Farm Pets

Farm Pets, originally uploaded by the home gnome.

1954

Easter Ephemera

easter, originally uploaded by the home gnome.

Easter is right around the corner! Get these super little cards while you have the chance. They're available in the shop and can be mailed out without delay. Isn't that little cowboy chick the cutest thing ever??

Salome's Jewels

Salome's Jewels, originally uploaded by the home gnome.

I believe she's from the late 30s or 40s. Plaster work, excellent Grecian profile. She has been repainted in spots. Original paint in spots is simply gorgeous. Has anyone else ever seen a bust like this? I would love to be able to date it more accurately or find out the series of which she is part. Any clues?

New Look at Home Gnome

Everybody else has gone victorian. Guess I will too. I love it!

Recent Listings!

Did someone say "Knight Rider"??

Close up of floursack fabric.

Flavia circa 1969 collection.

Breaking the vintage code

Whether you sell vintage or buy vintage, at some time or another you are sure to have come across the phrases

• as found
• near mint
• good

If you're like me, these words only mean what I know them to literally denote. When paired with vintage items, how does their definition change? Fortunately, I recently came across a swell guide to help both sellers and buyers of vintage clothing and other items. It's a condition chart with clear definitions for each identifying phrase. Take a look:
I have studied up on these terms and observed that a local vintage seller had labelled one of her dresses "as found." As found, hmmm? And so, I began searching for the many flaws I knew this dainty pink confection must have to deserve so condemning a label. After a cursory glance, I saw nothing wrong with it. Since the definition of as found is that a piece is damaged beyond repair, I was left with one conclusion: the seller didn't know what she was talking about! She knew the words, but not what they meant!

The point: hone your skills. Know what you mean when you say it. If you're a buyer, know what you're looking for. Carry this little chart around with you, if you must. Knowledge is power.

Be strong.

Compliments from the Storque

What a wonderful compliment! Today, every time I checked our Etsy shop, I noticed that more and more people were marking us favorites. Finally, I checked on the front page Storque articles--and there we were! Our little vintage tiara (adorable) was featured in an article on vintage weddings. Of course, that's exactly what some lucky, lucky bride-girl needs. Why? 'Cause that tiara is to totally swoon for! Take a look.