The Vintage Years-Finding Vintage in NJ

Bohemian Yard Sale

2011-07-10T17:59:00.000-07:00

The Craigslist post advertised a "bohemian yard sale" with an actress and costume designer having cleaned out her closet and selling her wares. I'm there!! It was worth the trip out of my own town, and into East Brunswick:

Here are Jennifer Caswell and Francesco Paladino, and their daughter Lulu...they were two of the hosts of the sale, along with their friend Penny, a costume designer (the fabulous gowns were hers).

And here are more of their incredible items:

I bought the yellow repro railroad lamp...it had been part of an Anthropologie window display! I also bought this fabulous bag:

As usual, everyone was very nice, and I stayed to chat for quite a while. That's the beauty of garage sales...great finds, great people...what's not to love!

South Brunswick's Americal Legion Auxiliary Flea Market

2011-06-26T15:34:00.000-07:00

On a perfect summer weekend when it's not raining, the humidity is low, and the sun is shining, crowds of people head to the Jersey Shore. Not me! I scour Craigslist and the South Brunswick Post (and Patch) for garage sales and flea markets. And what's better than a flea market? A flea market practically in your back yard, with practically professional vendors!

While there isn't a huge amount of outside space at the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 401 on Major Road in Monmouth Junction, the vendors were arranged to make the most of what room they could. I lost count of how many tables I visited, but they seemed endless! And the finds!! Vintage galore in all varieties; clothing, jewelry, kitchen items, and my favorite...a bowl full of vintage scouting merit badges. Many of the vendors were collectors with top quality items, and they really knew their stuff.

Aren't these post cards the coolest?

Debbie Katko is the artist who created these beautiful paintings. She can sometimes be found at Englishtown, but if you would like to purchase one of her paintings, contact me by leaving a comment on this blog post.

I just love these merit badges...so vintage!

Local organizations like churches, schools, etc. and this week, the American Legion, often hold flea markets, and their space fees for vendors are typically reasonable ($10-$20). They attract collectors with fabulous items, who are vendors at many of the local flea markets...I recognized several from my weekend "picking". The vendors are friendly and knowledgeable, and I usually do as much socializing as buying. All in all, it's a GREAT place to score some terrific finds, and meet some nice people, as well as support the local organization hosting the event (the organizations usually raises funds from the vendor space fee, but I can't speak for all events). If you're like me, and love to rummage through flea market tables, I highly recommend the locally-sponsored "fleas". Having said that, if you regret missing the one at the American Legion, or if you want to visit the vendors again, many of them can be found at the Columbus Flea Market, or the Englishtown Flea Market. Be sure to keep your eye out for future local fleas as well...maybe I'll see you out there!

Mona Kay

Saint Augustine's Columbiettes Garage Sale

2011-06-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

Note: While I typically post about events right after they occur, several factors, including illness, delayed this post. However, here it is...enjoy!

With spring and summer, comes garage sales, and with garage sales come sales for a good cause. These are my favorite! While Garage Sale Divas, Thrifters, Junkers, etc. are great people anyway, there's nothing better than getting such like-minded people together to support something worthwhile. The Saint Augustine’s Columbiettes of Kendall Park provided just such an opportunity two weeks ago.

From a member:

"Saint Augustine’s Columbiettes, of Kendall park, held a very successful garage and bake sale on Saturday, May 21 with the support of the South Brunswick community. What is unique is that all the items were donated and 100 percent of the proceeds will be given to a wide range of charities to help those in need. One of those to benefit will be a very special boy from the parish school, Edward Migliari, as his family is facing significant medical expenses resulting from his cancer.

The Columbiettes, is an almost-60-year-old Catholic women’s international organization affiliated with the Knights of Columbus. They are dedicated, caring women, committed to helping those in need as well as those serving our country in the military.

St. Augustine's Columbiettes will be celebrating their tenth anniversary this June 5th with a self-paid dinner at Pierre' Restaurant. During those ten years, they have raised thousands of dollars which were given directly to support many local folk in need for a variety of reasons as well as yearly scholarships to several students.

Their next fund-raiser is the Annual Spaghetti Dinner to be held in October."

They had a wonderful collection of items....I wanted to buy every single one of those painted signs! I also would have taken home all those lampshades if I hadn't remembered that I was tripping over a stack of them in my storage, still waiting for their refurbishing adventures. I did, however, buy a box of veneer for furniture repair, and some gorgeous porcelain blue and white floral (my favorite!) switch plates. Everyone was lovely and friendly...I hope they do another garage sale soon!

Have a great week...see you at next week's garage sales!
Mona Kay

Flea Marketing in Kendall Park

2011-05-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like a community flea market right in your neighborhood! Willows Swim Club in Kendall Park, NJ hosted a flea market this past Saturday, and I had a lot of fun meeting the very friendly vendors. Some are my neighbors, some are artists, some are local business people...ALL are terrific people who got up early on a chilly, over-cast weekend morning to haul their treasures from their vehicles to a spot in the Willows parking lot.

Brushill Nursery and Landscaping had a spot with information on their services and plants to kick off the gardening season. My booth neighbor bought some gorgeous pepper plants that made me want to start a garden of my own.

Another booth run by Cyd Webster, author of Struck by Lightning and other bolts of reality

If like me, you grew up in Kendall Park, the Willows Swim Club is an institution, its seasonal opening signaling the end of school and the beginning of lazy summer days. It boasts a 6 lane 25 meter pool, 2 diving boards, shallow section, separate kiddie pool, volleyball and basketball courts, and 2 tennis courts. They are located at 22 Sand Hills Road in Kendall Park, and membership is currently available.

It's great to have flea market and garage sale season in full swing!! I'll see you all out there. Fair warning...I brake for vintage dressers!!

Mona Kay

Junking Karma

2011-05-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Like any rookie, I am still learning my way around the "junking world". I'm starting to know where to find the best stuff, what is timeless and what is trendy - who knew there were trends in "junk"? I'm learning where I can haggle, and where I can't (fundraisers, Goodwill shops). I learned early that junking people are nice, and that good manners can pay off in spades.

So this weekend when someone running an estate sale was a bit on the nasty side, I was taken aback, but I kept my temper (not an easy thing for me), and moved on. I hated to miss the cute little chair that I had spotted, but it was not meant to be. When the pursuit of an item stops being fun, sometimes even if I win the thing, I just never have a good feeling about it; it's so much nicer to enjoy the experience as well as the piece you fall in love with!

So I was surprised and delighted when I spotted a darling old chair at a garage sale in my neighborhood on the way home!! No Victorian tufted velvet, padded armed delicate piece.... I instantly fell in love with its character, its almost ugliness.

Imagine my astonishment when I saw the price!

The people selling it couldn't have been nicer; I stayed chatting after I made the purchase. They put it aside for me so that I could fetch my CR-V to load it up.

I don't even care how hideous the upholstery is...it is so delightfully vintage, and VERY COMFY!! I curled up in it this morning with my coffee and nearly went back to sleep.

I believe in garage sale/thrift shop/junking karma, now more than ever. I try to be patient and polite, which is usually pretty easy, because like I said, "junking" people are nice! I'm amazed at how many times I have to forgo an item which has stolen my heart, only to find a different, sometimes better one around the corner....junking is just funny that way.

What has Junking Karma sent your way??

Mona Kay

Salvage Goods - Urban Chic Antiques

2010-12-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

Salvage Goods in Easton, PA is not your typical antiques shop, a fact which is evident from the moment you walk through the door. Every item my eyes fell on, I wanted immediately - I could easily and happily re-do my whole house from this shop. I can also name about a dozen people who could do the same, and with whom I would fight over several items...my sister included! I spent forever in this shop, and plan to re-visit often....enjoy the eye-candy below & you'll see what I mean!

Salvage Goods is located on 24 South Third Street in Easton, PA, and they are open Wed-Fri 11-5, Sat 11-6, and Sun 12-5. It took me exactly one hour from the Princeton area (clear shot up 287 to 78)...just about the same amount of time it would take me to get to New Hope or Peddler's Village, frequent weekend destinations for me year-round. While you're there, you can check out some of the other cool & funky shops...that is, if you have any time left after shopping at Salvage Goods!

See you there soon!

Mona Kay

Missed Opportunities

2010-11-27T05:51:00.000-08:00

Hello all of my fellow Garage Sale Divas and Flea Market Fanatics!! I have missed some of the best sales of the end of the season due to a new job which took up every minute of every day and night until this weekend. I have had to slow down...but now I'm looking forward to the winter events!! The Sugarloaf Craft fairs, the local craft fairs, the indoor antique malls, the estate sales....hopefully the list will be endless!!! I have a few events in store, and am excited to bring them to you soon.

In the mean time...have a wonderful rest of the holiday weekend, and I hope to see you all on-line again soon!

XOXO
Mona Kay

Upcoming Garage Sale: A Neighbor Helps a Neighbor in need

2010-09-03T04:33:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone, and Happy Labor Day Weekend!

While I love garage sales for a million reasons, there is a garage sale tomorrow with a story which pulls at my heart. Here is a quote from the story which is running in the Cranbury Press:

"MONROE — A neighbor and friend will be lending a helping hand this Saturday at a yard sale she organized that aims to benefit the husband and son of a woman who died in a Jamesburg house fire in June.

Crystal Vreeland, who is organizing the yard sale, said the bank is threatening to foreclose on George Lowenberg’s home on Gatzmer Avenue in Jamesburg.

Mr. Lowenberg’s wife, Jayme, died June 3 after handing her infant son, Derrick, to an off-duty fireman, then falling from an attic window of her home in an attempt to escape the burning house.

She died of the injuries she suffered from the fall.

Ms. Lowenberg’s sister, Michelle Gonzalez, also died from injuries suffered from the fire."

Please click here to read the entire story.

The garage sale will include home goods and furniture. What a great opportunity to help a local family!

The yard sale is at 213 Old Forge Road from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. I hope to see you there!

Pickin' in NJ - Block Sale in Kendall Park!

2010-08-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

I LOOOOOVE me a block garage sale! Everyone is so friendly, which I find to be the case with garage sales in general. But there's something about all the neighbors out and about, doing the same thing, running into other neighbors from other streets...it's a lot of fun!

Those of you who follow my other blog will understand that I almost swooned when I pulled up to this house:

AS it turns out, right here in my own neighborhood, lives auctioneer Joe Bodnar, of Bodnar's Auction Sales. Believe me, I will be checking out his monthly auctions in Somerset - see the website for details. The next one is Sept. 9.

All told, there were about 6-7 families.

Look at these cute little cows!!! I have a thing for cows, especially vintage cows. I bought all of them :)

Here's my haul:

Let's just have ONE more look at that sweet little night stand!

It's always great to find treasures in your own back yard. What did you find this weekend??

'Til the next pickin' weekend - have a great week!

Mona Kay

2010-08-27T16:28:00.001-07:00

Okay, here they are!! Two garage sales in NJ, both are on Craigslist. The one on Woodrow Road is a block-garage sale....YIPEE!!!

http://cnj.craigslist.org/gms/1922416262.html

The other one includes a shed full of collectibles. That's enough to get me up and out early with my coffee!!

http://cnj.craigslist.org/gms/1922740865.html

Have fun...see you out there!!

Mona Kay

Clinton, New Jersey - Vintage Abounds!!

2010-08-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

I recently did a "North Jersey" tour of estate sales, including a liquidation sale at a fabulous shop in Clinton, NJ. I have blogged about Blu Daisy before (Antiques with Urban Attitude), and now that I have visited their shop, I have to say, I am sad to see them go. However, the visit allowed me to be introduced to Clinton, NJ, and all the other vintage shops, antiques, and overall charm of the town! While I unfortunately had not brought my camera, I still wanted to share what I learned about this town, and encourage you to check out this great website. Some highlights:

The Hunterdon Art Museum and the Red Mill Museum Village

The Riverside Victorian Bed & Breakfast

Events (from the Clinton Guild brochure):
Aug 30, 1pm: Music Grand Finale on Main Street and Center Street

Oct 30, 4-9pm: PumpkinFest. Carved pumpkin contest and carriage rides

Nov 27-29: Dickens Days. Olde fashioned holiday celebration with daily performances, carriage rides, holiday decorations and more!

Dec 13, 1pm: Anual Christmas Parade

Dec 17, 5:30pm: Candlelight Night. Late night shopping, carriage rides and in-town specials.

Finally, I would like to specifically recommend a lovely shop called "HeartStrings" (no website), 10 Main Street in Clinton (908-735-4020). The beautiful cottage-style furnishings and home decor will leave you breathless, as it did me.

Enjoy! Until the next pickin' weekend...

Vintage in Historic Asbury Park, New Jersey

2010-08-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

Besides the obvious, what do Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen have in common? They have both shopped at Carla Gizzi in Asbury Park.

I first met Carla in the antiques section of Red Bank, NJ, where she has another shop filled with "vintage inspired jewelry and home decor". I was entranced from the moment I walked through the door.

In early May, the beginning of the season "down the shore" in New Jersey, Carla opened a second shop in Convention Hall on the boardwalk in historic Asbury Park.

She absolutely loves her second location, and talks about how wonderful it is to be a part of the revitalization of the area. She's not alone - she told me people come from all parts of New Jersey as well as New York. They feel nostalgic about Asbury Park...they loved going there as kids, and want to be a part of the re-birth - they want it to succeed.

In fact a recent article in the Star Ledger discusses the come-back of Asbury Park. Mark Di Ionno writes:

"Three years ago, a plastic bag blowing down the Asbury Park boardwalk would have bounced like a tumbleweed as far as the wind took it.

No more."

There are fireworks every Wednesday at 9pm, and many weekend events. In fact, some people "like" Carla on Facebook simply to keep up with what's going on in Asbury Park, as she posts events and happenings on her page.

Carla has a beautiful assortment of large and small items in both her shops.

She has more furniture in her Red Bank location (169 West Front Street) - gorgeous, shabby-chic, romantic, furniture, some with mosaic detail. Bon Jovi has some of the mosaic tables - I have to confess, I made her repeat that about three times, because I just thought it was SO COOL!!! She has also chatted with Bruce several times when he was in her shop.

What are some of the most popular items in her Convention Hall shop? She can't keep her "I Love You to the Moon and Back" sign in stock!

I love all of Carla's things, and her shops are just so prettily arranged, you'll want to browse around forever. Visit her website for more details, and treat yourself to a trip to her shops!

'Til the next "picking weekend"...have a great week everyone!

Mona Kay

Disclaimer: I blog about shops and markets that I love. Unless otherwise disclosed, I have not been compensated for my opinions - I just love sharing the great places I find!

Early in the Week Post: DON'T MISS THIS SALE!

2010-08-11T16:02:00.000-07:00

Let's see if you can beat me to this Estate Sale in Stirling, NJ...because TRUST ME, I am going to be there!!! I'll race ya to the furniture & the porcelain!!

There is nothing immediately local (i.e., Kendall Park or South Brunswick) so far, but it's a little early in the week for garage sale signs...I will update on Friday if I see any postings. Here are the Craigslist garage sales for central NJ.

See you in Stirling! After that, I'll be painting furniture...because that's what I do :)

Ten Things I Wish I Knew as a Junking Newbie

2010-08-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

While I have been collecting on and off for many years, and have been saving curbside treasures for most of my life, I only became serious at the beginning of this year. With the help of great junking communities, forums, and blogs, as well as 6 months experience under my belt, I've learned a lot - although I'm still pretty inexperienced! Here are some of the things I wish I had known from the start:

1. BRING CASH! LOTS OF CASH!! Include singles!!
2. Don't be afraid to make purchasing mistakes when you're new; i.e. pay too much, not the treasure you thought, can't use it after all (the back of my garage is full of them).
3. Choose your words carefully when bargaining. "Will you take this amount?" may go a little further than "I'll give you this amount"
4. Ask questions about items in which you're interested. An aged-looking piece from Bombay Company can look like a vintage goody to a beginner's eye (trust me)
5. Don't bargain at thrift shops. They typically donate proceeds to some type of charity
6. Never underestimate the size of the transporting vehicle you need! Make friends with someone who owns a truck.
7. If you love something, BUY IT. You will find a place for it. Lack of space beats regret every time.
8. Don't decide to "come back later" for a flea market item. You will probably lose it to a quicker buyer.
9. Find an expert, or an experienced collector who doesn't mind being a resource. He/she will be a wealth of information
10. Don't expect non-junkers to understand why you get up at the crack of dawn on your only days off

What didn't you know when you first started, or what did you learn at any time that was most helpful to you? What advice do you have for us newbies?

Picking in New Jersey-Upcoming Garage Sales and Vintage Sales

2010-08-06T15:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Weekend everyone! It looks as though there will be a slight break in the heat tomorrow - better weather for picking! There are actually three garage sales in Kendall Park this weekend. Here are the details:

39 Kendall Road, 9am-2pm on Saturday
34 Sturgis Road, 8am-4pm Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
8 Tiffin Road, 9am, Saturday and Sunday (sorry, there was a truck behind me, so I couldn't see the times)

Here's the big one: Somerville Center Antiques is having a moving sale - up to 75% off their items. I will definitely be checking this one out!

Have fun out there & be sure to comment & let me know what you found this weekend!

Mona Kay

Repro Vintage

2010-08-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

As a newbie garage sale diva, I'm finding that July and August are tricky. It's hot (REALLY hot, depending on where you are, like in New Jersey), and people are on vacation. A weekend has not yet passed where there wasn't at least one garage sale, but it can make for slim pickings, and it's just not as much fun to walk around the flea markets in 95 degree heat. I found myself looking for alternatives this weekend.

Even the most die hard lovers of vintage seem to be okay with mixing some new or at least reproduced items into their decor. Beautiful, soft towels perfectly compliment a distressed bathroom cabinet, fresh candles dress up vintage holders. Sometimes a decorator is going for a certain look, and a reproduced vintage item is used to fill in the space next to a collector's "finds". I let myself indulge in this type of decor this weekend with my birthday gift certificates to Anthropologie.

I love home decor books which feature flea market items, or a relaxed/shabby style - I sit with coffee and page through them on weekend mornings...these were too tempting to pass up.

Lately I have been intrigued with bottles and glass decor, especially if there is some silver detail. This reproduced silver votive holder fit perfectly with my vintage finds from recent estate sales:

I wandered around for quite some time with my mother and my sister. We gravitated to very different items, so calling each other over to investigate a "find" was like having three different shopping experiences - possible at Anthropologie because of their variety. It was a treat to do some retail shopping with my mother and my sister, complete with drinking fruit smoothies at a table in the shade. It was even more fun because I didn't have to leave my passion for vintage behind!

Where beyond the "usual suspects" have you shopped to indulge your passions?

Mona Kay

Pickin' in New Jersey-Upcoming Garage Sales

2010-07-30T16:57:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday!! Here's where I'll be pickin' tomorrow (7/31):

Kendall Park: Multi-Family Garage Sale, 292 New Road. 8am-4pm
Franklin Park: Moving Sale, 118 Columbus Drive. 9am-2pm

Craigslist seems to be experiencing some technical difficulties, but maybe you'll have more luck that I.

Finally...while this is not exactly a local event, Blu Daisy Antiques in Clifton, NJ is having a liquidation sale with prices up to 50% off - click on the link for details. I have seen this shop on-line & just love their stuff...I hope this doesn't mean they are closing! I would take the drive if you love vintage, antiques, and unusual gifts and home decor. Then, if you haven't had your "fix", you can always visit my shop!!

Have fun...maybe I'll see you out there!!

MK

The Golden Nugget - a Collector's Dream in New Jersey

2010-07-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

Once again, it was HOT this weekend in New Jersey!! Anyone who spent any time outside knows that it was borderline dangerous. What better time for my sister and I to go to an outside flea market??

The Golden Nugget flea market is right on the Delaware River in scenic Lambertville, NJ, and is one of my favorite places to search for treasures. Parking is a little tricky, especially if you get there on the later side, but I have always found a space, and it has always been worth the challenge. I lost my sister early on - well, I didn't exactly lose her because I knew exactly where she was...looking at all the silver.

There were other booths which had bins of silver-plated flatware for $1 each. We spent a LOT of time there. One of my favorites, however, was N.V. Silver & Antiques, run by Pamela. She also has a store up on a hill behind the flea market grounds. My sister found these items, and the gentleman running the booth was kind enough to let me take a picture (I hope you can make out the gesture that the forks are giving):

My favorite items were the spoon key chains...I bought three! I also picked up a beautiful sterling silver spoon ring, and believe me, I will be going back for more. I have 10 fingers!!

This gentleman specializes in old books. He told me that most of the other vendors will send customers his way, because he is basically the authority in this area. He's there every week.

My favorite vendor at this flea market is a gentleman named Pat. I met Pat when I first began refinishing furniture because I needed vintage drawer pulls, & decided to look at the Golden Nugget.

Pat's booth is a smorgasbord of crystal doorknobs and drawer pulls, vintage drawer pulls, skeleton keys, decorative metal escutcheons (had to ask my sister about that one - it's the decorative plate that covers a keyhole), and many other interesting items.

Pat told me that he has many different types of customers - some buy the keys and other small items to make jewelery, some, like my sister, have antique furniture with locks and no keys. Here's Pat showing her some skeleton keys:

Pat is there every weekend, and I am a regular..he always seems to have something that I need or want. Look for the bins of keys, drawer pulls, and door knobs, and you have found him!

We barely notice the heat, there were so many things to see! We both bought some small, but fabulous furniture, and some collectibles we had to have...a tiny silver-topped salt cellar for my sister and a silver "butler" bell for me. Here’s what the dashboard said when we got back to the car:

The funny thing is...I'm pretty sure I'll be back next week! Maybe I'll see you there...
What did you find/discover/create this weekend??

Mona Kay

Upcoming Local Garage Sales-jackpot in Kendall Park!

2010-07-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

Well, it's the weekend, and that means I've been scouring the telephone poles and internet for places to go pickin' in our neighborhood. It may be hot out, but the opportunities are hotter -there are not one, but TWO estate sales in Kendall Park this weekend! There is one on Henderson Road - here's the link to the details:

Henderson Road Estate Sale

The other estate sale is posted all around Kendall Park. The details are:

15 Springdale Road, Saturday and Sunday, 8am-2pm

There is another garage sale in Kendall Park this weekend:

98 Major road, Saturday 8am-5pm

Finally, here are the Craigslist Central New Jersey garage sale listings.

Have fun out there, and be sure to check my blog on Sunday night to see what I've found!

Mona Kay

Vintage HEAVEN! The Tomato Factory in Hopewell, NJ

2010-07-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

Did you ever walk into a place and think, "Who here knows me??" I walked into a shop today and literally stopped in my tracks. It was filled with such vintage eye-candy, that I didn't even go right in...I turned around to find the owner and get permission to blog about the shop.

The Tomato Factory is an antiques consortium on Somerset Street in Hopewell, NJ. I have driven through Hopewell many times on my way to Lambertville NJ and New Hope PA, and for some reason, I have never stopped. On a tip from my sister, I decided to check it out today...it goes without saying that I'm glad I did!!

"Vintage" comes in so many forms, from clothing to dishes, to decor, to furniture, and while I love it all, I have developed a real thing for "kitchen vintage". The items in this booth were all so delicious, I actually asked the owner if they were reproductions. They were not, of course. Fritz, the owner who was at the booth today (it's a co-op) told me that he simply collects from EVERYWHERE! He is truly the Keith Johnson of kitchen vintage.

I could (and plan to) spend a whole day looking at the linens alone. I also cannot WAIT to come back and go through the bins and bins of silver! I'll bring my sister along for that, as her collection is responsible for my new fascination.

The Tomato Factory has several additional booths of wonderful items - I bought some beautiful vintage handkerchiefs from one featuring picture frames and small furniture. Check out their website for directions, hours, a list of dealers, and more. I know I'll be going back very soon!!

'Til next time...happy picking!

Mona Kay

Living Green - A Whole New Level

2010-07-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

While I finally saw some signs for two different garage sales going on in Kendall Park this weekend (saw them Friday night), I have to admit, the heat kept me indoors this weekend. While I was visiting some of my favorite blogs (see my blog roll) on the left margin), and checking e-mail, I found a video clip which made me think about the different levels of living "green".

I have always thought that the use of garage sale and flea market finds is very "green" - it's recycling with immediate, or almost immediate gratification, depending on the amount of refurbishment required. For those of us who enjoy the refurbishing, it's an added bonus.

However this Yahoo video shows a green lifestyle on a whole different level. What do you think? Could you sacrifice the square footage??

Check it out...I'd really love to hear your thoughts!!

http://vitality.yahoo.com/video-second-act-jay-shafer-20910192

How To Spot a Garage Sale Diva

2010-07-10T05:15:00.000-07:00

1. You can’t remember the last time you slept in on a Saturday between May and October
2. You drive through your neighborhood at the end of the week at 10 mph checking out all the telephone posts.
3. No one who knows you asks you what you have planned for the weekend.
4. You completely empty your car every Friday night.
5. “Junk” is one of your favorite words.
6. Friends who own trucks have stopped taking your calls on the weekends.
7. Friends who are searching for something specific ALWAYS take your calls on weekends.
8. Family members hide around mid day when you pull your packed car into the driveway.
9. Craigslist is your best friend
10. You need to have a garage sale for your garage sale finds.

When did you realize you were a Garage Sale Diva?

2010-07-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!!

Due to the holiday (and the heat), I took a vacation from garage sales this weekend...hard to believe, I know! However, I'd like to share a new resource with you, which can assist with either finding or running garage sales: Garage Sale Tracker.

Below is an article from Rich, who writes articles and blog content for their site. His latest article: "How To Find Vintage Goods this Summer" offers advice on some of my favorite topics....and I LOVE the idea of the iPhone app!! Read on:

"If you’re trying to figure out the best way to find those rare vintage items this summer than perhaps I can be of assistance. The best place to pick up on that favorite table, pot, linen, or dress that you used to love back in the day would be to find local thrift shops, goodwill stores, consignment shops, flea markets, and garage sales.
Thrift Shops are great because a lot of these shops offer a lot of charitable donations in return for tax write-offs for the donations. Since the items are donated that means the purchase cost is 0 and thus you get great savings and great finds. Goodwill and Salvation army shops fall under this category. Often times at a thrift or Charity shop you will be able to find retro clothing for .50-10.00 a piece depending on the garment, classic toys, and various recreational items.
Consignment Stores are another great place for vintage antiques and furniture more so than clothing because the bulk of the consignment stores that you may find end up being more geared towards the home furnishing side but if you are looking for a more affordable and unique way of decorating your home than a consignment store will be right up your alley. Also a consignment store will be priced slightly higher than a thrift shop because the items are brought in by another vendor and placed at the store to sell.
Flea Markets are hit or miss these days. As some are filled with sellers who buy items in bulk and just re-sell them as any Wal-Mart or Target may do while others have great vintage finds such as clocks, clothes, furniture, and tons of other miscellaneous items. Also many serve food and act as a large yard sale so they become an all day event.
Finally we get to Garage Sales which are a combination of everything mentioned above. It really isn’t set in stone what you will find at a yard sale except that it’s the best place to find a rare vintage item cheap since there is no over head cost (except for setup time and advertising) but there are tons of great antiques, books, clothings, childrens items, jewelry, and just about anything you can think of at a garage sale.
So to find all of these shopping destinations it is best to browse through the newspaper classifieds as they often list the upcoming yard sales, new thrift shops, and so forth. If you’re an iPhone user garage sales tracker has a garage sale iphone application for finding yard sales, consignment shops, and flea markets that works with it’s website as well. For Goodwill there is a directory of all of their stores: www.locator.goodwill.org

Happy Vintage Shopping!"

I encourage you all to check out Garage Sale Tracker and see what sales are coming to your area, or get help with your own sale.

Have a great week!

Mona Kay

Pickin' in NJ - South Brunswick Flea Market deals beat the heat!

2010-06-27T04:37:00.000-07:00

Let's face it...even for New Jersey, it's been a hot and muggy early summer! We don't usually get these temperatures paired with this humidity until after the Fourth of July!! However, the American Legion Lt. John Farnkopf Aux post 401's a flea market on Saturday was full of folks in good spirits, offering up wares which had the traffic rolling in.

There was something for everyone, from furniture to vintage clothing, to retro Americana, (vintage advertisement serving trays) which I wish I'd seen before they got snapped up!

Vendors stuck it out in their spots, and as the day continued, made friends with those who had areas in the shade, and moved their chairs.

From their website: Lieutenant John Farnkopf American Legion Post 401 was chartered on May 12, 1948, but organizers had signed and submitted the application a good two years before that. The post is named for Monmouth Junction native and Army Air Force World War II pilot John Farnkopf.

I had a great time, and met some terrific people, as usual. Many of the vendors are regulars at local as well as more distant venues, so I encourage everyone to support them by going to local organization flea markets. You won't be disappointed!

Don't forget to contact me with events, flea markets, or garage sales that you are planning so that I can include them in my Thursday/Friday posts.

Until next time...have a great week!

Mona Kay

Upcoming Garage Sales

2010-06-24T16:00:00.000-07:00

It's Thursday, and you know what that means...it's time for the local Garage Sale Update! I have not seen signs on the telephone poles...although it's as hot as the surface of the sun outside, so maybe tomorrow will be a better day for folks to put them up. I'll update if I see any.

The American Legion Lt. John Farnkopf Aux post 401 is holding a flea market on Sat.(June 26) from 8am to 3pm. The address is 148 Major road, Monmouth Junction. I will be there with my goods...please come and see me!!

Don't forget, this weekend is the estate sale on 59 Henderson Road. It started today, and the times are: 6/24/2010 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Thursday,)6/25/2010 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Friday), and 6/26/2010 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Saturday). The house is packed, and items are priced to move!

Here's what I found on Craigslist:

164 OLD BEEKMAN RD.-MONMOUTH JCT, SAT.6/26 & SUN. 6/27--8:30am-2:00pm.

543 Georges Road, Dayton, NJ Fri 6/25-Sun 6/27, starting at 11am

35 Donald Ave, Kendall Park, Saturday, June 26; 8-2; Rain or Shine
Directions:
Rt 1 or Rt 27 to Henderson Rd
Right onto Barbara St if coming from Rt 1, Left onto Donald, House will be on right

122 Providence Blvd. in Kendall Park (South Brunswick). Sale from 9:00a-1:00p

Enjoy...see you out there!!! Make sure to comment and let me know what you found, and don't forget to check my blog on Sunday to read about these sales.

Happy Thursday!
Mona Kay

Pickin' in South Brunswick

2010-06-21T15:54:00.001-07:00

To me, one of the definitions of a good garage sale weekend is when you just can't fit another thing in your car. For once, I'm not going to encourage my mom to read my blog, because I'm absolutely positive she would NOT be thrilled with the way in which I was driving around on Saturday morning! There is one common theme at the garage sales that I go to. The seller will say, "I don't think that's going to fit in your car". And I will say, "Well, let me give it a try!" I've only gone back for something once :)

For those of you who remember the not one, but two broken milk glass globes, I'm happy to say that I found some spares this weekend! And, while I didn't measure them, I lucked out...they fit the lamp that I bought weeks ago!

Here are some of the sellers I met. They had friends and family helping with their sale, and everyone was very friendly...they even offered me some bagels & cream cheese. I've said it before..I love garage sale people!

That's all for this week. Remember to contact me if you're having a garage sale, and I will include it in my "upcoming sales" post. Have a great week!
Mona Kay

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T17:49:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a nice weekend and a happy Father's Day.

Well, it had to happen sooner or later...I was at a family get-together, and left my camera (and this weekend's pictures) at my sister's house. Unfortunately, this means I cannot update this week's blog tonight!

Please look for a new post tomorrow when I will have retrieved my camera (and pictures), and will be able to post about the weekend's garage sales.

'Til then!
Mona Kay

Thursday June 17-Upcoming Garage Sales

2010-06-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday All! The weekend is almost here, and that means it's time for my Garage Sale update! It's going to be a beautiful weekend....I can't wait to get out there!

I found three Kendall Park garage sales: 25 Tyndall Road from 9-4 on Saturday (Multi-family); 9 Woodgate Drive, Saturday starting at 9, and 1 Vincent Avenue 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, also on Saturday. For those of you like me, unfamiliar with Vincent Avenue, directions were included:

Route 1 or Route 27 to Henderson Road, Henderson to Chipper Drive, Chipper to Vincent Avenue.

That's all I found in South Brunswick....happy picking!!

A Picker's Paradise!

2010-06-12T17:11:00.001-07:00

I think this is the most fun I've had "saleing" so far this season...and it wasn't because of the great buys (although great buys were all over the place) it was because of the terrific people I met. What is it about garage sales that makes people so friendly? Maybe it's the camaraderie of exchanging "stuff"...things that one person no longer needs, that another person values...and the idea that our stuff will live on in someone else's life. Or maybe it's just the headiness of buying a metal table for $1.
I met this lovely lady at my first garage sale in Kendall Park. As usual, I spent more time chatting than looking...but I did buy the gorgeous metal wall hanging in the front of the picture.

I was on my way to Milltown when a bright red garage sale sign caught my eye, and I made a last minute turn. I'm glad I did, as I found a great elastic rhinestone bracelet and claimed it for a quarter.

Made it to Milltown, and what a FEAST!! There must have been 50 garage sales. I bought a terrific sketch of New Orleans (pre-Katrina) at one house, and a beautiful old porcelain-coated metal bowl at another. I spent quite a while talking to this gentleman about retiring as a dealer and collector. Aren't the paintings great? The furniture is from their garage sale - I craved it all, but I'm running out of room!

I did leave with this vintage metal tray. Wow!! I'm back in my mom's kitchen as a little kid. Raise your hand if you've seen this tray before!!

How vintage and fabulous are these chairs?? I truly need more storage, because I would have bought them in a heartbeat, if only I had space!

I bought a lamp and a patio table from this lovely couple. We got to talking, and they mentioned that they had some furniture in the garage which they could show me if I didn't mind waiting...they even gave me a cup of fresh-brewed coffee while I waited. Did I mention that I meet the greatest people at garage sales??

All in all, it was a truly satisfying Saturday. Please let me know what "finds" you scored this weekend...or simply how you spent your time!

Remember to let me know if you have any upcoming garage sale, rummage sales, flea markets, barn sales, etc., and I will post the details ahead of time on my blog.

'Til the next pickin' day...
Mona Kay

Update to Garage Sales

2010-06-11T14:34:00.001-07:00

I received a return phone call from Gabrielle Real Estate Agency; the organizers of the Milltown town-wide garage sale, and here are some further details: Maps including the participating garage sales can be picked up at Gabrielle Real Estate Agency (161 South Main Street), at the Milltown Dunkin' Donuts, and at the Milltown convenience store at 8am tomorrow (Saturday).

I also spotted a newly added Kendall Park garage sale - street-wide, no less! Berwick Road (off Kingsley) on Saturday - no times given. I'm going!! Then on to Milltown...see you out there!!

Upcoming Garage Sales

2010-06-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is an update on this weekend's garage sales. I have scoured the telephone poles in Kendall Park, and the parts of South Brunswick that I typically travel, and while I didn't find any signs for garage sales in our area, there are two local listings in Monmouth Junction and Kendall Park on Craigslist. A little further from home, the Milltown Town-Wide garage sale is this Saturday and Sunday (some starting Friday). There are several postings for individual garage sales within Milltown, but I can't find further details...I have a call into the organizers, and will post additional details when they get back to me.

Also - mark your calendars for this one on June 24-26: South Brunswick Estate Sale....I can't wait!!!

If you have a garage sale you would like me to note, please contact me or comment to this post, and I will be happy to include you in an update, or in a post for future events.

See you all out there this weekend!

Mona Kay

Pride for the South Brunswick Crossroads Middle School Music Department

2010-06-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

While I usually blog about garage sales, I want to take a minute to express my extreme pride (and I don't think I'm alone in this!) for the South Brunswick Crossroads Middle School Music Department. The picture is of the many trophies they took home from the Hershey Park Music Festival:

Concert Band received a superior rating and 1st place in the middle school
concert band 2 division.

Symphonic Band received an excellent rating and 2nd place in the middle
school concert band 1 division.

Wind Symphony received a superior rating and 1st place in the junior high
division.

Treble Choir received a superior rating and 1st place in the middle school
treble choir division.

Concert Orchestra received an excellent rating and 1st place in the middle
school division.

Symphonic Orchestra received a superior rating and 1st place in the junior
high division.

Jazz Ensemble received a superior rating and 2nd place in the middle school
division.

Jazz Band received a superior rating and 1st place in the junior high
division.

Concert Choir received a superior rating and 1st place in the middle school
division.

Vocal Ensemble received a superior rating and 1st place in the junior high
division.

Joselle Lomboy received an outstanding choral accompanist award.

Crossroads also received the Judge's Choice Award for Most Outstanding Group
in the categories of Orchestra, Choir and Jazz Band.

The South Brunswick Music Department has impacted the lives of many students in too many ways to try to capture in a short blog posting, and I would venture to say that I am not the only appreciative parent. Also, their performances are AMAZING!!! Congratulations All!!!
Mona Kay

Pickin' in South Brunswick

2010-06-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

While I'll certainly travel for a good garage sale (or sometimes, unfortunately, a bad garage sale), my own neighborhood had the best pickings this weekend! I found five houses with hardy folks braving the very sticky weather - even at 8am - to open up tables, unload boxes, and haul out furniture onto their driveways. I bought a great set of dishes at the first sale from Jo Ann and Donna:

I ran into these lovely ladies (below) at two garage sales in a row, and they were so much fun I just had to take their picture. LOVE the t-shirt!!

Oak Woods Senior Residence Tenants Association had a HUGE rummage sale. The proceeds of the sale benefit existing programs that serve the interests of senior citizens residing in the Oak Woods community. These nice women helped me when it was time to pay. I found a terrific chair which I can't wait to reupholster!

Oak Woods will host another rummage sale in the fall - I would mark your calendars as soon as it is advertised. Watch my blog, as they promised to contact me so that I could post the date.

Finally, I ended up on Fresh Ponds Road for a Barn Sale run by Peter and Richard Odato.

Peter and Richard have been collectors for 25 years, and have been on Fresh Ponds Road for the past three years. Walking through the outside and the inside of the barn is one of my favorite picking experiences. I'll be looking at something terrific, and when I stand back to get a different perspective, I notice something even more fabulous right next to it (or under it). It's SO much fun-a real picker's and collector's dream!

Just look at this vintage Hoosier cabinet!! It makes me wish I didn't have built in cabinets in my kitchen. I love all the vintage items around and in it as well. My sister Nadia was with me...we realized that our mother had the same red metal tray on top of the cabinet.

Don't worry, there's not a chance that I walked away empty-handed - here's Richard (left) and Peter carrying my "find" to my car...a gorgeous buffet with working locks and really pretty embellishments.

I'll leave you all with my sister's find - certainly my favorite!

I will post any garage sales that I find out about on Wednesday or Thursday. Please post a comment with your garage sale details if you would like to be included!
Have a great week until the weekend brings the next garage sale day. I'll see you out there!
Mona Kay

A unique store, and a fabulous artist!

2010-05-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

While I love Rachel Ashwell's "Shabby Chic" decor, I take a lot of my inspiration from the Jersey Shore. I love the bright white furniture, the soft pastels of decorative pillows, upholstery, and bedding. Serendipitously, I found a wonderful store which captures all of this...and, amazingly, features items done by one of my Etsy friends!

I found out during on-line conversations with Helga from Revival Vintage Design that she had some of her items purchased by a shop in New Jersey. Keep in mind that Helga and I are geographically as far away as we can be while still residing in the same country - she's in California, I'm in New Jersey. Also, Helga did not always live in the USA...once again proving what a small world it is! However, if that weren't enough, we discovered another connection. The shop, Point B Gallery is located in Brick, NJ, on the shore...and in my "day job" sales territory!! What are the odds!

I introduced myself to Kathy, the owner, (that's NOT her in the picture!) and told her my and Helga's story. She showed me Bella the Dog, and some of Helga's other items which she custom ordered - adorable!!

Kathy's shop is filled with beautiful items that truly capture all the most beautiful aspects of "beach chic"...check out their video

You can find both Helga (Revival Vintage Design) and Point B Gallery on Facebook. I highly recommend "like-ing" both of them. Also, since I "like" Point B on Facebook, and stopped by the store, I received a gift.

What's inside??? I'll never tell!! You'll have to visit Facebook, and then the store to find out! Make sure you get a chocolate-covered twinkie while you're there...that is unless I beat you to it & buy them all...better hurry!!

It was a real treat to meet Kathy, and to see Helga's items! I hope you enjoyed them as much as I did!

'Til next time...
Mona Kay

Picking in NJ!

2010-05-23T17:52:00.001-07:00

Happy Sunday Everyone! Despite the raw Sunday weather, I was able to do some junking, as well as add to my inventory this weekend. I found a box of mis-matched dishes, which was sold to me by a lovely woman (pic below), who gave me a lower price because I was buying them for myself, and not as a dealer. They had been in her family for at least two generations, and were originally purchased in Jersey City. I fell in love with them (and they owner)...aren't they beautiful??

While looking at a collection of milk glass, I came across the exact globe that I broke last week on my own milk glass lamp. I was so excited that I bought it without measuring...mistake, of course!! I don't care, it works for now!

Here's my favorite find of the weekend...purchased from a garage sale on the street where I grew up! The sellers know my parents...good thing I was polite! I just love these vintage doorknobs. I hope I know how to install them!

I finally took a deep breath and foraged into re-upholstering...starting with a simple chair. I am so happy with the results...no upholstered chair is safe from me now!!! The painted chair is available on my Etsy shop...the unpainted chair below is mine...I re-did the seat & am keeping it :) My kids may need to hide my staple gun!!

I didn't do my weekly flea market display this weekend because the weather wasn't great, and because my daughter specifically asked me to spend some time with her. We went out to breakfast, then watched "It's Complicated"...a movie I highly recommend, by the way!

My plan is to have a "Shop Sale" over the holiday weekend, so any local NJ fans, stay posted! Details will be on my Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Central-New-Jersey/Mona-Kay-at-Home/106665109371729

Have a great week!
Mona Kay

Beautiful weekend for picking!

2010-05-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

What's better than a garage sale?? A block-wide garage sale!! Heaven! I even set the alarm so I could get there when it all started. Block garage sales are fun, because there are a lot of people, and everyone is really friendly.

It's hard to say who was enjoying themselves more...the buyers or the sellers!

I love this little nook...check out the coke bottles on the top of the railing!

The night before, I was up waaaaaay too late doing some ironing. I can remember my mother ironing once a week when I was growing up...unbelievable! For a while it was very therapeutic...the smell of clean cotton and the satisfaction of crisp linen...but after 10 table cloths, 6 pillow cases, 25 napkins, etc...it got old!

I had a display at the Princeton Elks Club today - they have a flea market every Sunday. It's in an artistic area which is also rich in antiques, so it's in the perfect location...between Princeton NJ, and New Hope Pennsylvania - both great weekend destinations.

I spent a lot of time working on my display...I checked out the Etsy Flikr photo album featuring other crafters' displays, and got some great ideas from some very talented people. It's still a work in progress, but here's what it looked like today:

I made three sales, so this continues to be a good venue - I did make my first sale there a month ago. I'm still working on the best way to market and sell my items, and am toying with another "home sale", garage sale style. This time, however, I'll put more time and effort into the advertising, and put up more signs in more strategic places. Ideas are welcome!!

Finally, my "find" of the week - this great little cut glass lamp! I was getting ready to purchase the base by itself, because that's all that was displayed, when the lady running the sale told me that she was going to throw out the shade because it had a small chip, and would I like to see it? You bet!! As you can see, it's beautiful, and the chip is barely visible!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Until next time...
Mona Kay

Florida Vintage

2010-05-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't have to tell you that Florida is truly lovely. If I tell you, however, that in 3 1/2 days, I only made it to the beach once, and the pool for 1 hour, would you believe me?? Honestly, with such a gold mine of thrift shops and antique malls, I was beginning to fantasize about moving! I am planning a buying trip in the near future....a DRIVING buying trip where I will fill the back of a van with vintage furniture!

These are some of the beautiful things I wanted to take home. I just love the quintessential Florida style!

One of my favorites was a store called "Sensibly Chic"; a home decor shop filled with beach and cottage style furniture and gifts:

Of course, sometimes a girl just wants something a little playful!

Another of my favorites was Shirley Street Antique Mall.. I could have stayed for days!! The furniture, the vintage prints, the linens! Here are two tables I fell in love with in a booth owned by a terrific and helpful man called Regan. He gave me some great tips on working with vintage furniture which will greatly assist me with my store items! I considered bribing my parents to drive them back to NJ when they come up for the summer....but the guilt of such a big favor overcame me...

All told, I filled a huge suitcase and a computer box (a desktop, not a laptop box) with the things I bought...vintage bedspreads, linens, prints, and a set of dishes for me. My parents are going to drive it all up to NJ when they leave Florida for the summer. I love you & miss you Mom & Dad!!

I had a wonderful time, and met some really terrific people. I'll say this about people who love to collect vintage and antiques...they love to share their "finds", their stories, and they're so friendly!

I have purchased some travel books on southwest Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, as many of the people I met told me that there is a wealth of vintage and antique shops in these areas as well. If any of you have ever traveled these areas and have some favorite places and/or shops, PLEASE share! In the mean time, it's going to seem like Christmas morning when I get to open up my boxes of the things I bought when they make their way to NJ...and see my parents again! I'll share my finds in a couple of weeks.

Back to reality...looking forward to garage sales in NJ this weekend!

MK

Florida, here I come!

2010-05-06T16:07:00.001-07:00

I'm leavin' on a jet plane first thing tomorrow morning! Visiting my parents, and looking forward to checking out all the Florida vintage...it has a different look and style from northeast vintage, and I just can't wait! I will take pictures along the way. According to my mother, there are second-hand and thrift shops, as well as vintage-chic up-cycled shops, flea markets, antiques....I may very well come back as pale as I left, because I may not have time to go to the beach!!

I'm bringing my son's camera, and hope to have lots to share with all of you!

Til then....

MK

Talent!

2010-05-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about my new sign for my shows and displays! Please check out my talented friend's shop Romantic Planet. She created this beautiful sign as a custom order at my request, and I just love it! It fits in perfectly with my items, and really dresses up my displays. I would have liked to include a picture with my weekend sale, but it was 91 degrees in NJ, and I barely did anything but sit at my sale and wait for potential customers, so I will have to take one at a show that doesn't feel like it's on the surface of the sun!

So about my sale (in my driveway)...I mentioned that I am not good at marketing myself. Some of my followers were kind enough to send me some resources, and now that I have some inventory, I can re-focus my attention to marketing. My daughter is majoring in finance, and is helping me with some ideas for finding my audience, and my son is assisting me with my Facebook page. Customers should be beating down my door any minute now!

Before and after

2010-05-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

I finally remembered to take some before and after photos. These chairs were a challenge, but not nearly as difficult as the small table which had a surface which wasn't ready for painting. That was not fun! I gave it a light sanding, but the legs have some detail, and I couldn't get at the entire surface. What a nightmare! The new paint dissolved the old paint, and I ended up having to strip all the legs (that is not nearly as sexy as it sounds). Once I had the new paint & most of the old paint off, the legs were a little more cooperative, and I got a few coats on them. Whew! All worth it, the table has the cutest little shape, and it's now a sunny yellow instead of faded, scratched black lacquer. Pics soon! I will probably stay away from lacquered pieces with detail in the future. Oh sure, I say that now!

Lessons to learn

2010-04-30T16:02:00.000-07:00

It's been a satisfying week. I worked the day job all week, took today off, finished 3 new pieces (before & after pics to come)....and discovered that I don't know how to market myself.

For instance, while I feel as though I'm developing an eye for yard sale and flea market items, and can turn the things I find into something appealing, why did I think that a crappy, ugly little sign two streets away from my house would entice people to come and look at my wares??

I find this surprising, since my day job is sales & marketing. Apparently I separated my two lives with way to large a divider. I do know how to sell. I know how to market. However I apparently struggle with selling and marketing myself.

I need to think about this and figure out how to transfer the skills from my day job to my non-day job. Advice welcome!!

Vintage Fabrics

2010-04-25T05:01:00.000-07:00

During my picking yesterday, I visited the Griggstown Reformed Church on beautiful Canal street in Griggstown. Honestly, the beautiful scenery on the drive would have been satisfying enough, but I found these vintage fabrics...old window dressings, table cloths & a dishtowel, and one which is so heavy, I'm not sure if it's a table cloth or a blanket - it's a beautiful cotton with detailed weaving. I may make a roman shade out of it for my bare office window, although I think it would also make some beautiful, soft, shabby pillows...we'll see! Either way, I can't wait to make use of these treasures!

This "find" is ALL MINE!!

2010-04-24T14:20:00.000-07:00

I found some truly fabulous pieces in the last two days, including the cabinet in the picture, for which I had great plans until I realized that I had fallen in love with it just as it was, and would not be selling it. Can you blame me?? Isn't it gorgeous?? I also found a beautiful small oriental (not real) rug with colors...you guessed it...the same blue as the cabinet, and cream as the walls behind the cabinet. Two finds for me :)

Also..... it's official. I can continue going to garage sales, but I am flagged from buying any more pieces for a while. Unless I find something irresistible...however, I walked away from three pieces today, so I will hopefully be okay. The reason for my self-inflicted limit? I have run out of room! The picture with the four pieces is in my front hall!! Luckily I am going to use the rainy Sunday to organize the garage, and I just got an estimate on a shed. I need it!

Finally, if anyone ever needs to move furniture, I HIGHLY recommend these little do-dads...you slip them under the legs of your furniture, and they slide across carpet like MAGIC!! I don't know what I'd have done today without them!

Wish me luck in finding room for all this great stuff! I excited to start working on them!

MK

"The Find" is a great find!! must read...the book, that is!

2010-04-22T18:19:00.001-07:00

I was browsing the book store for books on flea markets & vintage decorating, and I came across The Find. I can't put it down! Not only is it great information on flea markets and tips on what to buy and what to pass up, but the pictures of flea market & thrift store finds are to die for!

Also, there is a forward by Charles King, founder of Housing Works. Please check out this wonderful site about thrift shops which provide a tremendous amount of support and resources including new life skills, for people with AIDS.

It was a good day in the book store...I also found a book on repairing and restoring furniture, and on vintage flea market finds :)

The one (okay, two) that got away :(

2010-04-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

So, as I'm continuing to pick through estate sales and yard sales, I'm trying to develop my eye...that is, to determine what is valuable, what I can use, and also, what I like for myself. I've purchased a couple of "what was I thinking" items, and let a couple go that I'm kicking myself over. Prime example...the vintage sofa. Any vintage collector who may read this will want to strangle me, I'm sure!

The sofa was a beautiful discontinued Ethan Allen dark wood trimmed piece, upholstered in a dark pink rose pattern on a white background. It was beautifully worn/aged, and in great shape. I won't even tell you the price they were asking, because it makes me want to cry every time I think about it. I didn't think I had room in my house, & it doesn't go with my current decor (although I see that changing soon)...next time I won't be so quick to turn my back on a piece that I love!

The second piece is the cupboard in the picture, and the picture doesn't do it justice because it had beautiful doors as well as a "hatch" opening above the drawers. They had those pieces in their garage. Let me just say that I tried like crazy!! I talked to them for 20 minutes after I bought every small piece of furniture they were selling. First they told me that someone else was interested. I said "well, if they try to talk you down on price, remember that I'm willing to pay your asking price!" Phone numbers were exchanged. I called the next day & left a message, saying that I would increase my offer, but got no call back. Finally I called yesterday and spoke to the owner, who told me that her mother had decided not to sell the piece. I increased my offer, but to no avail. Nothing like introducing interest to make an owner fall back in love with something they planned to sell!!!

Next time I'll be more aggressive, & try to walk away WITH the pieces! I'm learning a lot...and part of what I learned is that you don't always talk someone down on the price...sometimes you have to go higher if you don't want to lose a piece! All a learning experience I suppose...

If anyone who reads this post has any information on the age of the cupboard, I would love to hear from you. It was estimated at about 80 yrs old at least.

I'd also love tips on acquiring pieces if anyone has any! Thanks!!

Two more bedside tables on the way!

2010-04-19T15:50:00.000-07:00

I got my hands on two more bedside tables this weekend, one with a little more detail than the other. I can't wait to get started on them! Here are the "before" pictures. In case you have any idea that the yellow one has a nice pattern, don't let the picture fool you...it's contact paper :) This one's going to take a lot of work, but I can't wait to see the finished product! The other one has such nice detail, it's going to look great!!

I'd love input on what color would look nice if anyone has any ideas :) My first idea for the yellow one is a nice shabby chic white with a distressed finish and really cool drawer pulls!

I did it! I made a sale :)

2010-04-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I was up at 6:45 this morning, and worked a show for 5 hours today (it was SO COLD!!!)...but it was worth it! I made my first two sales. I have to admit, it felt pretty good! I sold a small table & matching foot stool. I can't wait to go back to this venue - it's the Princeton Elks weekly flea market.

It's great to actually bring in some money! I'm doing my books today so that I can see where I stand, and how soon I can get out of the red!

First show tomorrow

2010-04-17T18:59:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is my first show (a flea market). I've loaded my car, packed lunch, made a price list, got singles for change...I think I remembered everything! I'm a little nervous. Hopefully, I will make a sale!

Wish me luck!

7 pillows down, 5 to go!

2010-04-16T20:13:00.000-07:00

Machine working again, and I finally got the chance to see how the fabric looks as pillows! I really think they turned out well!

Grrrr....stand-still!!

2010-04-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I changed the bobbin on my machine with a bobbin I wound, and I SWEAR I threaded everything the way my friend showed me...and I didn't touch the tension on anything. But the knots are showing on the bottom of the fabric, so I know something is wrong, and I don't want to finish my pillows with the stitching looking like it does.

I have no furniture to paint because nothing is ready...everything needs sanding, and it's too late to sand (too noisy). It's going to rain tomorrow and Saturday...frustrating!!

Well, I can probably sand one of the smaller pieces on Saturday and paint it...and maybe I'll figure out the sewing machine. If anyone has any trouble-shooting tips about my bobbin problem...please let me know!! In the mean time, the pillows will probably have to wait until my mom gets home from Florida & can help me.

Sleepy Thursday

2010-04-15T03:31:00.000-07:00

Only two more days until I can start working on finishing the items for my showing on Sunday!! Unless I find some energy tonight, and then I'll finish a couple of pillows. I have so many ideas, but not enough time! I guess that's what happens when you're new.

Hopefully I'll figure out how to add pictures to my post, and I'll at least post the fabric. The colors go great with shabby chic!

Pillows for spring!

2010-04-14T03:24:00.000-07:00

Well, the plan yesterday evening was to have a restful night in front of the television...I'm pooped, just like everyone else who fills their days. But a good friend of mine returned my phone plea for help with my sewing machine, and offered to help me out - I only know enough about my sewing machine to be dangerous!! So...I had a quick little lesson, and then a nice long visit. By the way...she has too much work for me to list her information in this blog (which doesn't surprise me at all, because she's the most talented dress-maker I know), but if that changes, I will be able to recommend her!

After returning from the lesson/visit, I thought, "Okay...time for the sitcoms!" Then during the first commercial, I though,"Well, let me just see how this one piece of fabric will look as a pillow". Then I had to try another piece. You get the idea. Pretty soon the TV was only on in the back ground, and I have no idea what channel, let alone what shows were on!

I haven't stuffed the pillows yet, but I LOVE the fabrics & colors!! The plan is to finish them and add them to my shop over the weekend. Stay tuned!

I can't believe it...broke another mirror!

2010-04-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

I have to say, when I heard that ominous "CRACK", and looked down to see the mirror portion of my latest shabby chic mirror frame in two pieces, I honestly thought that if I just stared at it long enough, it would weld back together like magic. It didn't. So on my way home from work, I dropped off the frame at the mirror place that my sister Nadia recommended. They're going to make a fortune off of me...I'm two for two! I've created two mirror frames, & broke the mirrors in both. Add this to the many, many things I'm learning on this new venture.

Oh, and another thing...I HATE particle board!!! It takes three coats of paint before it looks good. I usually don't work with it, but I have a shelving unit that's mostly wood with a little particle board in it. Look for pictures in about a week...if I don't get fed up with it & put it by the curb!!

5 am...the price to pay!

2010-04-13T03:17:00.000-07:00

I must look up the definition of "Vintage" - that way I will know if I qualify! It seems appropriate that my love of retro and shabby chic should blossom into a full-blown passion just as my nest is emptying, and I'm approaching my 45th birthday. Worse things could happen than to cultivate an interest...so I'm not complaining!! However, since I have a day job to which I'm committed and devoted (and which pays the bills and supports my estate sale habit), I'm to be found here in the "before & after" hours, which is why I'm stealing a few hours before the day job starts to indulge my new love...all things vintage, shabby chic, and craft-y.

Thanks for stopping by...I'd love to hear from you!!