakes.

Comfy But Not Cluttered

Those are the three words I would emphasize...small, comfy and safe. When you buy or bring furniture do not over do it. Older people

Always bring a few of mom's favorite things.

who are unsteady on their feet are fall risks. So keep the setting open and airy but cozy. Do not clutter with lots of small tables, plant stands, floor decor, area rugs etc. that an older frail person could TRIP OVER.

Buying Smaller Scale Furniture

Vintage furniture is often of smaller scale than what you will find today inmost furniture stores. If you start shopping around for furniture you will see that everything tends to be oversized. This style is great if you have a big home, but most apartments for downsizing seniors are SMALL. This is where it makes sense to visit a Second hand store, Antique shop or Consignment shop to look for furnishings. Many people do very well buying items on Craigslist.com Some towns have weekly newspapers with classifieds as well. Look for comfortable and safe furnishings i.e. rounded corners on tables, solid wood pieces that do not wobble, kitchen chairs with arms.

Read all my articles about "Vintage Mom and Dad"

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

Charming French Blue Painted Shabby Chic Antique Bedroom Set Featured At "Finder's Keepers", Southington, CT

2012-02-06T20:05:00.000-05:00

Pretty Painted Antique Furniture

Thought I would share with you a fabulous looking Shabby Chic vintage bedroom set I spotted a few days ago at "Finder's Keepers" in Southington, CT. This ensemble was professionally painted French Blue with Cream accents.

1930s Painted Antique Dresser

The dresser appears to be 1930s, but the night stands while painted in the same French Blue color are probably later. I am guessing from the grill work on the night stands that they were 1950's pieces.
But the set is charming. There is as dresser, mirror, two night stands. two twin bed headboards and a wonderful chair.

Finders Keepers: Quality Consignment Furniture

Father and son Larry and Chris Kelleher, owners of "Finders Keepers" only take in excellent quality consignment furniture as well as some new brands. While I was visiting both gentleman were quite helpful and very gracious. They have been in business a long time and are a good source for both buying and selling furniture.

Finder Keepers
Home Furnishings Consignment
1226 Queen Street (Rt. 10)
Southington, CT.

860-793-0676

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

Buying A Used Dinette Set For Elderly Parents

2012-02-06T08:47:00.004-05:00

What To Look For When Buying Vintage Or Older Furniture For Mom Or Dad

What do you need to think about when you are out shopping for a second hand dinette set for an elderly family member? Be sure that any table and chairs you are considering are really sturdy. You have to be very careful what you buy for this age group. Wobbly old seniors do not need wobbly old tables. You are probably already aware that many frail seniors steady themselves by holding onto a table or chair when lifting themselves up and away from the kitchen or dining table. With this in mind, look for used or vintage furniture in very good shape.

Inspect all tables and chairs carefully before buying them.
The photo shown here is of a used Country style table with an easy to clean Formica top. The table top is easy to keep clean, Make sure the legs on all the chairs and the table are SOLID and sturdy. When buying a kitchen or dining set for a frail elderly person, be sure to have at least one chair that has arms. Again, this is to help the person lift themselves up and away from the table. If you can not find a table set with this type of chair, consider buying one "orphaned" chair to use.

And don't buy a table that is too small either. Remember to leave room for visiting family
members and caretakers.

Be sure to read more articles about this topic at
http://cdiannezweig.blogspot.com/search/label/%22Vintage%20Mom%20And%20Dad%22

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

Jenn Ski: An Artist With A Passion For Mid-Century Design

2012-01-16T20:35:00.003-05:00

Abstract Designs By Jenn Ski

I just had to share with you these wonderful Mid-Century inspired designs created by Jenn Ski an artist who sells on Etsy.com. I recently meant Jenn at a holiday fair in the South End of Boston. I have been an admirer of her designs for a long time. She sells abstract prints, tote bags, placemats , fabrics and more with her original designs. As you can see, Jenn brings a new twist to Atomic Era styles.

Jenn obtained a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of Massachusetts in 2005. Jenn explained to me that in the beginning she painted her Mid-Century designs with acrylics and then learned how to create her signature designs using computer generated giclee graphics.

Visit: http://www.etsy.com/shop/JennSki

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

What A Good Nursing Home Looks Like When You Visit

2012-01-16T20:15:00.008-05:00

How To Find The Best Nursing Home For Mom Or Dad

I know there a many articles on how to go about choosing a Nursing Home for a parent, but I just have to add my two cents into the resource literature. We need to talk.
Selecting Mom Or Dad's Long Term Care

Often mom or dad gets directly admitted to a local Nursing Home after some awful event like a bad fall or medical event.
Sixty per cent of admissions to Nursing Homes come from hospital transfers (By the way, you do know that you can always move mom or dad to another facility after the urgent crisis is over).
Finding The Right Nursing Home

Now let's talk about choosing a Nursing Home (a long term facility) when the family has time to actually select the placement? This is the topic I want to discuss with my readers. I have just made the rounds on many Nursing Homes and can speak from experience (I am also a retired Nurse Practitioner). I am looking for a placement for a family member who is in need of more care than what an Assisted Living placement can offer. This is one of the most difficult jobs you will have to take on.
Medicare Guidelines To Review

You will find plenty of important published guidelines to consider when reviewing Nursing Homes. For those facts, I urge you to visit: http://www.medicare.gov/nursing/overview.asp a site that will allow you to check out and compare Nursing Homes based on such important categories as "staffing", "health inspections" etc. While this is a very valuable website to look at when choosing a Nursing Home for a family member, I strongly urge you not to base your opinion entirely on this data. It is only a start. Read more about the limitations of these guidelines at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/20/health/20patient.html?ref=health

Visit Nursing Homes In Person

Those in the know will tell you that you must actually go and visit each and every Nursing Home you are considering. What I found in so many Nursing Homes is that even though the lobbies were attractive and the receptionist in each place appeared efficient and courteous ... something key was missing! In home after home that I toured, after I got past the entance way the total picture seemed to change.

As I toured many long term facilities, going floor to floor, in a very short time, I felt a sense of sadness and depression (and I was only visiting, imagine the residents who llive there). Something very critical was absent. That something was a sense of LIFE! Read more to see if you can get what I mean.

What A Good Nursing Home Should Have

The long term care facility that I really liked the most had the following characteristics that I share with you.

As soon as I walked into the facility (that I will consider a "model" for what a good Nursing Home should have, I was made to feel at home. I felt like I was walking into a family setting where several administrative staff members were bantering with each other and also with some of the ambulatory residents who were in the main lobby area. Their conversations were warm and engaging. Most striking was that all the residents of this facility looked well cared for; cheerfully dressed and busy; whether in bed, in the various dining areas, activity programs, clinical areas, or bright and charming windowed sitting areas. The place was lively. There were other indicators of "life"...lots of healthy green plants, current magazines and newspapers displayed on prominent racks throughout the facility, lots of display boards with hourly activities written in large letters so residents could see what is going on each hour.There was obvious evidence that an informed Geriatric staff was paying attention to the real and holistic needs of their residents.

In The Nursing Home: What Do The Clinical Areas Look Like?

In the "clinical areas" the staff wore colorful uniforms and were truly interacting with patients in respectful ways. When I was taken around by the Admission's director, she introduced me to the residents that we met along the way. She made the other patients feel like they were part of the community and that they had something valuable to offer. Staff communicated to residents professionally and not like children. I was introduced to ALL staff (nursing, dietary, activities, maintenance etc). I sensed that everyone that worked in this residence was valued and respected.

My guess is that the reason the residents in this facility looked better and appeared stronger is because of the tremendous efforts this long term residence is making to keep their residents oriented, active and involved in their care. There were no patients slumped over meal trays or"vegetating" alone in beds with no sign of life in site.

I am convinced that older adults even with multiple health concerns can thrive in the right nurturing environment. Like the green plants I saw sitting on the windowsills, older adults need to be cared for with lots of attention, sunshine, nutrition, water and love. Visit many Nursing Homes before you make this critical decision. Your instincts will lead you in the right direction.

Read http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/20/health/20patient.html?ref=health

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

Where Should The Hostess Sit At The Table ?: Antique Traditions of The 1900's

2012-01-15T18:19:00.009-05:00

Arranging Your Proper Table: Tips From The 1900's

"Good Things To Eat: How To Prepare Them", is the title of 1909 booklet prepared by The Larkin Company. In the beginning chapters are discussion of how to arrange your table including discussion of how to set your table and how to seat your guests.

In 1909, here is what a proper seating would look like:

"Ordinarily the wife or hostess sits at the head, with the husband or host at the foot of the table, the other members of the family occupying seats at the sides. When a guest is at table, if a lady, she may occupy the seat at the right of the host; if a gentleman, the one at the right of the hostess".

Source; Good Things To Eat: And How To Prepare Them", The Larking Comoany, 1909

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

Re-purpose An Antique Globe As A Centerpiece Bowl

2012-01-15T17:55:00.005-05:00

Creative Idea From "Unconsumption" Using A Vintage Globe As A Centerpiece Bowl

I discovered this excellent non profit organization called "Unconsumption" . They describe themselves as "your daily source of inspiration for creative reuse and mindful consumption.

From "Unconsumption"

Give new life to something old by rethinking it. This globe, once a neglected attic dweller, is now a unique centerpiece …

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

Paper-Bag Cookery: Union Bag And Paper Company 1912: Antique Cooking Ideas

2012-01-15T17:15:00.010-05:00

1912 Housewives Saved Time And Money Cooking In Union Paper Bags

I bought a box lot of vintage cook books and came across this booklet entitled "Paper-Bag Cookery: Complete Dir

ections and Recipes". This gem was prepared by the Union Bag and Paper Company in 1912.

Is Paper Bag Cookery A Thing Of The Past ?

I suppose cooking in paper bags was a great way to avoid cleaning pots and pans. I am all for that idea. You don't see much talk about cooking in paper bags anymore. Perhaps at Thanksgiving time, someone might cook a turkey in a roasting bag. But when was the last time you heard of friends cooking in paper bags?

The theory of cooking food in paper bags was that you could seal up food and preserve flavors, juices and reduce shrinkage.I suppose we could learn a lot from this 1912 cookbook that would help thrifty housewives today.

What Paper-Bag Cookery Promised:

1. Your butcher bill will be reduced at least ten per cent. Beca

use your three pound roast will come out of t

he oven weighing three pounds!

2. You can user cheaper meats and poultry because this cooking method does wonders when cooking meat.

3. Your fuel gas bill bill will be reduced by 20 per cent. Less heat is required. Yu use less burners and less heat.

4. No washing greasy pans and kettle. (THAT IS A WONDERFUL IDEA). The oven is not soiled by splattering from cooking food.

5. There is no danger from half washed pans and germs lurking in the corners.

6. No cooking odor in the house.

7. You don't have to watch your food cook.

8. Cook everything at once in the bag.

9. You can bake, roast, boil, stew in the bag.

10. A novice becomes an expert at once!

Warning in booklet: Do not use ordinary bags, they will make your food taste like paper.

Source: Paper Bag Cookery: The Union Bag and Paper Company, 1912

Checking Your Antique And Vintage Pots And Pans For Size

2012-01-15T16:43:00.013-05:00

Retro Housewives Measuring Pots And Pans For Size

Housewives in the 1950s apparently had plenty of time to think about "how big their pots were" and other cooking ware essential facts. In a booklet called "The New Cook's Cook Book", attention was paid to good cooking rules.

1. Be sure your recipe is reliable. (LOL)

2. Read recipes carefully. (LOL)

3. Check the list of ingredients. (LOL)

4. Note the cooking time.(LOL)

5. Check the pot and pans for size.

Excerpt from "The New Cook's Cook Book"

Check your pots and pans for size. A cake baked in too big a pan is a sad affair, indeed. A cake baked in too small a pan is like a hall when the ball is over-amess in your oven. And what a stew you're in if the pot you're cooking in isn't big enough! Baking pans in the oven need elbow room, so you'll even want to check for size to see that they fit when you're planning an ovcn meal.

Pointers on Measuring Pots And Pan Sizes

Inside measurements of a pan are the ones that count. If in doubt about a cake or pie pan, take a tape measure or ruler and see what it meas

ures from the inside rim to the opposite side.

When in doubt what a casserole or saucepan holds, measure with water first to see what it holds.

When no measurements marked: If your pot does not have measurements shown, mark measurements on the bottom of the outside of the pot with your brightest nail polish.

Source: The New Cook's Cook Book, 1953, Edison Electric Institute

Caring For Vintage And Antique Kitchen Utensils

2012-01-09T18:52:00.022-05:00

"The Enterprising Housekeeper"

I picked up this handy 1908 booklet called "The Enterprising Housekeeper". This was a promotional piece from the Enterprise Manufacturing Company of Philadelphia. Dated 1908, this booklet still offers some helpful information for the kitschy thrifty homemaker about how to care for kitchen utensils (as well as some sharp social commentary).

Excerpt

"Nothing more quickly defines the cook than the care taken of his or her utensils, for a good workman loves and cares for his tools. There are keepers of stables who abuse their horses, and there are people who even abuse their children, as well as cooks who abuse the tools provided for them that their labors may be more easily performed".

In 1908, notice how the author compares abuse of kitchen tools to other societal abuses.

And here is another quote:

"The unappreciative cook is usually the unskilled one"

Whoa...they were tough in 1908!

Tins
Should be well dried before putting away or they will rust.

Pans And Kettles

Do not put pans and kettles partly filled with water on the stove to soak. This makes them more difficult to clean. Fill them with cold water and soak away from the heat.

Kitchen Knives and Forks

Never place kitchen knives and forks in water. Wash them thoroughly with the dish cloth in hot suds, then polish and rub them dry.

Sieves

Sieves should not be washed with soap. Clean with a brush and clear water. Use (baking) soda if necessary.

Outside of Pans and Saucepans

The outside of all pans and utensils should be cleaned and cared for just like the inside.

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

Getting Ready To Downsize A House

2012-01-09T15:24:00.021-05:00

Tips From The Editor of I Antique Online.com About How To Clean Out Your Basement

Getting ready to downsize a house is a BIG step couples take. I know first hand what it is like to venture into your basement and stare at 30 years plus of stuff! The good news is that I have already made a dent in the clean up process. Years ago I unloaded the cribs, high chairs, and kid junk.

Saving Binkies: Are You Kidding?

Well perhaps I am not being totally honest here about holding onto kid junk.. I mean I do still have plastic boxes filled with every report card, book report and handmade card that my kids brought home. Why on earth do we all keep all this old paper? The answer is nostalgia. Yesterday I was cleaning out an old desk drawer and I found three rubber baby binkies from the last kid. He is twenty now. Do you think he really wants to inherit his old pacifiers?

Staying Sane When Downsizing Your House

O.K back to the subject of downsizing. How do you accomplish this task and stay sane. First you need a strategy and then you need supplies. To accomplish your goal you will need to set a realistic schedule. Now don't panic. Just because it took thirty years to get all stuffed up with junk, does not mean it will take thirty years to liquidate the load. But it will take time, so be prepared.

Step One: Get the supplies you need to be able to unload the stuff.

Supplies
1. giant industrial strength black plastic bags
2. plastic storage boxes
3. cardboard boxes from liquor store
4. giant zip lock plastic bags
5. brown paper shopping bags from grocery store

Step Two: Enlist help: Do Not Do This Yourself

If you are a baby boomer with a bad back or a couch potato with aches and pains....do not attempt to clean out thirty years of stuff by yourself. Hire a high school kid or handyman or bribe your kids, but get help with the clean out! You will need help getting things off high shelves, carrying bags of garbage to trash bins, bundling bags of like items etc. Basically you need a stuffer/sshlepper.

Step Three: Begin Creating a List of Categories

You will need to know ahead of time what is going where. Here are some common categories to consider.

Categories For Junk Liquidation

1. clothes to give away to charity
2. garbage
3. toys to give away to charity
4. books to donate to library
5. collectibles to sell
6. bric a brac to bring to Salvation Army or Goodwill etc.
7. Linens, blankets, toiletries etc. to bring to a shelter.
8. keepsakes to offer to family members.
9. junk to bring to dump yard .
10. Antiques and valuables to sell.
11. family photos and memorabilia to hold onto .
12. Broken or outdated furniture and appliances to junk.
13. old files to shred.

Step Four: Begin Sorting Out Junk

With help, I hope, you can set up your boxes and bags in the basement and start sorting out what you have into like categories. Be sure to label the boxes and bags so you know what is going where.
Once you start categorizing items, put the similar boxes and bags together in ceratin areas of your basement. Be careful not to mix up good stuff from garbage. Did I just say that? It's all JUNK isn't it?

Be sure to visit my site:

Estate Mavens: Help With Estate Liquidation

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

Are My Parent's Old Things Valuable? Selling Antiques And Collecitbles On-Line

2011-12-26T08:48:00.024-05:00

Cleaning Out My Parent's House: Is It Junk Or Valuable?

When the time comes to gather up your parent's collections, how do you know what is "JUNK" and
what belongs in the category of "antique" or "collectible"? To answer that question, I would like to get you to wonder about two key terms, "junk" and "valuable".

Junk Shop Versus Antique Shop: It's Just A Name

Why is it that some shops call themselves "Junk shops" and sell really neat stuff and other stores call themselves "Antique shops" and sell JUNK?

What makes a place a true JUNK shop? Can you be both....part JUNK and part ANTIQUE? Think about some of the shops you like to visit......would you buy a really expensive lamp or table in a place called "JUNK Shop"? Or do you expect only bargains and throwaways in a "JUNK Shop"? The answer is you can find all sorts of things everywhere!

Do You Know What Is Valuable In The Basement?
When you look at your parent's stuff, are you really sure that you know what the "junk" really is? Perhaps you think the "junk" is in the garage or in the basement? And you assume the "good stuff" is in the living room? Hold on...you may be assuming too much.

Reality T.V. Show On Antiques Love Finding Treasures

For starters, an entire industry of Reality T.V. shows are
based on the idea of finding hidden treasures in all the "wrong places". These made for T.V. pickers prefer junkyards, storage bins, garbage piles for the "good stuff". The premise of these popular shows is the thrill of discovering something "valuable" buried in a pile of "junk".

Is Mom Or Dad's Old Things Valuable?

But what exactly do we mean by "valuable"? As The American Pickers have shown us, there is a good deal of "value" in rusty old bicycle frames. But how many of you want an old bicycle frame? Would the lovely "Antique Shop" in the center of your town want pop's old bicycle frame? Perhaps not, but that doesn't mean there isn't an eager buyer somewhere else. So value really comes down to what is important to an individual buyer and you will discover that there are unique markets everywhere for everything.

Good Bye Antique Price Guide, Hello Internet

Before the internet, many folks relied on books such as Antique Price Guides to help them determine "value". Now, going on-line has replaced looking in books and is a very easy way to learn about the "value" of objects in the market place. And what the internet has done is create a global buying field.

Internet Is A Global Marketplace For Antiques And Collectibles

Many antique dealers have learned that they can get much more for a collectible on-line than in their shops, because they have the entire world competing to buy a particular "collectible". And size doesn't matter. Anything can be shipped and the right buyer will pay for shipping if you have what they really want.

Selling Your Parent's Antiques And Collectibles On-Line

So if you are getting ready to sell off antiques and collectibles that you have acquired , you might want to consider using some of the many on-line selling venues. To learn more about selling on-line, visit http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/ and go to the many group forums which focus on the growing number of online selling sites . Here is a partial list below (featured on I Antique Online.com.)

If you want someone to come into the house and take over the sale of the contents of the entire house visit my information website: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation for more resources.

Selling Your Antiques And Collectibles On-Line : Visit These Information Groups

These are group forums where you will hear about the experiences of others who are selling antiques and collectibles on these popular selling venues. You can joion these discussion for FREE
eBay Connection
Etsy Connection
Bonanza Collection
Ruby Lane
Ruby Plaza Connection
eCRATER Connection
Go Antiques.com
Tias.com Connection

The photos featured in this article are from The Junk Shop Of Canton, Canton CT. Eric, the owner is always buying, so if you are looking to sell the contents of a house, contact Eric.860-693-6039.

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

Tree House Art And Antiques Has His "Ducks In A Row" Even During The Winter Season

2011-12-25T14:06:00.014-05:00

Visiting "Tree House Art And Antiques" In New Hartford, CT During The Winter

You might say that Peter of "Tree House Antiques and Art" in New Hartford, CT. really has his "ducks in a row" , even during the cold weather season. Peter, a compulsive collector and antique dealer, has managed to keep his stuffed shop even more stuffed during the winter months.

Peter Shops For Antiques and Collectibles All The Time

Peter, you see, has even found outdoor flea markets which are open in the winter. He gets up very early in the morning and brings back lots of new finds all the time. Despite freezing cold temperatures, Peter is out hunting for bargains.

Tree House Antiques Is Near The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

I really enjoy visiting Peter's shop on Route 44, just down the road from the Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford. You just never know what Peter has brought back to the shop on any given day. And if you are in search for something in particular. just ask Peter, he has secret hiding places in his shop.

Peter Has Hiding Places In His Stuffed Antique Shop

A few days ago I was making the rounds looking for a cast iron frying pan. Peter, didn't have a pan, but he pulled out several cast iron pots tucked under a skirted table. Most of the fresh inventory ends up near his "business counter" so be sure to snoop around the display spaces near his "office" area.

Tree House Antiques Has Several Packed Rooms

" Tree House Art And Antiques" has many different rooms as well as tent space and front yard space. I am always puzzled as to why Peter brings in so many collectibles into his shop. When is enough enough? I guess, to a compulsive collector, it is hard to resist a good deal. Peter likes to shop!

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

Creating A Retro Inspired Display Space Outdoors: Great For Antique Or Craft Dealers

2011-12-25T13:57:00.005-05:00

Red, White, Black Retro Kiosk For Outdoor Craft Show

While visiting the Christmas Holiday Market in Union Squjre New York I was amazed to find a street vendor who converted his tiny kiosk into a RETRO inspired selling space. He used a Formica table top on top of a red painted file cabinet to shocase some of his handcrafted wares. The drawers served as
a useful space to store receipts, supplies and other materials needed to conduct his business.

And what about the black and white floor? Mind you this little space was no bigger than a tiny walk in closet. How clever was this use of space?

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

Chippy Green Painted Wood File Cabinet Makes Great Display Space In Your Antique Shop Or Home

2011-12-25T13:49:00.005-05:00

One way to double duty your antiques and collectibles is to open up the drawers of cabinets. desk, dressers etc. and USE the drawers as display space for other objects.

I spotted an older wooded painted file cabinet at
the store Anthropologie.
As you can see the drawer si stuffed with products that they have for sale. And look how hip the chippy green paint looks with yellow jars. What an attractive color combination.

Now you can think twice abut passing up old cabinets. Perhaps they would make GREAT display space in your shop or home?

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

Antique Booth Space Ideas: Hanging Vintage Potholders On A Cute Handmade Shelf

2011-12-25T13:38:00.005-05:00

Display Ideas For Your Antique Booth

What do visitors see when they walk down the aisle of your Antique Mall to visit your Antique booth space? At The Collinsviile Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, you will find that my space called "Kitsch n Stuff" has many different "spots" that the eye will catch when approaching my booth.

I like to maximize my real estate so that I use every inch I can for display space.I have used the side of a bookcase to display small pictures or at this time, vintage crochet potholders.

I discovered a cute handmade shelf, made to look like the screened door front entrance of a cottage. The picket fence
is so adorable. Below the shelf are small hooks which work so well for hanging vintage potholders.

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

Finding A Low Income Or Subsidized Assisted Living Apartment For Mom Or Dad

2011-12-25T09:09:00.025-05:00

When Your Parents Need A Low Income Assisted Living Apartment

It is hard enough making the decision to transition mom or dad into a new apartment or into an Assisted Living facility when they want to stay where they are. But it is even more difficult to have to downsize parents when mom or dad has run out of funds and needs subsidized housing. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Dev elopment (HUD) offers seniors designated housing arrangements which are considered low income. How much rent the senior pays is determined by their current income and financial history.

What Is Senior Congregate Housing ?

In this category of subsidized housing (low income), are apartments in which seniors live independently in what is termed "Congregate housing" where mom or dad (or couple) has their own apartment but may share activities or meals and other services such as weekly house-keeping and transportation to doctor appointments. etc. In most subsidized housing complexes, seniors are offered studio(one room with an efficiency kitchen) or small one bedroom apartments. And in fact one bedrooms are often saved for couples. It's hard to think of a parent in "one" room but remember, most senior complexes have plenty of "living" space outside the room and want to encourage seniors to mingle and not stay isolated.

Adding Assisted Living Services To Senior Housing

Some Congregate Housing complexes also provide another level of care called Assisted Living. where clinical staff is generally contracted from an outside agency to provide nursing, social services and physical therapy services. Each complex varies on their staffing schedules and amount of services available. These nursing services are generally covered under entitlement programs.

Many Low Income Assisted Living Facilities Will Surprise You With Excellent Options

I have visited many low income senior housing complexes. Some are called "Low Income Assisted Living" and some are termed "Subsidized Congregate Housing " (with Assisted living options). To my surprise some of these facilities have as many bells and whistles as the "expensive" private Assisted Living facilities. For example, some senior subsidized residences I have toured had in- house cafes, grocery marts, beauty salon/barber shops, computer rooms, exercise rooms etc. in addition to recreation rooms, dining rooms and other standard programs which you will find for this age group.

Low Income Senior Housing Does Not Mean Substandard

The bottom line is that "low income" DOES NOT necessarily mean sub standard. In many communities housing authorities and local agencies together have managed to offer seniors some very comfortable and well managed options. And I might add, that a pretty lobby or carpeted halls does not mean "better". It is important to visit many places and evaluate your options. By the way, you might want to tour some of the private Assisted Living facilities to see how similar some of the low income places really are to the "fancy" ones.

For more help: Visit: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/estatemavenshelpwithestateliquidation

Photos courtesy of Tickled Pink Antiques in Seymour, CT

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

What To Do With Antique And Vintage Christmas Cookie Cutters

2011-12-24T17:12:00.017-05:00

Creative Christmas Holiday Ideas With Vintage Cookie Cutters

Tis Christmas eve and by now any Thrifty Nifty Retro 1950s inspired homemaker has already baked her holiday cookies . In fact, plenty of hip guys have also finished their batch of sugar cookies by now.

And let's agree, there is nothing like using the old style cookie cutters. Now that you have finished baking your cookies, here are some ideas of what do do with vintage cookie cutters.

What To Do With Vintage Holiday Cookie Cutters

1. Make holiday garland out of cookie cutters.
2. Altered vintage cookie cutter ornaments
3. Cookie cutter wreath.
4. Cookie cutter tree.
5. Cookie cutter cakes.
6. Cookie cutter photo ornaments.
7, Shabby Chic cookie cutters.
8. Jeweled cookie cutter ornaments.
9. Snow Day ornaments.
10. Colorful glitter ornaments.
11. Cookie cutter tree garland.
12, Tree ornaments with colorful cookie cutters.

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

Decorating Your Antique Booth To Look Like A Vintage Woolworth Toy Counter During The Christmas Holiday

2011-12-24T15:12:00.015-05:00

Setting Up A Vintage Woolworth Counter At The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

In every Antique Mall I have rented space in, I have always delighted in the odd shaped, challenging booth spaces . In my present location at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, my current space borders an area that tends to get the hard to place larger items.

Sprucing Up Your Antique Booth For The Holidays

In other words, STUFF gets ....shall we say " placed" right near my booth. Right now there are two funky pinball machines that are GREAT! But sometimes not so wonderful items migrate to my end of the store. So when a terrific antique glass showcase ended up next to my booth and began to become the collecting cabinet for rusty GUY STUFF I needed to rescue the glass cabinet and create an attractive alternative. I analyzed the showcase and immediately thought of Woolworth's at Christmas time. I had a plan B!.

Creating A Colorful Woolworth Toy Counter

I asked the owners of the Mall if I could transform their glass case into a "Woolworth" inspired Five and Dime toy department for the holidays, This idea would be something visitors with families might enjoy looking at. Doug and Cindy, owners of The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT were pleased with my idea. I quickly gathered up as many vintage toys and holidays collectibles as I could find and mixed Christmas collectibles to creat my Faux Woolworth Counter! As yo can see the tree was adorned with vintage potholders...red, green, white...it works!.

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

Thrifty Vintage Holiday Entertaining Ideas At "The Blue House" In Canton, CT

2011-12-09T20:03:00.010-05:00

Thrifty Glitz, Blitz And Holiday Ritz At The Blue House In Canton, CT

The Blue House in Canton, CT is one of those Vintage shops that shows you how to entertain for the holidays with inexpensive vintage finds. Banish the word "cheap" from your vocab...call it nifty and thrifty. You really do not have to go to Bloomies to look Bloomingesque! All it takes is a little ingenuity.

Have A Merry Retro Christmas

The Blue House is chock full of glitz,ritz and blitz. And it's all affordable sparkle. You can decorate your table in "Sparkling Aluminum 50s", "Darling Danish 70's", "Mod 60's", " Merry Made In Japan", "Cozy Crystal" etc. If you have no table to set your table on, hush, The Blue House has tables, chairs, tablecloths etc. And if your humble home needs light, fear not, The Blue House has plenty of vintage floor lamps and table styles.

And for your holiday table, there is lots of Retro and Vintage Christmas decor, dishes, glassware, candy dishes, trays, bowls, cake plates, wine glasses, decanters, cookware and more.Oh, I almost forgot the nice collection of vintage barware. The place is packed.

The Blue House

Wed - Sat:	11:00 am	-	5:00 pm
Sun:	11:00 am	-	3:00 pm

860-352-2532

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

Cozy Vintage Holiday Cabin Decor And Collectibles At Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT.

2011-12-09T19:30:00.015-05:00

Holiday Shopping At Queen Anne Antiques, Canton, CT

Right now Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT. is on the top of my good find list after I discovered a turquoise blue 1950s foot rest there a few weeks ago. This Mid Century treasure was purchased for my art studio at The Farmington Valley Art Center in Avon, CT.

Turquoise 1950's Foot Stool?

I know it is hard to believe that you would find a hip vinyl turquoise stool at a place called Queen Anne Antiques, but that is typical of this small, tucked away popular antique shop. One often finds odds and ends that don't always seem to belong in this shop.

Styles Your Will Find At Queen Anne Antiques

At one time, April was on a kitchen collectibles kick and of course that is what attracted me to her store. But as I have explained to you before, April goes in and out of phases. Currently, aside from the fact that she allowed a 1950s hassock into the store, April 's store has no resemblance to the Atomic Era or any era for that matter that I can figure out.

From Global To Cabin Style: It's All There

A few months ago, I wrote about her "Global Style" when she seemed to have an awful lot of African masks and carved pieces keeping company with textiles from here, there and everywhere. But now most of her East meets West stuff seems to be gone.

April Is Full Of Surprises At Queen Anne Antiques

So what is April currently collecting for the store? I guess I would have to say, cozy holiday cabin style collectibles and decor. But hurry over there, because I have no idea, what the place will look like in a week or two. Let me know what you find.

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

Visiting Boston's Bazaar Bizarre At The BCA Cyclorama

2011-12-09T17:11:00.019-05:00

Quirky Handmade Gifts At The Bazaar Bizarre In Boston

On a whim, I traveled to Boston this past weekend to attend the Bazaar Bizarre Holiday Craft Show at the BCA Cyclorama on Tremont Street in the South End of Boston. I had some clue with a name like "Bazaar Bizarre " that this holiday craft show was not going to be "usual". And of course my instincts were correct.

A Funky, Whimsical Craft Show
Let me try to describe what this fair is like. The vendors are young, hip, creative with obvious ties to their parents who lived through the 1960s and 1970s. This is NOT your usual Christmas craft craft show at the local church or community center. And that may be a good thing if you are looking for more whimsy and less granny.
The plush toys shown here are made by Hbou Designs
also on Etsy.com

Nifty, Gifty Holiday Crafts And Gifts

Yes there were scarves, pot holders, handmade textiles and plush toys. But all the artisans seemed to elevate their goods to nifty gifty Christmas stuff. There were plenty of retro inspired crafts items such as brooches made from old plastic buttons and jewelry crafted from bottle caps.

One fella made "toys" with the parts of crab and lobster shells. O.k. I admit (and so did he) that his pals are a little strange. His company is called "Bearded Tales of Woe" .My daughter pointed out the pop culture soaps and the edgy note cards. While she went for products with attitude, I concentrated on the colorful and well made jewelry. DIY Christmas Sewing Gifts

And if you prefer to make your own gifts, "Gather Here" packaged her sewing materials for you to take home and DIY.

The Bazaar Bizarre began in Boston in 2001 when a group of crafty friends peddled their goods in this offbeat extravaganza. In 2004, the show spread to Los Angeles and then to Cleveland and San Francisco in 2006.

For more information about future shows visit http://www.bazaarbizarre.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.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

Strolling Throught The Holiday Decorated Streets Of The South End Of Boston

2011-12-09T13:22:00.010-05:00

Visiting The South End Of Boston During The Holidays

It was fun strolling through the holiday decorated streets of the South End of Boston (next to Boston's Back Bay district and close to Beacon Hill). The South End, lined with Victorian brick row or townhouses is known for great restaurants and cafes, artsy shops and galleries, boutiques and Jazz. The area reminds me of the West Village of New York with a diversity of cuisines and trendy residents.

I finally figured out how to take photos at night with my aging digital camera. So here are some lovely shots of my visit to the South End of Boston as I was on route to a wonderful cafe called The South End Buttery, an award winning local eatery known for casual fine dining.

Bizzare Bazaar

After attending the Bizzare Baza ar (Holiday Craft Show) at 539 Tremont Street on Sunday I was ready for a cup of Hot Chocolate and decided to take a walk to The South End Buttery
at 314 Shawmut Street (after a tip from a local business owner).

When I arrived to this charming corner bakery and cafe, it was almost time for dinner. The gals at the coffee bar/bakery
( front of the cafe) told us that we could stay for dinner which was starting at 5:30.

South End Buttery, Sound End Of Boston

So I nudged my party of three to skip the Hot Chocolate and head to the back bar area where dinner is served (as well in the lower level) . Our dinner was superb! I highly suggest a visit to The South End Buttery. It was a magical find in South End of Boston.

South End Buttery

(617) 482-1015

314 Shawmut Avenue Boston, MA 02118

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

Using Vintage Costume Jewelry To Make A Framed Menorah

2011-12-09T13:10:00.006-05:00

Crafty Chanukah Ideas

Oh my , I finally found a great way to use up all the boxes of junk vintage jewelry that I have been saving from tag sales, broken jewelry, grandma's piles etc.....make holiday themed art! I

The Menorah is just one of the handcrafted items at Moon Diamonds a shop on Etsy.com. The gal who makes these whimsical wall hangings is retired and has a found a way to re-cycle vintage materials in holiday works of art. She carries Christmas themed art as well as Menorahs.

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

Celebrating Chanukah With A Traditional Menorah: Check Out Antique Malls

2011-12-09T08:19:00.019-05:00

Celebrating Chanukah With A Traditional Menorah

With Chanukah approaching it's time to start thinking about the holiday decorations. Antique stores are a great place to find vintage holiday decorations and Jewish ceremonial objects such as the traditional Menorah used to commemorate the eight days of Chanukah. Many older Menorahs you will find are imported from Israel.

Chanukah Menorahs have nine candle holders. The tallest candle branch is called the "shamash" "helper" or "servant" and is the candle used to light the other candles. The Menorah, like the Star of David is a traditional symbol of Judaism. In older Menorahs, the "shamash" holder is generally in the center of the Menorah. More contemporary Menorahs distinguish the "shamash" in a variety of ways, not always in the center.

You will find Menorahs made of metals, silver, ceramic and glass. Inexpensive common Menorahs are generally made of brass. While many of the newer Menorahs are modern in design and costly, browsing an Antique Mall will offer you the opportunity to bring home an older classic style affordable Menorah. Browse through your local Antique group shop to find a nice Menorah. YOu can also search online at sites such as Etys.com or eBay.com.

Sources:

Older black and white photos of Chanukah are from Frugal Cafe Blog Zone
Bottom Menorah courtesy of http://curiousnewyork.blogspot.com/2010/11/origins-of-hanukkahhannukahchannukahcha.html
Menorahs shown are courtesy of eBay.com and Etsy.com.

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

Chocol'Art Holiday Exhibit And Open Art Studios At The Farmington Valley Art Center, Avon, CT. December 10th, 2011, 10-4

2011-12-08T16:25:00.024-05:00

Don't Miss Chocol'Art at The Farmington Valley Arts Center!

This Saturday Chocolate lovers will be in heaven as The Farmington Valley Arts Center is featuring free chocolate treats in each of the open art studios. The Farmington Valley Arts Center, just off Route 44 in Avon, CT is a wonderful complex which features studio artists, an ongoing community art school and two terrific galleries.

Visiting The Main Gallery At The Farmington Valley Arts Center

During the holidays, the gallery is also a holiday gift shop featuring artisans from all over New England. The gallery is simply gorgeous an d packed with festive artisan designed holiday gifts including, jewelry, textiles, pottery, glassware, collage, sculpture, photography, holidays cards, decorative accessories, paintings, serving pieces and more.

FVAC Art Studios To Visit

In the studios which are on two levels, will will see a nice selection of landscapes, abstracts, still life, sculpture, nature and animal art, portraits, photography, illustrations, cartoons, paper cuttings, etchings, mobiles and more .
Be sure to visit my Mixed Media Abstract Art studio 9B (second level). There will plenty of chocolate to sample.

Farmington Valley Arts Center

25 Arts Center Lane
Avon, CT
860-678-1867

Hip Christmas Holiday Serving Ideas For Retro Moms

2011-11-28T18:48:00.014-05:00

Bring Some Retro Holiday Pizazz Into Your Home This Christmas

This year bring some RETRO Holiday pizazz into your home by setting your holiday table with colorful hip vintage kitchen-wares from the 1940s,1950s and 1960s.. Re-set your holiday clock and take the express bus right back to your favorite kitschy eras.

Serving Holiday Snacks In A Vintage Lazy Susan

How much fun will your holiday snacks look displayed in a ceramic dish Lazy Susan ?
Or what about picking out some quirky polka dotted salt and peppers shaker roosters to add to your holiday table? Forget about the crystal, the silver, the red and green.......mix it up...get retro...have fun.

Think RETRO When Out Shopping

It's easier than you think to decorate for the holidays. Take a visit to your nearby Antique Mall or Antique Group shop and think RETRO. As you walk up and down the aisles, look for colorful bowls, vases, serving pieces, trays, accessories etc. that seem to work well together.

Organize your selections in some way. Objects with a pattern such as polka dots. Or perhaps you want a black, white and red theme. You may decide to keep the traditional holiday colors of red and green but this year kick up your "green" a notch with a retro green color such as chartreuse.

Create Your Own Holiday Color Palette

And don't be afraid to create your own holiday color scheme. Who said you can't use a wonderful 1960's orange vase with green snack dishes. You can...you can invent your own interpretation of a Retro Christmas or Chanukah. I'd love to see pictures of your Retro holiday. Send them to me at Dianne@cdiannezweig.com.

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

Collecting Vintage Housewares In Their Original Package

2011-11-23T23:45:00.015-05:00

Five And Dime Housewares Are Fun Collectibles

I love retro housewares and have a hard time resisting buying good old Five and Dime packaged home goods whenever I spot them.. At my shop Kitsch n Stuff located in The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT you will find kitschy housewares from the 1930s, 19040s, 1950s, 1960s.

New Old Stock

While I often lament that it is getting harder and harder to come across vintage housewares and laundry accessories still in their original packaging, every now and then, you come across some new old stock. What I mean by new old stock, is that the stuff is original but has never been used. By the way, did you know they made covers for rolling pins? (see picture). Apparently, the homeowner who had this "non stick " rolling pin cover in her drawer or kitchen cabinet, did't do too much baking after all.

Collecting Old Thumb Tacks

I always wonder about the people who hold onto real old kitchen supplies so long? Did't they get the urge to purge all this stuff after the first 30 years of holing onto it?

A Dozen Packages of Thumb Tacks

Recently I bought a box lot (a dozen packages) of old thumb tacks (now we call them push pins).
I have no idea what I am going to do with so many thumb tacks. But the price was right and I love bargains!

Vintage Clothespins Are Popular Among Collectors

While I adore my thumb tacks, I confess I did have much more fun acquiring the plastic clothespins shown here. Now clothespins do not come that cheap . It appears that clothespins are more desirable than thumb tacks. I am embarrassed to say that I have actually bought old wooden clothespins fin their original packaging for $12.00 -15.00. The plastic ones shown in this post were $6.00.

Old Curtain Tie Backs

Vintage curtain tie backs are another house-ware product that collectors like. I generally see these items sell for $8.00-12.00 a pair. The tea pot tie backs shown are courtesy of http://teawithfriends.blogspot.com/2009/06/teapot-curtain-tie-back-holders_9964.html

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

Finding Santa Snoring At The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

2011-11-23T23:35:00.003-05:00

Santa is Snug In His Bed At The Collinsville Antiques Company Of New Harford, CT

I was walking up and down the aisles at The Collinsville Antiques Company in New Hartford, CT and I heard snoring. Well to be perfectly honest, at first I just heard a NOISE and I wasn't quite sure what the noise was. But I have heard that noise before (every night) and I knew it was a noise I was familiar with.

A Santa Doll That Snores

But as I walked through this 20,000 square feet Antique emporium, the NOISE got louder and clearer. It was the sound of SNORING. But where was it coming from? Then I walked into one of the dealer's booth and lo and behold, a mechanized Santa doll, was sound asleep in his toy bed snoring. His chest actually moved up and down as he took a deep breath. I suppose this dealer thought having a snoring Santa was a cute idea. Well after awhile, another dealer did a big service to everyone and pulled the plug on Santa! Peace and quiet at last....one needs a certain degree of peace when out antiquing.

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

Decorating Your Holiday Table With Vintage Milk Glass Compotes, Cake Stands and Dishes

2011-11-23T19:43:00.017-05:00

Set Your Holiday Table With Vintage Milk Glass

Here is a lovely idea for your Retro, vintage holiday table. Consider entertaining guests using vintage Milk glass cake stands,goblets, candy dishes, compotes etc. You can choose a few special pieces of Milk glass or set the entire table with coordinated Milk glass dishes, glasses and desserts. Milk glass has a very elegant look when used with red accents, a perfect combination for Christmas holiday entertaining. If you have read my kitschy kitchen blogs, you know how much I adore red and white!

Red Tablecloth and Napkins For Your Holiday Table

Getting started....try setting your holiday table with a rich looking red tablecloth and matching red napkins . Then add a little pizazz with vintage red glassware. Red and white is fab...look how great the scalloped edged compote looks with fresh strawberries....DELICIOUS ! Of course you can serve all your holiday desserts in Milk glass dishes.

Milk Glass Used For Vintage Holiday Centerpieces

Another use for Milk glass is to use these retro charming serving pieces as holiday decor. Add some lovely pine cones and Christmas ornaments to create a festive centerpiece. Anther lovely idea is to wrap tiny white boxes with red ribbon and set a top a laced edged Milk glass compote. Milk glass vases can also be used to display holiday flowers.

Buying Milk Glass On Etsy.com

There are plenty of dishes, platters, serving pieces and vases to choose from for candy, fruit, nuts, puddings, flowers, centerpieces. etc. You will find pages of vintage Milk glass offerings on Etsy.com as well as on other online sites. If you are in a hurry, take a visit to your local Antique Mall , where you can usually find plenty of Milk glass at very reasonable prices.

Top photo courtesy of http://www.eddieross.com/eddie_ross/2009/11/house-beautiful-holiday.html

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

Decorating Your Home Or Antique Shop In Vintage Holiday Style

2011-11-23T17:30:00.007-05:00

How To Decorate For The Holidays In Vintage Style Using What You Have

It's easier than you think to decorate your Antique shop or home in Vintage holiday style. On the second floor of Antiques On The Farmington, Collinsville CT., one of the dealers did a great job accessorizing her booth for the holidays. She tends to carry a lot of vintage kitchen wares as well as cottage collectibles. For the holidays, she pulled out all her greed, red and white and red and cream collectibles and used them to showcase her holiday displays.

Building Towers of Vintage Holiday Fun

A master at creating "towers", this antique dealer stacked green glass serving pieces on top of an old candy tin. She than added pine cones and other holiday decor. This stacking tower was so charming and nostalgic.

Using Natural Trim Such As Pine Cones, Berries, Branches

I loved how this dealer uses what she has on hand and then adds natural trim such as pine cones, tree twigs, berries, leaves, branches etc to her collectibles.

Pull Out Your Vintage Crystal, Silver, Milk Glass For Holiday Decorating

And you don't need an antique store to this. You can create a vintage style holiday by looking in your closets and cabinets at home.

Pull out your crystal, your milk glass and your silver. You probably have plenty hidden away in your very own China closet that yo can adapt for the holidays.

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

Finding Classy And Chic Small Side Tables At Antiques On The Farminton, Collinsville, CT

2011-11-23T17:10:00.007-05:00

Small End Tables Come In Handy At The Holiday Time

On a recent visit to "Antiques On The Farmington", a popular Antique Mall in Collinsville, CT., I was pleased to find so many classy, chic small antique and vintage style side tables. If you have ever tried to find just the right little table to sit beside a living room chair you will appreciate how exciting it is to discover so many great tables in one place.

Shopping For Decorative Accessories In Antique Stores

Antique stores are a great place to look for decorative accessories for your home. And the holiday time is one of the best times to find interesting furnishings. Antique dealers seem to bring out all the great stuff in November and December when people are out shopping and decorating their homes.

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

Showing Off Collections Of Ordinary Objects In Your Antique Shop

2011-11-23T16:45:00.009-05:00

Found Objects Make Great Collections

Collections...it seems every Antique or Vintage shop I visit these days is getting in the act of showing off collections of odds and ends such as billiard balls, keys, blocks, toys parts, etc.

Exhibiting Your Odds And Ends In Quirky Containers, Boxes, Bowls

Not only are store owners gathering up ordinary objects and exhibiting them together, but they are also displaying "smalls" in quirky bowls, containers, boxes and vases.

I like the concept.... mixing and matching "this and that" in all kinds of funky ways. And nothing is left out of this craze to display collections of "things". All you need is a little creativity and you can transform your piles of vintage junk into colorful or engaging objets d'art.

Grouping Together Old Factory Parts

Some of the best groupings I have come across are made up of discarded and rusting machinery parts, factory cast offs and metal "things". The more ambiguous the object is , the more exciting the collection becomes.

For more on collections visit: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/group/crazyaboutmycollection

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

Mixed Media Artist Carolyn Tertes Dazzles Us With Vibrant Colors, Innovative Textures And Whimsical Interpretations Of Serious Topics

2011-11-15T08:29:00.014-05:00

Visiting The Art Studio Of Mixed Media Artist Carolyn Tertes At Open Studio Hartford

As a loyal fan of Open Studio Hartford, I made the rounds this past weekend, visiting all the studios and artists at Artspace Hartford. I started out on Saturday at Artspace, a residence across from the train station in Hartford which combines living space with artist studios and and then returning to to visit 56 Arbor Street ( Real Art Ways building) on Sunday.

Meet Mixed Media Artist Carolyn Tertes

The fourth floor of 56 Arbor Street is not only the home of my first art studio (I am now at The Farmington Valley Art Center) , but it is the creative sanctuary for my Mixed media colleague and friend Carolyn Tertes. Carolyn, like many other artists, works in powerful bursts of intense creativity sessions followed by periods of rest, family, distractions and travel.

Whenever Carolyn returns to studio 414 at 56 Arbor (a building known for artists, photographers, graphic designers, artsy types) you can be sure that she is exploding with ideas.

Burst of Color At Carolyn Tertes's Art Studio

On Sunday, I walked into her studio and was dazzled with color, energy and excitement. No one uses pinks, oranges and West Coast colors like Carolyn. Maybe that is because Carolyn is bi-coastal, dividing her life between three pleasures, her art, her husband and family ( on the warmer coast). Carolyn also spends a lot of time in Mexico and you can clearly see how she is influenced by the bright, colorful designs and palettes of her travels.

Old Game Parts Tell A Story

While her collages appear whimsical and playful, if you look closer you will learn that often Carolyn is expressing much deeper topics in her work. The mixed media piece on top is about "young boys play at war". The old game parts and toy soldiers are mean't to remind us of the dangers of war games.

Improvising With Her Studio Space

Short on time, Carolyn needed to get her studio ready for Open Studio Hartford. So as clever as she is, she put her efforts into painting a dynamite wall mural which she used to showcase her smaller Encaustic (wax) and mixed media collages. The look was sensational, adding vibrant wow power to her studio and giving her older collage and mixed media pieces a new presentation. I have to say, visiting Carolyn's studio was the perfect ending to a art lover's weekend. Now I need to get to my own stdio and channel some of Carolyn's creativity!

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

Painted Antique Cottage Furniture At Villa's Corner Gallery, Winsted, CT

2011-11-13T17:12:00.012-05:00

Sweet Cottage Style Furniture Featured At "Villa's Corner Gallery" In Winsted, CT

For years I have driven right by "Villa's Corner Gallery" at 304 main Street in Winsted, CT, but never stopped in because I thought it was simply a showroom for their upcoming auctions and not a retail store. But a few weeks ago, I was shopping in the area and I noticed some terrific painted Cottage style furniture on the sidewalk. The colors were a delicious combination of Seafoam green and yellow.

Antique Dressers And Vintage Furnishings

Not only was there some lovely pieces on the sidewalk, but the window was filled with painted furniture and a wonderful vintage kitchen display. So of course, I had to go inside. The first floor is a jumble of antiques and collectibles, here there and everywhere. The fella who ran Villa's has passed away and his daughter is trying to straighten the place out.

Check Out The Second Floor At "Villa's Corner Gallery"

You will find a more organized second floor with some very nice collections of antique furniture. Among the Oak tables , cabinets and dressers, there are also some lovely painted Cottage style furnishings in combinations of Seafoam green and yellow and also Seafvoam Green and white.

Villa's Corner Gallery
304 Main Street
Winsted, CT

860-738-7923

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

Visiting "A Step Back In Time" , Antique Toys In Winsted, CT

2011-11-13T16:31:00.010-05:00

Vintage Toys At "A Step Back In Time" In Winsted, CT

It is getting harder and harder to find vintage toys and games, so when you do discover a collector who keeps his inventory fresh and fun, it's a gift. Recently, I spent an afternoon in Winsted, CT a former factory town which has become a shopping area for smaller antiques and collectibles stores and I stumbled in ""A Step Back In Time".

A Tiny Retro Toy Store With Great Stuff

"A Step In Time", located at 458 Main Street in Winsted, Connecticut is a tiny shop neatly stuffed with old toys, games, dolls, books, ephemera and some kitchen-wares. On a recent visit to this well organized shop, I came home with several bags of goodies. My prized find was a 1940s children's craft set for making flower pots and bead flowers. It was in remarkably great shape for it's age.

Collectible Toys And Games

You will find stacks of board games, collections of View Masters, piggy banks, a puzzle section, tin toys, Five and Dime plastic toys and more. On the higher shelves, you might find tin doll houses and over-sized children's games. But remember, when really collectible toys and games come into the store, they leave as quickly as they come in.

Poking Through The Piles

While I always have a great time in this tiny toy store, I must tell you that the shop has great stuff mixed up with the odds and ends. You simply have to visit often and poke around the piles, to find the gems buried by some of the bric a brac. The owner is very educated about his collections and eager to be helpful.

A Step Back In Time
458 Main Street
Winsted, CT. 06098

860-379-3160

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

Retro, Vintage, Kitsch At The English Building Markets, Chapel Street, New Haven, CT

2011-11-13T08:51:00.015-05:00

A Retro Haven On Chapel Street In New Haven, CT

Smack in the heart of the New Haven downtown area, where Yale students buzz around with their back packs is "The English Building Markets" a

HIP URBAN RETRO HAVEN for collectors of vintage treasures. The name of the store is so deceiving that I need to clear that up right now. Banish any image from your mind of a stuffy proper antique store with Flow Blue and elegant table settings.

Indoor Junkyard of Fabulous Vintage Finds And Up-Cycled Goodies

Whoa.... "The English Markets" is quite a different place from what their name conjures up in you mind. The place is classy, but in a much different way.
I would classify "The English Building Markets" as an indoor classy junkyard of fabulous finds!

Antiques, Collectibles, Vintage On Chapel Street in New Haven, CT

In fact, this terrici source for everything Mod, Retro and Vintage is not exactly a household name in the Downtown New Haven region. I have been hunting for this place for three years. Finally when strolling the shops on Chapel street, I asked a hot dog vendor if he knew of a Retro kind of place. He looked at me puzzled. What about a junk store? Or a flea market? Or a second hand store? He pointed to the store which was diagonally across from his stand.

Nostalgic Storehouse of Vintage Treasures

I crossed the busy intersection and lo and behold, Jacob (my Sheltie) and I had finally found "The English Building Market". It looks small form the outside of the building but is a GRAND vintage emporium once you start walking through this over stuffed nostalgic storehouse of goodies. You will feel like you just entered a Time Machine and you are back in Colorful era of the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s.

Hip Department Store

The funky store is set up in HIP "departments" which resemble an old Five and Dime or General Store but designed to resemble the popular contemporary store "Anthropologie". Antiques and collectibles are showcased in creative and sometimes odd ways. The look is pure kitschy fun and vintage.

Strolling Through The Mod & Retro Past

You first walk through the Dry Goods area where you will find buttons, textiles, sewing notions etc. Other departments include kitchen-wares, entertaining, vintage clothing, jewelry, vanity, sports, books, art, glassware, pottery etc.

I especially enjoyed the room settings at "The English Building Markets" and the clever colorful Retro inspired displays. Now that I have finally found "The English Market", I am going to be a very frequent shopper!

The English Building Markets
839 Chapel Street, New Haven, CT
203-772-1728

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

Autumn Light Gallery, Avon, CT., Opening, "Re-New, Re-Purpose: The Fine Art Of Re-Cycling", November 12th , 6:00-9:00

2011-11-12T13:37:00.017-05:00

Up-Cycle Art At Autumn Gallery In Avon, Connecticut

Opening, November 12th,2011

Autumn Light Gallery on Route 44 in Avon, Connecticut (across from Marshall's) is gearing up for an art exhibit show entitled "Renew, Reuse, Re-purpose: The Fine Art of Recycling", which opens tonight, November 12th., 6:00-9:00.

Art Using Vintage Materials

The Kitsch Collector got a chance to preview the show and am very excited to share with you some photos of the wonderful Mixed Media artists that will be exhibiting their work tonight through the holiday season. You will find art made from vintage book parts, antique photos, old boxes, old tins, bottles, doll parts, vintage apothecary bottles, Styrofoam, rocks, twigs, sweaters etc.

Local Artists Featured At Autumn Light Gallery

Autumn Light is a new gallery which has established itself in the heart fo the Farmington Valley as an Fine Arts venue featuring local and regional artists who are well known in the area. Tonight's show highlights artists who like to merge vintage odds and ends with new materials creating modern interpretations of familiar, yet nostalgic works of art.

Artists Showing at Autumn Light Gallery

List of Local Artists

Christopher Hayes Farmington
Lori Barker Goshen
Johanna K Blair
Eileen Bland Farmington
Pieced Glass - Bill Braun and Linda Braun Burlington
Judith Brown Avon
Jennifer Bruno Southwick Ma
Carole Conner Tolland
Barbra Carpenter Avon
The Canvas Floor - Stacy Chapman Winsted
Donna Davis Winsted
Linda Davidson Columbia
Robert Dimock Avon
Jon Eastman Hartford
New England stoppers -James Dodd Enfield
Jeremy's Dirt - Jeremy Fioravanti Unionville
James Gagnon Designs - James Gagnon Winsted
Anita Garnett Winsted
Bill Healy Hartford Jennifer Hopkins Tolland
Pamela Huntington Canton
Karen Israel west Hartford
Liz Kavanagh Burlington
Jeanne "Morningstar" Kent Winsted
London Designs - Chris London Hartford
Lisa Ludwig Avon
Bonnie Maloney Suffield
Bill Manocchio Manchester
Glassical Artwork- Melinda Morrissette
Paul Morrissette Granby
Lauretta Nardi New Hartford
Eve Olitski West Hartford
Almost Home Studio Chris O'Herron Canton
David Ossorio Avon
Kits Creations Kathy Picard
Frank E. Sanchez Bloomfield
Mary Beth Sasso Farmington
Gay Schemp Winsted
Mario Serrano Bloomfield
Brad Smith Avon
Jeanne Sohn Canton
Patrick Stauffer Simsbury
Vesta Steinfield Weatogue
Naomi Tussin Avon
Jean Watson Berlin
ZEI - Joan Zei-Healy Hartford

Autumn Light Gallery
304 West Main Street
Avon CT, 06001

(860) 674 - 9869
Summer hours
Sunday and Monday Closed
Tuesday 10 - 6:00
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10 - 6
Saturday 10 - 5

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

Visiting Ray's Gallery: Stained Glass And Mixed Media Watercolors: Windsor Connecticut

2011-11-10T19:04:00.015-05:00

Whimsical Art Studio in Windsor Connecticut Features Mixed Media And Stained Glass

Stained Glass Room Divider

What a treat visiting Rosalie and Ray Gustafson, both artists who have a whimsical gallery and Frame shop called "Ray's" at 53 Poqonock Avenue in Windsor, CT. Rosalie always shares lots of her art tips and makes you feel right at home in her showroom. The shop is small but carefully planned to make every nook and cranny count.

Windsor, CT Art Gallery

I am a frequent visitor to this wonderful art gallery. Recently, Ray had a room divider made with stained glass centered in the middle of the shop.

Rosalie was wrapping a watercolor of a winter scene of the Brooklyn bridge that she was sending to a relative. I loved that painting and was sad to see it leave the shop.

Cityscape Sytrofoam Printing

Rosalie enjoys variety in her work and often mixes her media to create interesting textures. One of her favorite techniques is to cut a landscape or cityscape design into a piece of Styrofoam (the kind found in the meat section of the grocery store) and to coat with paint and print with. She has done many paintings with a city scape theme that she starts out with the technique just mentioned. Than she collages painted or printed papers onto the original painting.

Take Home Ideas And Art

Rosalie sent me home with a piece of Styrofoam and even began to draw into it with a pointed object. She wants me to give this style a try. I have been carrying the Styrofoam in my pocketbook for almost two weeks. But I am ready to give this idea a try. In fact I asked the butcher clerk at my local supermarket for some clean Styrofoam trays. He was very generous.

"Potted" Paint Brushes

When I was about to leave Roaslie and Ray , I spotted a "potted plant" of foam paint brushes. Rosalie dipped her foam brushes into paint to simulate flowers and arranged them in a painted flower pot. I wanted to buy the potted paint brushes but she said it was a store prop. In her usual giving way, she explained to me how to make one. Thanks Rosalie for sharing your art ideas.

Visit:
Ray's Gallery and Frame Shop
53 Poquonock Ave.
Windsor, CT.

860-688-0144

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

Farmington Valley Art Center, Avon, CT. Hosted Mixed Media Weekend Workshop By Artist Lynn Gall

2011-10-27T16:15:00.048-04:00

The Mixus Gals Were Back in Classroom 3A At The Farmington Valley Art Center, Avon, Ct.

It was great to be back in classroom 3A at the Farmington Valley Art Center with some of the gals of Mixus, a group of Connecticut Mixed media artists who originally met at FVAC a number of years ago while taking lots of classes together. Art (top) by C. Dianne Zweig

Lynn Gall
Returns to
FVAC

The Mixus mates, joined by another student and FVAC veteran, re-united with their friend and mixed media art instructor Lynn Gall for a busy Mixed media weekend workshop at The Farmington Valley Art Center. Lynn returned to FVAC following a few years abroad and now residing in NYC.

Artwork (with letters) is by Jill Henderson Pasanen.

Weekend Challenge: Mixed Media Grid Design

Lynn showed workshop members examples of artwork with a grid design. With a little bit of inspiration.....we all got very industrious and down to work. As is usually the case, we only came up for air two times, lunch on Saturday and lunch on Sunday.

Artist Lynn Gall

Otherwise we were all knee deep in paint, papers and STUFF. Carolyn Tertes and Jill Henderson Pasanen (below) were tied for bringing with them th e most boxes and bags filled with painted papers. Bunny Millan probably brought in as many mixed media materials as Carolyn and Jill but her very neat stash is deceptive. She conceals more.

Jill Pasanen
at the easle

Collage Medium
Verus
Glue Stick

I'm the outlaw, not digging messy stuff as much as the other Mixus gals , I brought a few glue sticks, my paint and pastels and begged Carolyn and Jill for a few pieces of their fabulous papers. Beverly Spence, a FVAC frequent flyer who loves collage and is an amazing artist, was new to working with all the mixed media STUFF. We are breaking her in.

Carolyn Tertes triptych

Critique Time

Beverly Spence & Carolyn Tertes

On Sunday after we cleaned up our work stations we reviewed our work in the critique session.This is a very exciting dimension of the weekend workshop when the group has a chance to take a look at how each of the members resolved their artistic challenges.

Deep in thought is Bunny Milan listening to the critique.

While the workshop is going on, we are all glued (no pun intended) to our own projects in progress and not really thoroughly involved with what's happening to the to the artist's work. Lynn is busy consulting with each and everyone of us, but it isn't until the end of the weekend session that all of the workshop participants sit back and get a chance to see what each artist has accomplished. I can tell you that it was a very productive weekend for all of us who attended this workshop...we produced a lot of successful pieces.

When Is Lynn Returning To FVAC ?

Rumor has it that Lynn will be back to The Farmington Valley Art Center in January and in March.
For more information about Mixed Media workshops at FVAC or other wonderful classes and workshops, visit: http://artsfvac.org/ Visit C. Dianne Zweig's studio at FVAC

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

Displaying Your Vintage Postcards On Colorful Streamers

2011-10-27T15:58:00.009-04:00

Hanging Your Vintage Cards On Colorful Streamers

Retro-Hang-Up Series

While this idea is not exactly a vintage Retro Hang Up, this cool way of hanging postcards and announcements could easily be adapted for antique dealers who need a great display idea for their collectible cards. . Spotted at The Farmington Valley Art Center, Avon, CT., colorful bands or streamers of very durable material were attached to a dowel (wood rod) which hangs from a side wall. Clips were added to the bands to hold the cards.

A Functional Vintage Colorful Display For Cards

I think that the colorful bands are the key to this fabulous functional display idea. Wouldn't this Retro Hang-Up look great for the holidays with vintage Christmas postcards or greeting cards?

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

Painting An Old Kitchen Table White With Cherries

2011-10-27T15:23:00.011-04:00

Charming Red And White Vintage Kitchen Table With Cherries

I recently spotted this wonderful old wooden kitchen table that was given a new life when the owner painted the table top white and added retro style red cherries.

Cherries Were Popular In the 1940s

Cherries were a favorite design in the 1940s , being used on kitchen products, aprons, textiles, clothing and more. Over the years many designers have brought back cherries to create the vintage look.

Painting An Old Kitchen Table White

Often you will come across an old kitchen table at a yard sale or in a shop and parts of it might be in very rough condition. Well here is the perfect solution, WHITE paint. With a little bit of attention to sanding the surface of the table and the right paint and finish, you can transform a junky table into a work of art!

Use A Stencil Or Free Hand To Paint Cherries

As you can see in these photos, the table top was painted white and red cherries and polka dots were added. You can make your own stencil of cherries or buy a stencil already made in a craft store. You can also paint the cherries free hand.

Adding Black Polka Dots

Look how nicely, red and white accessories look on top of the table. You will also notice black polka dots on the table top design. There is nothing as striking as red, white and some black accents. Vintage chairs were also painted white and the cherry motif was added to the chair seats. This is a very sweet set.

Painting A Wooden Table

There are many different strategies for painting a wooden table. You can read about this topic online or ask your neighborhood paint store clerk.
These photographs were taken at Salmon Brook Shops in Granby. CT
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café.To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.comVisit my website, CDianneZweig.comDianne is a member of:The American Society of Journalists and AuthorsThe Society of Professional Journalists

When to Open An Antique Booth Or Shop?

2011-10-26T12:08:00.010-04:00

Choosing The Best Time To Move Into A Group Antique Shop Or Antique Mall

Many more people are interested in selling the antiques and collectibles that they have acquired over the years. Some folks are just natural collectors, while others have dabbled in the buying and selling of antiques and collectibles for years, but never took the leap into owning a small shop or a booth in an Antique mall.

Is There A Good Time To Open An Antique Shop or Antique Booth?

Let's say you have decided to take space in an ANTIQUE MALL or rent some space in a group shop? When is the best time to make the plunge? Is there a good time and a bad time?
Here is what I have learned about the biz over the years and also from being the Editor of the largest Antique social network I Antique Online.com

Fall Into Your New Antique Business

Business picks up in the late Fall through the Christmas holiday season. People go out shopping and business is very lively. So you might consider moving into an antique booth in the early Fall.

Winter Blues or Winter Bonanza When Opening An Antique Shop

In the Northeast, when the weather starts to get COLD and there is snow on the ground....business slows down. But it may also be a time to find a good deal on rental space. Owners of Antique Malls want to fill all their spaces and showcases so you may have a better time negotiating a good lease deal.

Do You Need A Quiet Time To Start?

The heart of the winter is also a quieter time for most people and you may just find this a good time to devote to setting up your business. But remember, it's harder to move cabinets, shelves, display cases etc. in icy weather. Never the less, it can be done. G-d only know, I have been there and done it. The good nes about moving in the winter months is that you will be good to go in the Spring.

Spring Into Action For Opening An Antique Store Or Booth

Now while the Spring is a nice time for people to be out and about shopping, it sometimes is alos a time when people are fussing with their lawns. So business can go up and down. In some areas, close to vacation spots, traffic increases according to the crowds. Ski resorts may bring in winter traffic, whereas beach areas see a swell of people in the warm summer months.

But be careful about moving into a antique booth or antique shop in the middle of the summer.....it's HOT and the work load may be a bit much!

Photo s courtesy of http://www.sturbridgeantiqueshops.com/

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

Opening An Antique Store

2011-10-26T09:19:00.016-04:00

Tips About Opening An Antique and Collectibles Business

I have been receiving more inquiries from folks who want to start their own antique business. In the biz there are a few categories of shops. I will first briefly describe the kinds of antique businesses there are. Than I will offer some important ideas to think about when reviewing your antique store options. Remember, these decisions have to fit your lifestyle, budget, geographic location etc. There is no one right answer.

Types of Antique Businesses

Solo Antique Shop Antique Mall Online Antique Store

You can open a regular Antique store called a Brick and Mortar shop (retail store that people visit in person). This type of store can be a solo ownership or a group shop where you manage the sales of other dealers as well as your own.

Another popular way to sell antiques and collectibles is to lease space in an Antique Mall or Group Antique store. In this arrangement you rent a booth. In most places you have the option to rent a full booth or a half a booth. Some stores even allow you to rent a double booth if space is available.

And the last type of business you might consider is opening up an online Antique store on some of the many sites that are devoted to the buying and selling of antiques and collectibles. This way of doing business requires that you must be
responsible for shipping out all your merchandise to customers who buy from your online store.

So how do you make the decision which way to go? Here are some thoughts to keep in mind while you are sorting through the decision process.

What Type of Antique Business Should I Open ?

Solo Antique Shop

Will the shop get a lot of foot traffic or cars that pass by? Is it on a main roadway or in an area of similar shops? How many days will I plan to be open? Do I have a budget for help? Can I be available to be in the store on Saturdays and Sundays, the two busiest days for sales? Do I have enough inventory to fill a solo shop? Where and when will I get more mercahndise to fill my solo shop? Can I afford to have someone cover for me when I am unable to be at the store? Do I have an advertising budget? How will I plan to bring in new customers?

Antique Mall / Group Antique Store

Number one question is whether a booth (or showcase) will be enough space for me to sell what I have? If this is a full time adventure, is there enough space to make money? What price range is the stuff I have to sell? There is a big difference between selling high end estate jewelry and selling tag sale quality flea market finds.. How many dealers are in the Multi-Dealer Antique shop I am considering? What size are the booth spaces? How long has the group shop (or Antique Mall) be in business? Is this store conveniently located for me? If the store is a distance from my home, how often will I plan to come to the store to bring in new merchandise or organize my booth? What is the lease on this booth? Does the owner take an administrative fee? Do I have to do floor time?

Online Antique Store

Can I learn how to photograph objects so they will sell well? What is my plan for shipping out goods? Do I like packing antiques and collectibles? Do I intend to be home at the computer a good deal of the time? What kinds of antiques and collectibles do I want to sell? This business is usually better suited for smalls? Do I want to sell on an already existing site geared to antiques and collectibles? or start my own free standing website? How will I promote my online business? Do I have social media skills? (On I Antique Online.com) there are many group forums geared to this topic.

Photos courtesy of Salmon Brook Shops, Granby Connecticut

Learn more about this topic on http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/

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

How To Sell Antiques On The Super Blog I Antique Online.com

2011-10-24T19:22:00.021-04:00

Free Ways To Sell Antiques On The Largest Social Network For Antiques And Collectibles

As the editor of I Antique Online.com, the largest social network on antiques and collectibles, I receive a lot of inquiries about whether you can sell antiques on this popular social network. The answer is YES YES YES.

Sell In One of 188 Antique Group Forums

In fact I Antique Online.com is as fabulous place to sell your antiques and collectibles because the site is divided into 188 special groups which allows you to reach people who are most interested in what you have to sell. For example, if you inherited a box of vintage postcards, you will be able to post and sell your old postcards right in the Vintage Postcard Group on I Antique Online.com.

Target Your Antique Buyer

There is nothing better than directly targeting people who are most interested in a specific type of antique.
To see all 188 groups that are on I Antique Online.com visit: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/groups In each of the group forums on I Antique Online.com you are able to tell others about items that you would like to sell.

More Ways To Sell Your Antiques Online For FREE

But selling in one of the 188 groups is not the only place to promote and sell your antiques and collectibles on I Antique Online.com You are also able to add an RSS feed to your "My Page" (Profile page) and link your on line stores or shops to your 'My Page". Or you can add your webiste URL to your "My Page" or other links you might have.

Another easy way to tell others about items that you might want to sell is to take great photographs of what you have to offer and to post these photos on your " My Page" . If they are drally good photos, the editor (me) can feature them on the Main page and you get super exposure!

SELL MY ANTIQUES GROUP

Last but not least, on I Antique Online.com there is a group called SELL MY ANTIQUES
which is a place for members of this social network to post items for sale in the same way as you would use a classified ad. The best part it is FREE!

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

How Being A Group Forum Moderator On An Antique Social Network Can Boost Your Antique Business

2011-10-24T18:59:00.012-04:00

Free Ways To Promote Your Antique Business

Becoming a group moderator on an Antique social network such as I Antique Online.com is a great way to promote your antique business. Group forums are social media groups geared to bringing like minded people together to share discussions, photos and stories about a particular collectible or antique topic.On I Antique Online.com there are currently 188 antique group forums.

Do You Have To Be An Expert To Moderate An Antique Group Forum?

Many people have the false impression that they need to be an expert on a particular antique subject to qualify to be a group forum moderator. Actually, while that may be important in some groups, for the most part it is not critical to be an expert. What is far more important is for a group moderator to be a people person who likes helping others engage in the group active and exciting.

If you own a Antique shop or sell antiques online, you may just want to bring more attention to your business. By serving as a group forum moderator you set yourself up as a active business person. The business exposure for your antique store is very helpful and the promotion is free. It's a win win situation.

Visit I Antique Online.com

If you would like to moderate a group forum on I Antique Online.com, contact me at Dianne@cdiannezweig.com.

Visit: I Antique Online.com

Photo courtesy of Burlington Inn Antiques on Route 4, Burlington, CT

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

Bringing Customer To Your Antique Shop: What's Outside?

2011-10-24T18:42:00.008-04:00

J.P. Finishing Touches Keeps Lot's Of Stuff On Their Porch

I can spot an antique shop miles away. My nose knows where the collectibles are on any given road. But I have a sixth sense for these things. Some people need a lot more help figuring out that there is Antique store approaching. They need HINTS.

What Do You Keep Outside Your Antique Shop?

One of the best ways to lure the visitors to your shop is to LOOK like an antique shop. How do you do that? Keep STUFF outside. There is nothing like drawing in people with great items for sale right outside your door. One fella I know brings half his shop outside each and every day he is open.

Pay Attention To The Exterior of Your Antique Shop

Another shop owner has decorated the exterior walls of his shop with hanging vintage farm tools.
Some shops will use vintage garden antiques or a cottage style look to attract customers. Objects with bright colors such as RED will stand out to customers. The idea is to let people know what you sell so they don not just drive by. You need to keep your front porch, lawn, stoop etc. fresh and exciting!

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

I Antique On Blogs

2011-10-24T18:15:00.011-04:00

How To Find Antique Blogs

Sometimes I will go out antiquing on a weekend and come home empty handed. These are the days when I return to my home office bummed out. My engines are still running with a desire to keep on hunting for more STUFF, but now the shops are all closed. But there is a great solution. I Antique on blogs.

Satisfying Your Antique Cravings

I can fill my antiquing crave by poking around on line. A really good blog about antiques and collectibles will keep me satisfied. In fact, many dealers have created blogs to supplement their online shops.

Visiting Antique Blogs You Will Enjoy

So you might ask, how do I find the blogs that are worth visiting? Here is what I do. I go to Google images and type in a certain type of collectible. Let's say "Zippy The Monkey". Than I look for really good photographs of "Zippy The Monkey" on Google images. Or perhaps, I am after "vintage Pyrex bowls". I click on a few different images that interest me and sooner or later I land on a great blog.

Blog and Shop On Antiques

And when you discover a photo that you enjoy on Google images, usually that photo leads you back to a blogger who has other things you will like as well as as a shop that goes with the blog.

You see, when you blog regularly and post wonderful images, Google finds you and your images will be showcased on Google Images. I have found a lot of great blogs this way.

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

Building A Successful Social Network On Antiques And Collectibles

2011-10-24T09:14:00.031-04:00

Antique Social Networks: Keeping Them Fresh & Engaging

I get asked all the time, "Why is your site I Antique Online.com working out so well?. My standard answer is, "build it right and they shall come" (paraphrased) ....remember the movie Field of Dreams ?
But what exactly is meant by "build it right " ?

Social Media For Antique Dealers & Collectors

If truth be known, when I I joined Scott Liscomb (co-founder of I Antique Online.com), SOCIAL MEDIA was a new VOCAB word for me. I was a clueless newbie not unlike many of "mature" folks who find their way onto I Antique Online.com. This is not to say that I am mature....but I am clueless about tech things.

I Antique Online.com Has 188 Group Forums For Collectors, Buyers, Sellers

But one thing I knew was that if you offer something worthwhile, people will come. In the case of a site about antiques and collectibles, what I offered members was lots and lots of group forums. I nurtured each one so that from humble beginnings each of the over 188 group forums developed as exciting, active places for like minded people to have conversations about a particular collecting topic. In addition to talking about kitchen collectibles or vintage jewelry or antique lighting etc., members have an opportunity to post photos of their favorite collectibles.

How To Build Strong Group Forums On Social Networks

The trick to keeping social networks on antiques and collectibles healthy is to "feed them". In other words, you have to provide plenty of nourishment in the way of fresh ideas, new blog articles, engaging forum posts, plenty of colorful photographs, relevant news features, guest authors etc. And you must, clean house often.

Drastic Measures

If a particular group is starving for attention...drastic measures may need to be taken, but first there are some remedies you can try to boost engagement.
You might have to change the moderator of a sleepy group, jump in (as editor) and guest moderate, recruit a heavy hitter to take over the group, post some exciting content in the group, send out a broadcast message to all members of the site etc. And if all else fails, you might have to take down a boring group and re-build it with a twist form scratch. Some groups seem to need a better karma.

Don't Abandon a Lazy Group On A Social Network

The worst thing you can do is to abandon a lazy group. I Antique Online.com is a fun, fresh and friendly place for buyers, sellers and collectors of antiques and collectibles. Be sure to visit us at: http://iantiqueonline.ning.com/

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

Using A Metal Wine Bottle Rack To Display A Collection of Vintage Rolling Pins And Kitchen Tools

2011-10-17T18:21:00.006-04:00

Roll Out A Useful Idea For Displaying Vintage Rolling Pins

Here is a cute display idea for kitchen tools spotted at The Blue House Vintage Shop in Canton, Ct.
Try showcasing your vintage rolling pins and other kitchen collectibles and tools in a metal wine rack. I love the way the rolling pins are displayed on an angle. The opening for wine bottles works just right for a collection of rolling pins.

While I write a lot of articles for antique shop owners, there is no reason why home owners couldn't adapt these ideas in their own kitchens. For dealers, this just may be a way to highlight your vintage rolling pins. Many dealers tend to hide their kitchen tools in a bucket or box. This clever idea may just help you sell some of your kitchen tools.

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

Around The World : Decorating With Global Collectibles And Style

2011-10-17T09:10:00.022-04:00

Zen Meets Global: Bringing Home Global Style At Queen Anne Antiques

April who owns Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT. has really changed direction in her wonderful small but packed shop off Route 44 in Canton, Ct. Once a secret hiding place for all things Cottage Style, Retro and Vintage, April must be going through a totally new phase which I will call "Zen meets Global ".

Global Decorating Style

A Global Decorating Style appreciates the vast array of collectibles from all over the world. Many home owners like to mix objects, textiles and decorative accessories from far away places such as Indonesia, Africa, Japan, the Mediterranean coast. Travelers may enjoy bringing home colorful wall hangings or artwork or finding unique fabrics and textiles from other countries. Interesting patterned fabrics with vibrant colors can be used as a foundation for a wonderful global inspired room.

Global Collectibles

April seems to like keeping a nice inventory of ethnic, New Age and culturally diverse collectibles and furnishings. Slowly but surely over the last two years, April's eclectic shop has been becoming very design conscious with plenty of unique and unusual objects. Don't get me wrong, she stills has a really nice variety of kitchen collectibles, furniture, textiles, books etc., but now the shop also takes on a very artsy feel.

Looks Like Anthropologie

On a recent visit, April had lots of very interesting objects that you might see in a setting such as Anthropologie (one of my favorite stores). You will find, masks, figurines, baskets, tapestry, textiles, sculpture etc. April has loaded her store with Global collectibles. Some of these items are older, some more recent, but together the collection is worth taking a look at.

Shopping For Antiques In Canton, CT

By the way,around the corner from "Queen Anne Antiques", is "The Blue House Vintage Shop". And just a few stores down is "The Junk Shop of Canton". My Multi-dealer store, Collinsville Antiques Company is down the road on Route 44 in New Hartford. This is a great area to go hunting.

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

Displaying Your Mums In An Antique Baby Buggy

2011-10-17T08:57:00.004-04:00

Up-Cycle Your Broken Vintage Doll Carriage To Hold Flowers

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

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

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

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

Altered Doll Assemblages: Using Up Your Vintage Junk

2011-10-06T22:57:00.018-04:00

Creating Dolls Out of Vintage Junk

I would love to be able to try my hand at making Altered Doll Assemblages out of vintage odds and ends. Like many of you who are reading my blog, we are a group that enjoys collecting and saving everything!. Right now in my garage are at least four large plastic boxes filled with "stuff" that I am saving for a future craft project (I think).

What's In My Boxes Of Saved Junk

Broken china plates.
Orphaned shakers.
Missing puzzle pieces.
Lids without bottoms.
Vases without handles.
Books without covers.
Bent kitchen tools.
Dolls without legs or arms.
Cracked bowls.
Toy parts.
Naked trolls.
Twisted toy kitchen utensils.
Rusty tins.
Old keys.
Toy money.
Cups without saucers.
Maimed dolls.
Chipped figurines.
Unknown parts.
Vintage plastic lids.
Old jewelry parts.
Broken necklaces.
Torn rubber toys.
Ripped old paper fans.
Yo-Yos without string.
Thermos top.
Plastic vintage spoon.
Jar covers.
Wooden game pieces.

Surely, I could make a vintage inspired assemblage doll? So what is stopping me? I'll confess...my avoidance is related to Epoxy! After once making an assemblage for a charity auction ( I made "Mah Jongg Lady" out of a brick), I was traumatized by using Epoxy.It was an adhesive nightmare. If readers could share some tips about making doll assemblages that are user friendly...I'm willing to try. Feel free to spill the beans.

By the way, what's in your junk boxes?

These lovely dolls were found at Woodstock Antiques in Woodstock, CT.

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

Displaying Swanky Swigs And Vintage Glassware In A Mounted Old Coca Cola Box

2011-10-06T22:33:00.005-04:00

Swanky Idea For Swanky Swigs

Another Retro Hang-Up Idea

You know how much the Kitschy collector likes to share funky display ideas. Well here is one of those clever display solutions that yhou ssay to yourself, "why didn't I think of that?"

This gal stuffed her vintage juice glasses and Swanky swigs inside the compartments of an old Coca Cola box. That is a really fun way to store and showcase vintage kitchen glassware.

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

Vintage Eversharp Schick Razor Advertising Display At Scranton Shops, Woodstock, CT.

2011-10-06T22:15:00.010-04:00

Vintage Schick Razor Collectibles Are Popular

Old fashioned barbershops are back in vogue and so are the items that you would have found in these shops of yesterday. Today both owners of vintage style shops as well as collectors are after old signs, vintage hair products, safety razors, bottles, mugs, strops, brushes and more. It's not often that you come across vintage barbershop related advertising collectibles in super condition.

Today I spotted some really neat vintage promotional displays that would make a barbershop or razor collector very happy. These wonderful Eversharp Schick Razor advertising display was found at Scranton Shops in South Woodstock, CT. This Multi-dealer shop has some very interesting dealers and a constantly changing showroom.

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