The Washerwoman

Textiles and Treasures!

2012-02-11T17:03:00.002Z

The best finds are when you come across a"job lot".. for example an old wooden French trunk over-flowing with buttons, buckles, fabric, trimmings.... which is just what Mr W found for me last week at the fair in Newark!

It has taken me many hours to sort through it all and decide what will be going where? A lot will be coming to The Vintage and Handmade Textile Fair on Saturday the 25th of February.

As will this gorgeous Spring ensemble. A matching 1950's dress and jacket - approx size 12. A perfect for attending a vintage style wedding!

Next stop after the Vintage and Handmade will be The Vintage Bazaar's Rag and Remnant Rummage which takes place on Saturday 3rd March at The Trull Village Memorial Hall, Church Road, Trull, Taunton, Somerset. TA3 7JZ . Doors open at 9.30 and the fair will close at 14.00. Admission 50p.

There will be over 20 stands piled high with a selection of goodies for every pocket. Textiles, trimmings, buttons & bits from the workrooms of West Country makers, collectors and dealers. It will be a fun day, so hope to see you there.

It would appear that I am not the only one who is busy preparing. Check here for another sneak preview!

A Chilly Week in Newark's Textile Tent

2012-02-04T14:18:00.003Z

Greetings faithful readers! Firstly, many apologies for the lack of postings on the blog. 2012 has taken off at break-neck speed and the month of January having gone by in a flash! This week was the first IACF Newark fair of the year. We set off in trepidation, keeping a firm eye on weather forecasts as we drove North.

Thursday morning dawned and the sun rose weakly over the showground. The four of us who share the Textile Tent quickly set up our stands and got the kettle on! As usual Maud had been working very hard to prepare mountains of pristine linens......

Business was brisk throughout the morning despite the snow flurries and sub-zero temperatures. As the day progressed the sun shone through now and then. Part-way through the afternoon I managed to meet and chat to the lovely Nilly Hall. Do check out her clever and informative blog, it is one of the best blogs around in my opinion.

After an excellent overnight stay here I was ready for day two of the fair. On Friday the sun was shining through and illuminating the marquee. Business was brisk for a few hours, and I met another blogger - Wend from Ticking Stripes - another of my regular reads!

I managed to take a few photos and wanted to add this one to remind everyone to get the date of Sunday 15th of April in your Vintage Diary! It is the 3rd Annual Vintage Textile and Costume Day at Dairy House Antiques. Hope to see you there!

Dreweatts and Bloomsbury Auction. Put the date in your Vintage Diary!

2012-01-17T18:36:00.002Z

As I mentioned in a previous post (here) I have been gathering some beautiful textiles for the forthcoming auction in Bristol on Tuesday the 3rd of April 2012.

Here is a taster of some of the items to be included in the sale. Please note that they may not be lotted as they are shown here. The auction will be shown on line where you will be able to ascertain which items are in their specific lots.

As well as trimmings, there are Toiles, Passmenterie, beadwork, Samplers, Tapestry, Quilts embroideries, Floral fabric covered boxes and lengths of unused Vintage Dress fabric....

Patchwork pieces......

..lengths and lengths of gold and silver lace.........

More lace... veils...stomachers....

silk flowers for trimming hats...

A 1920's beaded dancers veil, head dress and matching rings and bracelets...

An amazing velvet bejeweled dress from the 1950's. (above) with an interesting provenance in that it comes from the famous and wonderful BBC (now defunct) costume department. I would love to know which production it was used in?

These trimmings originate from the same place, some of the colours on the beaded items are breathtaking.

So, don't forget to make this a date! See you at the sale! Click here to reach the website for full details.

New Year Resolutions...getting the brushes out!

2012-01-05T07:29:00.000Z

A Happy New Year to everyone! I have been reading other blogs and see that there are many good intentions and New Year Resolutions being aired! I started this week with a frenzy of sorting, tidying and decorating.

A long overdue project is shown here. I treated myself to a pot of Farrow and Ball cream emulsion for the walls. The tricky bit was painting up to the 1930's paper floral border which I wanted to keep.

After 2 days of painting I had the fun part of putting everything back into the room, freshly dusted and polished. I have changed the curtains (you can just see a glimpse above) to a vintage linen pair of floral design on a black background.

Pictures have been moved and changed around with a definite floral and garden theme dominating (oops, sorry about the reflection!)

In between waiting for layers of paint to dry I have been organising a Textile event due to take place on Saturday March 3rd in the Trull Memorial Hall. This has come about from the comments of local friends asking for something to take place in Taunton (our local town). Details can be seen here on The Vintage Bazaar Blog. It should be a fun event with 20 stalls piled high with Textiles, Linens, trimmings, buttons & bits. Admission is 50p. Hope to see you there!?

The Vintage Bazaar comes to Hampshire!

2011-12-27T07:43:00.000Z

Clare and I are pleased to announce The Vintage Bazaar at Hartley Wintney! This beautiful building is a lovely combination of the old and the new coming together to provide an ideal situation for our fair.

The Victoria Hall was designed in the late 1890's by TE Collcutt at the height of his career. The building ran over budget, but the day was saved by the generosity of Mr Kenwood, Sir Henry Mildmay and Lord Calthorpe. The building was completed and opened by Lady Calthorpe on October 20th 1898 to much acclaim.

The exterior is a pleasing example of The Arts and Crafts style. Inside the structure has a spacious and modern feel which is a result of restoration in the late 1990's.

Below, you can see the doors which lead into The Victoria Hall, the leaded windows would originally have been on the outside. The space is divided into different areas, which is an obvious change from our fair at the Cheese and Grain in Frome. More to be announced on the Vintage Bazaar blog very soon.

The Vintage Bazaar

At the Victoria Hall

West Green Road

Hartley Wintney

Hampshire RG27 8RE

Saturday 22^nd September 2012

10 am to 3 pm

Admission £1

Merry Christmas everybody!

2011-12-24T08:59:00.000Z

Just stopping by to say a heartfelt Merry Christmas to all my readers, friends, followers and loyal customers at all the fairs! I hope you have a wonderful time at Christmas, and all the very best for the year ahead! Lizzie xx

Strawberry Hill House, Twickenham.

2011-12-15T14:20:00.001Z

Recently I had a lovely day out visiting this wonderful house. It is somewhere that I have wanted to visit for several years now. Built by Horace Walpole in the mid-eighteenth century. You can learn all about it here.

The tour started outside the house. Our group stood shivering whilst admiring the Gothic Revival facade, but anxious to get inside!

Once inside we were able to inspect the many beautiful stained glass windows, many of the panels came from the continent.

One of my favourite parts was the hallway and staircase with its incredible carved bannister... and the beautiful stained glass lamp which spread a gloomy sort of light down though the stairwell. Note how the walls are "patchy" as a result of ongoing painstaking restoration to expose the original underneath.

The contrast of light and darkness is deliberate as Horace Walpole wanted to create a gloomy atmosphere of medieval castles and coined the word "Gloomth" to describe this.

The rooms leading from the hallway are cosy and domestic in their proportions. Most of the windows have their original amazing sliding shutters and beautiful fireplaces.....

Sadly, there are few original furnishings, pictures or mirrors as the contents of the house were sold off in the Great Sale of 1842 when one of Walpole's descendants sold everything to pay his debts.

Where you see plain glass in the windows means that the original has been lost.

The final room of the tour was the large Gallery which was a real contrast. Opulent and grand in comparison to the smaller rooms.

This is the ceiling of The Round room which was quite stunning. Do visit Strawberry Hill House if you get the chance. It really is a treat!

Dreweatts Auction. Put the date in your Vintage Diary!

2011-12-03T17:55:00.002Z

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity. The phone has not stopped ringing and I have been driving miles to view and collect beautiful and stylish items for the Dreweatts Vintage Fashion and Textiles Auction which is due to take place in Spring 2012. Flossie (my french mannequin) is wearing one of the many vintage cashmere jumpers that will be in the sale. Teamed with a vintage silk scarf and jaunty 70's wool beret.

We have stunning leather bags.... vintage perfume (some bottles are half full)... or half empty, depending on how you look at it!

Oodles of shoes....... in all styles and colours and decades....

Labels include Ferragamo, Rayne (of London), Harrods, Dior and more.....

Vintage Dior stockings in their original boxes....

If the fashion accessories have got you excited, just wait until you see the dresses, coats and Textiles!!!

Two down.. Two to go....

2011-11-28T08:56:00.001Z

This is a very busy time of year on the Vintage Calendar, and I am now halfway through what we call "The Christmas Run" at Washerwoman HQ

Last weekend was The Dairy House Christmas Market. A huge effort had been made by Woo and Sue to transform the interior into a cosy shopping experience...

Outside the weather was mild and the stalls were crammed with Antiques, Vintage toys, decorations and some textiles for good measure!

Maud from Beyond France put on an excellent display with her Hungarian Linens, and if you like what she sells there will be an opportunity to see her at The Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury this coming Saturday.

"Vintage Jones" - now a regular at The Vintage Bazaar was there with her usual quirky tempting selection of goodies. Apologies to the inside stallholders, I did take photos of their stands, but they did not come out well.

Up on the Top Floor there was the usual selection of French cafe tables, shutters, frames, cockle baskets as well as some smaller items that I took for the day. (The "man bunting" in the pic above has now sold!)
Dairy House Antiques will be holding their annual textile event on Sunday April the 15th, so don't forget to put that date in your Vintage Diary.

Yesterday was the Homespun Christmas Fair in Portscatho. Once again the weather was kind and the sunlight streamed into the hall....

The stalls were piled high with a fantastic selection of items....... this lady's stall is always so beautifully arranged. I kept going back time and time again to take more photos.

Gertie had a great selection of vintage sewing boxes... one of which was purchased by Dawn French! Can you guess which one she chose? Sadly all I managed to say to Dawn (one of my all time fave comediennes) was "Can I help you?" I would have loved to have chatted about her early work with The Comic Strip.. or her wonderful autobiography....

As you can see the room was packed with temptations (this was taken just before the fair opened). Not long after this photo was taken, the hall was teaming with lovely smiling, friendly customers. Once again I was struck that they do seem genuinely enthusiastic at this particular Fair. Watch this space for the 2012 dates.

Now, onwards.. time to unpack the van and start planning what to take to The Vintage and Handmade Christmas Fair on Saturday.

In the words of Noddy Holder.. "it's Christmas!".. well, not really, but had to share these!

2011-11-13T16:51:00.001Z

Now, I know that I am known as a bit of a "bah humbug" girl when it comes to the festive season.... but....

A few months ago I purchased these beauties, and have been drooling over them ever since!

These are vintage Christmas crackers with a difference! OTT pipe cleaner swans and pooches resplendent in oodles of bling, ribbons and lashings of crepe paper! Aren't they fab? Dating from the 1950's I would guess...

With the crazy crackers came these beautiful coloured glass baubles.

.. and more crackers in this fab box. All of these festive items will be coming with me to The Dairy House Christmas Market on Sunday 20th December, and then to The Homespun fair at Portscatho. Click on the links for opening times and directions.

I have more lovely Christmas goodies for sale and the next stop after Portscatho will be the
Vintage and.Handmade Christmas Fair in Chipping Sodbury on Saturday 3rd of December. Hope you can make one of these super festive events!

Vintage Hat Veiling

2011-11-09T16:57:00.000Z

Today I have been keeping occupied unraveling, sorting and pricing a huge quantity of vintage hat veiling. Some of the items have their original shop labels and they come from both France and England.

There are many colours and designs (far too many to photograph here). There is also a quantity of courser netting which I think must be for making snoods. These were popular in the 1940's, so there is a chance that this helps to date these beautiful items.

The hat netting collection will be coming with me to The Shepton Mallet Antiques and Collectors Fair this coming weekend at the Bath and West Showground. Click here for details of opening times. I have a few reduced entry tickets still available, so do contact me if you would like one.

Collecting British Costume cards and a new job!

2011-11-03T07:37:00.003Z

I have recently acquired these Brooke Bond cards from the 1960's. (when they came free with packets of tea). As I handled them I was instantly transported back to my childhood.

I used to collect them in the 1960's and played endless games using the figures as paper dolls, and my fascination for Antique and Vintage costume has stayed with me all these years. This Summer I was approached by a friend who wanted to know if I would be interested in a job at an Auction house?

Of course I was interested! It sounded like the dream job for somebody who has been rummaging around auctions and selling Vintage clothing for the past 25 years. After an informal interview the job was mine and I launched into assisting Samaya with her auction last month. It was a fabulous auction, and now the dust has settled it is my turn!

So, if anybody would like to place anything in the next Dreweatts Vintage Costume and Textiles Auction in Bristol please contact me at this email lhasselt@dnfa.com or phone 0117 973 7201. We are looking for Antique and Vintage clothing/costume, shoes, bags, hats, textiles, lace, fans and costume jewellery. The auction is set to take place on Tuesday 3rd April 2012, so a definite date for your diary!

Three in a row!

2011-10-13T18:20:00.003+01:00

Busy times! Back to Back Fairs.....

...and a lot more in store....

I will be bringing an eclectic mix of Vintage costume, accessories, Textiles and other (vaguely) related bits and bobs to the Fairs in Frome, Cheltenham and Ardingly.

The "girls" are modelling a few of the gorgeous hats I have recently acquired. These I will be bringing to The Vintage Bazaar at The Cheese and Grain in Frome on Saturday October 29th.

Then next to in Cheltenham on Sunday the 30th of October ( Blind Lemon Vintage fair). Always a superb event with lots of delicious Vintage goodies to choose from.

Lastly, Mildred is sporting a funky vintage hat. Probably dating from the 1960's. The label reads "Panda", made in England by Fenwick of Bond Street.

Followers of this blog will have noted that this posting has been changed. Sadly the event in Hungerford this coming Saturday has been cancelled.

The Textile Society Fair in Chelsea

2011-10-03T17:48:00.001+01:00

This weekend was certainly a busy one.... we "kicked off" at the Vintage & Handmade Fair on Saturday, see pics here and more witty words...
Sadly my photos are really not up to scratch of the amazing event organised by the gals, Jayne and Michele.

Sunday morning it was time to drive to London for the Textile Society Fair in Chelsea Old Town Hall. Many of the ladies on the Vintage Circuit know this venue well as they attend the Frock Me Fair on a regular basis.
I have never been to that event, so was totally blown away by the stunning interior of the hall. As you can see from the pix above, the light streamed into the building.

Despite the heat the day flew by as I met some new customers and a few familiar ones too! The lovely Jane on the next stand was very complimentary about this blog, so just wanted to say Thank you to her for her kind words!
I only have a few images of my stand, and somehow I didn't get around to photograph any other stalls.

.... apart from smiling Cecile looking radiant whilst the rest of us were wilting! Keep an eye open for the dates for next year. It is a superb event!

Homestyle magazine cuttings

2011-09-30T07:04:00.000+01:00

This images come from a collection of old magazines that date from the late 40's/early 1950's. It is interesting to see the comparison of the cosy pre - war styles and the more modern ideas that were emerging in the 1950's.

Below -"A simple Bedroom as pretty as a garden!" - using Rosebank "Summer Sprays" fabric.

above Rosebank Fabric - "In tune with today's furnishings". This has a lot more of a modern feel to it.

Traditional florals in the bedroom (above) verses "Essentially simple/contemporary style" below...

Sanderson fabric is used in this scheme which has both elements of the traditional, but with some less fussy elements. The rest of the magazines include some wonderful knitting patterns and sewing projects. I will be bringing these to the London Antique Textile Fair on Sunday the 2nd October 2011 which is being held at Chelsea Old Town Hall SW3 5EE.

The Sewing (and sorting!) Room

2011-09-25T07:09:00.000+01:00

This week has been a busy one (as usual). Apart from drying out the stock from yet another soggy fair, I have also been sorting out various rooms at home. This room (above) became empty after son no. 2 took the spare bed off to his new flat (!)

Ah ha, I thought.. space for a sewing room perhaps? Somewhere to sit and price stock? To attend to preparation....

.. and to stash stock ready for the busy run of fairs this Autumn...

So far, so good... it isn't a big space, so I will need self-control not to turn it into "a room of doom" (a very fitting expression coined by Donna )

Love the way the sunlight pours in and the old green painted shelves work well with my favourite piece of 50's Cactus fabric! So, lots of lovely priced and sorted textiles and buttons to bring to the Vintage and Handmade Textile fair on Saturday 1st October in Chipping Sodbury!

Sanderson 50's fabric

2011-09-19T08:39:00.000+01:00

Just had to share this 1950's Sanderson fabric....

it is a large piece, so might have originally been used as a door curtain...

The problem is, do I keep it - or does it come with me to The Nostalgic Mix fair in Totnes this coming Saturday? If you click on the link you will get all the details about this great fair. As usual there will be a great mix of stall holders and something for every pocket!

September so far.....

2011-09-12T08:14:00.001+01:00

At long last, some piccies (as promised) from the fairs I have attended so far this month...

The American Museum fair was very busy & I only took a few photos. The above are from my favourite stand in the lower hall.

These are soggy snapshots of the view from the marquee at Ardingly, a disaster of a day.. say no more!

.. although this photo is Rosie's stall. Despite the gusts of wind and drizzle coming into the marquee she managed to make her stand look colourful and appealing.

These pix are from the Buttercross Vintage fair last Saturday. A splendid day with a great variety of stalls.....

Beautiful items on Clare's stand (aka Daisy Darling)

Creations from The Devil Makes Work and (below) the stage area with a tempting collection of items from The Upholstress

.. and a live band and vintage cars.... what more can you want for a great day out!

Next stop Shepton Mallet 3 day Antiques and Collectors Fair in Somerset. Click here for details.

Two very Different Fairs!

2011-09-07T15:18:00.002+01:00

Firstly, I would like to thank all the great customers who came to the event at the American Museum in Bath last week. It was a beautiful sunny day, and the perfect setting for an amazing Textile Fair organised by
Talent for Textiles. I was kept busy all day running a friend's stand and Mr Mangle ran my stand. Apologies to anybody who came to say Hello and missed me on my stand.

So, in complete contrast to the Bath Fair we yesterday braced ourselves for the Ardingly Fair. We knew the weather forecast was doubtful, but we are used to struggling with bad weather at fairs especially in the Winter (!) We began to set up and soon became apparent that the gusts of wind were likely to blow the marquee and our stock across the showground. The IACF staff were very helpful and made the marquee secure and laced up as many openings as they could. We struggled on throughout the morning, but by lunchtime we were totally exhausted from the sheer effort of keeping the stock on the tables and away from the drizzle which came into the stall. It is also incredibly wearing to listen to the constant rattling of the marquee. So, BIG apologies to anyone who came to the fair and found that we had packed up and gone. I had heard that today (Wednesday) would be better weather-wise, but by lunchtime yesterday most of my stock was damp and i couldn't see that it would have been a good idea to leave it in the creaking marquee overnight. I have some great photos of both the Bath Fair and the dripping mess at Ardingly... but I still haven't worked out how to get them from my phone to here! Technical support is coming home at the weekend, so I will be able to pick his young brains! In the meantime, here are a few images of truly beautiful mangle cloths. I will bringing a good selection of these to the Buttercross Fair in Somerton this Saturday. Lets hope for some decent weather.. please!

Say Cheese! The Autumn Run commences!

2011-09-01T06:45:00.000+01:00

The Vintage Autumn run is about to start! The fairs I am attending are all listed on the side-bar (with the exception of The new Vintage Homeware Fair in London and The Rook lane fair in Frome). Both promise to be fab events, but I am already busy on those days!
There are some new Blind Lemon Vintage dates to add to your diary, Hungerford Vintage fashion fair is taking place on Saturday the 22nd of October at The Town Hall, High Street, Hungerford Berkshire RG17 ONF . Followed by Stroud on Saturday the 5th of November in The Subscription Rooms. Last, but not least is a new fair in Wells on Sunday 27th November. (more details to follow when I have them)

The "girls" are modelling some of the latest finds. Above - Flossie is ready for a shift at the Kraft Foods vintage factory!

Esme is looking chic in a 70's black velvet number...

DAKS man's tweed jacket, with vintage style handknit scarf and Dunn & Co 50's fedora at a jaunty angle!

underneath she has a 70's Lurex jumper, all ready for the Party Season.

Flossie is modelling a beautiful pale pink hand knitted jumper, made from a vintage pattern, then (below) a hand knitted yellow jumper with knitted green and brown beret (also made from an old pattern). I have a new range of knitted hats in old fashioned colours.

Evening wear includes this fabulous gold sequin evening cape from France....

.. and then an English White Faux fur cape...perfect for covering your shoulders on a chilly evening.

Introducing Gloria (I will survive) mannequin with a Vintage scarf draped over her shoulders. Gloria was found in an old farm barn and is a little worse for wear in places, but has a beautiful face.

Lastly, had to share this fantastic print. It is a 40's "playsuit".. ideal for the beach! (that will be somewhere other than an English beach then!)

Happy 3rd Blog-day!

2011-08-28T20:05:00.000+01:00

After a manic day at the Shepton Flea market, I returned home to the fact that unbelievably today is my blogs 3rd Birthday!

So here, hurriedly cobbled together are a few washing-line related images to mark the occasion!

A HUGE Thank You to all my lovely followers and customers who visit my stand at the various fairs up and down the country.

The final picture is very tongue in cheek, but it made me smile! (Don't try it Mr Mangle!)

When in Portscatho.....

2011-08-22T07:52:00.001+01:00

Yesterday morning Mr W and I set off at an ungodly hour to drive to Cornwall. Our destination was the Memorial Hall at Portscatho on the stunning Roseland Peninsula.

We had been invited to take part in The Homespun Fair organised by Jane, Gertie and Christine. Once we had set up the stand it was time to take a few photos of the other stands (many apologies to those whose stands I have not included, the camera was being a tad temperamental!) No doubt Sal will have some extra piccies on her blog.

There was a definite "sea side" theme to several stands in the hall ...

Also lots of colourful beautiful stands stacked high with delectable goodies.... which were soon pounced upon and purchased as soon as the doors opened. To be honest, I was lightly overwhelmed by the throng of smiling, friendly shoppers. So, apologies to anyone who may have thought I was rather vague at times. The 4 'o clock alarm call does really odd things to your head, and remembering familiar faces and names can be something of a challenge!

After lunch the mad rush calmed down and I was able to walk down to admire the sea, the view and the shop!

I have waited a long time to visit this little gem. The Sea Garden is just beautiful and every surface is crammed with gorgeous-ness!

Thank you girls for inviting us to share your day, we had a lovely time. (Oh and I forgot to mention the cakes.. which were sublime..) Keep an eye here for news of the next event in Portscatho!

French for fun!

2011-08-20T18:12:00.001+01:00

This set of Vintage French playing cards have been mine for several years. I haven't worked out the rules of the game, but is described on the back of each card as "French for Fun".

They have however been very useful in improving my vocabulary, especially useful for buying vintage costume in France!

The other thing I love about these cards are the charming illustrations......

Don't you just love those slippers?

Having just returned from the Antique and Collector's Fair at Newark - just wanted to share a photo of our stand which had a VERY French flavour this time, in fact I overheard one customer saying "that it was just like a French Flea market in there"! Luckily I didn't need my parapluie for very long as the sun shone for most of the 2 days. The fair at Newark is a huge event and full of a very eclectic mix of stalls. The next fair is on Thursday and Friday the 6th and 7th of October. well worth a visit, so do come and say Hello, we have everything from buttons, lace, linens, costume, painted furniture, mirrors and much more!

Holiday Time continued......

2011-08-12T16:32:00.002+01:00

Still catching up with everything after being away! Have had a look at my pictures from the 2nd stage of our hols and see that most of the images are similar to this......

..and involving quite a lot of this....

Despite being on holiday it is inevitable that I will come home with lots and lots of this......!

Nearly all these items will be coming with me to the Fair at Newark next week. I will be in my usual spot, The "Textiles Tent" inbetween the Lady Eastwood Building and the George Stephenson. Click on the link for opening times for the event which takes place on Thursday 18th and Friday 19th August.

PS and if that wasn't enough excitement for the week, Clare and I have organised an exciting new event for Summer 2012. Click here for details!

Holiday Time!

2011-08-11T07:37:00.003+01:00

Many apologies for the lack of postings, comments and general visits to Blogland recently. I have been on my hols and instead of the usual trip to La Belle France, we did a rather exciting detour and went via Ireland!

I haven't been over to Ireland since 1993, so was a little apprehensive of the changes that may have occurred to one of my favourite places....

Yes, there has been a lot of building and a beautiful old cottage in the cove had been demolished... but the views were still breathtaking and the air was clean.

A "shop" had also sprung up in the lane (above) not exactly Tescos is it?!!

The hedgerows were full of flowers and I spotted this unusual white Hydrangea in the church yard.

The streets are still lined with painted cottages..... and boats...

We had lunch at this gorgeous place... Fish and chips, followed by the best sticky toffee pudding I have ever tasted!

After lunch we attempted to walk off the calories up the hill....

..to the church to look at these fantastic stained glass windows by Harry Clarke. My photographs haven't done them full justice, but I can assure you that the colours were breathtaking.

..and the faces, especially the eyes were especially compelling. Do google Harry Clarke for more amazing images of his work.

The next morning, we were sad leave Ireland and board a very large ferry for the next stage of our holiday. We had a fab "sea view" from our cabin! Part 2 of our adventures to follow...................

Costume for Sport and other Activities......

2011-07-23T08:21:00.004+01:00

I have recently aquired a small quantity of fashion booklets and magazines. I have had a lot of fun looking through them all. My favourite chapters have been those dedicated to costume worn for various sports.

Anyone for tennis? The first 3 photos are taken from The Gallery of English Costume, published in 1963. The model is wearing a tennis dress from 1883, the 2nd photo showing the detail of her belt and raquet cover.

Next is a tennis dress from 1896-1900, followed by this knitted ensemble from The Needlewoman magazine of June 1934.

Still a little way to go before we can see something that one might actually be able to run around a court in!

This tennis dress dates from 1938 and is made from cream twilled wool, and it is possible that one could win a game or two as long as it wasn't a very hot day.

This is one of my faves, a Croquet dress from 1860-65, can you imagine trying to play even something as gentile as croquet in this?

Cycling dress 1897-1902... rather groovy for the time...

Another fab design from The Needlewoman - 1924. A knitted dress for Boating, not a pretty vision if you got it wet!

I could rattle on for hours sharing these, but have left my fave until last. "Gardening may be done in several ways. You may, clad in linen overall, labourisly pick up weeds, strenuously mow the lawn or ruthlessly dig up daisy roots.." it goes on to say that The knitted flower coatee is ideal for gentle gardening.. "let your efforts in the garden not be too strenuous". An impossibility in this outfit! I will be bringing these booklets along with a selection of Vintage clothing, Textiles, trimmings and Linens to The 60th Talent for Textiles Event in Bath on Thursday the 1st of September at The American Museum. BA2 7BD. The Fair opens at 10 and ends at 5pm. Do contact me or Elizabeth Baer if you would like an invitation to this unique event. The ticket also allows entry into the museum and exhibition of Marilyn Monroe dresses. After that I will be busy selling at both Antique and Vintage fairs, see sidebar for details.

From a Vintage Nursery.

2011-07-17T18:25:00.000+01:00

I have a real love for Vintage Children's clothing, Textiles and of course toys! (see my other blog if interested in old toys!)

Recently these beauties came into my possession. A collection of hand embroidered items that must have graced a child's bedroom or nursery at some point in time...

I love the simplicity of this one.

A pair of ubiquitous Dutch children. A motif that was used a lot in the past. These 2 are stitched onto little draw string bags just big enough for a toothbrush or facecloth.

I am guessing these date from just before the 2nd World War. These absolutely gorgeous kitties form part of a pyjama case which has the words "Good Night" embroidered on it. I have enjoyed these for a few weeks, but sadly I cannot keep everything that comes my way. They will be accompanying me to Ardingly Antique and Collectors Fair on Tuesday 19th and Wednesday the 20th. Might see you there!

Latest french Finds.

2011-07-05T07:26:00.001+01:00

I have just returned from an amazing sunny weekend in France where the Vides and Brocante were plentiful.

The French car boot sales are not unlike the English ones in that there are acres and acres of plastic toys and a huge quantity of baby clothes.....

BUT.. for the determined bargain hunter there are treasures to be found alongside "Pour les garcons 0-3 mois"

I will be bringing most of the items shown to The Giant Flea market at Shepton Mallet on Sunday July 17th. My stand is inside the main hall up on the balcony. It is then onwards to Ardingly Antiques Fair on Tuesday 19th and Wednesday the 20th of July... usual pitch in the furniture marquee with Rosie and Maud near the food stands!

..... and the larger items will be in place at the Dairy House in Dorset this coming Friday!

Other purchases include cockle baskets, linen sheets, buttons, hat stands, tea towels, flags, Pernod carafe, cafe trays, cake plates, funky garden chairs and much more. It has certainly been a busy few days!

More from the Top Floor!

2011-06-22T08:20:00.002+01:00

After some very busy weeks trading at Dairy House Antiques we spent a lot of time yesterday restocking our space.

Originally I had a vision of separate "rooms" or room settings dividing up the large space that we rent on the top floor....

However, that vision rarely comes to fruition due to the extremely eclectic nature of our buying, and of course the fact that customers come and buy the key items that pull the look together!

Anyway, after much moving, shuffling, rearranging the top floor is once again full to bursting with new stock....and although the "room" idea is not coming together this time, there are a few corners which have a feel of a bedroom or kitchen....albeit, not one belonging to a minimalist!

.....ready for another week! Click on the link here for directions and opening hours. It is always advisable to phone ahead if you see something you like on the blog as it may have already sold.

Heartfelt - A new shop in Bristol.

2011-06-11T08:00:00.001+01:00

Just had to share a few images from the new Heartfelt venture in Bristol. The address in 23 Alma Vale Road, Clifton. Bristol BS8 2HY.

Mandy has once again woven her magic to create a beautiful shopping experience.. rails of clothing.....hats ..shoes... jewellry..and beautiful decorative items for the home....

Every customer is made to feel welcome, and there is a small cafe area where refreshments can be enjoyed.

Mandy also offers a alterations service, so that if the clothing needs a tweak or stitch, it can be done! There is soon to be a new blog and website for the shop. I will add these to the side bar once they are up and running.

Hit The Road Jack!

2011-06-03T09:42:00.002+01:00

Enjoying a sunny day here in the garden pricing an enormous quantity of lace, crochet, Broderie Anglais, trim etc for the Fairs....

It looks to be a busy few days. Starting with The Original Vintage & Handmade fair tomorrow in Chipping Sodbury. The basket, horse & mannequin will then make their way to Poundbury for a Textile Fair in the Brownsword Hall on Wednesday 8th June.

The next stop is The Antique and Collecters Fair at Newark where I have a stand for 2 days with the rest of the textile travelling gang! Might see you somewhere in the next 7 days?

....and now for something completely different!

2011-05-25T07:16:00.003+01:00

In the past few weeks I have been busy buying for the next run of fairs. These large wooden spools from France have been selling well, and they look great displayed on some of my Antique and recycled Indian painted furniture.

Yesterday we restocked the Dairy House with this Indian cupboard with wire mesh doors (perfect for the kitchen). We also took some Indian gates and other pieces of carved wood items (below).

The wood and metal work well alongside gorgeous old French grainsacks....

This coming Saturday I am selling at a new fair in Ilminster at the Meeting House . I will be taking along a selection of French Linen sheets, Eastern European Mangle cloths, buttons, wooden cotton spools and a selection of these beauties (below)....

Carved Antique wooden items from India. They look wonderful alongside the linen sheets and other stock.

Most of them have been adapted so that they can by hung on the wall or used as candle sconces.

I adore the layers of chipped old paint, some of them would have adorned buildings for hundreds of years.

The following weekend I will be having my usual stall at The Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury, if there is room in the van I might bring along a few Vintage Indian items to ring the changes to my stand. What do you think?

Two amazing Fairs in two days....

2011-05-21T07:37:00.002+01:00

Sometimes it is hard to decide how to post about fairs. Do you write a before or after account?

My problem this week has been that I have attended two very different fairs for the first time. It is not a lot of help to you (the potential customer/happy shopper) to hear about a marvellous event that you have just missed!

...... So, the purpose of this post is to make sure everyone knows about these two events & get them in the diary for 2012 now!

The Decorative Living Fair at Eridge Park (near Tunbridge Wells) is an annual event which takes place in May. The perfect month for this beautiful fair.

The above photos are of my stand, I should have taken more of other people's, but as I didn't know a lot of them I didn't have enough time to ask permission and introduce myself. (something I feel strongly about if one is going to use other people's images on the blog).

Su and Jill from The Blue Linen Cupboard had a stunning stall of French treasures....

This is Jacquie's stand (aka Kitty). I returned to several times to buy myself little treats. Sadly couldn't persuade Mr W that we needed the glorious green kitchen cupboard!

It was the detail and finishing touches that made this stand special.

Outside the scene was breathtaking...Beyond the marquee's and outdoor stands was this view!

The outdoor stalls were full of gorgeous garden furniture, plants, Linens, flower pots and of course a cafe where one could purchase refreshments to enjoy in the outdoor seated area.

At the end of a fantastic day at Eridge, it was time to bundle all my stock into the van and head West to here.....

Another stunning location for a Textile fair.

A selection of the stands from the Avalon Textile and Decorative Fair. It really was the most amazing location for an event. The 14th century Abbey Barn looked incredible, it was hard not to look up at the roofspace (instead of concentrating on setting up the stand!)

The strings of lighting were perfect to illluminate the space. The stalls were of the highest quality, from buttons and trimming to sumptuous beaded evening wear.

..from cupboards, mirrors and yachts!

I do not know if there is to be another event at this location, so all I can say is watch this space and I will let you know!

New stock coming to the fairs this week...

2011-05-16T20:06:00.001+01:00

Having just returned from a buying trip in France, I am about to set off again to sell at the Decorative Living Fair at Eridge Park near Tunbridge Wells on Thursday. I will be taking along some English and French Textiles, trimmings, lace, buttons.....

As well as Beautiful old shell boxes from France, hats, corsage, sequined scarves, floral oil paintings, floaty vintage dressing gowns and a smattering of French enamelware.... an eclectic mix I hear you say... That is what happens when I am let loose buying in France!

If you are unable to get to the fair in Kent, never fear.. I am doing the Avalon Textile and Decorative Fair in Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury BA6 8DB on Friday the 20th of May. The fair is open from 9 am to 4 pm. Entrance is free to the fair and museum buildings.

Vintage wallpaper. Another passion of mine...

2011-05-04T07:39:00.000+01:00

All these images have one thing in common. They may look like pictures or prints, but are in fact all wallpaper designs. The first 2 images are from a Crown design of the 1950's. It was a time when travel to Europe was becoming popular, so what better way to remember your holiday to Italy, Spain or France than to have wallpaper as a constant reminder!

These next two images are called Illana, and are made in England by Shand Kydd Ltd. I love the soft colours in this one, and it is in wonderful condition considering it is over 50 years old.

These cowboys and Indians were the bedroom wallpaper of one of my customers. I am not sure how we got around to chatting about wallpapers, but he kindly sent me these images when I said that I would like to do a blog post on wallpapers....

Boats seem to be a common theme around this time, and I have used some of this design to decorate the front of a painted cupboard in our bathroom. This roll is made by Crown, but doesn't have a design name. It is also apparently washable and "steam resistant", so might be from the 60's rather than the 50's.

Introducing Esme......and coming to Frome Vintage Bazaar this Saturday..

2011-04-22T07:14:00.006+01:00

On a recent trip to France I found another wonderful 1940's mannequin. Anyone who knows me or reads my blog regularly will realise that I have a bit of a "thing" for these vintage treasures..

Esme is modelling a 40's tweed jacket and a selection of 40's felt hats that will be coming with me to The Vintage Bazaar next Saturday, the 30th of April.

These lovely pale blue handmade 40's PJ's are another recent find. Esme has borrowed Flossie's spotty scarf for the photo shoot.

A stunning pair of blue shoes come in their original box, with a French description written in pencil on the lid....

This suit is a de-mob suit from the 40's, and is in amazing unworn condition with its original label.

Pair of cute vintage leather children's shoes, dating from the 1950's.

Funky 60's Sylko set of storage drawers....

A fabby vintage beach bag with shells design...

Plenty of vintage pinnies....

Georgie gets to model this pretty 20's cloche hat which has since sold since I first published this post. Other items will include a new selection of 40's dress fabric, trimmings, gorgeous vintage children's clothes from the 1940's and 50's, a pair of CC41 satin cami-knickers, French workwear dresses and shirts and much more. See you in Frome on Saturday!

The New Textile Tent at Newark Antiques and Collectors Fair.

2011-04-15T19:50:00.001+01:00

Here is a photo of our lovely Textile Marquee at Newark last week. IACF Antique Fairs certainly were most helpful and obliging in getting the 4 of us together in this fantastic space.

My new French and English finds looked good in the bright sunshine that poured into the tent.....

There was a bit of a wedding theme going on with this fantastic 40's headdress, veil and poignant photograph of the bride. In front of it is a French wedding cake decoration from the same period.

Amazing 40's French platform shoes soon found a home...

I didn't get the chance to take further photos of Maud or Michelle's stand...

.. but the funky shoes, magazines and fabric (below) are all from Alan's stand which was next to mine.

If you didn't get to Newark, there is always Ardingly next week where I will have my usual stand near the refreshment area, alongside Maud and Rosie.... might see you there!

It is Sunday, must be The Dairy House Textile Day!

2011-04-11T19:02:00.000+01:00

After a very busy run of fairs (will report back on those later). We finally made it to Sunday, which was the date set for the long awaited and anticipated Dairy house Costume and Textiles Day.

We were there bright and early to unload new stock into the building and up to the top floor where the sunshine was streaming in......

Mannequins were dressed, this silver lady was wrestled into this gorgeous late 40's swimming costume.

(later to be tried and purchased by one of the extremely stylish "Blitz Buddies")

The other rooms in the building looked wonderful. Tables groaning with beautiful textiles, trimmings,and lace.

Outside under the canopy, the stall holders set out their wares in the dazzling sunshine.

It was a fantastic sight. Helen, Niki, Donna, Tracey, Justine, tamsyn, Loveday, Chloe and Caroline all busy as bees laying out their fab wares.....

Customers started to arrive at 10 o clock and there were plenty of them, all enthusiastic and ready for a day of retail therapy in relaxed surroundings and a fantastic coffee wagon to refresh them at intervals!
My own personal thanks are to Sue and her amazing organisation of the day, and to Elaine who worked tirelessly with me on the top floor all day... and of course Mr W who did all the hard work of getting half a ton of textiles and costumes up all those stairs!

The Original Vintage and Handmade Fair & The Vintage Textiles and Costume Day at the Dairy House

2011-04-08T19:39:00.001+01:00

It is all happening in The West Country this weekend! On Saturday it is the fantastic Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury. Click here for full details....

I will be there with a mixture of Vintage clothing, Textiles, Decorative china and glass....

Vintage toys, ephemera, haberdashery and possibly a few treasures from over the Channel.......

Then on Sunday, I will be manning the top floor of the Dairy House for the 2nd Annual Vintage Textiles and Costume Day. If it is anything like last year, the front of the building will be overflowing with beautiful stalls.. and inside will be a veritable Alladin's Cave of Antiques, Furniture, Paintings, Prints, Jewellery, Ceramics.. there really is something for everyone!

Oh yes, and I will be bringing a horse!

The New Textile and Decorative Marquee at Newark

2011-03-27T18:48:00.001+01:00

The organisers of The Newark Antique Fairs have been incredibly helpful over the past few weeks. They have given 4 of us our very own marquee! We had all been finding it difficult to sell textiles and vintage clothing at such a huge fair as there is just so much to see over a large area and customers do not always find us.

We knew the formula worked well at Ardingly, where 4 of us are grouped together in one place. Like-minded customers now know where to find us (near the refreshment stand at Ardingly)

At The Newark Fair we are in marquee 9A, which is near the shippers area and The Lady Eastwood. The 4 of us at Newark are Michele (above 3 images from her beautiful stand at Shepton Mallet last week)

Maud from Beyond France with her fantastic range of linen, rugs, bags and much more................

My stand will have an eclectic mix of Vintage costume, vintage knitwear, textiles, trimmings, buttons and French Treasures.

Alan brings from France more wonderful goodies. Anybody who has seen his stand at the Bath Fair will know that his stock is extensive. Vintage shoes jostle for space with fabric covered boxes, piles of wonderful fabric and trimmings.

The next Fair in Newark is on Thursday the 7th of April to Friday the 8th. Click on the website link here for details of opening times. It is one of the largest fairs in the country, so not to be missed!

Coming to the Fairs this weekend.....

2011-03-21T06:45:00.003Z

This coming weekend, I will be selling at the Nostalgic Mix Fair in Totnes on Saturday the 26th of March. Then on Sunday the 27th, it is The Ashley Hall Vintage Fashion and Textile Fair at The Assembly Rooms in Bath. (click on the highlighted links for full details)

I recently bought this rare and unusual box of hat trimmings from the 1920's and 30's which will be coming with me to the fairs. An amazing slice of millinery history don't you think?

I will also be bringing these bolts of pristine, mint condition 1940's floral dress fabrics.......

.. and a stack of Meccano mags from the 40's and 50's (so the lads don't feel left out!)

.... and while I am on the subject of textiles and trimmings, there is an exciting new event for the Vintage Lovers Diary. Talent for Textiles 57th Event. The Avalon Textile and Decorative Fair which takes place on Friday May 20th in the Abbey Barn in Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury BA6 8DB.
This event is organised by Elizabeth Baer. Doors open at 9 am and close at 4 pm. A full day to enjoy in this wonderful 14th Century Tithe Barn. There will be a variety of stalls selling Antiques Textiles, Vintage Fashion, Brocante, Decorative Objects and Furniture. Free Entry to the fair and all Museum Buildings. See here for more exciting images!

Pretty Patchwork Pieces, Dolls and Chairs!

2011-03-12T18:04:00.002Z

This patchwork has a beautiful soft palette of colours. It isn't quite finished so that whoever buys it from me at the coming Antique fairs will have a little bit of work to do...

There are some quite delicious cottons in the design. I would say that it dates from the 1930's and 1940's .

It came with a later set of patchwork pieces, I am guessing from the 1970s?

Some are already sewn into usable shaped pieces, but this bag is brimming with a whole big project!

I will be bringing all these items and more to The Shepton Mallet 3 day Antiques Fair at the Bath and West showground in Somerset this coming weekend. Click on the link to reach the IACF website for full details of opening times. Please note that complimentary tickets can only be used on the Saturday and Sunday.

As well as my usual costume, textiles and decorative bits and bobs, I am also taking a selection of small pieces of furniture. All being well (and weather permitting) we should be able to display items outside at the front of the tent....

Lace........................

2011-03-08T07:09:00.001Z

I was recently fortunate in having the opportunity to purchase this collection of beautiful lace. It would appear to have been several Edwardian dresses at one time.....

But for some reason they have been totally dismantled - and now come in "kit form" for some talented person to put back together.....

My Vintage mannequin is doing her best to give you an idea.......

I will be bringing this collection of lace to the Talent for Textiles Fair in Ilminster on Saturday. The event is held in the Meeting House at the top of the High Street. Always a lovely occasion, the small hall will be brimming with textiles and treasures, and there will be stalls outside too.

The doors open at 9.30, so might see you there?

The First Vintage Jumble Sale

2011-03-06T08:09:00.000Z

You saw it here!

Pictures taken on the day of the first Vintage Jumble Sale in Rangeworthy, near Bristol.
The brainchild of Jayne and Michele (aka The Vintage and Handmade gals!)

The tables were groaning with treasures...

Prices were soooooo reasonable...

It was just like stepping back in time to the heady days of my teens when there were plenty of these events on a Saturday......

Not only was there a fantastic atmosphere,, it was a great opportunity to chat to old friends and make friends with quite a few new ones. Watch this space for the date of the next event as I am sure there has to be another one... once the residents of Rangeworthy have recovered from the "Vintage invasion".

Busy days.....

2011-03-04T20:03:00.001Z

It has certainly been a hectic few weeks at Washerwoman HQ. Spring is in the air and I have been washing and ironing like a crazy woman. Here a few of the gorgeous items that will be coming with me on my travels over the next few weeks....

Oyster coloured 50's Duster coat, size 14.... teamed here with a mint condition size 16-18 50's pink dress (still with original shop label!)
......CC41 Utility dresses and pinnies.....

Flossie is modelling a selection of beautiful 40's knitwear. All with their original scrummy buttons.

A new collection of 40's inspired hats are a new find.

Moygashel 40's print dress with spring flowers... and a printed velvet wrap-over jacket by "Valerie" of London.

I have also managed to get a few items for the chaps too! Evening shirts, studs and scarves. Hope to see you somewhere at one of the many fairs taking place this month. See the sidebar for details of where I will be. Although Some of the dates do clash with other events, so I am not able to attend every single one! if anyone would like a comp ticket for Shepton Mallet Antique Fair - please leave a message via the blog. Thank You.

All change on the Top Floor of The Dairy House!

2011-02-26T16:51:00.000Z

Another busy day over at the Dairy House as we have been Spring Cleaning and extending the Top Floor Emporium once again!

The plan is to introduce more small items of furniture as well as the essential bits and bobs that make a house a home.

It is the time of year to think about the garden, so we are expanding the range of items and accessories for the garden or conservatory.

Floral French China is jostling for table space with 1930's frosted lemonade glasses........

Of course the weeks are flying by, and the much anticipated 2nd Annual Vintage Textiles and Costume Day is not too far away. Sunday April the 10th is a must for your diary. There will be a fabulous range of outside stalls as well as all the regular Dairy House folk showing a selection of Beautiful Antiques, Paintings, Silver, Ceramics and much, much more....

On the top floor there will be a Vintage Boutique as well as our eclectic mix of items for the Home and Garden. I do hope you can make it!

Paper fancies from the past

2011-02-18T17:35:00.000Z

This week I was a lucky girl! I bought these delightful paper items from the Honiton Fair. I am an absolute sucker for old ephemera, toys and images from the early to mid 20th century.

There were a number of these crepe party hats in several designs and colours......

Then there were these 3 paper and card storage containers that must have been filled with sweets and gifts.

All in amazing condition considering their age and fragile construction.

Just love this little chap on his own personal ski slope!

Then there is this little gem. Oh to have time to make fancy dress costumes out of crepe paper!

I will be keeping and enjoying these for a few weeks. They will then need to come with me to one of the many fairs that I am selling at in the next few months. See the blog sidebar for details.

Honiton Textiles, Vintage Clothing and Decorative Fair

2011-01-26T09:51:00.000Z

Flossie is modelling a few of the items I will be taking to the Textile and Vintage clothing Fair in Honiton on Tuesday the 8th of February. I have a selection of vintage knitwear from the 1940's and 50's. As well as vintage knitting patterns from 50 p each.

Click here for more details about the fair.

Theses are mint condition CC41 teatowels. Flossie is modelling a CC41 floral pinny with a 40's hand-knitted cardigan and her felt "make do and mend" corsage.

As well as textiles and costume I will be taking along some vintage magazines, baskets, buttons, textiles and ephemera.

New at the Dairy House this week

2011-01-20T07:55:00.001Z

As well as preparing for the Shepton Mallet Antiques Fair this weekend, we have also been over to restock and tidy at the Dairy House. If anyone is travelling to the fair via the A303 they can easily take a small detour to visit the Dairy House, where they will find lots of beautiful Antiques as well as quirky decorative items......

Here are a few photos of our stall yesterday, the afternoon sun was pouring in which did make photography a little bit challenging!

We have these funky metal chairs which can be purchased as a set or as required.

Yes, the washstand is for sale, although I think Sue will curse me if she has to find a place to put everything on it!!!!

Thank you to my 200 followers!

2011-01-17T11:58:00.002Z

Amazing to think I have 200 followers now. Thank you to you all, have a Happy Monday!

Ardingly Antiques and Collectors Fair

2011-01-13T06:55:00.001Z

This week I managed to get to the Ardingly Antiques Fair to sell on my stand. It really was a case of "Third time lucky" as in previous years my attempts to get there in January were thwarted by the weather and other disasters.
Despite the miserable grey and windy weather the customers came and were enthusiastic on the first day...
Rosie and I had similar ideas about the theme of our stands despite the inclement conditions. I had 40's beach shoes, shell necklaces and a 50's beach bag decorated with painted shells, while Rosie had this beautiful oil painting from France on her stall.

Maud, however had a different approach to selling. She allowed her customers to delve headfirst into her van of sumptuous textiles! The weather was so windy and unpleasant that neither she or Rosie actually unpacked all the stock from their vans. They had also both got seriously stuck in the thick mud even before it was daylight.

I am afraid to say that after one day of trying to trade in these conditions, we all decided to pack up at the end of the first day. The buffeting wind was threatening to blow the marquee away, and none of us were confident about leaving the stock there overnight and risking a second day of driving rain and more wind. BIG APOLOGIES to any of our customers who braved the elements to visit the fair on the 2nd day..... we will return to Ardingly on Tuesday March 1st and Wednesday the 2nd hoping for kinder weather!

A slice of Interior Decoration History

2011-01-09T07:40:00.002Z

Some time ago I bought this folder at a Flea Market. Inside I was delighted to find these beautiful images of interiors. The artist is Watson Charlton, there is very little information about him. I would guess these images date from the 1920's or 30's.

On each page there are close up views of the textiles to be used to create such an interior. Sadly some of the pages are damaged by water so that the colours are not as crisp as they may be.

This one (above) is described as "Bradstowe" - Hollyhock Cretonne 3/6 per yard from Messrs Skinner and Son . 46 High Street, Broadstairs.

The Oak Dining Room has curtains made from "Egmont Taffeta" at 3/11 per yard from Messrs. Williamson and Cole, 26 High Street, Clapham, London.

Probably my favourite, this green bedroom . "The coolness of the green makes this a delightful room on the sunniest day, and the gay rose colour is bright at all times". The fabric used is Green Stripe Cretonne at 2/6 per yard from Waring and Gillow in Oxford Street, London.

Sadly the picture of this bedroom has got a lot of water damage, but I felt I had to include it as it so typical of the period between the wars.

"A Vieux Rose Bedroom" using "Old Bleach Linen, an ideal material for hangings and bedspread. Its softness makes such graceful folds that the simplest curtains look charming."

Above is "Tulip" Cretonne 2/6 per yard. It is used on the sofa and curtains in The Flower Room. (below) I love the description that accompany it. "Flower paintings, beside being a delight to the eye, can be immensely important items in the furnishing of a room"

An English Room.

This quintessentially English room is so evocative of the 1930's don't you think?

The fabric (below) is " Autumn Garland" Cretonne 2/11 per yard

"This Cottage Style room (below) will make many a housewife whisper: That is just the cheerful type of colour scheme our room wants"

Lastly it is suggested that "Checks" are used for the kitchen. The curtains are made from "Sunregina Loom cotton and the paintwork is painted orange yellow, while the walls and ceiling are enamelled a lighter hue".

It's cold..it's been snowing......

2010-12-18T18:13:00.000Z

Woke up to this fantastic scene this morning. I know blogland will be FULL of gorgeous snowy pics..

But couldn't resist putting on the wellys and stomping out into it to take a few photos. My camera is unable to take any decent interior shots, but can pull out the stops outside!

Love this view of the church, as I was wandering around the graveyard I could hear the organ playing "once in Royal David's City". Obviously getting into practice for the carol service tomorrow evening.

Antiques Fair at Cothay Manor

2010-12-16T07:38:00.002Z

Only a few days late with this posting! Last Saturday was the Antiques Fair at the unbelievably beautiful Cothay Manor in Somerset.

We didn't have a stall at the event, so had the rare luxury (for us) of being able to visit and view at our leisure.

As usual I have no inside pictures of the fair. All I can tell you is the quality of the stands was very impressive. Caroline (Fountain Antiques) had her stall in the stunning bedroom with a vaulted roof. She had piles of immaculate linens and textiles on display.

Outside the air was mild, so I was able to wander around with my camera.....

This strange fellow was on the wall just inside the gatehouse! if you want to visit this stunning 15th century medieval gem click here for the opening times.

Turn Back Time, the 1930's and 1970's High Street in Shepton Mallet

2010-12-10T18:13:00.002Z

A few months ago I had a phone call asking if I could supply some vintage clothing for a unique and very special project.

A series of television programmes were being made in Shepton Mallet which Niki has covered from beginning to end as she was right there in the midst of all the action and activity in the town.

I was able to dip in and out as I was asked to supply for 2 of the decades being covered. My first job was to find some 1930's clothing and hats to supply Gill (below) with items to work on or sell in her workroom (above).

Always ready for a challenge I managed to gather a selection dresses, coats and lingerie for the researchers to use.
However I WISH they had consulted me on the toy shop as I was appalled to see this imported pink dolls house in the window! What a shame they didn't use a doll house from the 30's. It was a time when Triang toys were making the most fantastic dolls house and many survive today so it shouldn't have been hard to find one.

I know I am a bit of a perfectionist (blame the star sign I was born under!) but that is just the way I am!

However, I did think the attention to detail on the shop fronts and clothing that the families wore were fantastic... Some of these photos are from Niki's blog (with permission of course) as most of the piccies I took didn't come out clearly.

On one of the days I went over to Shepton Mallet I was able to see the families close up as they enjoyed lunch before being launched into the next decade. Their clothing was beautifully put together and attention to detail was superb. I also loved the fact that there were vintage cars dotted around the streets.

My next involvement was for the 1970's. Once again I had to supply clothing for Gill's shop (above).

I went armed with lurex dresses, hot pants, flares and maxi dresses.....

The shop was obviously a great success as a lot of my clothing sold in the week it was open and Niki tells me that it is now open as a Vintage shop. That is great news as it shows that despite being entertaining and informative TV it has also achieved something it set out to do.... and that is to get the High Street back and to open up shops that people want to visit...

Lastly my favourite, the 70's record shop.. fantastic! Unfortunately there are unlikely to be any takers for this one. As the programme pointed out most of us nothing to play vinyl on anymore....if want a bit of nostalgia click here, or if you want to watch any of the programmes on iplayer click here.

The House That Nearly Died

2010-12-06T08:42:00.002Z

This interesting notice caught my attention yesterday on arrival at Barrington Court. This stunning 16th Century Manor House was the location for a Christmas Antiques Fair organised by Chasty Cottage Fairs.

What an incredible setting for an event!

I could barely set up my stand without resisting the temptation to take some photographs. Part of my stand was within the old fireplace, fortunately I had taken plenty of lamps to light the space. At 10 am the customers started to pour in. I was kept busy until after lunch when I took the opportunity to explore and take some more piccies.

Below is the view into the courtyard with its frozen pond. There are newer parts to the house that were restored in the 1920's by the Lyle Family. The property had fallen into terrible disrepair in the previous century and was almost derelict in 1907 when the National Trust bought it.

The foggy morning gave it real atmosphere, it reminded me of a film from 2001 called The Others. It certainly could have been filmed here!

If you get the chance to visit Barrington Court, the gardens are also something very special. Their design being influenced by Gertrude Jekyll. I certainly intend to make a special journey to see these gardens next year.

This last photograph was taken of the front of the house at about 8 am. I was struck by the similarity to a dolls house that I read about a few years ago. It was called Childs Court and can be seen here . Not only do the houses look the same. There is also the similarity that both houses were rescued and restored lovingly from a very poor state.

Good Housekeeping, April 1953

2010-12-03T08:12:00.000Z

Over the years I have collected many old books and magazines on fashion. Recently the "Big clear out" has been taking place and I am parting with a few to make room for other treasures!

This particular copy of Good Housekeeping has a wealth of fantastic articles, including this one on 1950's cotton dresses which was photographed in the workrooms of Horrockses. There are also photographs of the machinist and cutters.

Haughty looking models show off the latest designs.

Then of course there are the adverts, most of which are a work of art in themselves.

it is listed here on ebay if you would like to give it a home!

Vintage at the Village Hall

2010-11-30T07:53:00.004Z

It has been a very busy few days. After the excitement of the excellent Vintage and Handmade Fair in Chipping Sodbury, it was soon Monday morning and time for the very first Vintage at the Village Hall Fair organised by Ted and Bunny. The drive to Dorset was hairy (to say the least) and not helped by frozen windscreen washers!

On arrival at the hall, we were greeted with a fantastic sight, bunting criss-crossed the ceiling and vintage goodies piled high on the other stalls. After the fastest set-up in 20 years of trading it was suddenly 10 o clock and time to start selling. I can only say it was a bit like a football crowd coming in, hoards of eager buyers surged into the hall and it really was "standing room only".

Even the chap from the local paper said he couldn't take pictures of so many people in one space! As usual my camera would only let me take outside piccies, so I am unable to give you a true flavour of the beautiful interior. There was one outside stall which I took photos of, but the strong sunlight made them look out of focus. Below is the best I can offer!

There were several other bloggers at the fair, so worth checking out Elegance maison, The Vintage Bothy, Denise, Shirley, Linda , Lizzie and Lucy Bloom for further pictures of a fantastic event!

A big Thank You to Elaine for organising such an amazing day, and we wait with anticipation for the 2001 dates!

Favourite Childhood books. What is yours?

2010-11-26T09:05:00.000Z

This has to be one of my all time fave childhood books

Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll and beautifully illustrated by Marjorie Torrey and published in 1955

The wonderful pictures speak for themselves don't they? I must have looked at them all a thousand times (judging by the state of this book) the binding has gone and the pages are just about held together......

I haven't included every page, just the best in my humble opinion!

Have you still got a well loved childhood book that you would like to share? Enjoy the weekend!

Tis the season to be jolly..... Ba humbug!

2010-11-22T18:04:00.000Z

A few of you might already know that I don't really "do" Christmas. It really is NOT my favourite time of year. Don't get me wrong I love the long winter evenings in front of a cosy fire, the smell of mulled wine wafting from the kitchen and of course the twinkle of lights on the Christmas tree.

I have a collection of vintage Christmas decorations which I enjoy unpacking every year, and often as a family we decorate the tree together, reminiscing about the Christmas decorations made by the boys at school and funny stories about school carol services and plays..... I also enjoy getting together with friends and family around Christmas time.

What I have found so depressing in the past weeks are the usual frenetic adverts on TV encouraging us to go shopping for gifts (and that the supermarket aisles have been stocked up with "Christmas Fayre" since August). It is also the fact that all the Charity Shops are now full to the rafters of "festive items" for sale. Most of which appear to be "unwanted gifts" from the previous year. It is clear to see that most of these items were donated to charity on January 2nd as nobody wanted yet another pack of notelets, novelty apron, bubble bath or imported resin ornaments cluttering up their homes.

It will be great if the charity shops manage to sell all these items, but sadly I suspect that the majority of the population are charging around the High Street shops like headless chickens buying more of the same for their unsuspecting friends and relatives!

The fact is that most of us don't NEED anything, a lot of homes in this country are so full of stuff that there is a boom in renting storage space. There is a Big Yellow Storage Unit (or similar in almost every town you drive through).
If anyone has ever been to the first Car Boot sale of the year (usually in about March/April time) the stands are piled high with CD's (still in the wrapper), coffee table books, diaries, calendars, perfumes, soaps, mass produced imported tat.... in short - more "unwanted gifts" !
Of course it is lovely to give and receive gifts, but somewhere along the line it has become seriously unpleasant and out of control.
Sending cards at Christmas is something that mother stopped doing many years ago. Instead she gave a donation to her favourite charity.She still writes letters at Christmas and phones friends who she may not have seen or spoken to for a long time.
Like her I have started to do the same. When my Christmas card list was approaching 200 I decided that it was time to reduce the habit. Now I also try to write letters or phone friends. Last year I even used facebook to send out greetings to friends, and why not? It doesn't waste paper or card. How many people actually bother to recycle their cards each year? How much ends up in landfill??

What is heartening is the recent trend for making gifts and cards again, there are fantastic examples of imaginative and beautiful treasures on etsy, folksy and in blogland. Once again recycling is chic and perhaps we are beginning to steer away from the throw-away society we have become in recent years? I am sorry to post a bit of a "rant". I have no intention to offend or upset anyone, it is just this amount of needless waste and overindulgence depresses me when you think of people in other parts of the world who don't even have a roof over their heads, let alone personal possessions.

I feel the same with the food shopping, and the "siege mentality" that kicks in every year. It is good to eat nice meals and have special treats, but how much of this actually just ends up in the bin. There are just 12 months in every year, and I get irritated that almost 3 of them are directed towards a 2 day "holiday" at the end of December.

I think I should stop now, and in case you are wondering about the pictures accompanying this post. They are a few of the items I have on ebay at the moment, or are taking to the wonderful Vintage and Handmade fair next weekend. Where I promise I will be smiling and not doing an imitation of Scrooge!!!!

Winter wardrobe and Shepton Mallet 3 Day Antiques Fair and .....Kirsty!

2010-11-17T08:32:00.005Z

Busy, Busy this week (despite catching Mr W's rotten cold). I bought these amazing barkcloth curtains at the Frome Retro fair 2 weeks ago. I plan to use them as a backdrop in my stand at the Antiques Fair this weekend.

Here are a few of the Winter warmers.. vintage jackets and coats that are coming with me to the fair. Above is a French 50's coat, size 14 approx, very cosy.

Along with a selection of gorgeous vintage silk scarves (a few sold on ebay last week, but still have a HUGE stash of them!)

This gents cashmere coat is pretty cool, I also have it in navy, but that one has gone into the Dairy House as Sue is always asking me to put more vintage clothing onto my stand, so I have obliged!

This fur trimmed jacket comes with a matching skirt, very Mad Men I think.

Lastly this little gem of a childs coat! I bumped into a friend in a carpark in town yesterday and she has already said she wants first dibs on this one!! I still have a couple of reduced entry tickets to the fair so please leave a message if you are interested.

PS. I have to add how much I enjoyed Kirsty's programme last night. I watch very little TV, but I felt this was worth giving up an hour for! Anyone who promotes reusing, recycling and making items for your home has to be applauded. Of course a lot of what she says and does it what many of us have been doing for years, BUT it is about time that this country's obsession with "buying new" needs to change. I will now step down from the soap box before I get started on Christmas!!!

1940's Wartime BUNDLES FOR BRITAIN BAG with Label

2010-11-15T08:09:00.003Z

I have recently discovered this fascinating little slice of wartime history in a bag of old lace!

A cloth bag measuring about 12 ins across in a purple/brownish colour. It has a discoloured white cotton lining with various pocketed sections and a closing flap with popper fastening. Inside there is a label as pictured above which reads ''from your American friends BUNDLES FOR BRITAIN '' . These bags and many other items were part of a relief effort in the early part of the Second World War of non-military items from the USA to Britain. It was started by a lady called Marion Newbert Jorgensen and became a regional organisation across the USA under her management sending much needed items to wartime Britain . The bag is in really very nice condition for age , all original including the label , with just a little wear to the lining . It has been used by a lady to keep her sewing and needlework items in so has been carefully looked after over many years . A very interesting piece of wartime history which Mr W has listed for me on ebay..click here if you want to view the auction. Now onwards with the sorting....... I still have a way to go with my Autumn "Spring Clean".

Walpoles Fashions

2010-11-08T07:48:00.000Z

This little slice of fashion history is a folder of designs from May 1939. I am guessing it was a type of catalogue sent out to (wealthy) clients to entice them to the store at 87 - 91 New Bond Street London.

Inside the folder there are outfits for every occasion. Underwear, dressing gowns......

..even what to wear for "cruising week 15th to 20th May 1939"

It is rather sad to think that this optimistic luxurious world is only months away from the start of WW2.

This is just one of the vintage fashion related items that I have listed on ebay. Click here if you are interested.
Now, on with the Autumn "spring clean"....

The Vintage Bazaar in Frome

2010-11-02T04:23:00.006Z

Saturday saw us sitting in the van outside the Cheese and Grain in Frome with a flask of coffee at 6.30 am, these guys were sound asleep in their tour bus next to us. I would have loved to have seen them play the evening before, but I think a late night bopping away to a reggae band might not have helped us cope with the organisation of the long awaited
Vintage Bazaar......

Once we had got into the building and allocated the stalls, we opened the doors to the enthusiastic stall holders. I played a few lively White Mink tracks to get the atmosphere going.. we had a few problems with the music, but a combination of my son's old stereo and Mike's clever arrangement with his iplayer and an amp we were in business!

Soon everyone was in place and the doors opened on the dot of 9 to allow the first wave of customers into the building. These are a small sample of the stalls on offer.

What I don't have are the images of the rails of fabulous clothing from the 1900's up until the 1960's. It wasn't a date lined event, but we wanted the clothing to be Antique and Vintage, and boy did the stall holders provide an amazing selection.... there were silk dressing gowns, 30's lame jackets, soft velvet 40's evening cloaks, faux fur 40's jackets (my mum snaffled that one!) and much, much more.

It seems that delicate china pretties are easier to photograph! Please visit the following blogs for more images of the day. Sal's Snippets, Tracy at the Vintage Bothy, The Vintage Magpie, Nostalgia at the Stonehouse, Suzy, Gaby and Maud and Elaine aka Ted and Bunny!

Of course Clare and I need to say a lot of Thank You's for the combined efforts and energies that made for a buzzing and spectacular day.

The team at the Cheese and Grain provide an excellent service, and were happy to accommodate every request. Nothing was any trouble.

Of course we couldn't have done it without Mr W and Mr Darling, and Clare's mum........ and all the friends who have supported us and assisted with spreading the word about the Bazaar. Edwin stepped in to assist on the desk in the morning, a much needed pair of hands to meet and greet the throngs as they came through the door... thank you to all 1145 of you and hope to see you next time on Saturday the 30th of April 2011.

This was one of the star stands of the day, Debbie's amazing Gardenalia stall. This was Debbie's first ever fair and she certainly put on a spectacular show, next stop The Country Living Fair eh?

Babyhead? Name the mannequin.

2010-10-24T16:38:00.000+01:00

This week I have been busy sorting out my stock for the next run of fairs. I have quite a few new items, including vintage buttons, Victorian and French ephemera, postcards, vintage cut-out dolls, books on fashion from the 1850's to the 1950's.

I also have accrued a small collection of Vintage children's hats and clothing that have come my way over the past few months. I bought this child mannequin from Niki some years ago when she had a stand at Shepton Mallet Antiques Fair. Most of my mannequins have names, and after meeting Jo I realised that I had never given this one a name. Now, I am never really sure whether this is a boy or a girl? So, was thinking "Bertie" might be a suitable choice as it could be short for Albert or Roberta. Any suggestions please. It really is about time the poor child had a name!

Anyway today the mannequin is modelling a funky selection of Vintage children's hats which I just could not resist.

A selection of some of the vintage dresses I will be taking to Ardingly and Frome in the next week. It is the big countdown until the Vintage Bazaar that Clare and I have organised in Frome in Somerset. For anybody who hasn't heard about it, just click on the word Frome above and it will take you to the blog!

As well as the above, I have some fantastic vintage silk scarves and cashmere jumpers..... alongside my usual rails of winter coats, baskets of hand knitted gloves, hats and scarves

Vintage Jacqmar scarf from the 1950's modelled by ??? Wots her name?

Horrockses exhibition and a day out in London

2010-10-20T07:26:00.004+01:00

Yesterday I treated myself to a day in London. My mate Emma has been on at me to visit this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NQsa-tbEQM

What a treat it was! All beautifully presented and relaxing beach/seagull background sounds to evoke a time on the beach in the 1950's when a girl could sashay on the promenade in her fab Horrockses cotton frock!

Sorry the pic above is dark, photos were allowed, but not with a flash. Don't you just love those seagulls suspended from the ceiling?

I got a beautifully illustrated catalogue - with all the history and story behind the Horrockses ready to wear range of dresses.

Once I had looked around the exhibition, there was one extra bonus. All the people who had visited the exhibition in the past months had sent in photos and letters of their personal memories of wearing these dresses. It was a delight to read!

After enjoying lunch with my brother I headed west to Portobello, a favourite haunt from when I used to live in London. This was a shop I wanted to visit for a long time. I met "Dolly" some years ago at a London Vintage Fair and soon got chatting about the joys of the county of Somerset. The window was beautifully colour coordinated with browns, creams, tweeds and a general Autumn feel to it.

The market itself was just about finished by the time I got there, but I did enjoy a stroll down there, taking in the sights and sounds of London. After which I was content to hop back on the train and head for home.

Lady in Blue..... and Red....and pink and Green!

2010-09-22T18:20:00.000+01:00

I treated myself to this lovely portrait of lady recently in Niki's shop. She is the inspiration for this post to show and tell my latest vintage dress fabric finds. Most of these dress fabrics are in amazing condition having been stored away in cupboards and attics for many years.

She is assisted by Flossie who is modelling a late 40's/early 50's Navy blue and white crepe which could be made into a stunner of a dress. I have approx 4.5 yds and the price is £48.

Next is a Moygashel 1940's piece of dress fabric, just under 4m £78. I still have a range of knitted berets in a large range of colours and sizes, these are £12 each.

1940's Brown abstract floral print. Just under 5 m of this at £88. I also have it with a black background, slightly less than 4 m and costing £78.

Love this pale green spotty one, sadly only have 3 yds of this. £38.

Smaller spots this time, navy blue heavy cotton just waiting to be made up into a dress. Approx 4 m £78.

Slightly later, probably 1950's floral dress fabric with a slight glaze, approx 4 m £48.

I will be taking these fabrics to the Chagford Rag market on Saturday October 2nd, along with vintage patterns, buttons, trimmings and other sewing related goodies. Mr W will be taking the rails of clothing to Stroud on the same day for The Ashley Hall Fair in the Subscription Rooms. As well as clothing he will have some Eastern European mangle cloths and a selection of Vintage Knitwear.

Another 40's gem. 4 m £48

1950's sweet peas I think? Just under 6 m for £78.

Hard to put a date on this one, but nice quality cotton, approx 3m for £68.

Some funky French dress fabrics, or possible more suitable for jacket or coat linings? From top to bottom

Approx fine 9 yds for £45, Approx 3 yds £24, Tricel/lining 3 yds £17.

More French textiles with original tags. From left to right. Approx 3.5 yds £38, Just under 4 yds £32 and approx 2 m for £24. Many apologies for the mixture of imperial and metric measurements. I often do my pricing at awkward times of the day, and usually the tape measure I want is in part of the house where everyone is sleeping!

Above from left to right. 7 yds £45. 4.5 yds £26, 6 yds £45 and 6 yds £48.

Last but not least, a piece of crazy vintage nursery fabric from France. 4 m for £78.