vintage markeplace - burlap

I took so many pictures of our little excursion to The Vintage Marketplace in Rainbow, California last Friday that I decided I would break them up into mini themes so that I don't overwhelm you with pretty pictures all at once.

I know I always come away from these kind of events feeling overwhelmed and inspired but not quite sure what to do with all that new found inspiration.  I thought it would be fun to share with you what I'm thinking when I see these photos, and hear back from you what your thoughts are.  How would you use this idea or technique in your home or business?  Sound fun?  Okay, here goes...

 

We all loved these embellished burlap totes.  How fun and simple would it be to embellish a tote you already have with a doily, flower and some lace.  I think I would assemble the cluster together first with a hot glue gun and then attach it to one of those brooch backs you buy at Michaels using a little piece of felt underneath to clean it all up.  I saw cute totes in the dollar bin at Target yesterday for $3.00, (I know kind of an oxymoron...$3.00 in the dollar bin) that would look adorable.  I make canvas totes that I could add something like this to as well. 

Who doesn't love these cute strippy banners?  What another simple (albeit time consuming) project this would be.  Just use your rotary cutter to cut one inch strips of burlap, tear one inch strips of muslin and then just start tying the fabric in knots to a string.  How cute would they be tied onto the open space of some Christmas tree lights and hung from trees, your patio covering or even an umbrella for an evening party or shower?  Heck, even for a festive look for you and your family to enjoy while you BBQ!  

I have never warmed up to the idea of a burlap pillow because while I love the look, the texture doesn't make me want to snuggle in.  But burlap on a table as a runner or table cloth?  I love it.  If you wash your burlap ahead of time it will soften up some.  I really like the addition of the wide ruffle of muslin, I think it softens up the look in a romantic but not overly frilly sort of way.  I've had a burlap runner on my side board for a while now and I'm still not tired of the look.

 

My latest lure in my craft studio is jewelry making.  (Another post for a later day.)  So when I saw the way they used burlap to display jewelry, my creative mind went into overdrive.  Isn't that covered rolling pin just so stinking cute?  It would be great to display your jewelry in the bedroom but what else could you display on it?  What about hanging your decorative measuring spoons from it in the kitchen or your keys by the front door? 

Okay, that's my take, now it's your turn?  Any ideas?

xo, Patty

marketplace field trip

I know I've mentioned before that one of my dreams is to start selling my handmade wares at local craft shows and marketplaces.  Unlike my normal mode of operation, I have really been researching and planning this next venture for my creative work.  (Normally I'm just a jump right in and figure it out later girl).

One of things I'm doing is traveling to vintage, handmade events, taking notes and deciding if what I do fits at that particular marketplace before putting together a presentation, filling out the application and shelling out the entry fee.

Earlier this month I traveled South 75 miles to check out the Queen Bee Market.  I really liked the eclectic mix of vendors.  Now I wish I'd taken more pictures to share with you.

I loved seeing how the booths were set up and imagining how I will set up my own space.  For me that's half the fun...creating your own little piece of vintage/handmade heaven.

I even got to chat with one of my favorite artists Stephanie Ackerman and purchase one of her hand painted zipper bags that I'll share with you a little later.

So, do you like going to craft fairs and vintage market place events?  What kinds of things do you go looking for?  I'd love to hear...

xo, Patty

flea market finds

It feels a little anti climatic after showing you all that flea market loveliness to make a "ta...dah" moment of my flea market finds but I went knowing what I was looking for and gorgeous painted furniture and pretty Pyrex was not part of the plan or budget.

What I was looking for where a few old worn chippy storage pieces preferably in blue.  

These pieces couldn't be more perfect for what I had in mind.  They have all been given their new home and purpose around the cottage, marrying function with the style I was after.

I find going to thrift stores and flea markets with an idea of what function, color or style you want helps to avoid most impulse buys when you're presented with sensory overload and that feeling of I want it all.

 
You notice I said most impulse buys...not all.

After all, not knowing what treasure is just around the corner is part of the thrill, isn't it?

I'll be back tomorrow to begin showing you just how I used this chippy goodness.  Have a wonderful Sunday (the sun is shining brightly here)!


xo, Patty

the flea market

I ventured out to the Rose Bowl flea market last Sunday and all I can say is Holy Moley!  What a sensory overload of good stuff.

My sister in law is an old pro at it so she was my tour guide.  She showed me all her favorite vendors and kind of let me wander and gape to my hearts content.

There was just so much to take in.  I went with a limited amount of cash and I knew when it was gone, it was gone.

I think I spent 90 % of my money on the first four rows and clutched the other 10% for dear life just in case I saw some thing I just had to have a little further along.

I actually spent the last two dollars in my pocket as we were heading toward the exit!  Next time, (and there will most certainly be a next time very soon)

I. need. to. pace. myself.

That being said, I just love what I bought.  Not even a bit of buyers remorse...

I left plenty of great stuff behind for the next time, too. (wink, wink)

You'll have to wait till tomorrow to see what I brought home.

Do you have any great flea markets in your neck of the woods?  Are they worth a road trip from Southern California?

xo, Patty

btw...I will have a few of the bunting banner kits for sale, I'm just not sure how many.  If you would like one, send me and email and I will add you to the list.  lemonlanecottage@yahoo.com