The world of PIB since my last post

I'm back... sorry it's been a while, so much has happened since February (pink faced at the thought of neglect for that long) I've done TV work, been voted one of the best vintage shops by BBC homes & Antiques magazine and seen a staff member come and go... plus so much more! As always, a daily update can be found on my Facebook page....


But anyway, today i have started to sprinkle a few subtle gift ideas around the shop, the weather is sunny and without the colourful leaves on the ground, we could be in full summer still. Therefore, i shall not bring a premature Christmas to my little shop (besides which, I'm bulging with Halloween tack to go up in a few days)! 


Vintage scarves make a lovely alternative to wrapping paper, when used with satin bow, and the recipient can re use the scarf after....



I have managed to save a few vintage boxes to one side, which are fab for small items. 

But as an alternative, why not use vintage tins as gift boxes? again, something nice for the recipient to hang onto and use

 As a keen recycler, i decided to use the scraps of vintage wallpaper i have collected over the years for something useful... 


i have turned them into gift tags, using coloured ribbon, each is unique and the perfect finish for any parcel

There are plenty of gift ideas in my little shop, like these boxed vintage evening bags, big floppy ribbon added. Or a selection of pretty and funky vintage smellies, classic bath cubes or talc- just like granny gave you! or even knitted creatures (prob knitted by granny)! ideal stocking fillers...

  

Meakin maddness

one of the images featured on the
Carousel pattern

My beloved 'covered wagon' pattern

After my first find, which  i believe was a 'carousel' tea plate at a car boot sale, i have been totally hooked on the designs of ceramicist Alfred Meakin! I have catalogued over 30 designs, each one as kitsch and pictorial as the next... 

I collect only one pattern myself though (so easy to get carried away otherwise)! my choice is 'covered wagon' (actually spelt waggon on the pieces)

Of course, this kind of imagery is becoming more popular on many modern items from the high street. Cath Kidston for example, with her 'Cowboy' design, not just for kids! or Circus, boat or  London scene (also similar to another Meakin print)

Cowboy print by Cath Kidston

Loving the new 1950s range by Sanderson, couldn't believe my ears when i customer gave me the heads up, after spotting my original Marion Mahler 'mobiles' covered canvas! they have re issued the fabric, but this time in a heavier weight, so no confusing it from the original lighter weight rayon mix.

The original 1950s Rayon fabric

     But what's a total bonus, and genius idea, is, they have brought out a range of wallpaper too! quite a statement, that's for sure, but also very good for adding an extra something to re-worked vintage furniture, just add some bold colours?

And one day, i will have a (slightly heavy) dress made from this fabric!!

Colour! in a colourful mood today... re arranged the window display at the shop with oodles of bright blue and red glass, which if the sun ever comes out, will look great, esp with my James Dean mirror in there too...
Thought i'd share my favourite photo of my Holmegaard Gulvase collection (now slightly depleted)

I also have big flower power 1960s/ 70s stickers in stock, designed by Polish born, British illustrator Jan Pienkowski. 

When i looked into the name, i found Jan also did the Meg and Mog series, a personal favourite of mine! and oh dear... looking at his other illustrations... i can see i'll be sourcing more of his books with the funky bold and simple imagery

Me again

After a long break, i have just re-discovered my blog! i have so much in my head, so much inspiration, i thought i should get some of it on here... so please bare with me, and i'll see what i can do....

Have been sorting out my remaining vintage greeting card stock, ready for a re delivery, and seem to have fallen in love with the designs all over again?