Ready to hit the garage sales but not quite certain what to watch for? On any given Saturday the yards and garages of Indiana are full of treasures just waiting to be discovered. So, what makes the difference between a great find and a “what was I thinking”? Here are my top picks for the spring of 2017 that can save you money, and maybe even turn a profit!
Retro Bar ware — From kitschy cool to Hollywood Glam, bar ware from the 1960′s and 70′s has returned to popularity both as a collectible and as a favorite for those who love to entertain. Mid-Century bar ware offers great colors, architectural finesse and quality that has stood the test of time. Collectors watch for abstract designs, pink flamingos, playing cards and anything with gold leaf trim. Odds and ends can usually be had for a couple of dollars, but watch for full sets, even if you have to lay down a touch more cash. Top picks in this category include. glasses with their carriers, full bar sets of 11-15 pieces, cocktail shakers and ice buckets.
World globes — Holding strong as both a collectible and a home decor item are the world globes from 1950-1980. Replogle, Cram’s and Imperial 12″ table top globes are the most common find. The majority of these will be in blues and earth tones, but occasionally a black globe will surface. Watch for globes that illuminate as they are highly sought by collectors, if they are in good working order. Floor model dry bars, bookends and liquor bottles decorated with old world maps are also in high demand. Determining the age of your 20th Century globe is easier if you have a working knowledge of world history. For example: In 1935 Persia changed its name to Iran. Bangladesh will not appear on your globe before 1970 and The Soviet Union appears only on pre-1991 globes as after this time in was dissolved into 15 separate countries
Sewing Collectibles — Every few years this area of collecting rises back to the top of the “must have” list, and that is where you will find it for the Summer of 2017. With their nostalgic nature, modest price and availability, sewing boxes, machine accessories, wooden spools and darning eggs and measuring tapes are fun to collect and if you happen upon a piece that is also an advertising collectible, you have doubled your good fortune. Treadle sewing machines have diminished in popularity in recent years. However, their parts, especially the drawers and the iron bases are great for repurposing projects.
Tupperware — Yes, I said Tupperware! No longer a nickle castoff item, if you know what to watch for there are pieces of vintage Tupperware that are highly collectible. Wilton cookie cutters from the mid-70′s are a good find and easy to spot with their bright orange and green color. Watch for the “made in Hong Kong” marking as a validation of age. Wonderlier nesting bowls from the 1960s are another good find. These come in sets of 3, with lids. Also watch for sculptural salt and pepper shakers, especially in sets of 4 with the holder and utility pieces like the cheese grater with storage bowl and canister sets. Condition is everything with Tupperware. If you are looking at pieces with scrapes, warping or fading, pass them by.
Mid Century Office Supplies — Office supplies and desk accessories from 1930-1970 are a hot collectible for 2017. On a recent day of “junking” I found a metal tape dispenser ($3), a metal 1940s goose neck desk lamp (in need of rewiring but only $8), a 1974 advertising pencil holder ($1) and a Bakelite letter opener (.50). Digging a little deeper in my pockets I also laid down $14 for an antique roll-around solid oak 1940s desk chair. Total spent $26.50. Reaction from my husband when I decorated his office with my finds? Priceless! Until next time…Linda
Irvington resident Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com