Vintage Chalet

European Decor at Mettlesome Means

2022-05-10T14:34:00.004-04:00

Brass Gosling Duck at Mettlesome Means

I was inspired to do a European and Cottage podcast after checking out shop Mettlesome Means on Etsy. This shop specializes in garden ware, pottery, home decor and European collectibles. The shop is run by Abbey Lucas out of Akron, Ohio.

Mettlesome Means found this great 2 pc Chokin set, see it in their Etsy shop.

The flow of this shop is clean, sleek, and chic. Selections of neutral tones mixed with natural elements such as flowers on pottery, such as these beautiful neutral colors by Chokin featureing a hummingbird and flowers. This would go with any style country or cottage decor, and has a bit of Euro flair. Much of this shop has clean sleek lines such as the solid white Pfalzgraff pieces or glass flower flogs which can be implemented in any type of home.

Cute and charming, wood slice art at Mettlesome Means

When I think of European collectibles, I usually thing of old, wood, carved, and pictorial. Many Euro collectibles whether it be a jewelry box, an old raised relief urn, or a book tell tales of things past. Primarily a simplistic time centuries ago can be implemented into the modern cottage or the mansion, with a bit of ease. You can find out more about Mettlesome Means and what items are my favorites and what's hot in European collectibles and antiques, here in this podcast:

Birch Bark Baskets Angelique Merasty Bitings

2022-03-24T07:27:00.001-04:00

For years the birch tree has been used for it's "folk remedies" but also it's crafting properties . From canoes to paper for crafts it has a wide range of uses among artists. I've seen it used for crafting journals, tiny miniatures such as "a roof" on a handmade birdhouse, sometimes implemented in small log cabins in train gardens to decorations for the home. There's not a bad use for this tree's bark in the crafter's eyes. One of the more collectible uses are the birch bitings and birch baskets.

This implements a birch bark biting into a collectible brooch from Etsy shop /ChieftainDesigns

The art of birch bark biting dates back for years with the indigenous people. Basically this is where an impression by the mouth by biting into the birch bark thus fashioning into interesting designs, then using that bark for arts such as jewelry, wall decor, and the like is quite impressive.

Nor to mention, besides just downright interesting and highly collectible. A framed biting for the wall coming from a true indigenous crafter may run you upwards of $60 dollars wherein this brooch retails for $25. The podcast below attributes one of the more famous crafters who was Cree, and they are talking about Angelique Merasty whose work is quite famous and now sells at auctions for lots of money. Originally sources write when she first sold her work as a young girl, she was fetching 15 to 20 cents a biting,now her work is coveted by collectors of this art and expect that it will go for much at auction.

Birch bark basket, from Esy shop /PowwowKids

Baskets made of birch bark can come in many forms, and implement the bark of the tree into the basket making it a craft medium. These baskets may be accentuated by handmade art, such as the one above or simply entwined with other parts of the tree (as the one below.) Bitch bark baskets, authentically handmade by artists can run between $25-$75, however the one below is only $9 range because it implements only a small amount of birch in with actual wicker. Expect to pay less for something that's not purely all birch.

Birch bark basket on etsy has wicker too shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PerfectlyPairedHome

You can listen to the podcast here:

Top Five Vintage Christmas Collectibles

2022-02-17T14:36:00.004-05:00

Collecting Vintage Christmas, These Noma Lights at Vintage Val's Shop on Etsy

Collecting vintage Christmas is a joyful hobby that can happen any time of the year, not just for the winter months. Collectors enjoy everything from ugly Christmas sweaters to bottle brush trees. Ornaments are ways popular and so are tree decorations. Sometimes, during summer months, at flea markets or rummage sales you will find these sellers will have unmasked their holiday collectibles for sale.

Vintage Pixie Elf quite collectible, this one for sale at Etsy shop Sweet Pickins STL

You can always ask, "Have any vintage Christmas items" and they may drag them out for you, especially when moving or at estate sales. In this podcast, we will discuss our top five Christmas collectible items.

Find out our top five items here:

PaperFloDesign Keeping the 70's Alive One SVG File at a Time

2022-02-14T08:56:00.001-05:00

PaperFloDesign on Etsy offers printaable downloadable SVG files which empower you to make the best gifts for your loved ones!

I am so excited that I recently had the chance to interview Naa Ardua on my Living a Vintage Life Podcast, her story in her PaperFloDesign Etsy shop is so quintessential Etsy 101 - how you start, maybe fizzle a little, hit some hurdles, then POOF, find the turning point. Now, fast forward to 10K sales plus later, so, I hope you'll tune in below.

This silhouette SVG available at PaperFloDesign on Etsy the possibilities are endless

Naa Ardua creates vintage style SVG files representational of the 70's era in which I grew up. these designs are cute, whimsical and come in downloaded SVG format which is compatible with a lot of print machines such as the Cricut. If you need a great gift idea for someone, you can quickly buy a downloadable design and apply to a tshirt, sweatshirt, cup or bag!

What's even better than that, Naa Ardua teaches others how to get started in the world of SVG files, and has an online course at PaperFloDesigns.com

Check out her wonderful story here:

Rosbro Vintage Toys

2022-02-10T11:05:00.002-05:00

Rare Santa found by Life Hearted Vintage on Etsy

I just made a wonderful post on Rosbro Toy Company on the Melmac Central site, who was located in Providence, Rhode Island. To think, all these wonderful years of toy and vintage collecting and I had no idea the company's history until now. I am excited to announce that so many of these toys are still out there, easy for you to find if you know what you are looking for. I've talked about values, and how to identify them.

So, if you enjoy collecting :

Valentine's Day plastics

Candy Containers

Halloween Toys

Christmas Toys

Vintage Novelties

Vintage Toys

then you must read the post. Here it is:

Melmac Central Vintage Melmac Dinnerware and Plastics Fantastic Collecting Site : Rosbro Plastics Company (retrochalet.blogspot.com

Collecting Country Primitives

2022-02-02T06:57:00.002-05:00

Pantry Box for sale at RetroChalet on Etsy

Collecting country primitives can be a fun and exciting hobby. From sap buckets to old fish pails, lots of things are waiting to be found! Old wooden primitives like buckets and boxes and bins can be used as decor in the home, and functional storage in a kitchen, craft room, or office.

The most common question is, where do you find them? Simply put, in the country! Look at old estate sales, side of the road barn sales, and thrift stores in the outskirts. Many times country folks are still using the primitive boxes, bins or buckets to store things in their garage. Many old storage chests were "folk art" made from vintage wooden cheese boxes. These functional hardware storage chests with knobs are a cute collectible for a craft area. Wooden pantry boxes originally had cheese or food in them, and can be used to store sewing supplies.

Fishing pails, often made of metal look great on the wall paired with some country decor signage. If you want tips for the best country primitives, take a listen here:

Take a listen to the best picks for country primitives!

Thanks for reading Vintage Chalet blog!

Collecting Records and Vinyl LPs

2021-12-15T09:13:00.004-05:00

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When you think of old records, you think of something defunt and out of style, but are they? Many companies are still making vinyl records today! With new record players made to look old and fully functional , I almost did a 360 owl head turn when I found them in Walmart . I thought, is that a record player or something else made to look like a record player? But it was, made new to play LPs! So it seems people are certainly still looking for vintage LPS to play on their (vintage) or new players. Unfortunately there was a period of time where they ended up melted down for crafts (purses or popcorn bowls or clocks) or donated to the Goodwill or landfill. This happened during the birth of CD's.

Suffice to say I really had no idea on how to start collecting or what type of value is held in old LPs?

I had a lot of quesitons such as :

Should you buy a record just for the cover?

Will anyone buy mass produced records?

How do you know if the records are still valuable when they were produced in the millions however most of them ended up in the landfill?

Thankfully all these questions were answered on the vintage collecting records podcast with ex DJ Eddie G !

Old records on ETsy:

Many people are offering vintage vinyl on Etsy. This shop outpostrecordshop (pic) has a ton of stock on hand!

Decorating with Avant Garde Podcast and Top Picks from Etsy

2021-10-23T14:16:00.001-04:00

In my most recent podcast I talk about Avant Garde, just what it is and how to decorate and do it. Mixing some color into your life may not be a bad idea. I've always liked to break the decorating norms and glad to see other people doing it too. I like to discuss Avant Garde in my most recent podcast. I apologize for the podcasting recording. I hope you learn something new!

hello

In the meantime, please try these exciting finds on Etsy to Avant Garde up your life.

Vintage books can really make a table pop. This stack $25 from RetroChalet

1. Vintage books, in great colors look exciting stacked around your table! Make a room pop with color and have a great display item. Not to mention a little color goes a long way. Books can be reused for scrapbooking when done with them!

This hot pink radio is from RetroRadioFarm on Etsy!

2. Electronics, vintage style ones like this radio can really stand out on a table. Notice how it pops on the white background! RetroRadioFarm on Etsy has tons of radios in stock and this is a great way to add some color to a drab or discolored home!

Rainbow crocheted blanket will be a great addition to any home, find it at HappyInTheNest

3. Vintage afghans, handmade or retro blankets are another way to avant-garde up the home. Adding color to a room is key by draping them over your favorite sofa or love seat is a great way to add color! AvantGarde up your bedroom!

Chalkware Pig Yellow Vintage would avant garde up the home at TheModWitch

4. Statues and figures can add color to your home. Using a bright vintage chalkware statue you can make a statement on a table or bookshelf. Use of color in the home is key when decorating for avant garde look.

Kchoos offers this great chair, the pink colors would make any room POP!

5. Kchoos shop offers this great mod chair with pink bubbles, a real victorian style chair has been repurposed with great retro fabric to add some avant garde into your home! Using this chair or any furniture would be great for avant garde-ing up your life.

Have a great day and make sure to subscribe to our podcast

Retro Chalet : Living A Vintage Life (buzzsprout.com)

Turner Art Prints Glam Wall Decor from the 40's

2021-09-23T09:48:00.000-04:00

My most recent podcast included tips and tricks on the The Turner Manufacturing Company made all kinds of housewares in the thirty plus years they were in business. Many designs go unnoticed in thrift stores or second hand shops, even the local flea. They were mass producing wall decor for the home such as wooden shelves, mirrors, and lithographs / art prints. The early designs of the 1940's depicted lovely French looking Victorian ladies in mademoiselle like dresses. You'll find muted colors and even lots of fowl, flamingos, and birds in addition to greys, pinks, and cool hues that are pleasing on the eyes.

This one from the RetroChalet Etsy shop.

Turner Art Prints have a Victorian feel to them and all are signed Turner at the lower right. But, sometimes this may be difficult to find if the owner had moved or rematted into a new frame. Ultra rare are the turner designs on mirrors. My friend has one that is giant, 3'x5' with flamingos. I assume it's pricesless and has been hanging in his home for years. Happy Collecting!

Listen to the podcast:

Flea Market Tips and Tricks

2021-08-28T15:35:00.006-04:00

Flea Market Tips and Tricks
Flea Market Lovers this podcast is for you. Recently we interviewed a flea market maven on tips and tricks to having a successful flea market. Are you often hard pressed wondering if you should tag everything? What methods work at flea markets and garage sales? Rummage sale woes? No worries. We cover all this and more on Living a Vintage Life Podcast

Taylor Smith Taylor Every Yours

2021-08-10T08:59:00.005-04:00

In my most recent podcast, I have discussed how you can find Taylor Smith Taylor's Ever Yours line for inexpensive in thrift stores and flea markets. This great 1960's set is featured on my third Living A Vintage Life Podcast and is a must hear. What most people do not know is this pretty set is very 1950's looking and can still be found and assembled as there is quite much of it to still be had. It is great to use every day in a vintage kitchen and no worries about chipping a piece , as a plethora exists. Listen to my podcast as Ed shares with us how he came into this collection.

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Stamp Collecting as a Hobby

2021-07-21T07:54:00.001-04:00

The Scott People put out these Stamp Collecting Albums to collect stamps.

I really wasn't hip on stamp collecting, in fact may have found that to be an old person's hobby (heck what am I saying, I am old now) and much disinterest. My friend Ed obtained a Scott stamp binder and began collecting and reluctantly I decided to interview him for my Living a Vintage Life Podcast. I really learned a lot about stamps and found that:

It can be a fun and inexpensive hobby
You learn a lot of history during collecting
It will keep kids busy for hours
Adults will enjoy the hunt to fill up a stamp binder
You learn about interesting people, places, and topics that raise awareness

So I am excited to share the podcast episode on Stamp Collecting now.

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A post shared by Retro Chalet on @Etsy (@retrochalet)

Find it here.

Bear Spirit Mountain, Collecting Indigenous Native American Artifacts Part One

2019-03-19T17:18:00.002-04:00

Prayers sticks made by Maasaw Howard for my travels.

Bear Spirit Mountain

Recently I was lucky enough to learn about Bear Spirit Mountain, an archaeological site in West Virginia found by Matthew and Ingrid Howard. Their intention was to build a home, but it turned out to be so much more. Imagine the shock and disbelief purchasing a property to build a home, only to find your land is loaded with burial sites and indigenous artifacts.

Matthew "Maasaw" Howard cleaning off a rock to expose it's carved face.

Luckily they vowed to protect it and Matthew found the perfect opportunity to tell the story of his ancestors though the book Adonvdo Yona (Bear Spirit) Mountain: An Ancestral Awakening Amazingly enough Howard was led to the wonders of the property thanks to the help of a black bear. If you believe in anything extraordinary, you may wish to see how the legend of the Black Bear Spirit is associated with the Cherokee. I'm so pleased for them!

A few things from the backyard and my travels.

Collecting Artifacts

Now, let's move on to something we all love here at Vintage Chalet, and it's collecting. Native American Artifacts and collecting relics of indigenous people are getting more and more popular. In fact, one Archaeologist, RPA Jack Hranicky has written over 50 books alone --- many guides to collecting or identifying arrowheads, spear points and tools!

Do So Respectfully

Many people collect Native american Artifacts now, and should do so respectfully. Always obtain permission before searching someone's property, and do not remove artifacts from burial mounds or grounds. Those who like to rob graves have been known to experience quite bad kharma, making that ebay sale just not worth it! Would you want someone to rob your grave?

Beware of Fakes and Frauds, and Reproductions

Unfortunately there are tons of reproductions, fakes and frauds on the market. Take for instance, this guy on Facebook who makes wonderful reproductions (jewelry, props, costume things). He carves them now as his ancestors did then. There are tons of items on Etsy that are reproductions of ancient artifacts, and not all specify so.

Seller Auramore has these listed as Clovis People Arrowheads, but they only $4.48 each. The cost should tell it all.

The problem is, let's say Judy orders a reproduction basalt arrowhead necklace and in ten years sells it at a flea market because she is tired of wearing it. That flea market buyer now sells it as an original online to someone else. Someone just paid $149 thinking they were getting an ancient artifact when in fact they are getting a used a handmade handcrafted NEW necklace.

These from RetroChalet clearly say age unknown.

The arrowhead collection above was purchased in 1980 at a trading post in Maine, however, it is uncertain if they made them for travel gifts or souvenirs or if they are old. So they are priced accordingly and great for crafters who wish to make earrings or necklaces.

A Rock is Old

Unfortunately we are talking that most of these items are made of rocks and stones, so all stones are old and antique, some millions of years old, but is the CRAFTSMANSHIP that old? That is the main issue with collecting Native American artifacts.

Tip: Buy From Ethical Source
Tip: Do Your Homework
Beware: Of Reproductions
Beware: Of Sellers Who Have Plethoras of Stock
Collect Respectfully
Ask the Seller for Provenance or Additional Information

In my next post we will go over types of items, and show you them.

You May Like to watch this video:

Taylor Smith Taylor Ever Yours Boutonniere Fab 1960's

2019-01-27T16:18:00.000-05:00

The Library of Congress shows an entry in 1965 the Taylor Smith and Taylor Company's entry for "Exquisite Boutonniere Ever Yours Dinnerware." Without buying one of the print china books on the market, not much is to be had on this line as far as collector's site go........as most of the focus of Taylor Smith Taylor collectors is the all popular Lu-Ray line which was made in the depression era.

A quick search on Etsy reveals many pieces for sale.

These hard to find TST Go with Glasses are from SwankyLadyVintage on Etsy.

Boutonniere is one pattern of the TST "Ever Yours" line. EVER YOURS line, classy and coupy, a nice ceramic set for the table. From covered butters to cute salt and peppers, this line was inexpensive at the time, as a friend collects it and recalls it from his youth. He's spent years assembling rare pieces and what appears to be look-alike flowers from other manufacturers trying to "knock off" the TST line. Taylor Smith Taylor themselves had another flower, not quite as pretty in my opinion, Blue Bonnet.

RemiDanielleModern on Etsy offers this set for $145

Backstamp as shown from RemiDanielleModern

Although the creamers and sugars are still easy to find many of the sugar lids got broken, so finding them in good shape proves a bit challenging. As well, rare is the rare carafe or decanter, which my friend says is still much of a mystery. Originally came with a wooden lid and tiny little mid century modern styled handle atop the lid. Sometimes a wooden handle attached, but this was supposedly for the water pitchers (also rare if at all found.)

The carafe was either made in small quantities or just produced on a short run. Over time you are simply just lucky to find them anymore if at all. If you should find with wood lids or unknown mystery handles, then a definitely good find to be coveted.

Rare Carafe for this line as shown by PaintedPellikaan on Etsy, $34.99

Then we see offspring which make us unsure just what this could be, either a factory misprint, or a special test run, as a solid carafe just should not exist.

Rare Blue Carafe in the TST shape, But why? Find it at RetroChalet

Cadence by Prolon Owned by ThermoServ

2018-12-30T23:32:00.000-05:00

Cadence Melmac Dishes in canary yellow, this lot at RetroChalet

How is it that a melmac manufacturer Prolon, survived from 1956 until now producing the same line of melmac dishes called CADENCE? Now owned by ThermoServ the history goes all the way back to the ProPhylactic brush company, an early maker of all things rubber, plastic and well, of course, brushes. The history is quite enchanting.

Find out by reading this great article over at RetroChalet.blogspot.com on Cadence Prolon.

Bolducs Basement 1980's Garfield Smurf Fire King

2018-12-16T17:58:00.005-05:00

Set of 5 Vintage Ornamnets, $12.50 and Oh So Cute at Bolducs Basement

Bolducs Basement

Sometimes shops on Etsy pop up with a particular theme, for instance, the blacksmith artist who only hand forges hooks and metalware. There are many shops full of the vintage jewelry seller who only sell a certain "type" of item. Whether it be the deco or bakelite circa 1920's or an upscale diamond and gemstone shop, things are streamlined for you. Although those shops are all fine and wonderful, they aren't really giving the thrill of treasure hunting.

Garfield Oh No 4-0 Birthday Mug at Bolducs Basement Etsy $10

Once in a blue moon you may get lucky and see a shop like Bolducs Basement. In this case, when Tracy from Helotes, Texas decided to open a "treasures" shop on Etsy. What she has unmassed is a giant collection of knick knacks from the 1970's, 1980's and 90's, so much of it reminds me of my own youth! What makes this shop different is that it's themed circa 70's to 90's era and a bit of everything which makes great fun for treasure hunting! Great for 1980's Collecting!

Tracy and her 90=yearsyoung grand-mom, who got her started in collecting.

Her inspiration, she says, was from her Grandmother who had a flair for vintage decorating. Tracy says that her keen eye for recognizing vintage things and fixing up old furniture led her to open a booth locally. She says, "I opened a second booth closer to home, and then when it became too strenuous with balancing my home life (taking care of demanding dogs and a cat, as well as my daughter before she went to college) so I just kept up the one close to home. When rent became too much, I started selling exclusively online."

Smurfette is only $8.50 a great deal at Bolducs Basement on Etsy.

Tracy balances her store with unique inexpensive items. Here today, gone tomorrow, so don't wait! In this shop you will find a big assortment of 80's character items such as Disney, Garfield and Smurfs. I did a huge post on Collecting Smurfs before, and it was one of my most read. Seems that those little blue creatures seem to be living forever.

Smiling Garfield Collectible at Bolducs Basement on Etsy.

For Chrismas, Tracy's shop is loaded with vintage Christmas items and ornaments, the kind I used to see my own Mother decorating with. It's a great shop to bookmark and check often, or favorite on Etsy to get updated of new and recent items. Tracy says, " To me, everything I have in my store is a treasure. Much like my grandmother's house, where she has some of everything, I hope that people can find a little bit of everything in my basement."

Christmas Kitty Hallmark Ornament and More in her shop!

Find out more:

BolducsBasement on Etsy

Fine Jewelry Iconic DuetsFineJewelry Vintage Wedding Checklist Part Three

2018-12-02T11:18:00.002-05:00

Icons of the past: Jackie Onassis Kennedy Loved Emeralds.

Today we look at the iconic styles of vintage celebrities and their love for all things bling , aka, their jewelry choices. Part of a three part wedding checklist series, we have to refocus on the jewelry. It's not only important for engagement, but for bridesmaids, the bride to be, and even after the wedding as a way to show how much you care. Women and jewelry, well, they go together like peanut butter and jelly. Not to mention, Fine Gold Jewelry was worn by the most famous celebrities, so if you could pick, which celebrity are you?

The Emerald Queen : Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Emeralds, stand for the birthstone of the month of May, (sign of Taurus) as worn by Jackie Kennedy Onassis, above, her famous Diamond and Emerald engagement ring made heads turn. It was hard to catch a glimpse of the ring, as this former first lady always wore dainty gloves! Funny fact is, Jackie O was a Leo, not a Taurus and born in July. Perhaps she (or John) just loved the pairing of diamonds and emeralds..... Sadly, she passed in May, the birthstone month of the iconic ring.

Emeralds are a wonderful way to continue to say "I love you" to your bride. In lore, this stone opens the heart chakra and the ancients believed it opened and nurtured the heart.

Emerald Diamond Ring at Duets Fine Jewelry Etsy Shop, $850

Iconic: Princess Diana and her Sapphire Ring. Raw Sapphire by PNG Arts.

The Sapphire Princess Duo : Diana / Kate

This ring was made iconic by Princess Diana, then again in history when Kate Middleton wore it (and wears it to this day.) Sapphires are usually thought of as blue, and have been made fashionable over time; but they can appear in most every color gray, black, colorless or even an orangey-pink (or pinkish orange, depending on your opinion.) It's the birthstone of September, and the sign of Virgo. Ironically Diana was born in July and Kate in January.

Get the Look!

Sapphire Statement Earrings, Duets Fine Jewelry on Etsy, click for pricing.

Sapphire and Diamond Ring by DuetsFineJewelry, on sale currently $891

Paired with or without the earrings, the ring is astonishing! I have always been a huge fan of sapphire, perhaps it's just so classy. When paired with diamonds there's nothing better! The earrings are also good for Bridesmaids or weddings, and are set in white gold. In lore, the sapphire is highly prized, to bring good fortune and serves as a mental stabilizer. Nothing like that to keep a wife harmoniously happy.

Who doesn't love Diamonds? They ARE a girls best friend...

After All, Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend: Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe, iconic legendary sultry sweetheart is still alive in our hearts when we think of diamonds. Gwen Stefani recently did a great Marilyn Monroe impression; but she's been impersonated by the best of them over the years by Madonna and some of the best icons along the way.

Diamonds, are also the birthstone for April, (ironically Marilyn was born in June) and in lore known for balance, abundance and brings clarity to the wearer. Diamond deposits were formed over 900 million years ago but weren't mined (found) until 4th century BC, where they were used as a form to "repel evil." Diamonds also come in other colors, such as black. Vintage estate rings contain diamonds sometimes called "mining diamonds" which contain diamonds that are imperfectly cut, not as clear and not as brilliant due to the ways of cutting back in the late 1800's early 1900's but can be prizable possessions among antique jewelry collectors. Once unheard of, today diamonds are fashionable in many other colors, browns, yellows, and even black!

Get the Look!

What a gorgeous idea! Above: Monogrammed Diamond Bracelet on Etsy and below, a stunning ring at Duets Fine Jewelry

Duets Fine Jewelry on Etsy : Half Eternity Band. Stunning.

Buy Loose Diamonds!

You can buy your own diamond and have it set in a ring! Many colors at Duets Fine Jewelry on Etsy

It's now a fad to buy your own loose diamond, and have a local artisan set it in a ring for you. This way you can create your own setting and draw your own ring based on a pattern. If this is the case, Duets Fine Jewelry on Etsy above, has loose diamonds in many shapes and sizes. If you don't see something , just ask! Thanks to them for working with me for this article!

In Summary:

So if this article has told you anything, it should be that you don't have to be born in the birth month of your favorite stone. Perhaps something draws a wearer to the particular ring, rock, or gemstone. The Wedding Checklist is not complete without follow up after the wedding, continue to dress like a diva to make your husband happy, and husbands must continue to treat the wife like a cherished object!

Thanks for reading.

Links you May Enjoy / Sources:

Duets Fine Jewelry on Etsy (Links Above in Article)

Wedding Checklist Part One
Wedding Checklist Part Two
Wedding Checklist Part Three

Witcher 3 Decorating Ideas Wine Carafe Part One

2018-11-28T13:24:00.000-05:00

Decorate Witcher Style! How to Get a Wine Carafe Like this!

One of my favorite items is this blue ceramic wine Carafe, Decanter/ Jug.

How to Get the Vintage Look You See in Witcher 3 Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt game by CD Projekt Red, is set in a time of long ago. Many who play (including myself) often long to get the minimalist look of primitive days gone by. The game series concept was originally taken from a first miniseries) turned book character, Geralt of Rivia, from Polish book author (Andrzej Sapkowski.)

Poslish Syle Home, reminiscent of real village of Zalipie . Screenshot where I'm currently at as Geralt of Rivia in Witcher 3 Location: Arette, Novigrad.

Primitive Culture Comes Alive

It's not hard to recognize is the overtones in this particular Wild Hunt game - players who aren't familiar with it's Polish roots may consider this world to be that of styles of Slavic - Russian (signs, scenery) - Norse (homes, shields) - Scandinavian - Scottish (pottery, furniture) culture. However, it is based on Poland and it's culture.

I suffice to say the Blood and Wine Expansion highlighting primitive France no doubt. I thought it would be nice to explore how to get a look like you see in these houses in Arette , Novigrad, and Oxenfurt. Thatched roofs and old wooden homes, crates, barrels, and wooden furniture make for easy decorating. Today I wanted to explore the shelves, in particular, the pottery.

The Search for the Same Carafe as in Witcher 3 Wild Hunt

I searched high and low to get the same look as in the photo. I came up with 20 ideas that would suffice to make your home look " more Witchery. " These are of course, just my own opinions and you will need to see the Disclaimer at the bottom of the page as I encourage everyone to visit CD Projekt Red and get this game (with expansion packs of course). Note: I am calling this a wine carafe. Who knows, could have been a milk jug! So without further adieu, I bring you in no particular order my top 20. Of course none look exactly like the one in the game, but the pottery styles will turn your home into something grand.

Source: Swedish Jug on Etsy Shop NorthenDesignArt $148.50

1. This stoneware jug / vase was made in a Swedish Porcelain Factory "Rörstrand" circa 30's-50's by Gunnar Nylund . I like the overall shape of this item , it's sleek design and pale colors remind me of something right out of Novigrad!

Source: This wine vessel is natural hue and $11 here GallantTailor

2. This wine jug is handmade in the Ukraine and will hold 2.5 Liters of wine, you can use it in your retro home and get the Witcher style by a quick paint of blue !

Source: Ceramic Wine Decanter Found at CeramicsByPustovit $38.25

3. Ceramics by Pustovit out of the Ukraine had a few decanters that really hit the nail on the head resembling the sleekness of old world shapes and styles. So Scandi! Could pass for one of the ones on the shelves in Witcher Wild Hunt. I wouldn't mind nabbing one of their many designs, they are all handmade.

Source: Divio on Etsy features this ceramic jug for $53.97

4. Divio has several handmade styles on Etsy of what they call "rustic" ceramic jugs and pitchers. This would hold enough wine to make me happy.

Source: Darshan Pottery offers this pitcher , made in USA, $80.

5. Made in the USA, this Vermont artisan's shop is called Darshan Pottery. This wine (or as they say, ice tea ) pitcher has a great feel of yesterday. I love the drip glaze!

Source: This Old world Pitcher is only $31.25 at CeramicsbyPustovit Etsy Shop.

6. Ceramics by Pustovit again, in a different glaze, really has that old world style on Pitchers and Carafes.

Source: RedStoneGoods on Etsy pottery pitcher, $38

7. RedStoneGoods makes products from clay, in Belarus and many of their designs are sleek and remind me of the items on the shelves in Oxenfurt!

Source: Wine Decanter , Fiesta, $32 Jackpot Jen

8. Fiesta Decanters certainly have a bigger shape, but still reminiscent shape of the Witcher wine decanter, and these are more recently made. Fiesta is manufactured by the Homer Laughlin China Company in Newell, West Virginia.

Source: NoNameCatVintage offers this Blue Mountain Pitcher for $62.33

9. Although not spouted per say the overall shape and feel reminds me of something you would see in an elf or halfling's home. This mid century modern vase is made by Blue Mountain Pottery and ships from Canada.

Source: Blue Ceramic Vase at eclecticdaffodil $16.00

10. Although not a carafe, this blue ceramic vase would make a good staging prop, it's shape and design reminds of of Arette's shelves. It ships from Eclectic Daffodil vintage shop on Etsy, in Indiana.

Source: Frankoma's stylistic lines carafe at Beautalicious, $15

11. Frankoma pottery is back! The vintage factories closed after many years of production, is now back up and running. This however , is a true vintage style. Ships from USA from Etsy shop Beautalicious.

Source: Ewer Vase, Van Briggle, $98.50 WillowSophiaAntiques

12. Van Briggle pottery has deliciously curvy lines, and a line of "Ewer" vases resembles that which is found on shelves of Novigrad. This one, in blue fade, ships from USA.

Source: Carolina Crockery Hand-Thrown Ovoid Jug $85.00

13. This Cider jug is hand thrown, and is simply lovely. Made in the USA in North Carolina. Bonus: Many of the shop's oil and vinegar pottery cruets remind me of something you would see on the Wild Hunt's game shelves. What a way to modernize your home with the style of Witcher ! Make sure to check them out.

Source: LootByLouise Pfaltzgraff pitcher $24.95

14. From Iowa ships this great drippy glaze Pfaltzgraff pitcher, available at Etsy shop Loot By Louise.

Source: Monmouth Mid Century Modern $25 Opportunity Found

15. This wonderful Mid Century Modern MCM vase made by Monmouth and still has the original lid. It ships from the US and benefits the Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon - empowering people of Diverse Abilities.

Source: Duo of Royal Haeger vases on Etsy, NeNeandSeSe visit for pricing.

16. Although not the same overall form the style reminds me of the game style, simple, elegant. These are a duo by Royal Haeger, and offered as a set from California, on sale at the time of this post.

Source: Bauer Coffee Carafe $39.95 moniquevernon Etsy

17. The lines of this Bauer carafe would be spot on if it wasn't for the wooden handle. I didn't even notice when I first saw the design, and maybe it would look great on the pottery shelves in Redania!

Source: Only $10 , Whiskey Jug at Lilys Keepsakes on Etsy

18. Drink Up! Believe it or not, this is a vintage whiskey jug, in crockery stoneware which makes it very reminiscent of the game. I really like this design. Make sure to visit the shop to see the really cool maker marking on the front side.

Source: stoneware jug at VintageByTiffinie $12.99

19. This little hand thrown pitcher would look cute on a shelf . I wonder if the artist knew way back when that this style would be so loved? It ships from the USA from Texas!

Source: Clay Water Jugs Etsy, $17.54 from Germany AmphoresCappadocia

20. Here we have handmade German water jugs in clay. Oh so lovely! They ship from Germany but a steal at this price. Of course I like the spouted one best!

Tips:

Some search terms I used to do my search were and that may help you find a similar item:
Ceramic Wine Carafe
Pottery whiskey jugs
Stoneware Wine Jug
Clay Water Jug
Ewer Vase
Sleek Vase
Pottery Carafe
Wine Decanter
Ceramic Wine Decanter
Handmade Wine Decanter
Clay Wine Jug
Clay Wine Carafe
Clay Wine Pitcher
Ceramic Pitcher
Sleek Pitcher
Mid Century Modern Ceramic Pitcher

Loot this Look! Screenshot of Witcher 3, Wild Hunt by CD Projekt Red

Disclaimer: This was an unpaid post, created due to the fact I love the Witcher 3 game and searched high and low to replicate the look, I'm a vintage seller on Etsy under the shop RetroChalet, but none of these items are my own!

The Witcher® is a trademark of CD PROJEKT S. A. The Witcher game © CD PROJEKT S. A. All rights reserved. The Witcher game is based on a novel by Andrzej Sapkowski.

All users are Etsy shop owners and photos used with permission, their photo contains a link to their shop, unless their shop has closed which will then be removed.

I hope to do more posts soon as I continue to strive to replicate this look for my home.

Romancing Vintage Books Soon to Be Extinct

2017-12-12T12:00:00.001-05:00

Above: Real Entries from a vintage diary.

The Glory of Vintage Books

Some of my favorite things when picking for antiques or decor treasures for my home, is carefully looking for forgotten paper items. Even better, when this paper is in the form of an old book. Some serious book collectors will examine the spines, the condition of the pages, and of course, if the book is a first print or not. They will also look at circulation. I'm about the romance of the item itself.

In My Collection: Five Year Diary Circa 1930. They didn't leave much room to write!

Why We Love Them in Shabby Condition

The first reason is curiosity and love for a vintage item. The old diary above, has seen better days. With a spine missing and pages discolored, the previous owner wrote her one to three sentence updates in the 30's. Maybe part of me feels a bit dramatic for saying the sheer curiosity of the item drew me to it. What was it like living in the 30's and what things did this person write about? Who was she? Is she now passed or still alive somewhere? Suddenly I wanted to know. I was stuck to the small diary much like someone stuck on a reality show. The cover itself sucked me in with the adorable Victorian children and original shabby condition just makes it look more appropriate for my decor. A silk cord rope was put in the book by the previous owner to indicate just where she left off. I fell right in love with the thing and it was under $10. I don't know what an item like this is worth, but perhaps to the right person it's worth whatever price they are willing to pay. Note to self: shred my diary.

From my shelf: This book just makes my heart skip a beat.

Ernest Endres wrote about many fairies and gnomes yet much is missing about the author. Could this be a pen name for the publisher Ernest Nister, a famous turn of the century book printer and book publisher? The book above is a first print and falling apart, much love and stained, held together with masking tape. This I did spend about $50 for, only because I loved it so and it's rare and something that I won't part with. For me this book is rare and adorable. Combine the two and it's love at first site. But where do you find these in better shape? Only if they are digitized from a good version, but the fact of the matter is these prints show their stained and shabby age, and were lovingly created by the author.

Circa 1900 era the publisher may have been the author. I am not certain.

From decor and art standpoints, I like to display old books in my home. The ones on my fireplace mantle are for sale on Etsy. I used the ones at the bottom of the page to create a free Etsy shop banner. I also use some of the old more common books that are falling apart, to decoupage old switch plate covers and in my collage art work. I love old paper and old books. Don't you?

Old Books For Purchase:

Vintage Blue Book Lot $18 in my Retro Chalet shop on Etsy here.

ALiterarySurprise sells unbound books for interesting displays. Buy them here for $27.50

1949 Lot of three, only $20 from Green Attic Vintage on Etsy.

Huge Lot of 1900s Old Books only $41 from MyThreeSonsVintage

The Painted Trunk offers a lot of 10 retro books, find them here.

Leave me a note and tell me what are your thoughts with old books. Do you have a story of a book you loved so much? My concerns are now, when we live in such a digital age, using cellphones for everything, I feel old books will old day be obselete. Perhaps going green means using your iBooks and not your Library card......

Here's How to Get This Free Etsy Banner

I am putting this here just so you know it's my original work, from a stack of books in my home, edited with my photo editor program.

FREE ETSY "BOOKS BANNER" CLICK HERE

-----------------------------here------------------------

Now I'm giving YOU, the reader my permission to use it in your Etsy shop for the purpose of a shop banner or on your blog, etc. This is free as long as you are not selling the banner (so technically for non commercial uses). I simply ask that you return the favor of kindness by sharing my blog on twitter, Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook, etc. A simple share of this post would be great. Thanks so much.

How to use the Free Etsy Cover Photo Below:

Right Click Image
Save to Your Computer and Name It
Add Your Shop Name Overlay by Opening with any Photo Editor (PicMonkey is free and I love them.)
Save with Changes
Upload to Etsy and your done!

Free to use Etsy Cover Photo!

If you like this post, please share it!

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Warren Lynn Art Vintage Apple IMac veridycus Office Art

2017-11-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

Barbecue Feast by Warren Lynn

Artist Warren Lynn creates digitally stunning works of art suitable for display in malls, professional offices such as the doctor's or dentists's offices, and even for home use. He creates the artwork in high resolution for sizable wall art which, at 40" x 60" makes for interesting conversation pieces. Today this brings me to writing a bit about vintage apple items mixed with modern day works of Warren's art. Above, gorgeous rainbow color combinations make for a deliciously vivid piece called "Barbecue Feast." Below, vintage apple products with the rainbow of colors in the apple commend high prices and are desired among collectors. It seems a whole new line of rainbow Apple products have appeared on the web, Etsy and Ebay. Beware that these are not "modern day remakes" when paying antique prices.

Vintage Apple Computer Mug @SunflowerGarlicFarm

When designing Apple computers, Steve Jobs was fond of not only functionality but superior design. I would like to think that design and style was as important to him as being at the top of the innovation scale. To this date Apple's design team thinks of everything from packaging to design. When I look at Warren Lynn's work I see clear and distinct design lines that incorporate and beautify the streamlined ideas that flourish into his art.

Warren Lynn's gorgeous Hancock design is also sold on tote bags, pillows, phone cases. Pictured here on an iPhone case, $25

Warren is a computer engineer from Los Angeles. He creates from his Apple iMac computer and the items are available for purchase on online gallery veridycus . Above, the Hancock design was inspired by a filming location in Los Angeles mixed with the views of the "Hollywood" sign. This is certainly one of my personal favorites, and the fact that any of his creations come on bags, pillows, tshirts or accessories on the website is even better. Below, neutral colors were used by Apple in early computer production. The greyish creamy neutral colors made the Apple I and II.

Vintage Apple Modulator - Way back when Apple II was connected to the TV!

found at : StuffFromBackThen

"Prehistoric Fish" is my favorite Warren Lynn work. It reminds me of Murano glass mixed with many colors.

The Prehistoric Fish above shows how creative one can get on an iMac, mixing digital creativeness with stunning design. Below, in 1983, you would have to read the Apple Works Tutorial book, which was included in the purchase of your Apple IIe or IIc Computer. Today, ephemera and books like the one below are highly sought after among collectors. Yet the market is slim for working Apple computers that are in use today.

Old Book, Apple Computer, 1983 Found at PengyPatterns

I myself have quite a collection of vintage Apple products, as now I look back to the past to the Apple Computer of the 80's and realize just how far we have come. As for Warren Lynn, he's constantly creating and looking to the future with new designs.

If you know someone looking for great artwork, please share. He even offers free monthly downloads (for non commercial use) on his website.

Find them here: https://veridycus.com

Or, sign up to follow him here: https://gumroad.com/warrenlynn

Coffee Collectibles Best Vintage Java

2017-11-01T14:12:00.000-04:00

Vintage Schonwald German Coffee Set from OurRetroShop $44.01

Coffee......yum. Whether you drink it up as a treat or on a daily basis or simply reward yourself all day long, the best coffee collectibles are outlined here on VintageChalet! Above, an old German retro dinnerware set yields an antique coffee pot and sugar bowl. Yum. Enjoy these finds, most are from Etsy. For the best coffee, try SapaCoffee.com . Sapa Coffee is a line of premium roasted coffee blended with toasted hemp hearts! This makes the coffee rich in Omegas 3 & 6!

Estonia's take on the coffee bean grinder, Find them at TallinnVintage for $36.17

Coffee collectibles vary in type based on the part of the world you are in. What's not to love if you are a coffee fanatic putting some of these artifact worthy finds in your home. Both for good "coffee talk" and conversation, most can be interesting topics of conversation. Below, an old grinder Italian style, with mill is shown.

Old Coffee Mills shop from Spain offers many coffee mills, this mill & grinder $174.83

Perhaps the easiest thing to collect is old coffee mugs. Whether you are into melmac , vintage glassware or old china, finding something economic and antique to put to use in your kitchen was never easier. Our pick today is old and colorful!

Editor's Pick

Fire King Collection, $48 for these mugs InteriorComponents

Fire King, by Anchor Hocking makes for great milk glass collecting and a fine cup of java.

enjoy!

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Vintage Style Lights at Lamplight Design Company

2017-07-13T19:11:00.000-04:00

Vintage Style Anchor Lamp at Lamplight Design Co

James Brighouse out of the UK makes these gorgeous lamps made out of reclaimed and new wood, steel and LED lights. Many look like the old marquee lights you would see in movie theaters or bars back in the 50's. These are functional lights handmade on Etsy with a vintage flair! The store is located in the UK but shipping to the states is not expensive at all! Above: The vintage style anchor light above would look great in a cottage or lake house, and even in Gramp's garage over his boat. Cost is $180 USA plus $50 shipping which doesn't make the item a bad by at $230 total.

Stunning Marquee Arrow at Lamplight Design Company

I am drawn to the arrow above, as I remember as a child the old movie theatres that still had the arrows. Even visiting Ocean City's boardwalk, I'd see these old arrows signaling to "come in" to the gaming halls or the instant photo booths. Finding them now is rare and this new item made by Lamplight Design Company has a vintage style patina and comes in different colors to match the home. Not to mention having LED lights is safe and cost effective and can light up a room for pennies on the dollar. The arrow above retails for $113 USA and shipping to the USA East Coast runs about $51. Certainly a worthwhile purchase for $164.

You can never have enough love....by Lamplight Design Company

My favorite of course is this stunning display of LOVE, all four letters are large and bright, measuring over will run you over $600, but perhaps for a wedding or special gathering (meant for indoor use, but you can use outside temporarily as long as you take in when finished) would be a work of art that all your guests would adore. I think especially great for photographers staging videos. I simply LOVE this sign.

According to their Etsy profile, the husband and wife team James and Samantha Brighouse loves nostalgia and work from home in England. They state that lifestyle merchandising is their passion and they offer unique items for your surroundings. All of thier lamps are made with LED battery op lights. That's not all that is in their shop , you will even find tshirts and hand painted signs.

For all you Manilow Maniacs or Breakfast Club generation out there.................

Go crazy with this quote sign, only $126.99 handpainted.

See more here: LAMPLIGHT DESIGN CO

Vintage Shabby French Post Cards from Paris Collector's Dream

2017-06-26T19:47:00.000-04:00

A stack of 30 postmarked only $28 at RetroChalet on Etsy

Post cards from Paris, yes, they are real and old. A post card collector's dream. If you love shabby ephemera, or collecting post cards, these stacks of retro cards are for you. Maybe it's just me, but I was a bit nosy trying to read what they say. Perhaps the fact of romance from days gone by never gets old.

Gorgeous Written letters just waiting to be had. @RetroChalet

RetroChalet now has many lots available from a huge French post card buyout: stamped, unstamped, written or unwritten. It seems after taking French two years to be exact, I cannot for the life of me read these.

How romantic that loved ones, friends and neighbors traveled on vacation to areas of France sending back greetings and salutations. Many have old stamps or post marks which would look great in collage and scrapbooking.

Many collectors of post cards may find them interesting to read, they are in dull used shabby condition.

Go see them here:
Paris, French, Collage..at retrochalet

Vintage Glove Molds at RetroChalet

2017-06-23T21:37:00.000-04:00

Vintage Porcelain Glove Mold from RetroChalet $32 on Etsy

My how we love the vintage glove molds. People squawk at the idea of having a hand in their home, but little do they know it is a fad that grows on you quite quickly. Having an old industrial mold may appear creepy at first, but after time, you get used to it and desire more and more laying around the home.

Glove Mold at retrochalet on Etsy

They seem to blend with any decor and look quite lovely. Most were used in making vinyl and latex gloves for years in the factory. To be honest, many were made in the USA by a company named General Porcelain in Trenton. The company had ties back to the early 1900's and would make everything from porcelain tubs, insulators, and sinks. The close of General Porcelain was an indication of American industrialism gone bad. RetroChalet has found containers of glove molds that were headed to destruction from an old glove factory.

Photo: RetroChalet. These were by Hall China Company, also made in USA

Owner Cindy Fahnestock-Schafer indicates, "They were mounted onto an assembly line and the assembly line was metal. They would crank around and dip into a vat of molten rubber, thereby drying as they came out, making gloves. I assume each glove was then peeled off the mold and packaged. What a really long time to get to a box of 100".

Schafer explains most of hers were made circa 1950's to 1980's and were made in the USA. She sells them in her Etsy shop RetroChalet.

KariBeth Vintage Archival Home Decor Items

2017-06-20T08:26:00.003-04:00

Photo: Karibeth This etched floral decanter, $30, would look great holding colored liquid (food coloring) for a statement piece in the home.

KariBeth is a jewelry designer from Nashville who uses upcycled and recycled parts in her work. Her jewelry (such as compass necklaces and knife necklaces) has made a name for itself being sold direct in brick and mortar boutiques from New York to Tennessee and online sites as well. Her work has been featured in places such as Anthropologie and Roses and Rustics. She also has a keen eye for good design relics for the home.

KariBeth's collection of vintage relics for the home are rare and astounding.

Her store online, Karibeth.com, contains a great page with vintage archival items. These are curated items for your home and you will find things used for different purposes here. For instance, an etched decanter (above) could be filled with colored liquid, or the stopper removed to house fresh wildflowers. The lovely metal double sided swan basket (below) can be used to hold an air plant or even house your remote controls for television and car keys.

Photo: Karibeth.com This swan looks so art nouveau and would look great holding remotes, keys, or an air plant.

Unusual Decor: Brass Peacock with Rhinestone Eyes karibeth.com

See more of KariBeth's designs for the home here: https://karibeth.com/collections/vintage-archival-1

Please be sure to check out her jewelry as well!

Editor Pick: This Knife Necklace

KariBeth necklace includes a 2.5" vintage penknife found in travels.