We enjoying talking to people who collect vintage treasures. In this interview, we find out more about Susan, the owner of the vintage shop Tparty on Etsy.
Why and when did you start collecting?
I started collecting back in my early 20s. While on vacation in Maine, I came upon a large cardboard box by the side of the road with the word “Free!” written on the front. Inside was an array of Lu-Ray Pastels dishes. Their lovely colors and retro styling appealed to me, so I took them home and began to collect more. Before long, I had amassed enough to use them as our everyday dishes. (That changed once we had kids…) I expanded my collection to include colorful mixing bowls, pottery vases, flower pots, picnic tins and vintage tablecloths. I liked that these relics had imperfections that come from being well loved. I soon realized how well they were made and that they had a lot of life left in them. I liked the notion of reuse and not having to always buy something new.
Who or what was your influence for collecting?
I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and worked as a graphic designer for 24 years. Then I shifted gears and owned an antiques shop and tea room. And after that, my sweet little Etsy shop came along. I am an artsy, visual person and all of those experiences have honed my designer’s eye and influenced what I collect and sell.
What is one of your favorite pieces and why?
My favorite piece is my antique Hoosier Cabinet. I am a big fan of Hoosiers, as they have that rare combination of beauty and usefulness. Made before kitchens had built-in cabinets, these free standing work stations were meant to be efficient and compact baking centers. I am fortunate to own an extra-wide oak cabinet with beautiful etched glass and lots of storage. Over the years, it has resided in different rooms and served many purposes. Now it lives in my studio and houses all of my smaller Etsy shop items.
What tips can you give us about collecting?
Buy what speaks to you. It doesn’t have to be precious or popular, it just has to make you happy. Make sure it brings a smile to you face every time you look at it.
What would be your holy grail piece and why?
My collecting interests keep evolving, but the one thing that always catches my eye and captures my fancy is aqua glazed art pottery.
Where do you look for new items to add to your shop/collection?
I often go to estate sales, but not the ones at fancy houses filled with fancy things. I love neglected old homes packed to the gills with stuff. I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty and search from attic to cellar for that special find to add to my shop. In warm weather, I like spend Sunday morning at the flea market.
How has collecting changed or affected your life?
Vintage items have a history and I feel that that connection with the past enriches the present.
Where can we find you?
Etsy: tparty.etsy.com
Website: tpartyantiques.com
Instagram: instagram.com/tpartyantiques
Blog: tparty.typepad.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tpartyantiques
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tpartyantiques
Twitter: twitter.com/tpartyantiques
Brought back some fond memories! The first question about how you began collecting… I could copy and paste it…but it would have been a box in my basement from my grandma after she passed. Lu-ray pastels… I added more and more to my collection… That was the beginning of my love for all things colorful! Much success to you and your shops!
A Lu-Ray kindred spirit! 🙂
So honored to be featured on the blog! Thanks you!!!
I love everything about your collection and your gorgeous home, from the color on your walls to your perfectly curated space.
I really enjoyed seeing your collections and that table is to die for!! Nice space!
Thanks for letting us in.
Tina
A free box of Lu-Ray on the side of the road! You’ve got to be kidding me! That is the stuff of dreams!!!! 🙂
I’m also jealous of your beautiful home studio and your “desk”. Pure Genius!!!! RESPECT to you!!!
What an adorable and colorful space. Love all the lunch boxes! Very cheerful and happy space.