A Koi McCoy or Roseville Jardiniere

I'm not a McCoy or Roseville collector and have only admired most jardiniere's from the distance but I recognize an uncommon piece when I see one and this is one. I found this gorgeous koi/fish jardiniere just down the street at a garage sale this morning. I believe it dates to the 30's but have found only a few references to this mold on the Internet. A great find for only $5.00. The antique dealers were a little jealous when they arrived a few moments later to see it in my arms.

Pop Culture, Collectibles & The Campbell Soup Kids

The Campbell soup label has to be one of the most recognizable labels emanating from the later part of the 20th century. Andy Warhol made it the icon of American Pop Culture and Americans made the Campbell Soup Kids part of their family. They've changed a bit through the years, even slimming down but they're still the symbol of "mm mm good". Campbell Soups first collectible was issued in 1905. Since then thousands of different items have been produced. America's fascination with collectibles hasn't seemed to wane even with a recession. The question is are collectibles an investment or just for fun? Is it common or rare? As always the market is driven by demand. Remember when old comic books where the rage? Only the rarest of issues have maintained any value now. What may be in demand today may not be in a couple of months. Americans are fickle creatures. It's all about time. None of us can predict the future so if you purchased collectibles like baseball cards, Department 56 Christmas Houses or Campbell Soup items enjoy them, use them and be prepared for their second coming. You really can't go wrong when you invite the Campbell Soup Kids into your home.

You can purchase the Campbell Soup items pictured HERE. SOLD I have yet to find this bread box anywhere online which leads me to believe it's not so common.

Danish Make Over

It's been a while since I shared a garage sale find. For one thing I was in a class for 2 weeks and the rain in June never seemed to end. I have made a few purchases and this post is about a great find from this morning's bike ride. I seem to find the best things when I'm not looking very hard. If I've said it once I've said it a dozen times, I can furnish a one bedroom apartment for $500.00 or less and do it well. This excludes the mattress and box spring for obvious reasons. These chairs are actually much prettier in person then the photo. I spent $8.00 on the pair and another $12.00 on new fabric. A little Old English furniture oil made to help with minor scratches and the end result is a striking pair of chairs featuring dove tailed joints and full back support. There's a beautiful white Danish Modern sofa at the local thrift shop for $30.00 that would be perfect with these chairs. It can be done............and you can do it too.

BEFORE