Dan's Papers - July 20, 2007 - Flea Market Finds

Decorating your home with fabulous flea market finds can create a rich atmosphere. The nostalgia and versatility that accompanies each flea market piece is as fun as it is interesting. The pieces from these markets can really coordinate with and compliment any decor. Mixing the old with the new is an increasingly popular trend as the art deco, retro and seventies era home designs are reemerging in commercial home stores. Even contemporary style can be cajoling to the timeless classics that most people overlook. It doesn't take a professional to recognize potential in pieces that could be considered treasured trash. There are even television shows dedicated to the enormous potential in pieces found at flea markets, but there are some plain and simple tricks of the trade.

There are standard rules of thumb when browsing flea markets, but most importantly, be open-minded. A window frame with broken panes is something that might normally turn you off but can actually be used as wall decor. Knock out the remaining panes (broken or not) and repair any serious damages. Then, hang it on your wall for an intriguing accent. Don't overlook old china or smaller frames either, as they can be great additions to hang within your larger frame (where the panes used to be) for a vintage montage on your wall. Even a simple drawer can be salvaged from a broken desk or dresser to be used as a hanging shelf on your wall. Just clean, sand and wipe with cloth then simply stain or glaze the drawer and, once dry, add mounting adhesive to the back. It's a great place for picture frames and other lightweight accessories, not to mention the subtle creativity that will spice up the room.

Old cake stands are a common find at flea markets and can make for great modern day marvels. Cake stands combined with glass dome coverings can be used to display a variety of household items or collections that might normally sit idle on top of furniture pieces. Try displaying old vintage hand towels (also an easy find at the flea markets) or a soap collection.

Glass candy jars are also great for displaying a seashell collection but they can also be used and transformed with each changing season. In the spring and summer, seashells are a popular use for the jars but floating candles and sea glass in turquoise tones are a more unique use for the warmer seasons. Fill the jars with colored leaves or oranges for the fall and holly sprigs or berries during the winter holidays. A great deal would be a candy jar without a matching lid that can be transformed into a trendy fishbowl or put sand at the bottom and secure two or three pillar candles for a warm glow for outdoor entertaining. Old teacups are also a great place for candles in an outdoor setting. If you buy a candle slightly taller than the teacup, the candle can burn down and fill in the spaces the candle couldn't cover before.

Trendy and true vintage pieces are often more expensive than the modern, practical models found in commercial stores, but at flea markets you can find the currently chic appeal with a nice price to match. Flea markets are full of art deco and 1950s' pieces genuine to the era and the retro kitchenware has made an enormous comeback in popular design. Another timeless classic that is a popular piece at local flea markets are the wicker and rattan pieces. Both wicker and rattan have made a strong comeback and are incredibly easy to repair and revamp. Simply spray paint the piece for a fresh and off the shelf look and small holes and miniscule damage is not unsightly but rather brings character to a simple look.

The recent boom in reproductions has taken off due to the latest revivals and demands of the art deco, vintage and retro eras of the past. However, the number one rule of home decor is to always decorate with what you love. You'd be surprised to find that what you love might stem from the flea market flair.