Monday, March 22, 2010

Thrift Store Hunting

There is always so much more than quilting, when I get together with my quilting friends.
I learn so many things I never knew before. Have you discovered that to be true? We gather and are exposed to new experiences we might not have picked had we not met a certain person.

My friend Rae Ann loves to hunt the thrift stores, and always comes up with a "find". Last week at our luncheon she brought each of us a teacup and saucer she had found at Deseret Industries near her home in Utah.

Each teacup was selected to match our homes and personalities.
My tea cup and saucer were in oranges, golds and blacks to match my decor, and Southern Utah.

When Rae Ann got on the computer to research my particular teacup, the little set she picked up for a few dollars at the thrift store ended up being worth $95!
Wow. Not that I will ever sell this piece. Every time I look at it, I am reminded of the kindness of my friend, and the memories are worth much, much more.

When I was in Star Valley, Wyoming at Rae Ann's cabin she took me downtown one afternoon, and suggested we run in to the little thrift store that had newly opened.
I found these little milk glass pieces in a set for $5.
My mother used a lot of milk glass in her decorating and it reminded me of her.
Milk glass is an opaque or translucent milky white or colored glass that was most popular between the 1930's-1950. It was originally intended to look like porcelain, but was not as expensive. There have been a lot of reproduction pieces made into vases, lamps and kitchen wares.
I know my pieces are not worth very much, but it still was a fun find. Maybe if I hang out with Rae Ann long enough I can learn a few tricks of the trade.

10 comments:

Nanette Merrill said...

Those little antique stores in Star Valley are cute. I've been in them before. Fun stuff.

Lori Holt said...

Hi Nedra...as you know I am no stranger to thrifting. I have found lots of treasures over the years...glad to have you on board!

Sara said...

What a wonderful, thoughtful friend. The cup and saucer are beautiful but worth even more because of the giver.

Rae Ann said...

Nedra... I am so happy that you loved your cup and saucer. It really did remind me of you! I am even happier that we were able to spend a fun filled week together at my cabin. Nothing is sweeter than being in the company of those that you love. Good friends are worth more than gold!
Looking forward to the fun of antiquing with you again!

Kim Walus said...

I loved the teacups that Rae Ann gave to each of us. She's such a thoughtful friend. I loved the salt and pepper shakers too. Very fun. Hey, I want to join in the treasure hunting too. Anyway, I hope you made it back safely. Have a great week.

Joanna said...

Woo Hoo you have jumped on the thrifting wagon! It's hard to get off that wagon, but with such bargains to be found, who would want to?!! I get a much bigger thrill finding a bargain at the thrift store than I ever do buying something new:) I am SO jealous of your milk glass find! SO wonderful!

Janet said...

What great finds. I can't get anything decent at thrift stores, they get snapped up by dealers and people who sell on at market stalls.

Jane's Fabrics and Quilts said...

I love milk glass I have two pieces that were my Moms's and just love them!!

Browndirtcottage said...

Your teacup is fabulous!! I have tubs and tubs of teacups and saucers....but I can ALWAYS use more if you ever 'tire' of this one!! HA!
Yes...and I L-O-V-E me some milk glass too...oh yes I do!!!

amy smart said...

I love Milk Glass. It reminds me of my cute Grandma. Your trip to Wyoming sounds like so much fun.