Keeping Busy

With all the sad personal, national and international news lately, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lethargic. And certainly there is a time to grieve and rage and pray, but I know sometimes the best thing is just to keep busy and get on with living.

So I’m working through more of the items from the “big private pick,” but when I was out running errands I passed by neighborhood thrift store. Now I don’t need any more inventory. I really, really don’t. But I miss going there. It has been a steady feature in my life for over 10 years (with the exception of the Covid closure). And honestly during all these years I have found amazing items. And valuable items. And a few things I’ve kept!!

Well, yesterday I decided to pop in. I told myself I would ONLY buy something if it was a “money maker.” (at least $60+ profit) But I caved! This vintage Nemadji Pottery bowl was so stunning I couldn’t leave it behind. So earthy. And vibrant. And perfect for fall.

Nemadji Pottery has been made since 1929 in Minnesota, USA. Many folks mistakenly take this for Native American-made pottery. It’s not, but it was perhaps inspired by it. (Check out this article for Nemadji history.) Alas most post-WWII pieces aren’t valuable. Still. They have a look and folks like ’em!

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What I’ve Listed from the “Big Pick”

First I chose all of these things because there are collectors for them and they have “appeal” and most are not your everyday sort of finds!

This charming wood stamp box slides open to reveal a religious medal attached to a letter.

The medal of Mary tests for sterling silver. It was blessed at Lourdes, France, during a 1904 pilgrimage and later that year by the Holy Father (Pope Pius X). So neat when you know the history of a piece.

This Watrous Mfg. baby’s cup (circa 1940s) engraved for Rose is rather simple in design, but sterling silver. I have a “thing” for sterling baby cups and have bought a few from the 1800s.

I was excited when I unwrapped this at the pick–a Victorian-era dual pincushion that clamps onto a table or chair. This beauty was patented in the 1850s.

Vintage and antique sewing tools are highly collectible–thimbles, pincushions, scissors, needle cases, etc–with the older figural or decorative pieces doing the best. This mother of pearl needle case (listed on eBay by a UK seller) is a beauty. Already bid to $57.50 with 4+ auction days to go. I wouldn’t be surprised to see it climb to $150+.

This vegetable ivory lot (thimble and needle case) sold rather quickly for me last year. I purchased it at the flea market for $5 and there was a sterling silver thimble inside that I sold separately.

The one caveat I would add in searching for old vintage sewing implements is be wary as reproductions abound. Some sellers will let you know they are selling a new, repro piece (and their price reflects that), others don’t. Or perhaps they don’t know themselves. On the broadest level older pieces should show some wear, have the gentle patina of time and well-done details.

This delightful carved wood candlestick includes shamrocks and lyres on the base. A note came with it that dates it to 1897 Brookline, Mass. Another true antique!

What’s Been Selling

Well, I likely listed these vintage boars’ tusks a tad too low. They sold in 10 minutes for $30! I should have done more research. On the bright side, I just sold boars’ tusks!

I bought this French Leo et Popi plush monkey (1996 new-old stock) in June for $4.79. The store had about 12 smaller ones and several larger ones. I was tempted to buy more, but knowing nothing about them, I was cautious. He sold for $35 and will be easy to ship.

Here’s a variety of other solds. This vintage Sigma Alpha Sigma pin (below) took an eternity (years) to sell ($90) so it was lovely to have it finally find a home. Three of these items are from the big pick!

Sometimes it’s good to focus on mundane stuff of life. I’ll be washing dishes next!

Wishing you happy hunting,

Karen