Ingredients:
Directions:
Tip
You can create a blueberry-only version by cutting the chocolate mixture in half and skipping the addition of rice square cereal and remaining 1/4 cup of sugar.
Enjoy!!
]]>Acorns are symbols of potential, perseverance, and growth. As the old saying goes, "Mighty oaks from little acorns grow." So why not add a touch of this powerful symbolism to your home decor? From modern to antique, traditional to eclectic, nature art makes a classic addition to any home's decor.
One of my favorite ways to incorporate acorns into my decor is with this large and substantial resin acorn. Standing at 5-1/2 inches tall and accented with gold-colored paint, it's a handsome addition to any mantle or tabletop display.
But if you're looking for something a bit more natural, I recommend this set of handmade ornaments. Made using only natural acorn caps foraged from Oak trees in Urbana, Maryland and the finest 100% pure New Zealand wool, these whimsical ornaments are the perfect way to welcome the season. Sprinkle them throughout your home or use them to decorate your Thanksgiving table. They also make a lovely gift for a friend or hostess who appreciates natural handmade items.
And if you're a fan of needle felting, then you'll love this sweet little "Grateful Mouse" decoration. Adorned with a genuine acorn cap, cozy sweater, floral skirt, abundant scarf, and holding a sign reading "Grateful Thankful Blessed," this little critter is perfect for displaying with other critter styles or gifting to a collector. You can pose it or use the clear filament hanger for easy decorating.
So, there you have it, my dear friends. Acorn decor is a great way to celebrate the beauty of nature and add a touch of whimsy to your home. With their symbolic meaning of potential, perseverance, and growth, acorns make for great decorative pieces that can be incorporated into a variety of interior design styles. So, whether you choose to display acorn figurines, ornaments, or a needle felted mouse, these charming pieces are sure to make a statement in your home.
Happy decorating!
]]>20th Century - value as of 3/12/23, $600-$1200*. I am always on the lookout for unique pieces that tell a story and add character to any home. When I stumbled upon this antique** Larkin Tiger Oak Secretary Desk at an estate sale in Maryland, I knew I had found something truly special. The Larkin Company's history is fascinating, and it's incredible to think that this desk was produced by one of the most prosperous manufacturers in the United States in the early 1900s.
The Larkin Company was founded by John D. Larkin in 1875, with a focus on producing soap. But the company quickly expanded its production capabilities and became one of the most prosperous manufacturers in the country. The Larkin Company was known for its innovative marketing techniques and progressive policies towards workers, making it a popular brand among consumers.
Known for using Tiger oak for furniture manufacturing, the Larkin Company was able to mass produce durable pieces that had a one-of-a-kind appearance due to the wood’s irregular grain pattern. The desk's Tiger Oak finish is breathtaking, with its striking grain patterns and rich color adding warmth and depth to any room.
The drop-front desktop is a standout feature, providing a spacious writing surface that invites creativity and productivity. The cabriole legs add a touch of elegance to the desk's design, and the drawer below provides ample space for storing essential supplies. The small compartments and drawer behind the drop-down front are a delightful surprise, offering a convenient way to organize odds and ends and keep them within easy reach.
While some secretary desks may be found with a mirror attached to the top, the Larkin Tiger Oak Secretary Desk was not originally intended to be a vanity or dressing table.
As a lover of all things old, I am thrilled to add this antique** piece to my furniture collection. It's a stunning piece that showcases the Larkin Company's legacy of quality and innovation, and I know it will be cherished by its new owner for years to come. It is my hope someday one will cross your path so you, too, can enjoy its history and tradition.
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do I specialize in antiques. However, for many years I've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. I gotta’ tell'ya, they're my kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
**The term "ANTIQUE" should be reserved only for items greater than 100 years old. Outside of the practice of buying and selling items, however, use of the word "ANTIQUE" can be understood to attach no specific age to an item. Some collectors hold to an 80-year marker. The 80-year marker considers the heritage of the item in that it reflects the span of two generations, with one generation traditionally considered to be the length of 40 years. Click here to learn more about the differences between "ANTIQUE" and "VINTAGE".
]]>Are you ready to hop into the Easter spirit with Porch Nook's top 10 gift ideas? Here we go...
Handmade 100% Wool Felt Eggs, 6-Piece Set. I can’t think of a better way to welcome the spring season! This LIMITED COLLECTION of soft and sophisticated 100% wool eggs are the perfect addition to your Easter or farmhouse décor. Each is the size of a real egg and is packaged perfectly for gift giving!
Organic Culinary Lavender Buds, 1 oz. (28.25 g.). Known for its deeper violet-blue blooms that boast a richly fruity flavor, Porch Nook's organic Hidcote edible lavender offers limitless possibilities in the kitchen! Infused, brewed, baked, sprinkle as a seasoning...the fun never stops.
Vintage Fruitwood Pillar Spindle, 15” Tall. Display your love for nature-inspired decor with this stunning salvaged fruitwood pillar. Standing 15” tall and featuring a genuine rustic finish only decades of time can achieve, it will add a touch of neutral tones and pristine style to any room in your home.
Antique Sewing Machine Cabinet Drawers Tower by The Singer Manufacturing Company. Manufactured in the early 1900s, this rustic sewing table drawer tower offers endless charming storage for spices, dishes, potted flowers, toiletries, hand towels and so much more! Made by The Singer Manufacturing Company, the two drawers slide easily within their original frame and have their original rich finish.
Gold Leaf Decorative Eggs, Set of 6 - Citrine Collection. Meticulously burnished with Gold Leaf, each uniquely painted egg will inject color and shine to your décor. Great for Easter, hostess gifts or Baby Showers. Each set comes with 2 of each color (6 total): turquoise, yellow and coral.
Large Handcrafted Wool Felt Chandelier with Tassel. Make your space even sweeter with this adorable, handcrafted wool felt chandelier shaped mobile! Playfully sophisticated, hand felt pom poms are elegantly strung with white twine ending with a soft yarn tassel. Comes with a strong twine hanger so it is ready to be displayed immediately! Hang it in your craft room, cozy reading nook, sunroom, or nursery.
Handcrafted 18" Round Wool Felt Wreath with Leaves, Pinecones and Berries. Make your space even sweeter with this adorable, handcrafted wool felt wreath showcasing leaves, berries, and pinecones in an abundant display of soft warm hues of green, brown, red, and pink. Teaming in lush texture, this piece comes with an attached wool felt hanger so it's ready to be displayed immediately! Hang it above your mantel, door, nursery, or a cozy reading nook. Or lay it down on a table to enwreathe your seasonal tabletop décor.
Chalkboard Painted Decorative Eggs, Set of 6. Chalkboard painted for infinite doodling, our clever eggs offer a fresh, colorful spin. Fun and reusable, great for Easter, hostess gifts or Baby Showers, display your creativity or use them as table place cards. Each set comes with one egg in each color: pink, green, purple, orange, yellow, blue.
Rustic Wool Felted My Sunshine Mouse, “You Are My Sunshine”. With Daisies in hand and love to share, when this ray of sunshine knocks on your door you just know it’s going to be a great day! This lovely needle felted springtide mouse is wrapped in a cozy knit sweater, hat, flowers and a “You Are My Sunshine” purse. Great to display with other critter styles or gift to a collector. You can pose it or use the clear filament hanger for easy decorating.
Vintage French Styled Bird Cage, Wood with Wire Dome. Here is a decorative element that combines beauty and function, perfectly. Whether used to collect notes of good wishes from your guests, wedding greeting cards or filled with florals, this will make a stunning addition to your décor. Offering an array of decorative possibilities, this classic decorative birdcage can be used time and time again.
I hope that you've enjoyed learning about Porch Nook’s Top 10 Easter gift ideas and how they can help make your Easter holiday a more beautiful one.
Thanks for reading, and happy decorating!
]]>
So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and created my own line of brushes that are affordable, durable, can hold a lot of paint, and environmentally friendly.
But seriously, these are the reasons why my Porch Nook paint brushes will be the only brush you’ll see me using while you walk by studio (which is just a fancy word for my garage).
To learn more about each brush, visit the following links:
Happy decorating!
]]>
One way to do this is with river stones and hand-woven rattan accents. These materials give off a textural and organic feel that's perfect for any style or theme. The hand-woven rattan accents are made from natural fibers that are strong and durable, and they're woven into baskets and other decorative items that have an earthy, rustic look. It's like adding a touch of the great outdoors to your house.
And, when you pair these hand-woven accents with river stones, you get versatile pieces that can be used all over the house. You can use them as paperweights or bookends, or even to keep your napkins and utensils from flying away during an outdoor dinner party. Talk about practical!
And you know what's even better? These unique pieces make great gifts too! Each river stone is unique, just like every person's journey in life. So, by gifting a river stone, you're showing your support and encouragement for someone on their own transformative journey.
So, in conclusion, if you want to add a touch of natural beauty to your home decor, grab some river stones with hand-woven rattan accents. You'll bring in a bit of serenity and style to your space, and who knows, you might even inspire your friends to do the same.
Thanks for reading and happy decorating!
]]>First of all, let's talk about the aesthetics. Rustic style continues to be all the rage, and these spools fit right in. They're natural and rugged, with a beautiful patina. They're the perfect accent for a home that wants to embrace nature-inspired textures and earthy colors. Plus, they have an unpretentious warmth that's just so darn charming.
And the best part? Decorative spools are often recycled wood or upcycled from industrial use, so not only are they stylish, they're also environmentally friendly. It's a win-win!
For Porch Nook, these decorative wooden spools are a top seller. My collection was inspired by old South Carolina textile factory spools. And the best part is that no two are alike! Each one has its own distinct patina, color and rustic appearance.
Last year I was especially excited to add pieces that included twine and scissors! They're not just for show, they're actually functional, too. Each spool comes with coiled jute twine and a pair of brass-colored scissors.
Just recently, I experienced a moment of pure excitement and exhilaration when I stumbled upon a full box of antique textile factory spools at a pickers yard in Maryland. It was truly a jackpot discovery, as these spools are a rare and exquisite piece of history. As I held them in my hands, I could feel the weight of the solid wood and steel core fixture, marveling at the level of craftsmanship and care that went into creating them. Dating back to the 1930s-40s, each spool has its own unique appearance and character, with a beautiful patina that has developed over the decades.
The decorative possibilities are endless with these spools. Perfect for rustic wedding décor, a farmhouse kitchen, or any home needing a touch of nature-inspired texture. You can use them as accent pieces for a fun farmhouse display or put them in a vintage sewing basket for that authentic touch. Or get creative and use them as candle holders or name card holders. They even make great door stops and bookends. No wonder they are Porch Nook’s top sellers!
Thanks for reading and happy decorating!
]]>20th Century - value as of 1/22/23, $800*. Julia Salt was a talented artist who made a name for herself in the Dayton, Ohio area. She was a member of several local art associations, including the Dayton Society of Painters & Sculptors, the Fairborn Art Association, and the Miamisburg Starving Artists. She even served as past president of the latter organization.
Salt was particularly known for her oil paintings, which were admired for their vibrant colors and attention to detail. She had a strong passion for animals and was a strong supporter of the humane society. This love for animals often found its way into her art, as she was known to paint portraits of dogs, cats and other animals.
Unfortunately, Julia Salt passed away on February 20, 2004 in Columbus, Ohio. However, her legacy lives on through her artwork, which continues to be appreciated by art lovers in the Dayton area and beyond. Her paintings remind us of her talent, her passion for animals and her dedication to the arts.
I was incredibly excited when I discovered this painting, “Lilacs No. 9”. The sight of the beautiful lilacs immediately brought back fond memories and a sense of nostalgia for me. I couldn't help but stare at the painting, admiring the intricate details and vibrant colors of the flowers. The urge to breathe in the fragrance of the lilacs was overwhelming, even though I knew it was just a painting. Right away I knew this was a treasure that would bring an abundance of joy to its next home. It could be used as a focal point in a dining room or as a complement to a living area with vibrant throw pillows and a shag rug.
If you find one of Julia Salt's paintings, you may want to consider doing a few things to properly preserve and protect it. Here are a few suggestions:
Keep the painting in a safe place: Make sure the painting is stored in a dry, cool place that is out of direct sunlight. Avoid hanging it in areas with high humidity or where it may be exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures.
Clean the painting: Gently dust the painting with a soft, dry cloth. If there is any dirt or grime on the surface, you can use a mild cleaning solution, such as a mixture of water and a small amount of mild soap. Be sure to test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the painting first.
Consult a professional: If you are unsure about how to best care for the painting, it may be a good idea to consult with a professional art conservator. They can help you properly preserve and protect the painting, and may also be able to provide more information about the artist and the painting itself.
Appraise the painting: It's also a good idea to have the painting appraised by a professional art appraiser, This can help you determine the painting's value and also provide you with a more detailed information on the artist, the painting, and its potential market value.
Keep records: Keep records of the painting's condition, any repairs, cleaning or treatment that was done, and also any documents, receipts or other information that you may have about the painting
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do I specialize in antiques. However, for many years I've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. I gotta tell'ya, they're my kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
You see, I've been having a bit of a debate with some of my clients and friends as of late about whether teal is a blue or a green. And honestly, it's been driving me crazy. I mean, how can we not agree on something as seemingly simple as the color of teal? But the more I think about it, the more I realize that this debate is actually pretty complex.
First of all, let's define teal. According to Merriam-Webster, teal is "a blue-green color." So right off the bat, we're already in a bit of a grey area. Blue and green are two distinct colors, and yet teal is described as both. But it's not just the dictionary that's causing confusion. If you take a look at different paint chips or color swatches, you'll see that teal can range from a deep, almost navy blue to a bright, almost neon green. So, which is it?
Well, as it turns out, the answer might not be so simple. Teal is actually a combination of blue and green pigments. So, depending on how much of each pigment is present, the color can appear more blue or more green. This is why some people might see teal as a blue, while others might see it as a green. It's all about perspective.
And that's the thing about color - it's not always cut and dry. There's a lot of nuance and subjectivity involved. What one person sees as teal, another person might see as turquoise. And that's okay. The beauty of color is that it can be interpreted in so many different ways. It's all about how we see it and how we choose to use it.
So, the next time you're in a debate about the color of teal, remember that there's no right or wrong answer. It's all about how you see it. And if you're still confused, just think of it as a magical blue-green unicorn that defies definition. Trust me, it'll make your life a lot easier.
At Porch Nook, 'The Real Teal' and 'Kiddie Pool,' are my go-tos to get my teal fix because they're so versatile and beautiful. I mean, they're stunning on their own, but when you blend them together, it's like a mesmerizing montage, am I right? But let's be real, there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to color. It's all about what makes you happy.
Thanks for reading and happy decorating!
]]>Here is my personal list of top 7 spring décor gift ideas!
“Lilacs No. 9” by Julia Salt, Oil on Canvas. At first glance I promise you will fight the urge to breathe deeply with the hopes of catching this bouquet’s fragrance. Display this gorgeous botanical artwork in the dining room as a focal point or living area with vibrant throw pillows and shag rug. This is an original piece painted by an American artist well known for her oil paintings and strong support of the humane society.
Rustic Wool Felted My Sunshine Mouse, “You Are My Sunshine”. With Daisies in hand and love to share, when this ray of sunshine knocks on your door you just know it’s going to be a great day! This lovely needle felted springtide mouse is wrapped in a cozy knit sweater, hat, flowers and a “You Are My Sunshine” purse.
Woven Cotton Distressed Print Rug, 4x6. This 100% cotton indoor area rug combines a breezy pattern with a bright color palette for a playful foundation in your space. A central medallion, cheerful white fringe and floral motifs around the border in soft hues, plenty of distressing that gives it the look of a flea market find.
Large Handcrafted Wool Felt Chandelier with Tassel. Make your space even sweeter with this adorable, handcrafted wool felt chandelier shaped mobile! Playfully sophisticated, hand felt pom poms are elegantly strung with white twine ending with a soft yarn tassel.
Large Handcrafted Wool Felt Chandelier with Tassel. Make your space even sweeter with this adorable, handcrafted wool felt chandelier shaped mobile! Playfully sophisticated, hand felt pom poms are elegantly strung with white twine ending with a soft yarn tassel.
Vintage Tilted Tea Table, Decoupage Abbey Lavender Fields in Provence France designed by Porch Nook. Unlike any other tea table, this piece also serves as a piece of beautiful artwork you can prominently exhibit in your home. Displaying a decoupaged illustration of the Abbey’s lavender fields in Provence, and base hand painted in a shabby chic style, this piece will invite you to indulge in a cup of lavender tea and dream of future travels. One of a kind!
Wooden Box Sign with Wool Felt Floral Accent, “I Want To Annoy You”. How better to express your gratitude towards someone who adores you just the way you are! This inset wooden box sign hangs easily or can free stand alone. Features a, "I Want To Annoy You For The Rest Of My Life" sentiment on a natural wood background with dimensional wool felt floral accents for added interest. The frame features cream colored sides to enhance the design.
I hope that you've enjoyed learning about Porch Nook’s 7 favorite spring décor pieces and how they can help make your home and state of mind a more beautiful place.
The season of spring is all about freshness and new beginnings, and that's what I want to do for you: help you start fresh with the best spring decor money can buy.
I know you'll love the way Porch Nook decorations will change the way your space looks—and how they'll change the way you feel when you walk through the front door. It's time to embrace springtime, and I can't wait to help you decorate your home so that it is ready for this beautiful time of year.
]]>Due to being heavier than, perhaps, your favorite lightweight daywear lotion, I would recommend using this body butter at night. Perhaps after bathing at the end of a long day, allowing it to do its moisturizing magic while you’re resting. I can’t think of a better way to wrap up my day than to fall asleep to the aroma of a decadent holiday dessert.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Ingredients:
TIP: This recipe can be cut in half or quarters very easily.
Directions:
TIP: To add an extra artisan touch, sprinkle a pinch of cocoa powder along the top of your jarred body butter. Hailed as a natural skin brightening ingredient, Cocoa contains flavonols, polyphenol and caffeine which are good for your skin!
*Peppermint essential oil can be irritating to sensitive skin. I have sensitive skin and figure out I’m A-OK if I wash it off with warm water and soap 12 hours after application.
]]>Then, one day, I fell upon some dark-web-DIY chatter that caught my attention. I was advised, by simply applying oven cleaner to solid wood furniture, I could achieve very quickly the rustic bare wood look that is so popular (and expensive) these days. I mean, oven cleaner… I could wrap my brain around that! You simply apply, wait, and then remove, right?! Refreshingly, this time, I snapped my laptop shut with a wave of gumption, tore up my kitchen to find the required tools, pulled out a vintage Federal style dresser from my inventory and began testing immediately.
The best part about all this is you most likely have everything you need in your home! Below you will find a list of the tools needed, some safety advice, and the step-by-step instructions. I also added a few personal tips I figured out along the way.
(Disclosure: I receive commission on purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Tools
Safety/Prep
Steps
TIP: During this process it may appear the original finish is not being removed. The water makes the freshly exposed wood appear darker; it isn’t until the piece is fully dry will you see the bare wood in its full glory.
TIP: Use the scrapping tool found on the backside of the pot scrub brush to remove globs of the old finish, and then tap it into a disposable container. I did this because I didn’t want to pour the old finish down the drain or leave it for someone to step on.
NOTE: I made the creative decision to not seal the newly exposed wood only because I knew it would slightly deepen its earthy tones. I just couldn’t do it… I fell in love with the raw rustic farmhouse look!
So, what do you think? Do you feel frustrated or empowered? It is my hope that this hack excites you as much as it did me. You’re now armed with the knowledge to pursue the curb finds of your dreams. Go forth and may you turn to treasure what others have so carelessly tossed away. Mwah!
]]>Creating your own bird’s nest can be as simple, or as elaborate as you want. For me it is an exercise of celebrating the perfection found within the imperfection, beauty amongst the chaos. I personally like to approach it with a loose treatment to achieve a more natural look, rather than tight which can appear manufactured. Momma birds construct their nests using snippets and bits containing an array of color and texture. So, when building a nest I make sure to use at least three different materials (ex: sticks, twine, moss, rattan, ribbon, etc.) to help replicate what a bird would do.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Here are the tools and materials I used to create my Magpie nest:
Strong winds hit Maryland this winter, knocking down plenty of stick in the front yard.
Using a bowl that matches the nest size you want to make; you can create a twine skeleton that will provide a great foundation for your project. Be prepared... this process will take at least 1-2 days, and you will get Mod Podge on your hands (which is no biggie... but can get messy).
I love using twine for the skeleton because its color and texture appears so natural. You won't even see it once your project is complete.
First, place you bowl upside down, wrap it with Saran Wrap inside and out, brush the bottom of the bowl with Mod Podge, then loosely wrap the bottom of the bowl with twine. Repeat this step after the Mod Podge dries, then brush the final layer of twine with the Mod Podge to help adhere all the strands together.
If you twine doesn't want to behave and remain flush with the bowl's shape, simply cover it with Seran wrap and place an object on top of it while it dries. This day I grabbed a spool of copper wire to hold down stands that wanted to pop up.
Take your sterilized sticks and weave them through your dry twine skeleton. The sticks may have become brittle during the baking process, so use a gentle hand.
This step was much easier than I had anticipated! Take one bundle of rattan and pull it apart loosening the strands to make it appear 'wilder'. Then simply wrap the exterior of the nest with the rattan, weaving it in among the sticks which will help hold the shape.
I had truly anticipated having to use my glue gun to keep the rattan in check. However, the sticks took care of everything. Huzzah!
Following my "three different materials" rule, I decided to add preserved moss to my nest. I love this stuff, especially during Easter... the decorating possibilities are endless!
Grab a clump of moss and add it to the center of your nest to create a soft, welcoming appearance. Then add little tufts of moss along the side within the rattan to create depth and visual interest.
Once again, I was surprised I didn't need my glue gun to keep the moss in place. There is no right or wrong way to do this. Just have fun following your instincts and watch it evolve naturally.
This final step was the most exciting for me because, finally, the shiny objects that have caught my eye over the years get their day to shine! Chandelier crystals, purple floral beads, a small pink ribbon once wrapped around a gift, and a shiny bookmark pendant led the way to my vision.
Remember, you can add anything to your nest! Use jewelry, dried flowers, anything that will bring you joy and sweet memories.
To create the speckled pattern is an easy and quick step. Simply crumple up a sheet of tissue paper, then spray the paper with brown Krylon paint. Dab the paper mâché eggs with the tissue paper with a light touch and you will have yourself a perfect speckled egg!
So, are you ready to embrace your inner Magpie? I hope this article will inspire you to create your own, or perhaps introduce this project as a fun new tradition in your household. Remember, it's all about celebrating the perfection found within the imperfection... as all things should be. XOXO
]]>The Panetière was created and used exclusively in Provence, France from 17th thru 19th Century. Then after World War I the Panetière’ tradition began to expand throughout France. In the beginning, the Panetière was a simple perforated wood box placed on a table. It wasn’t until the 18th century that the ornate hand carved crowns, aprons, snail feet, and small doors began to appear.
Then during the 19th century, the design evolved once again adding turned spindles and acorn-shaped finials (also described as “candeliers”, or “chandelles”).
French carpenters, called “menuisiers”, had a long-standing tradition of carving their initials into their creations. I was so excited to discover that a perfectly preserved example of this practice could be found along the back of my antique** 19th century Panetière’s crown! This talented sculpturer, with the initials “FE”, masterfully created a motif glorifying French country life, including leaves and flowers, bunting and musical instruments.
Today Panetière are highly sought after for display on top of a sideboards or credenzas and hung on a dining room or kitchen walls. They are used often to display fine China, glassware, or seasonal floral bouquets. Some cleverly discovered this cabinet can be used as a wine safe, or as an end table, nightstand or pedestal to prop artwork or plants.
When acquiring a Panetière, the value widely varies based on its attributes. The type of wood used (walnut or fruitwood) have little effect on the value. However, the quality of the following play an important role:
So, as we enjoy the lingering scent of freshly baked bread escape the local bakery, we can thank the French for the ceremony of appreciation and family, encapsulated in this fine antique ~ the Panetière! It is my hope someday one will cross your path so you, too, can enjoy its history and tradition.
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do I specialize in antiques. However, for many years I've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff, and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. I gotta’ tell'ya, they're my kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
**The term "ANTIQUE" should be reserved only for items greater than 100 years old. Outside of the practice of buying and selling items, however, use of the word "ANTIQUE" can be understood to attach no specific age to an item. Some collectors hold to an 80-year marker. The 80-year marker considers the heritage of the item in that it reflects the span of two generations, with one generation traditionally considered to be the length of 40 years. Click here to learn more about the differences between "ANTIQUE" and "VINTAGE".
]]>
Cane furniture is making a comeback and timeless as ever. With its airy nature, it becomes the perfect candidate for adding texture and elegance to your home. If you know me, you know I can’t walk away from a vintage** piece where the original hand cane is intact and as strong as when it was first created.
The more I learn about the caning process, the more I appreciate the artform. It isn’t just a material; cane is a timeless pattern instantly recognized and a perfect example of what can be achieved with a delicate hand, patience and experience.
While strolling through a flea market or scouting weekly auctions, I generally come across three caning techniques.
Hand Cane
Along the top of the seat and the edge of the weave, a strip of cane is used to cover the holes. This strip of cane is then looped down and through these holes.
Also called “Pressed Cane”, this process involves a pre-woven cane supplied in sheets. Ideal for those interested in repairing a piece of cane furniture at home. Sheet caning kits, like this one, can easily be found online and provide most of the tools you need.
The sheets are installed by pressing them into a continuous groove in the wood of the chair’s seat.
Along the top of the seat and the edge of the weave, a strip of cane is used to cover the cut edge of the sheet. Unlike hand cane, this strip of cane has no loops holding it in place. Rather, you will see only one continuous strand of rattan framing the weave.
French Cane
Also called “Blind” or “Continental Cane”, French cane can be a little trickier to identify. Individual cane strands are placed by hand into drilled holes; however, these holes do not go all the way through the wood framework.
Instead, each length of cane is cut to the exact length of the framework and held into the holes using glue and plastic pegs until set.
Having to wait for the glue to set between each weaving step makes this a time intensive and delicate process.
Cane chairs have a history which gives them a sense of prestige and uniqueness. You, too, can elevate the atmosphere in your own home with this timeless trend. Check out Porch Nook’s collection of cane furniture.
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do I specialize in antiques. However, for many years I've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. I gotta tell'ya, they're my kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
]]>
Ingredients:
Glaze:
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan (or 3 small pans; 3 1/2 x 6-inch pans).
Combine the milk and finely chopped lavender in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat to a simmer, then remove from heat, and allow to cool slightly.
With a hand mixer, in a medium mixing bowl, cream together the butter and white sugar until smooth. Mix in the eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla and lemon zest.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
Bake for 60 minutes (loaf pan). For the 3 small pans, bake for 40 minutes.
To prepare glaze, combine powdered sugar, lemon juice and vanilla. Poke holes with a fork into each loaf (about 6-8 times per loaf). Spread glaze over hot cake and sprinkle Porch Nook's Organic Culinary Lavender when it melts on the warm cake. Cool in pan 20 minutes on a wire rack; remove each loaf from the pan. Cool completely on wire rack.
Enjoy!
]]>Value as of 8/29/20, $0.50-$2 each*. My Grandma used to say, “Beauty comes in all different sizes, shapes and ages.” I couldn’t have said it any better when describing my latest vintage** and eclectic collection. Although there are many vintage wood bobbin brands out there to discover, today I will focus on only two that are most commonly found: Coats & Clarks and Belding.
(Interested in purchasing your own collection of vintage spools? Click here.)
When dating a wooden thread spool you can depend on a few details.
A good wood spool doesn’t lose its value once the thread is gone. When determining the value of a wooden spool, its condition and age will drive the price.
Similar to soda bottle deposits, once the thread had been completely used the consumer would collect a half penny deposit if they returned the spool to the manufacturer. Due to mass production, and the use of less expensive materials, deposits were put to end.
Back in the early 1970s thread spool manufacturers stopped making wood spools and moved to plastics. Due to the price of wood going up, causing each spool to cost $0.025 to $0.045 cents each, manufacturers had to protect their bottom line which led to the demise of the wooden spool.
(Interested in purchasing your own collection of vintage spools? Click here.)
Keep the Vintage Thread?
Did you know thread has a shelf life? Although it may look beautiful wound on its original vintage spool, when thread is exposed to light and air for an extended period of time they become brittle, tend to jam up in a sewing machine and can break when used. If the thread is not stored properly, exposed to dust and lint can affect the tension of the thread. Threads spun on Styrofoam or wood spools weaken over time because the chemicals found in those spools have a negative reaction to the thread itself.
If you are determined to use the vintage thread, there is a great and easy way to test it. Simply take an 8-10” strand, tie a not onto the middle, then gently pull both ends. If it breaks, toss it. However, if it’s on a wooden spool I recommend keeping it for the decorative purposes.
(Interested in purchasing your own collection of vintage spools? Click here.)
Coats & Clark's
The Clark brand was established in the 1750's by two brothers, James and Patrick Clark (Paisley, Scotland) and were the first to mass produce and sell thread internationally. The Clark family also lays claim to creating the first wooden spools used to hold the thread. The brothers opened their first U.S. thread factory in Newark, NJ in 1864.
Around 1830 J&P Coats began manufacturing in the same city as Clark (Paisley, Scotland). By the 1890's the two Scotland thread companies joined forces but kept their separate identities when selling thread. This was done in order to corner the expanding international thread market.
Finally, in 1954 the two companies merged their two names. Still in business today, Coats & Clark's headquarters is located in Greenville, South Carolina and continues to manufacture high quality thread.
(Interested in purchasing your own collection of vintage spools? Click here.)
Belding
Founded in 1866, the Belding Brothers began manufacturing silk thread in Rockille, Connecticut and sold door to door. The brothers found expansion necessary and established four mills in Belding, Michigan in 1890.
Belding Brothers & Company merged with Heminway Silk Company in 1925 becoming Belding-Heminway. Soon after the merger the business was acquired by Corticelli Silk Company and become Belding-Heminway-Corticelli. Unfortunately, due to the Great Depression the silk industry had died and the company had to close it’s mill doors in 1932.
(Interested in purchasing your own collection of vintage spools? Click here.)
(Interested in purchasing your own collection of vintage spools? Click here.)
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do we specialize in antiques. However, for many years we've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff, and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. We gotta tell'ya, they're our kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Ingredients:
Directions
In a large pot combine 1/2 cup Porch Nook Organic Culinary Lavender with 7 cups water. Reach simmer, turn off stove and seep buds for 20 minutes. Strain out lavender buds and cool to room temperature.
For a stronger floral flavor, reduce seep time to 10 minutes. It's amazing how different the lavender tea color is. Below check out the difference between 20 minutes (left, amber) and 10 minutes (right, green)! I personally like a more subtle hint of lavender in my lemonade...so, I stick with the a 20 minute seeping that creates a beautiful amber color.
In a separate small pot combine 1-3/4 cups white sugar with 1 cup water. Bring it to a boil and stir until sugar is fully dissolved. Turn off and remove from burner, cool to room temperature and then chill in fridge.
Combine 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (no pulp) with sugar water syrup and lavender water......and booyah!!! Enjoy!
I personally use Meyer lemons which tend to be sweeter. However, I promise you, you'll love your lavender lemonade regardless of the type of lemon you use. If you don't have time to hand juice your own lemons, then by all means just pick up a 15 fl. oz. bottle of lemon juice from the supermarket. Easy peazy, lemon squeezy!
]]>According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds is BEST when possible. Doing so reduces the amount of all types of germs and chemicals on your hands and is generally better at killing certain germs. If you are unable to wash your hands, hand sanitizer can be used instead.
There are two things to be aware of when using hand sanitizer.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Ingredients:
Directions:
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Here are some very important rules to follow while making your hand sanitizer:
]]>
Value as of 3/12/20, $7-$25*. Beautiful, gentle and feminine. A piece that could tell a thousand stories and ready for a thousand more. This vintage**, genuine alabaster jewelry box was made in Italy between the 1960s and 1970s and specifically manufactured for tourists. It’s pretty rose and floral inlay adorns the yellow alabaster box, surrounded by a brass band protecting its edge and lid.
Size: 2-3/4” diameter x 2” T
Since ancient times, the people of central Italy have mined alabaster from the hills of the Tuscan countryside. The ancient Etruscans prized alabaster for its durability over centuries, not to mention its beautiful coloration, natural veining, and luminous effects when held up to the light. It has long been used to craft vases and urns, small decorative objects, as well as larger sculptures.
Alabaster is an exceptionally hard mineral that occasionally contains little perforations and holes within it. The creation of a piece begins with a block or chunk of alabaster, which might be sawed or roughed out with a chisel and mallet ahead of time to roughly the desired size. If the final result is a vessel like an amphorae or vase, the hunk of alabaster is then fixed on a lathe, and turned and shaped with various chiseling tools. Due to the age of this particular piece I know it was formed using electronic machinery, not by hand.
The final stage of alabaster production is polishing, critical for achieving the characteristic luminescence associated with alabaster objects. Traditionally, polishing was a multi-step process carried out by hand by women called “lucidatrici”. Today, polishing is mostly carried out with the help of machines.
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do we specialize in antiques. However, for many years we've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff, and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. We gotta tell'ya, they're our kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
Value as of 3/8/20, $225 - $275*. I will never forget the moment I came across this international treasure. My jaw dropped, my pulse quickened and I proclaimed my love immediately! Protected from the rain on a stormy Wisconsin morning, the kind couple hosting the garage sale took the time to share its history with me.
This vintage** piece of Costa Rican folk art is a donkey-cart originally used for the Ox-cart Parade in San Antonio de Escazu. Famed as "Dia de las Boyeros", or "the parade of the Boyeros (cow herders)", it takes place every second Sunday of March. They pay tribute to the drivers and their oxen of the past. It signifies the progress made by Costa Rica, as the oxcarts served to be their very first means of conveyance on roads.
The hand painted decoration of the carts started in the twentieth century, by the wife of one cart makers, who ornamented her husband’s cart with beautiful patterns and colors. Since then every cart is treated like a canvas, and is painted in true Costa Rican colors. No design was ever duplicated and it became a practice. Also, every cart is prepared in such a way that when it moves, a peculiar sound is produced as its metal ring struck the hub-nut of the wheel. This made every cart unique and enabled its owner to recognize his cart.
With no metal hardware to be found, this piece uses a slat system that slide apart with ease, similar to a jigsaw puzzle, allowing you to customize the size of the wagon. True to the original design, the spoke-less wheels were designed to slice their way through muddy paths which made travel slow and hard.
Dimensions:
Hitch closed 36”L x 22”D x 22”T
Hitch open 69”L x 22”D x 22”T
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do we specialize in antiques. However, for many years we've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff, and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. We gotta tell'ya, they're our kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
Value as of 2/22/2020, $250-450*. When combing the flea markets I always have an eye out for a Ferguson. Ferguson Brothers (founded 1903) made a name for themselves manufacturing handsome and affordable furniture during the Great Depression.
This particular piece encapsulates a few of my favorite signature Ferguson-features; gold trimmed stitched leather top, mahogany frame and casters.
It was pretty banged up, but I knew by emphasizing and repairing the details that made this piece unique would bring this antique** to the next level.
I restored the leather top creating a darker perimeter allowing a lustrous sunburst center.
Then I applied Porch Nook "Charcoal" to the frame and distressed its edges allowing the original finish to show through, and lubricated the casters.
Manufactured in Hoboken, New Jersey during the late 1920s, Dimensions: 36"W x 20"D x 17-1/2"T.
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do we specialize in antiques. However, for many years we've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff, and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. We gotta tell'ya, they're our kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
Porch Nook's "Object Lessons" is a series of short articles sharing my vintage and antique finds over the years, containing just enough information to make you dangerous at the local flea market. Happy hunting!
Value as of 2/22/2020, $17-$50*. With clarity and warmth, the original owner shared her story of receiving these Italian leather gloves from her Great Aunt when she was 11 years old. It was Christmas, and to this day she remembered the very moment of opening this glove box, beaming with excitement when she put them on, and the smile on her Great Aunt’s face.
Made in Italy, these soft vintage** kids gloves were designed by Hickok who was known for using only the finest leather hides from all over the world. The delicate and colorful embroidered flowers adorning these white leather gloves is a testament to the superb craftsmanship this brand was known for since the early 1900s.
This pair was manufactured during the 1960s, size 7, 8-1/2”L x 3-1/4”W.
Disclaimers:
*For the sake of transparency, Porch Nook in not an antiquities dealer, nor do we specialize in antiques. However, for many years we've gained experience acquiring and selling old stuff, and hung around a lot of people who also like to acquire and sell old stuff. We gotta tell'ya, they're our kind of people...smart, creative, not shy and will tell you what's what.
Porch Nook's "Object Lessons" is a series of short articles sharing my vintage and antique finds over the years, containing just enough information to make you dangerous at the local flea market. Happy hunting!
Value as of 2/21/2020, $4-$20*. While digging in an old TNT storage crate buried in a dark and forgotten corner of a Wisconsin barn sale, I couldn't ignore this little blue gem.
Manufactured in the 1920s, this antique** cobalt blue glass apothecary medicine bottle was made by the Emerson Drug Company of Baltimore, Maryland. Made to contain Bromo-Seltzer, a brand of antacid to relieve pain occurring together with heartburn, upset stomach, or acid indigestion. The first of its kind was produced by inventor Isaac E. Emerson’s Drug Company in 1888.
With a cork style top, this bottle is embossed with, “BROMO-SELTZER EMERSON DRUG CO BALTIMORE”. Dimensions: 2-1/2” T, 1-1/8” diameter.
Although these bottles are usually found in cobalt blue glass in a variety of sizes. If you're lucky, you may come across a rare aqua glass. The earlier bottles were hand-blown with a tooled lip, where later machine-made examples have a threaded lip for a screw on cap.
For more detailed history, I highly recommend visiting glassbottlemarks.com.
Disclaimers:
Basil syrup can last for roughly 1 month refrigerated in an airtight container,#CommissionEarned 3 months in the freezer*. It has a strong basil #CommissionEarned taste with a hint of sweetness. In addition to lemonade #CommissionEarned, I also use it in iced tea, cocktails, on fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, melon and pineapple #CommissionEarned) or lemon sorbet.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Ingredients:
Directions
Combine sugar #CommissionEarned, water and fresh basil #CommissionEarned in a medium saucepan #CommissionEarned over medium-high heat.
Bring to a boil stirring occasionally. Boil for 1 minute or until sugar #CommissionEarned is dissolved. Remove from heat and let it stand for 30 minutes.
Pour liquid through a wire-mesh strainer #CommissionEarned into a cruet #CommissionEarned or airtight container #CommissionEarned. Cover and chill 4 hours. Discard basil #CommissionEarned in strainer.
Add basil syrup to lemonade #CommissionEarned 1 tsp at a time until preferred taste is achieved. Garnish with basil sprigs #CommissionEarned.
Syrup can be stored in refrigerator up to 1 month, freezer 3 months. My personal go-to for liquid storage is Snapware Airtight & Spill Proof Glass #CommissionEarned containers.
*TIP: Make a double batch and pour the extra basil syrup into muffin tins and freeze for future use.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
]]>
Peels not candied last for roughly 1 week refrigerated in an airtight container. Candied peels will last for months, and a little longer if you dust them with sugar.#CommissionEarned They taste like chewy lemon drops. We eat them as is, with coffee, or on cupcakes. You can even dip them in white or dark chocolate to give them a little extra za-za-zing! Here we go…
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Ingredients:
Directions
Cut lemons #CommissionEarned into ¼-inch thick slices, remove fruit pulp*.
Cut the peel rings in half to create bite sized strips.
Bring cold water and lemon #CommissionEarned peel to a boil in a small pan. Drain water*, and repeat 2 more times with fresh cold water. Drain and set peels aside.
Combine 2 cups fresh water with 2 cups sugar #CommissionEarned. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar #CommissionEarned.
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in peels; simmer until the white pith is translucent.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
To dry the peels, drain syrup and allow candied peels to dry for 15 minutes, then toss with additional sugar #CommissionEarned and store in an airtight container #CommissionEarned at room temperature. To keep peels soft, store with the sugar syrup in a leak proof container #CommissionEarned and refrigerate. My personal go-to for liquid and dry storage is Snapware Airtight & Spill Proof Glass #CommissionEarned containers.
This recipe can be used for other citrus, however the number of boiling cycles will differ due to its unique level of bitterness. Orange #CommissionEarned peel, 1 boiling cycle. Grapefruit #CommissionEarned peel, 5 boiling cycles.
*TIP: During the prep and boiling process I discovered I could reduce waste by repurposing the fruit pulp and first round of boiled water which had a strong lemon aroma. This week I’ll be treating myself to hot lemon juice with honey #CommissionEarned, a great hot drink alternative when you’ve reached your caffeine limit for the day. I then stored the first round of boiled water in a spray bottle #CommissionEarned to use on sheets and for gentle dusting.
]]>The most common question related to pregnancy and paint exposure has to do with painting the new baby’s nursery or decorating the house before the baby arrives. Being a mother myself I am very passionate about this topic and will begin by sharing my personal advice first....I hope you don't mind. Then, I will follow up with factual information so you can make your own educated decision. Here we go...
Let’s be honest…
If you are pregnant we need to first acknowledge the reason why you are researching this topic. Your mama-bear instincts are telling you loud and clear there are risks involved and warning you not to do it. I truly believe a woman's intuition is her strongest tool in life and should be listened to at all times. Especially when it comes to our personal well being and protecting our family.
We also need to acknowledge it is a human tendency to seek out the answers we want to hear in order to justify our desires, decisions and actions. The internet has an endless supply of opinions on whether or not a pregnant woman should paint...some are educated, some are not. It is my hope that this article will help guide you towards a decision that will best serve you and your family.
Although Porch Nook’s chalky finish paint (a low-VOC product) is perfectly safe to use when using common precautions recommended by the paint industry, it is my recommendation to avoid ANY and ALL chemicals while pregnant. This includes “low-VOC” and “zero-VOC” paint products.
After applying a chalky finish paint to a piece of furniture, two additional steps are required before the project is completed.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
RECOMMENDATION: Just don't do it! Unless you have a friend who is at least willing to complete the sanding and sealing steps for you, hold off on your project until that little-love-of-your-life is born.
Thank you so much for considering my personal opinion regarding this topic. Now, let’s arm you with some factual information supplied by the government, paint industry and women’s health organizations so you can make your own educated decision. Here are some excellent resources for your consideration:
Can I paint furniture while pregnant?
It's best to limit your exposure to paint and paint fumes while you're pregnant. Choosing a paint labeled "low-VOC" or "zero-VOC” is recommended. These are usually latex paints that contain lower levels of solvents, or "volatile oil compounds." Even the zero-VOC products may still contain some solvents.
Those who are pregnant tend to seek out furniture paint products that are labeled “non-toxic”. It’s important to define “non-toxic” within the context of pregnancy first to assure all factors are considered. The term Non-Toxic encompasses three things:
Similar to large leading paint brands, Porch Nook chalky finish paint is latex and water based, low-VOC, lead-free, and it does contain Silica.
The state of California does require Porch Nook and all leading latex paint brands to publish on its containers, “This product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.”
Crystalline silica is only a hazard when it becomes airborn. The most severe exposures to crystalline silica result from sandblasting, which may be done to clean sand and irregularities from foundry castings, finish tombstones, etch or frost glass, or remove paint, oils, rust, or dirt from objects that will be repainted or treated.
For all latex based paint products in the market, Porch Nook recommends wearing a respirator mask #CommissionEarned with appropriate filters #CommissionEarned at all times when sanding these products to achieve a smooth surface and/or distressed look.
If you must paint the nursery while pregnant, make sure you follow these guidelines to decrease the likelihood of paint exposure:
REMEMBER: All chalky finish paint brands require a sealant to be applied to a painted piece in order to protect it from chipping, scratches and stains. There are NO sealants in the market that are safe for pregnant women. Pregnant women should AVOID using ALL types of sealants, this includes wax, water based and oil based. Unless you have a friend who is willing to complete the sealing step for you, hold off on your project until your baby is born.
Thank you so much for reading!
]]>Now I want you to visualize me saying this with my mama-finger pointed and eyes glaring over my glasses. "When someone tries to kick you down they have told you loud and clear that you have something they want, or are worried about you having."
Have you ever been trolled? Please share your experience in comments below.
There are A LOT of great resources explaining how to manage a troller situation, and by no means am I an expert. I am just a stay-at-home-mom who runs a small business and private label paint brand who is passionate about sharing solutions with others. Sometimes I'm graceful when faced with conflict...and sometimes I'm not...but I can always count on my Porch Nook community to keep me honest. LOVE YOU ALL!
At the end of this article you'll find a short dialog I exchanged with a woman who felt compelled to criticize my brand publicly just because she could. Feel free to share in comments whether you felt my response was appropriate.
I did cover these points on a Facebook Live you can find on my Porch Nook YouTube channel.
When launching a company website or social media accounts, consider publishing a policy for user comments. These policies should clearly detail what kind of comments are allowed. These are especially handy for those who are conflict adverse. Instead of having to say, "I don't like what you said", or defending yourself for deleting a comment, you can just point to the policy. "Sorry, the policy says you can't do that."...that way the policy is the bad guy. Make sense?
Here's an example of what a policy may look like. Feel free to use it...
Have you ever been trolled? Please share your experience in comments below.
How the mind and body responds to criticism amazes me every time! The wave of emotions are strong and have the ability to take over your entire bandwidth. Surprise, anger, embarrassment...these are strong, primitive emotions. Then the fight or flight instinct kicks in, encouraging you to block, delete or respond in a rash way that could make things worse.
Approach this moment as an opportunity. It's important to listen to what's being said about your brand. There is a VERY high likelihood this is a real customer sharing their dissatisfaction. It's importance to know the difference and listen. Sometimes people just want to be heard. Hear them, try to help, and they’ll almost always thank you publicly.
How do you know if it's a troller? If the criticism you receive is not based on a direct interaction or experience they've shared with you, your brand, your work, your product…then congratulations, you have a troller!
Now...when I say, "Congratulations", I really mean it. I throw my arms in the air and whisper, “YES!” when I come across this behavior on my website or social accounts because 1) it means I’m doing something right, 2) I'm going to learn something, 3) they have empowered me to take control of the situation and 4) I now have the opportunity to leverage my business.
This is an empowering moment! I swear to you, it is. Remember my mama-finger shaking at you, "When someone tries to kick you down they have told you loud and clear that you have something they want, or are worried about you having."
Ignore them…perhaps even block them.
Below you will find the dialog exchanged on my Porch Nook YouTube channel. Let me know how you think I did. Did I responded using my formula? Professionalism? With responsibility? I greatly appreciate your feedback!
]]>
After congratulating her on her prize I asked what the story was on this piece. She proudly stated it was from a local farmhouse built in the 1940s. I then asked if it was prepared for indoor use. Her happy expression fell and appeared confused, “What do you mean ‘indoor use’? It’s just a door.” After closely inspecting the chippy paint and the exposed wood, I looked up to meet my friend’s watchful eye and could see she was emotionally preparing herself for some bad news.
There are two things you MUST address before introducing reclaimed wood or vintage items into your home. Nasty lead-based paint and bugs (i.e.: termites, boring bugs, etc.)! Today in this article I will be focusing only on lead paint, there is a lot to cover.
As much as we all love vintage, lead-based paint must always be on top of mind. Your safety, and especially the safety of small children and animals, is priority #1. Today, I want to share some facts about lead-based paint, how to identify it, and how to protect yourself from it while still safeguarding that amazing authentic chippy look.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Meet my best friend, 3M LeadCheck Swabs. They are super inexpensive and really easy to use. If you have lots of vintage décor items in your home, I recommend buying several packets and start testing right away. I always keep them on hand in my studio so I can test every item I plan to resell. I also like to supply my buyer a 3M Lead Check Card showing those results. Believe me, they appreciate it every time!
How do they work? If the 3M LeadCheck Swab rubs red, it has lead paint. If the swab rubs yellow, you’re in the clear! To clean off the yellow and red spots from your piece, simply use a wet paper towel to rub it off. So stink’n easy! Here is a great video by 3M explaining all the steps…it’s really short and worth watching.
Here is my video demonstrating this test using a fabulous old bird cage I found at a Maryland consignment store.
If your item does test positive for lead, but you still want to keep its chippy look, you must apply a protective coating that will prevent any further chipping or dust. There are some bloggers out there that say if you place an item out of the reach of small children and animals you don’t need to seal it. I FIRMLY DISAGREE and believe this topic is non-negotiable. Please share your opinion in comments.
I personally have found Rust-Oleum's Zinsser Bulls-Eye Clear Shellac Sealer to be the best because it’s heavy duty and thick and doesn’t change the color of your piece.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Rust-Oleum does also offer a Bulls-Eye Clear Shellac Spray which is very fast and easy to use. However, after using both I much prefer the liquid sealer.
This stuff is STICKY and will not wash out of a brush, not even with Mineral Spirits! I highly recommend using a foam, disposable brushes so you can throw it away afterwards. Simply apply this sealant to lock in the lead-based paint so it doesn’t chip any further. At least two coats is recommended.
TIP: I do not recommend this practice for high traffic pieces that have lead-based paint (i.e.: chair, dresser). Every touch to a piece will put wear on the finish, thus eventually wearing through the protective coating which will expose you to the lead paint.
OK, my friends. After reading this it is my hope you feel more empowered when scouring future flea markets. The health of our home and family is the number one priority, don’t you agree? Thanks for reading! Happy hunting!
]]>Being a stay at home mom and running a chalky finish paint brand doesn't leave much time to randomly scour the neighborhoods. Don't get me wrong... there are days when the up-cycle planets do align and a piece crosses my path while shuttling the kids between team practices... but, sadly, those days are rare. If you're like me, maximizing your time to achieve the highest results is essential. Over the last few years I've created a few personal guidelines for finding curbside treasures. Check them out and give it a try... I guarantee you'll feel like an up-cycle guru in no time!
The very nature of taking someone else's junk requires you to not care what other people think. In the beginning I felt a little uncomfortable, I admit it. Standing in front of a stranger's home, rummaging through their unwanted belongings, avoiding eye contact by those passing by... for some it's a lot to deal with.
Like everything else in life, it just takes a little practice to break through this insecurity. Just remember what you're doing is better for the environment, financially savvy... and if you don't pick it up someone else will!
There is nothing worse than coming across an amazing piece and then having to abandon it because you 1) can't fit it in your car, 2) are not strong enough to move it, or 3) are afraid it will scratch your car during the moving process. These obstacles can be easily remedied with just a few supplies stored in your car.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Mover's Dolly #CommissionEarned - A parking spot conveniently located next to your curb find is not always available. Instead of carrying the piece around the block, you can simply place it on a moving trolley and push it along. So civil.
Moving Blankets #CommissionEarned - These will save you from scatching up your car and new found treasure. To load, I like to drape a blanket along the edge of my open trunk and back bumper so I can simply lean a big piece into the back of the car and then just slide it in. I also like to cacoon the piece entirely with blankets and then wrap it up with a roll of seran wrap.
Bungie cords #CommissionEarned - These come in handy if the piece is too big to close your trunk door. They can also help keep cabinet doors shut.
Lifting Straps #CommissionEarned - Being a woman, these have saved me many times. Better for the back as well.
Baby Wipes #CommissionEarned - Questionable, decades old schmutz is never fun. That's all I'm say'n.
Moving Gloves #CommissionEarned - When lifting a piece from the bottom or interior cabinet you may come across some sharp edges or nails. Durable gloves with some padding will save you a lot of pain... and possibly a tetanus shot.
(Disclosure: I receive commission for purchases made using Amazon links in my article. I appreciate your support!)
Make moving days your business. Investigate the common lease start dates for rentals in your area and the turnover dates for any local universities. Anything that equals lots of people moving will equal massive amounts of giveaways.
Depending on the climate of your region, it’s possible your junk hunts will experience seasonal shifts. Summer and fall are general high seasons for the midwest and northeast. One of the many reasons I was excited to move to Folsom, California... curb find season is EVERY season!
Saturdays and Sundays are prime curb find days because that is when people take the time to purge their households. More specifically, basements and attics. The weekdays, when people set out their stinky trash barrels, aren’t usually optimal for the type of hunting we’re interested in.
If you encounter a sweet curb find, beware of leaving it alone to retrieve your car. I highly recommend using the buddy system and deputize one person to squat on the prize. Just remember, if you’re hunting that means others are hunting, too.
Be discerning in the pieces you collect. Furniture made of solid wood I grab without hesitation, even if it's an ugly color or slightly damaged. The refurbishing possibilities will be endless! However, I think twice before grabbing a piece made of partical board or poorly constructed (ie: Ikea). The moment you begin to question the integrity of a piece, walk away.
To find great junk is a virtuous cycle. By taking an item destined for a landfill, you’re helping yourself by saving money and you’re helping the environment by reusing a discarded thing. You’re now armed with the knowledge to pursue the curb finds of your dreams. Go forth and may you turn to treasure what others have so carelessly tossed away!
]]>