Mitzi's Collectibles Blog

Cool Off at Newton's Beach

During the recent heat wave, Newton's Beach on Crystal Lake was all booked up, but this weekend I might be able to squeeze you in, if you can manage the complexities of time travel.  You see, my grandparents owned Newton's Beach on Crystal Lake, Michigan.  Their little resort included several cottages, a trailer park, bath house, boat rental, and refreshment stand.  So get yourself back to the 1950's and have some good old-timey fun at Newton's Beach!

First of all, you need to decide the cottage in which you would like to stay.  We have the Octagon Cottage, my personal favorite:

The Cement Cottage:

Or maybe the Stone Cottage.  Although I don't have any interior shots, let me assure you the cottages are clean as a whistle and decorated with colorful bark-cloth curtains and rustic cottage furniture:

 

Here's the cottage where my grandparents live.  They stay nearby to make sure the needs of their guests are met at all times!

There's plenty of parking for your DeSoto, Studebaker, or Bel Air:

 

Once you settle in, you can rent a bathing suit and an inner tube and head for the lake.  Or, if fishing is more your style, you can rent a little boat and buy some worms from my uncle Clare and aunt Hazel, who have their own worm farm, and do some fishing on adjacent Mud Lake.

 

Can't you just feel the cooler air along the water?

 

After water activities, my grandma will make you a great lunch.  She's had plenty of experience cooking. She and my grandpa used to run the College Cafeteria at Central Michigan College, Newton's Dining House and the Harmony Restaurant.  With the Newtons in charge, nobody will be going hungry! 

But don't forget, you have to wait an hour after you eat a meal before you can swim, or you'll get a cramp and drown!

Later in the day you can take the kids for a Sno Cone and the carousel on Crystal Lake for a ride or two.  In the evening, there's a band shell on the lake so and the adults can listen to big band music and do some dancing under the stars.  Now doesn't that sound like the perfect day?

Hope to see you there,

Mitzi

Field Trip to Chesterdales' Home & Garden in Naples, Florida

l recently returned from a much needed nine-day vacation in Naples, Florida, where I spent time with my parents, relaxed, and hunted down some antiques (of course!). 

One of my first stops this time was Chesterdales' Home and Garden, a multi-dealer antique and home furnishings shop owned by Ron Ellis and Jim Herbst.  Although they allow some new items in the shop, it's all high quality, and the entire shop has the feel of a decorator showroom.

 

For starters, how do you create a welcoming entrance in a strip mall?  How about adding some smart looking black and white striped curtains, garden fixtures, and some potted plants:

Joan Stewart is a prolific rug maker who gives lessons at Chesterdales.  I was lucky enough to learn rag rug making from her while I was there, but I'll reserve details for another blog post.  Here is her cheerful booth:

 

 An ornate porcelain urn with metal mounts in a showcase:

I loved these two French blue velvet chairs:

 Two decorative porkers that made me smile:

There's lots of white wicker and rattan to be found in Florida:

The popularity of burlap sacks as upholstery material keeps growing:

 

This garden-themed booth looks a bit tangled in my picture, but it was really quite charming:

The same garden booth from another angle:

 

This vase is stunning, with its etched design and gold embellishment:

The dealer below knows how to create shell masterpieces the classy way.  I'm not sure what the secret is, but he or she has it! 

I love the mix of jewels and shells:

 Just look at how many beautiful shells were used on this mirror:

More eye candy:

 

I think you'll agree the mix of old and new at Chesterdales' Home and Garden is very pleasing.  If you travel to Naples, be sure to stop by this lovely shop.  It's located at 4910 Tamiami Trail.

Mitzi

Let's Visit "Up For Grabs" in Naples, Florida!

About seven months ago, my mom, Lucile Maran (pictured below), was faced with a difficult decision. The antique mall in which she was renting space in Naples was closing, and she was going to have to move out and find another place to set up shop. Or was it time to "retire"? After all, she was 83 years old, and maybe the mall closing was a hint that it was time to take a break. Or not. I visited Naples and we scouted around town, looking at the possibilities, and met Kathy Goodman, who was opening a new, high-end consignment shop that would be called "Up For Grabs".

Kathy was a good saleswoman, because my mom and I had enough confidence to pack up all her inventory and move it into a closet of an otherwise completely empty building that Kathy was in the process of renovating. One thing that "sold" us was Kathy's vision of the interior. She ordered crystal chandeliers, cheerful yellow polka-dot fabric, and refinished the concrete floors. Kathy has worked for many years as a decorator, and knows how to create an inviting space from an empty shell of a building in an old strip mall.

Fast forward seven months, and Kathy has put together a lovely shop, my mom couldn't be happier, and business is good. It's all about location, as we all know, and Up For Grabs is situated in the hub of the Naples resale/consignment/antiques/decorator district. My mom only has a showcase, but she does know how to pack it full of treasures, including her special majolica, sterling silver, chintz ware, and Victorian-era goodies.

If you have a question, need help, or want someone to flirt with you a bit, Tony will oblige!

 

One area houses a huge collection of the ever-popular Franciscan Desert Rose dinner ware, paired with some pretty pink cabbage leaf plates.

 

 Handpainted stemware:

Kathy installed beautiful crystal chandeliers all over the shop to give it a glamorous feel.

This mural at the back of the store is so well done, and sets a nice tone for the clearance area.

 

I can't get enough of these Italian gilt chandeliers with the porcelain roses.

 

This decorative piece may not be as old as it appears, but I'm inspired by it. Perhaps it could be replicated using images decoupaged on board?

 

Just look at the gorgeous colors on this celluloid covered photo album in my mom's showcase!

 

My mom calls her business "A Bed of Roses". We made her sign from an ironstone platter and some stickers. The majolica pattern you see behind the doll is the popular "shell and seaweed" pattern.

 

 

Another view of my mom's showcase:

 

 My mom always has a nice selection of beaded and enamel mesh purses, like this lovely example below:

 

Gently used furniture is plentiful at Up For Grabs. I would never buy anything brand new in Naples, ever!

I certainly am glad that we met Kathy when we did. I knew my mom didn't want to be forced into early retirement from the antique biz!

 

Spring Pilgrimage to Anthropologie

Hello boys and girls, I've been AWOL for over a week, which was actually carefully planned but unannounced here, because I don't think it's good form to broadcast to the world that you are going on vacation, do you? Especially if you are leaving a vacant home, (which this time I didn't), there would be the obvious safety issues inherent in posting that you will be 1,000 miles away for six days. I'm going to make a habit of slinking out of town without fanfare, whether I go alone or with my hubby. It's just good old fashioned blog safety!

So I just got back from Naples, Florida, from a little visit with my folks. I had a great time, soaked up some sun, took plenty of pictures, shopped, and made my semi-annual pilgrimage to Anthropologie, every hip creative woman's favorite store, now that Curious Sofa has closed its doors.

There's always a chandelier made of plastic somewhere, isn't there?  I think last time they made one out of pop bottles:

The trend this season was natural materials punctuated with bright colors.

 

I always like their tablescapes.....

 

 

Those folks at Anthro are so clever, aren't they? First of all, they don't get snippy if you take pictures, which is great. Why not encourage picture taking? Their displays are so fun and unusual, they warrant study and discussion on blogs and Facebook. Yes, there's inevitable duplication, which is going to happen whether you allow pictures or not. So why not?

Easter eggs, the Anthropologie way.  Made to look like notebook paper!

 

 

I've wanted to try my hand at making a papier-mache deer mount for my wall.  These were covered with newspaper, then painted:

 

I've got many blogs to visit, lots of photos to edit, and spring updating to do in my antique mall booths.  Then, there's estate sales, auctions, all sorts of Etsy excitement, etc. etc. etc.  This spring is really going to be challenging, but fun.  I better hop to it!

Mitzi

Antique Malls 101

Most of you are aware that I'm an antique dealer, but may not know some of the specifics. Right now I have two rented "booths" at the Antiques Market of Williamston (we'll call it AMW for brevity), and two booths at the Livingston Antique Outlet (LAO) in Howell, Michigan.  I'd love for you to visit sometime, and I guarantee it will be interesting and fun.  On March 26, the AMW is having a March Madness sale.  That would be a great time to come, as we are offtering a total mall sale (15% off all merchandise) and free refreshments.  And for even more of an incentive, the mall will be open extended hours, till 8:00, and from 6:00 to 8:00 the discount will go up to 20%! 

When I spend time out and about, I'm surprised at how many folks haven't been to an antique mall, and don't understand what antique malls are.  Maybe they are into "thrifting" or  going to flea markets, but haven't made the leap to antique malls yet.  I'll bet you can think of some people that haven't had the pleasure of the antique mall experience.  Will you help me by taking them by the hand, literally if need be, and walking them through it?  Or, (gasp), maybe you haven't had your own antique mall adventure.  Let's go!  We'll start at the AMW.

The Antiques Market of Williamston is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

 

Before we enter the antique mall, let me clear up one misconception.  You don't need to know anything about antiques to enter.  Don't be afraid that one of the Keno brothers from the Antiques Roadshow is going to run up and start quizzing you about furniture characteristics of the Greek Revival period.  You can just walk around and look at stuff, and I guarantee it will only be a matter of minutes before you see something that reminds you of your Grandma, and you'll exclaim to your shopping partner:  "My grandma had one of these!".  You've now become a "Grammahadit".  Grammahadits and the similar Mommahadits are just as welcome in the antique mall as anyone else, so let's keep walking, OK?

Check out this awesome space at AMW that Christie and Richard have created.  I love the sign in the upper right corner that has the cow portrait and "Bovinol Spray Drives Flies Away":

 

An antique "mall" is a shopping mall devoted to antiques and collectibles. The owner of the business and/or building rents out space within the building to antique dealers, usually by renting out the space in square feet.  A typical booth might be 12' x 12', and cost $250 per month.  Often, there is an additional fee such as a percentage of total sales ( 10% is common), or a work requirement (working as a clerk in the store several times per month).  The various dealers price all of their own things, asking whatever they wish, and mark the tags with their own assigned dealer number.  At the end of the pay period, the mall owner issues each dealer a check with their sales total.

I refer to this booth as my "Pink Booth" in Williamston:

 

For those of you into "thrifting", may I suggest you "thrift" your way through the antique malls too?  Contrary to what some may believe, antique malls don't just sell expensive antiques.  You will find deals and bargains in just about any antique mall.  I always do, and I'm looking to buy things at a wholesale price!  Many dealers price their goods according to how much they paid for the items, so if they got a deal on something, you get a deal too!  And these folks have experience, connections, and the knowledge to dig up great stuff from many sources. 

Dealers Rich and Denny have their space at AMW filled with cool mid-century objects,  like these aluminum drinking glasses:

 

The beauty of antique malls, for dealers, is that we don't have to be there for our things to sell. There is staff on duty every day, waiting on customers and writing up sales.  The beauty for buyers, besides clean restrooms, ample parking, and sometimes a cafe or refreshments, is that you will find a huge collection of antiques and collectibles under one roof.  The sellers might offer the gamut from vintage clothing and accessories to sports collectibles, from jewelry to man stuff like vintage tools, from porcelain and glass table ware to furniture representing each decade since the mid-1800's.

This old wagon with blue paint is offered by Sally Arnold:

 

This booth is my second space at the Antiques Market of Williamston.  I want shoppers to find affordabe things they can use to add flair to their decor.  I don't have anything really rare or outrageously expensive in this booth.  Just good stuff for good people:

 

I loved this heavily embossed toffee tin, and it sold right away.  This is an example of something you might want to buy just because you like the way it looks, not because you are an expert in the collecting category of advertising tins:

 

Another fabulous find at the AMW is this rubber band store display:

 
 
Visiting a book dealer is an education in itself.  At AMW, this dealer has a collection of "Oz" stories, some written by L. Frank Baum, the originator and author of the Wizard of Oz, and some by other authors, like this "Scalawagons of Oz", by John R. Neal.  I love the fanciful cover art on "Scalawagons":

 

Mall owner Bob Rogers has a general store setup where he sells all sorts of vintage household products, tools, advertising, and old store goods:

 

Now let's look around the Livingston Antiques Outlet, located on Burkhart Road in Howell, Michigan.

 

I was attracted to this colorful tin full of thread at LAO:

 

I'm pretty sure I had a shovel like this when I was a kid.  The handle kept coming off during shoveling, as I recall, sending the metal part flying.  I almost decapitated my dog with it!  Tin litho toys and tools for kids were often left in the damp garage or outside and rusted, making some of these things quite valuable now:

 

This LAO dealer is on the ball, removing Valentine stuff and bringing in fresh green goodies in preparation for St. Patrick's Day:

 

Many dealers have created a completly unique look in their booths, and you can get "free" decorating ideas from them.  Here's a very beautiful, feminine booth at LAO:

 

Colorful tin litho tops are affordable and make a fun collection:

 

I love the droll expression on these space man syrup bottles:

 

I was so intent on taking pictures around LAO, I forgot to photograph my own booths!  I guess I'll show you one I took last summer:

  

Let's wrap up our antique mall visits here in my LAO booth, which happens to be right by the restrooms.  This is prime real estate.  The restrooms are the busiest space in any antique mall, at least that's what I've observed.  Thanks for taking a tour of the malls, y'all!

 Mitzi

Field Trip to a Christmas Craft Sale

For the past 36 years the Mason, Michigan community has hosted a unique craft sale.  The area, which includes rural territory around the small town of Mason, distributes maps to participating home crafters and artist studios who open their doors to the public for three days in November.  This year, there were 15 homes included in the show, such as The Toffee House, legendary English toffee producer; The Wooden Shoe Herb Farm; and Chris Ann-tiques, my destination in Dansville, Michigan.

I stuck my camera out my car window to capture this picturesque Methodist church in downtown Dansville, a village of around 400 people:

Chris Rogers, crafter extraordinaire and Dansville resident, is also the owner, with her husband Bob, of the Antiques Market of Williamston.  Chris spends most of the year preparing for her sale, which is very well attended.  So well attended that by the time I made it there on the last day, she apologized for such a great quantity of her creations being sold already.  Since I didn't really know what I was missing, I thought her sale looked great!

Chris is lucky enough to have her own detached craft studio and emporium behind her house.  Next to that is an even smaller, folksy structure to house more goodies, and next to that is an genuine, adorable outhouse.  Yes, I said "adorable" and "outhouse" in the same sentence.  We're talking the old-timey outhouses with the crescent moon on the door.  Adorable, at least from the outside....

The epicenter of Chris' crafting hamlet is the largest of the three structures behind her home, with a welcoming front porch:

 

 

Wouldn't you love to have a little nook like this to decorate and fill with your creations?

 

Pictured below is the outhouse.  It's just there for looks....people in Dansville generally have indoor plumbing.  But when is the last time you saw a classic like this one?

 

On the porch of Chris' main shop is this chippy white cupboard housing some vintage goodies:

 

I just love the casual display of old Christmas ornies in their original boxes:

 

This welcoming trio of teddies were handmade by Chris.  Can you believe the prices?  Only $12 for the two smaller fellows and $15 for the larger guy.  Best of all, they're handmade right here in Michigan:

 

Chris decorates lighted papier mache houses with her own magical winter sparkle:

 

 

Irresistible homemade candles, housed in cinnamon-wax covered cans.  A perfect "secret Santa" or teacher gift:

 

ln one room, a white Christmas tree was decorated with red glittered ornaments and poinsettia garlands.  It looked great paired with red, white & blue paper bells in a patriotic display:

 

Chris won't mind if you steal this idea:  Make a ruffle from vintage tablecloths and attach it to a crate, turn sideways and mount it on the wall for a great looking primitive shelf:

 

l almost had a meltdown when I spotted these adorable ears of corn made from vintage white candlewick bedspreads, painted yellow and grunged-up for a great prim look.  This is up-cycling at its best:

 

Chris has been an antique dealer for many years, and has a large collection of primitive sock dolls.  Her own handmade rag dolls look vintage, with a homespun folksy appeal:

 

The flash from my camera nearly melted a couple of these adorable snowmen.  Sorry, guys!

 

Although I know Chris was pleased with the turnout for her sale and the volume of items sold, I get the feeling that she doesn't do this for the money.  Like many artists and crafters, Chris loves the process of creating, keeping her hands busy all year in her cozy home, with her beagle Morgan for company.  She's probably gathering materials for next year's sale already!

Many of Chris' creations are on sale at the Antiques Market of Williamston, where vendors sell handmade Christmas decor along with their antiques through the holiday season.  It's open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.  A holiday open house is coming up December 4th, with a wonderful array of complimentary treats for customers and sale specials throughout the mall.  You'll see this welcoming sight in the foyer:

 

And this:

 
 
 Everyone is welcome to the open house, no invitation necessary.  See you there, OK?

Mitzi

Return to Anthro! (Anthropologie)

Last month I visited my folks in Naples, Florida, and made several special trips to various hot spots around town.  Actually, every spot in town was HOT, 95 degrees to be exact, with high humidity.  I fired up my camera and headed to Anthropologie, where they were kind enough to allow some photos after I asked.

Here we have their store window, with a sparse display using painted wood slats:

Pretty colors:

 

I've never owned a hammock before.  Maybe it's because I only have one tree in my backyard.

Now this is the type of thing I expect from Anthro!  You might wonder what they did with the part they cut off of the bottles.  Well, they used them for votive holders.  Very clever! 

 

These canvas hangings appeared to be done in charcoal, and looked better in person than in this pic:

 

Here is something I might try.....I've got lots of mismatched dinnerware that could be stacked and glued to make an interesting stand.

 

I'm still fascinated by Anthro's mirrors that have silvering removed and wallpaper or handwriting appearing through the glass, like these examples.  I made my own version of these last summer:

 

How many hours do you think went into the creation of this felted ball rug?  I hope who ever made this got paid fairly.  In their catalog, Anthropologie is asking $2998 for the 8 x 10 size of this.......

Next we have some of the world's most charming tea towels:

Why do I like this twisted wire "frame"?  I think it's because the appealingly homemade appearance makes me dream of making one myself:

The crowning glory of the dressing room is this large mirror that has wallpaper peeking through some bare spots.  I love it!

Galvanized funnels housing live plants:

 

An alcove housing initial mugs and miscellaneous goods.  Notice the stacks of books used in the display:

Have you been watching "Man Shops Globe", a series on the Sundance Channel?  The show is all about Keith Johnson, the buyer for Anthropologie, following him and sometimes his dog as he travels the world looking for interesting goods to sell or use for Anthro's famed eye-catching displays.  I propose that we create another show, "Woman Shops USA"......I'll bet we could come up with some great stuff right here in our country!

After Anthro, I went to Nordstrom's department store, which is luxurious, cool, and a totally different feel than Anthro.  I wasn't even planning to take pictures there, but when I saw this perfume bottle display I had to ask the nearest salesperson if I could snap a few:

This display reminds me of the episode of The Andy Griffith Show when Opie broke the bottle of perfume while he was working in the drugstore, and replaced it with the expensive real thing, only to find out later the bottle he broke was just colored water.  What lesson did he learn?  Don't break stuff!

I hope the reason the Waterside shopping mall is deserted at mid-afternoon is due to the heat, not the state of the economy.  I have a feeling it's a bit of both:

While in Florida, I also visited another store that I won't name, and snapped lots of pictures without asking permission.  To make a long story short, I've been banned from the store.  Seriously.  What lesson did I learn?  Always ask the management if photos are allowed!

As always, I appreciate you spending a few minutes reading my blog today.  Have a great week, friends!

Mitzi
 

Field Trip to the New Lambs' Gate in Old Town, Lansing

This weekend I'm going to take you on a quick tour of a new destination antique store in Lansing, Michigan.  Just in case you are from out of state and are thinking about visiting Michigan, I can hook you up with a couple great spots to shop for antiques.  Just click on my "Field Trips" link.  Our state has been hard hit by the recession, and the only positive outcome of that is the sensible and reasonable prices you'll find on vintage treasures.  Why not take advantage of it?

On today's Field Trip we are visitng the new Lambs' Gate's satellite store in Old Town Lansing.  Old Town is our little quaint area of fun shops in Lansing, some artsy, some "antiquey", and of course some fun restaurants actually owned by Mom and Pop, not some restaurant chain.  Just look at the character of these buildings in Old Town:

 

The exterior of Lambs' Gate is charming and inviting.  You won't find an entrance like this in a strip mall:

 

Once inside, you'll find a welcoming set of mohair furniture from the 1930's.  Sometimes I wonder if 90% or more of the furniture and rugs made in the 1930's are this color.  It was extremely popular:

 

This great architectural piece is the crowning glory of Lambs' Gate, a piece that was original to the building.   Don't you just love the little metal petals around each light bulb?  There's probably a name for those and if so, I'd love to know what it is:

You can buy this entire bar, throw it in your van, and have it set up for tonight's party!

Another great item for sale at Lambs' Gate is this cast iron street sign, a real piece of Lansing history:

 

Carol Lamb, the owner of Lambs' Gate, always has an eye for trends as well as classic antiques that appeal to old school collectors.  Make sure to visit both the Grand Ledge Lambs' Gate and the new store on Turner Street in Lansing's Old Town.

A Midwinter Antique Show in Mason, Michigan

Last weekend I carved out enough time, which is always in short supply around here, to make a quick trip to Mason, Michigan, to attend a yearly event that I'm quite fond of.  Sandy Pier, a well known and respected antique dealer in these parts had her annual winter antique show at the Cobblestone Events Center, one of several buildings that make up the Mason Antiques District.  Pictured below is the photogenic Front Porch and Loft Antiques building, right across the street from the show: 

I asked each dealer if I could take pictures, and all were agreeable. Look at the bursts of vibrant color in Annie's booth, in the form of German papier-mache poultry nodders and candy containers:

 

Some great old household product tins, another one of my weaknesses:

 

I love the "Dri-Kleen Dog Bath".  It was made by Hartz Co., who's still around making fish food and such, and still using that distinctive orange color:

A few more tins, including "Yummy" brand malted milk:

And now a couple of my fabulous finds that came home with me, a wonderful Victorian-era autograph book and a handful of rhinestone jewels:

Inside the autograph book were some of the nicest calling cards I've ever seen, page after page of beauty, many embellished with silk fringe, braided trim, or ribbon...

Another example, with scalloped and pierced edges threaded with ribbon.  They don't get much better than this:

A profusion of mesh, enameled mesh, and beaded purses in the booth of dealer Fred Muse....

 

The booth of Carol Lamb, my good friend and owner of Lambs' Gate antiques, had some darling Beatrix Potter figurines and a cute bunny that long ago must have been nestled in an Easter basket:

I made a few purchases in Carol's booth, including two wicker purses with wonderful embellishments.  These wicker purses are on my "Hot List", something I am actively looking for right now:

I love these cherries and the pretty velvet ribbon:

I was inexplicably drawn to a pile of collars for only $1.00 each, and purchased several that I hope to re-purpose into something when inspiration strikes.  The porcelain "H" and "C" handles, originally used for bathroom sinks, are going to somehow become jewelry:

My last purchase from the show was this grouping of wood fabric-printing blocks that were made in India.  I think they are wonderfully designed, and I hope to use them for their intended purpose eventually.  In the meantime, they make a quirky display:

The rabbit is especially cute, and a fitting symbol for spring, which is right around the corner:

When I visit Mason, I always check out each of the cluster of individual antique stores in the Antique District, including Peddlar's Row, two long structures of open stalls that house the wares of individual antique dealers, many offering "in the rough" goods and other objects with potential; the Mason Antiques Market; Yankee Traders; the Carriage Stop; and the Old Mill Antique Mall, all within walking distance of each other.  There is also a newer multi-dealer antique mall downtown, the Columbia Street Antique Mall, which shouldn't be missed (but on this day I didn't have time, and hence, no pictures). 

Happy Collecting,

Mitzi

An Educational Field Trip to Naples, Florida

I'm still sifting through my stockpile of photos from my Christmas vacation to Naples, Florida, where my folks live.  Whenever I'm there, we comb through at least four or five antique malls, and luckily the workers at each mall allowed me to take pictures inside (I always ask before snapping away, and so far nobody has said "no").  In a previous post, I shared some pics of goodies from the Shirley Street Antique Mall.  Today, I'd like to visit Treasure Island, which is just a couple blocks away at 950 Central Avenue.

First we have some Clarice Cliff pottery, something that can be very rare and sought-after, depending on which design line you are talking about.  Clarice Cliff designed for English potteries during the Art Deco period through the post-WWII years, and her more traditional designs are nice, but collectors are really after her 1920's-30's Deco-era, innovative forms and vibrantly colored wares such as "Fantasque" and "Bizarre Ware" lines, like the plates and the vase below:

Sorry about the showcase glare, but a collection like this is very hard to come by, and worthy of sharing. The prices on these vases range from $2,000-$3,000!

These are totally hand painted, and you can see the brush strokes on the trees below:

Can you see why Clarice Cliff has so many fans?  I love the bold colors and the highly stylized natural forms. Right now I have a set of "Tonquin" pattern china, which was designed by Clarice Cliff but produced after WWII.  Tonquin is a very conservative Victorian transfer ware design.  After the war, more traditional designs were in demand, and the innovative Art Deco designs of Cliff were passe. The value for a "Tonquin" dinner plate is about $10, at least here in Michigan.

Here is a Tonquin plate from my antique mall booth:

Then we have vintage Lily Pulitzer.  Once again, I appreciate the colors, although I don't think the Lily Pulitzer look is for me....

 

I also love the mix of transfer ware that this Treasure Island dealer has, all displayed in a charming blue cupboard:

Just a little tidbit about Blue Willow (the blue platter above is an example of the familiar Blue Willow pattern):  The motifs, which are distinctly Asian, were actually created by an English designer 1780, and copied numerous times with slight variations by factories all over the world ever since.  Next time you watch the "Andy Griffith Show", pay attention to the fine collection of Blue Willow Aunt Bea has displayed in a cabinet in her kitchen.  Even in black and white, Blue Willow is easily recognized.  And you will appreciate this pattern even more once you view a close-up of this platter and read the story of the pattern below:

 

The Story Of Blue Willow

Long ago, in the days when China was ruled by emperors, a Chinese mandarin, Tso Ling, lived in the magnificent pagoda under the branches of the apple tree on the right of the bridge, over which droops the famous willow tree, and in front of which is seen the graceful lines of a fence. Tso Ling was the father of a beautiful girl, Kwang-se, who was the promised bride of an old but wealthy merchant. The girl, however, fell in love with Chang, her father’s clerk. The lovers eloped across the sea to the cottage on the island. The mandarin pursued and caught the lovers on a bridge and was about to have them killed when the gods transformed them into a pair of turtle doves. These are seen gazing into each others' eyes at the top of the design.

  Can you see the three figures running across the bridge on the lower left side?

Next we have Capodimonte.  Capodimonte is a manufacturer from Naples, Italy that made these highly decorated ceramic forms.  The original Capodimonte factory started production in the late 1700's.  There are many factories that have produced similar wares, some of poor quality, that can be confused with true Capodimonte.

 

I love the over-the-top-ness of Capodimonte, and of course the lovely colors. 

Other ceramic home decor vessels and figures were created in Staffordshire, England, including the dogs and sheep below.  I think they are charmingly naive.  There are also some high-quality bisque children in this picture, probably German-made:

 

I'm a fan of fancy metal filigree dresser accouterments and perfume decanters.  What a fun collection they would make!  I also like Bristol glass, like the pink vase in the back of the picture below:

A wall of clocks.  These don't sell for me, but maybe this dealer has better luck......

What craft project was popular with Victorian-era women?  Making little trinket boxes, pincushions, and miniature tchochkes out of shells, like these examples:

I've sold some of these shell art novelties myself, in the form of miniature fireplaces, vanities, and even a little doghouse.  These can sell for as much as $300 for an unusual piece!

 

If gold isn't your thing, there's plenty of silver at Treasure Island, like these dresser jars with sterling and silver plate lids:

 

More fancy filigree, this time on picture frames.  Aren't these divine?

A little German-made half doll.  These were often sewn onto a pincushion formed like a skirt, or a little whisk broom:

 

The boudoir doll below has been re-clothed at some point, and has had some "work done" on her face.  These dolls were produced in the 1920's-50's for girls to put on their beds, not for children to play with.  They are prone to chipping on their faces, and often require touching-up:

I love this tulip-clutching gal in her ornate frame:

Some Kewpie huggers and a few highly coveted bathing beauties:

I really enjoy sharing a bit of information about antiques and collectibles like I have in this post.  My hope is that a spark might light in someone out there, who will then begin a collection or have a new appreciation for antiques.  There is so much to discover, so much history to uncover!  Much more interesting than shopping for stuff at Target, wouldn't you agree?

Happy Collecting,

Mitzi

Field Trip to Naples Florida, Part 1

I've already posted about my trip to Anthropologie, one of the "hot spots" I love to visit when I'm in Naples, Florida.  But since my family is heavily involved in antiques, we always comb a couple antique malls even before considering a trip to Anthropologie or even the beach.  We have our priorities!  So let me share a few photos from the Shirley Street Antiques Mall first.  It's actually not located on Shirley Street any longer, if you visit Naples you'll want to go to 50 Goodlette Road South.  My mom has a large showcase there, crammed with majolica, jewelry, sterling silver, and other goodies.

My mom always has a selection of golden trinket boxes.  This one has the original silk lining, which is often missing.  Bisque flapper girl dolls are always great too....

One of several beaded purses in my mom's showcase.  I love the periwinkle beads used here:

In another dealer's showcase, a few bracelets!  I could look at jewelry all day......

 

I just love yoyo quilts, and this one is unusually nice.  It is made from tightly stitched taffeta, not the usual feedsack fabric.  The colors are divine......

 

You can see how small and well-made the yoyos are.....

I love this line-up of mid-century glass in the large windows.....

Here we have some great Florida kitsch.  One thing about taking pictures of showcase items:  you can't arrange them or move the price tags out of camera view.  Oh well....

More ceramic kitsch.....

Here we have an assortment of dog brooches, all priced at $9.99.  Lots of poodles!

I love anything with "pie eyes", like this Florida orange reamer:

 

Kind-of-creepy but very collectible kitchen string holders....

A nice selection of made-in-Japan bathing beauties and a blue diver who seems to be threatening them.  There is one coveted German bathing beauty in the back left.  These sell for around $150.  Seriously!

 

Here is a ceramic cougar that has been painstakingly covered in Swarovski crystals.  One of the dealers at Shirley Street makes these herself, along with lots of creative jewelry and shell art.....

One example of the shell art....

Oh darn, these weren't my size....

 

A rose-covered vintage purse.....

 

I couldn't get over this screen, apparently made of black rattan which was lit from the center.  Very mid-century, which is not my style, but still worthy of mention......

This chair's upholstery has a 1970's look to it.  It's parked next to the end of the rattan screen.  You can get a better idea of the thickness of the substantial screen........

My mom in front of the mall.....

 

That's all for Shirley Street.  I have more Florida pics coming up in a future post.

Mitzi

Field Trip to Anthropologie

When I returned from Christmas in Naples, Florida, I had over 300 pictures to edit.  When there, I politely asked antique mall workers around town and store managers at Waterside Shops if I could take pictures inside their stores, and all agreed it was OK, so therefore I was able to capture quite a few images of creative displays and gorgeous goods.

While at Waterside Shops in Naples I paid homage to the store worshiped by everyone from tweenies to stylish older women, the one and only Anthropologie, affectionately known as "Anthro" to it's devotees.  Let me count the ways why I love this store.....never mind, let's just check out some photos with captions instead, and save my blathering!

This Christmas tree includes everything from silverware to doll heads to Monopoly money.  How clever!

 

Next we have a dishware cabinet, the last shelf filled with loose corn kernels, in which the ceramic wares are nestled:

 

I love the brightly colored mushroom motif on this ceramic plate:

 

My opinion of machine embroidery quickly changed after I saw these pillows:

 

Here we have mixed-media necklaces, for lack of a better term.  They include yoyos, which are one of my favorite things!

 

Two hot trends here, the fabric flowers and feathers used on these hair accessories:

 

Something for the bling-ophiles:

 

Here we have the mirrors that inspired me to make my own version using vintage wallpaper, Mod Podge and Easy Off Oven Cleaner to remove parts of the silvering:

 

I don't think these are for sale, so if you want one of your own, you'll have to make it.  They are so easy, take my word for it!

 

Anthropologie's use of corrugated cardboard is ingenious....

 

It won't be long before I go dumpster-diving for corrugated goodness so I can try this myself:

 

Here we have metal letters and a collection of yardsticks along with a large letter:

Pastel flowers embellish the sweater and add a focal point to a pearl necklace:

Books that have been sprinkled with faux snow:

 

Next we have the inevitable sale table.  I guess people didn't respond well to brown figural candles this year....

Galvanized metal funnels were used to house tree ornaments:

Chartreuse is one of my favorite colors, and a ruffled blouse looks so fresh in their window display:

    

The outdoor windows were filled with these huge paper puffs.  Hopefully, these are a form of recycling, otherwise it seems like a waste of mounds of paper....

 

After the Anthro experience, I toddled over to Juicy Couture, another store that has some unusual displays that incorporate vintage items, like these old hat boxes:

 

They have lots of huge apothecary jars full of candy, like these two in front of an ornate gold framed collage:

 

I'll end this post with two shots of the unusual Christmas decor at Waterside Shops.......

 


 
  
  
   

Field Trip to Owosso, Michigan

Last weekend I toddled over to Owosso to go to an estate sale.  Owosso is an All-American town about 45 miles from Lansing.  Their website states  that Owosso is "a pleasant, unpretentious community of fewer than 20,000 people with solid midwestern values - a place where residents clearly take pride in their surroundings" .

Although almost all the leaves have fallen, the day was gorgeous with blue skies and some opportunities to snap a few photos around town on my way to the sale.

 

Why is the Owosso sign in the shape of a castle?  Well, Owosso is the home town of James Oliver Curwood, who was a very popular author and an early environmentalist ("the greatest thrill is not to kill but to let go").  He was born in 1878 and achieved the height of popularity in the 1920's, when many of his books were made into movies.  His "castle" was built in 1925, and he authored many novels sitting in the turret overlooking the Shiawassee River, although his actual residence was a few blocks away.  He died in 1929 from blood poisoning caused by a spider bite he received on a fishing trip to Florida.  So by my calculations, he only enjoyed his beautiful castle for four years. How sad!

If you have a pile of vintage books in your stash, or if you visit an antique mall, look through the books and chances are you will find something authored by Curwood. 

 

I have to share several views of the castle...

 

How would you like to write your e-mails or blog posts sitting in the turret, overlooking the river?

 

I just love the stone work, slate roof, and the cheerful yellow paint color used at Curwood Castle.  The arched doors with iron strap work remind me of Snow White's cottage:

Curwood Castle is now a museum that wasn't open when I arrived, so I couldn't take any pics of the interior.  Maybe next time!

As I continued on towards the estate sale, I had to capture a few more pics of Owosso landmarks.  I think this home has a great chippy paint Shabby Chic look to it.  This is actually called "Italianate" architecture which was popular during the Victorian era (I've taken a couple architecture classes that were fascinating, and one thing I learned is how to identify various styles of buildings).  I just love this house....

 

Although originally a private home, it is now divided into several apartments.  They seem to have plenty of room....

 

Owosso was also home to Woodard Furniture Company, which made wrought iron furniture that was sold all over the U.S.   If you have a set of vintage iron patio furniture, check for a maker's mark.  You might have a set made right here in this factory!

Here we have the Owosso Casket Company.  This company was started by Lyman Woodard before he began Woodard Furniture Company.  Lyman Woodard also owned a lumberyard between these two factories, right next to the railroad tracks.  Years ago, many furniture companies made caskets along with bedroom sets and other household furniture, and caskets were sold right out of furniture stores instead of through the funeral homes like they are today.  Makes sense, doesn't it? 

 

After soaking in some sun and the beauty of these old structures, I was almost disappointed when I finally arrived at the estate sale, which was held here:

 

It didn't take me long to find some treasures that were jam-packed into the house, garage, and barn, like a set of four shutters for $10.00.  I plan to make a folding screen with them:

 

I bought this shabby door too.  Why?  Because it is a small size and I'm planning to use it for a decoupage project.  I'm going to attach various vintage wallpaper patterns to the glass:

 

My finds from inside the house included stuff like bags of sewing notions, trims, a postage-stamp pattern quilt, baby shoes, wooden bowls, and more:

These folks collected unusual things, such as match holders and tea tiles:

 

 

Proving that one should never leave any stone unturned, I opened a cloudy baggie and found a fabulous collection of Victorian-era calling cards.  There must be over 60 of these!

The estate sale was pretty good, but I just didn't feel satisfied as I drove back into town.  Maybe I needed a snack.  Along the way was a convenience store with this appetizing ice cream cone next to a sign for Walt's Crawlers.  This reminded me of a sign my parents used to laugh about on the way to their cottage years ago.  A gas station had a sign that read "Coffee Worms Doughnuts". 

 

I passed on the worms and the ice cream, but decided to head downtown to an antique mall called "Treasures", which I had never explored before.  They have a restaurant there, where I ordered something tasty and fast, then I combed the mall for deals.

 

I found a slew of old candy and food tins, the best of which was this cocoa tin:

 

I'm really starting to love these glass flowers that were popular during the 1950's.  Some might think they're tacky, but I love the colors and the fact that they are glass, not plastic.  I was excited to pick up this three-piece set of two candle holders and a centerpiece:

 

In the basement of the antique mall there were hundreds of bottles.  I picked up quite a few that would be suitable for altered art purposes, and bought this crate to haul them home in:

 

A few more colorful tins, two beaded baskets, and a rabbit chocolate mold that was a steal at $22.00:

 

My trip to Owosso was memorable, not just because of the goodies I purchased, but because of the pictures I captured around town.  I have to admit that if it wasn't for this blog, I probably wouldn't have even taken my camera with me, let alone visited Curwood Castle.  I can see where blogging might have a side benefit of making me appreciate my surroundings a little more!

Tomorrow is "Black Friday", and many folks will be lining up a ridiculous hours to get some "deal" at one of the big box or department stores.  But in my world, the real "deals" are things like the rabbit chocolate mold for $22.00, the baggie full of unexpected calling cards, or the perfectly weathered set of shutters for $10.00.  So on Black Friday, I don't have to get up earlier than usual.  I hope to find a "deal" at an antique mall, flea market, eBay, or Etsy.  You too?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mitzi

Field Trip to the Antiques Market of Williamston

I've been waiting to write about the Antiques Market of Williamston until I captured some good outdoor photos of the huge building, which I finally accomplished.  

The AMW is under new ownership, recently purchased by Bob and Chris Rogers, who have been heavily involved in the mall for many years as dealers and Bob as the manager.  Once they purchased the AMW, they began some wonderful improvements for dealers and customers using their never-ending creativity.  Even the bathrooms got a makeover, and I was given the challenge of redecorating the ladies' room.  This turned out to be a huge undertaking for me, because I had a vision of a golden, glamorous and warm space which required painting from top to toe.  To add interest to the ceiling, Bob helped me install an assortment of gold picture frames and a chandelier:

Once inside the AMW, there is so much to see!  One of Bob's specialties is sports memorabilia.  He made this chair using hockey patches and varsity letters.  How creative is that?

Here is a child-size adirondack chair.  Totally cute!

Each booth reflects the dealer's taste and unique style. Sherry and Norv just created this elegant space to showcase their Victorian-era items:

I love this Super Market sign in Christie and Richard's booth:

My friend Sally has a large space to showcase her furniture and all sorts of other delights:

This little lamb is so charming.  I love the old gold paint over the milk glass:

I'm always looking for things with lots of little drawers to store my craft supplies.   I might add this vintage hardware store fixture to my wish list:

Another storage option including cubbies and lots of drawers in the King's booth:

Lloyd and Juanita have this Poultry Service Station sign.  I think it's charming:

I have been selling my wares at the AMW since 2000.  There is such a great group of knowledgeable and experienced antique dealers there.  I have learned so much, and bought so much!

Wouldn't this sign be a great focal point in someone's kitchen?

If you collect holiday items, Russ and Pat won't let you down.  They have this great selection of Halloween goodies right now:

Halloween collectibles are so hot right now, I hardly ever have the opportunity to purchase them at auctions for a reasonable price.  I wish I knew where Russ and Pat find all their stuff!

Thanks for accompanying me on this field trip.  Be sure to visit the AMW if you come to beautiful Michigan!

Field Trip to the Livingston Antique Outlet

Prior to our annual Labor Day sale, I took a few pictures while I tidied up my rented spaces at the Livingston Antique Outlet (LAO), which is located right off I-96 at 1825 Burkhart Road in Howell, Michigan.  I have two separate booth spaces there, one which is a primitive/shabby theme and the other a more masculine booth, where I put all my stuff that has guy appeal.  At Mitzi's Collectibles, we cover a lot of territory!

The LAO is a huge mall, over 32,000 square feet.  Owners Jeff and Lori Wengle are always enthusiastic and have done a great job continuously promoting the mall.  They have a great website which you can see here. The parking lot is often overflowing with cars, which is awesome, and the mall gets a lot of new customers from the clothing outlet mall situated nearby.  I try to have some things for sale such as candles and potpourri for the customers that aren't so sure about buying antiques.  I sell a lot of candles!  My hope is that something in the mall will spark their interest and they will become hooked on antiques like the rest of us!

I made the sign for the guy booth with a shirt and some stick-on letters:

I love groupings of old apothecary bottles:

The Horatio Alger books appeal to men:

The graphics on this hat box are fantastic:

I try to keep tobacco tins and other advertising items in stock:

In my other booth, I have always done well selling teddy bears, and try to keep a couple in my showcase at all times:

For a couple dollars you can buy a flower frog and cabinet photo, like the example below.  I also sell little yoyo mats in various sizes that are quite popular:

Here are the candles:

 

My neighbor Anita at LAO has an absolutely fabulous booth.  She has a flair for display, using such everyday materials as crumpled paper, gravel, and stray bird feathers.

 

Here's one last shot of her booth, showing the exterior:

There are many, many other dealer spaces to discover at LAO.  In case you work up an appetite while you are shopping, LAO has you covered!  They serve hot dogs, snacks, and ice cream sundaes.  I guarantee you won't leave LAO hungry or empty handed.  I hope you can stop by!