So what is your flea market strategy?
Do you go and browse? Waiting for the perfect item to make itself known?
Do you go to flea markets in search of a specific item? Or additions to your collections?
I have to admit, I used to be a browser. However, after years of accumulating, editing and then more accumulating I am more thoughtful when I am at flea markets and antique stores.
There are some exceptions to my "rule". I rarely pass up cream colored clocks (at least not lately), brown English transferware is also tough to pass (especially when it is priced well) and I am always a sucker for ironstone anything.
I know I promised pictures of what I purchased at the Junk Bonanza. However, I thought I would first let you know what I was on the "hunt" for. Got any ideas?
Do you go and browse? Waiting for the perfect item to make itself known?
Do you go to flea markets in search of a specific item? Or additions to your collections?
I have to admit, I used to be a browser. However, after years of accumulating, editing and then more accumulating I am more thoughtful when I am at flea markets and antique stores.
There are some exceptions to my "rule". I rarely pass up cream colored clocks (at least not lately), brown English transferware is also tough to pass (especially when it is priced well) and I am always a sucker for ironstone anything.
I know I promised pictures of what I purchased at the Junk Bonanza. However, I thought I would first let you know what I was on the "hunt" for. Got any ideas?
Posts
My straregy is to make a quick first pass of the joint to make sure there's nothing that I just have to have. Then I'll go through a second time and look with more detail. I, too, will rarely pass a piece of ironstone without buying it (as long as it's reasonable.) Most of my plates I have paid $1 for.
ReplyDeleteI usually have a "wish list" and always carry measurements and swatches. My basic method is to cruise and scan. I'll stop when something catches my eye or at the space of a favorite dealer. When I shop with someone who has to stop and touch everything, I get miles ahead and have to circle back over and over so I get a pretty good walk work out!
ReplyDeleteHurry up with those junk pics already!
I have a list of "things" in the back of my mind -- either something I want or adding to my collections . . . and I am looking for those.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, I bypass many things because of my "tunnel vision". Luckily, I have a husband who doesn't do that -- so he'll tell me did you see such and so and so I'll go back and look. Many times it comes home with us!
Jill, I've been collecting brown transferware for about six months now and white ironstone is also a favorite. I also like looking for architectural pieces and industrial, and then anything cool and rusty. I usually travel with others while shopping, so I have to go with the flow. If I'm by myself I travel a bit faster and just look for the specific things I like and also booths that look inviting. I'm kind of a booth snob (probably to my detriment) and if it isn't inviting, I may not go in. Then if I have time, I may make another sweep. But like I said, I usually don't shop alone so I have to work with whomever I'm with.
ReplyDeleteLanette
I have learned to be more discerning now that I have a home full of treasures. I really have to L*O*V*E it before I will buy. I can scan thru a shop pretty quickly if I have to, but do prefer to take it slow and enjoy all I see even if it is not something I would want for myself!
ReplyDeleteAre you looking for a new hutch??
All the ones you showed are lovely!
Blessings~LillySue
I always....well usually have something in mind when I go out. I am a sucker for old plates and bottles though. I am thinking you were on the search for a cabinet/hutch...
ReplyDeleteHi Jill.
ReplyDeleteI have an award for you over at my blog if you would like to pick it up.
XO*Tricia
P.S. I'm more of a "ooh, that's pretty and inexpensive. I must have it kind of flea market shopper". ;)
I definately have my likes and stick with them. My newest discovery is arrows from old weather vanes...love them. Lots of detail.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see your finds.
Janet
Love ironstone..and that it goes with all my seasonal decor...I pick up old papers, buttons etc for my artwork, vintage linens...many weaknesses. cherry
ReplyDeleteI keep things in the back of my mind that I'm on the look out for, but I always keep an eye out for vintage linens, turned wooden candlesticks and almost anything toile. I really just browse until something catches my eye, which is a hit or miss method, but it probably keeps me from buying too much, lol.
ReplyDeleteLove all of the hutches (sp) especially the green one! I am to the point I have to move something out, before I can bring something in! lol
ReplyDeleteLove your blog, just found it and I am a follower!!
Lou Cinda
I waffle between white, spheres, garden items and telling myself "Jenn, you do not need 1 more thing!!!" but I always have fun looking and being with friends. The green cabinet is fab.
ReplyDelete