I don't go to many estate sales. From past experience in my town, I usually find them a waste of time. One must arrive at the crack of dawn to get a number, wait in a long line, and when finally inside, discover that most items are overpriced.
But every now and then, I'll happen upon a neighborhood sale that is already underway and stop in, like last Thursday when I entered an older home that was chock full of items that spoke to me. It was estate sale bliss! There was a dazzling array of kitsch along with some wonderful vintage textiles.
Here's what came home with me . . .
The lovely floral tablecloths I purchased, below, scared most people off because they were yellowed and dingy. All they needed was some TLC. A weekend spent soaking in my laundry sink brightened them right up.
I love these old paper fans.
And here's a trio of colorful vintage tea towels.
I found some of the prettiest handkerchiefs, don't you think?
These vintage booklets are lots of fun.
And even more floral tablecloths. They had a good long soak, too. For more information about how I launder vintage linens, click here for my T-Party tutorial.
Great stuff! Is there something that has caught your eye from my estate sale foray? If so, be sure to stop by my Etsy shop. When time permits, I'll be listing these vintage goodies over the coming weeks.
Susan
Oh you did get fun stuff!
Hugs, Lisa
Posted by: lisa | October 13, 2009 at 05:56 PM
Okay, now I'M all blissed out from all that eye candy! Such wonderful finds-- love the linens!
Hugs,
Jill
Posted by: Jill | October 13, 2009 at 07:15 PM
There is nothing better than a good estate sale and I can't believe all those fabulous linens were waiting for you! xo, suzy
Posted by: georgiapeachez | October 13, 2009 at 07:18 PM
You certainly did find some great things! I know what you mean though about the sales, generally! I hate to take a number and get in that line.
What did you use to clean the tablecloths? I have a bunch to spruce up too.
Thanks, Carrie
Posted by: Carrie | October 13, 2009 at 11:40 PM
Wonderful stuff, Susan! The tea towel with the waitress is amazing.
Posted by: barbara | October 14, 2009 at 07:25 AM
That hankie with the anchors on it is my favorite!
Posted by: Lemony Renee' | October 14, 2009 at 04:49 PM
Oh my gosh, you hit paydirt!!! That is an amazing haul. The linens are gorgeous -- I especially love the dishcloths. That little purse with the flowers is adorable too.
Posted by: Kim | October 14, 2009 at 10:19 PM
Oh Susan,
You out did yourself on that sale! I love everything you found. Especially those hankies! I had that little Christmas Carol booklet when I was a kid! I know, I'm dating myself. That's ok. ;)
See you at your Etsy store.
xo Colette
Posted by: colette | October 15, 2009 at 12:37 AM
OMG you hit the jackpot with these little 50s treasures...can't wait to see them in your shop!!
Posted by: Marian Edwards | October 15, 2009 at 12:54 AM
You found some winners at that sale! Love the vintage tablecloths and the hankies!
Posted by: Claudia | October 15, 2009 at 08:28 AM
Great haul! I love a good estate sale and you're right - you have to just stumble upon them. I did once on my way to meet my in-laws for lunch. I regretfully paid for my armload of treasures and hurried off to meet the folks. I so wanted to comb through every single thing!
Posted by: BJ Lantz | October 15, 2009 at 05:45 PM
You really got some beautiful things!
I have never seen any fans like you bought.
Posted by: Ruth | October 16, 2009 at 07:25 PM