good advice

I’ve been going through some piles of thrifted books today, altering them and setting aside found paper gems for mail art replies and future projects. I came across this page with some particularly poignant words that any artist or crafter would easily relate to. It’s a definite keeper.

newly acquired treasures

As some of my blog readers know, I have a slight obsession with thrift/consignment shops; they are full of dirt cheap gems that are just waiting to be discovered. I was in Kamloops for an orthodontist appointment this past week, and the week before we were up in Williams Lake for John’s doctor referral, thus offering me the opportunity to scour some fabulous second-hand shops. As always I came home with more books than I should have, but honestly when they are this inexpensive, I can’t help myself. An 1980′s Children’s Illustrated Dictionary, The Winston Dictionary for Canadian Schools from the 40′s as well as an English Grade 4 Canadian Curriculum guide, an anthology of high school studied poetry in the 70′s, a guide about our country from the 40′s called This New Canada, a 1920′s book about drink-mixing/bar-tending, a medical volume called The Truth About Voice, Our Amazing World of Nature, and The Nature of Birds. Oh and don’t let me forget the 1980′s Reader’s Digest publication titled “How To Do Just About Anything” which details how to perform any activity from babysitting to wood splitting, hahaha. More sculptural pieces had to be purchased to keep all of my books company on the bookshelf. First I found this cast iron deer that I believe is meant for your mantle at Christmas as a stocking holder but for me it’s working fabulously an art apron hook. The other bookshelf pals I found were these two adorable metal owls: one that is gold and one that is copper. Too bad there hadn’t been a silver one too!!! Speaking of metal, I have started collecting tins to hold my random art making supplies like thread, ribbons, buttons, etc. Added to the collection are a kilted scotsman playing the bagpipes, a mini tin with a winter cottage scene, and the real gem? An embossed, square, gold and teal tin with a hinged lid, emblazoned with sailing ships and patterned crests. With an art tour booked in the summer, a few art expo applications awaiting jurying and potential farmer’s market dates in both 100 Mile House and Invermere, I have slowly been collecting items that will help me display my bespoke wares. I have amassed a good few trays/shallow bowls that fit with a ‘natural’ look like the wooden or classic silver pieces above.The other ones I’ve been scooping up are those that reek of Canadiana or adorable illustration. Saskatchewan, Alberta and California plates as well as a Mountie from Valemount, BC. However, my favorite has got to be the Wild Animals of Canada tray. It may end up on the studio wall instead of at the market with me, but we’ll see. Last but not least are these three old spoon collection displays made of wood. No, don’t worry, I’m not going to turn granny on you yet and start amassing silverware… What I plan to use these for is jewelry display at markets and art expos. A necklace hangs perfectly on the lip between 2 grooved slots, and I’ve made little metal loops for in between slots to hook earrings onto. Only $0.50 for each smaller one and a buck for the larger guy! Serious steal? I think so. Well, let’s be honest, all of these treasures are real bargains. Gotta love being thrifty!

stationery steal

Finally popped into the 100 mile thrift shop and actually found myself quite a few gems. Most of the store was filled with crap clothing and old shoes, but the back wall had nicknacks, used books and kitchen/housewares. I spent under 5 bucks for a bunch of loot: First and MOST impressive. I amassed a collection of stationery which includes five awesome cards, 24 sheets of animal print paper, a dozen horse & carriage interior printed envelopes, two metallic silver interior envelopes, and a Disney stationery set with 6 envelopes and a pad of note paper. This entire pile was only $1.25!!! aren’t you jealous??? Of course, I couldn’t resist books! Found a few hardcovers for altering, a couple for the bookshelf including the little polar bear, the girl guides jubilee song book & a hardcover about “the camera,” (which ironically enough is from the same series/publisher as “the print” book I acquired in a garage sale two summers ago)! All books were a quarter each. Last, but definitely not least, a set of veneered wood coasters & a pile of colorful string for only a buck. What a steal! Sure am glad I made the trip, I love finding forgotten treasures.