Warrenton Antique Week Day One

I am often asked what kind of jewelry I design. I have had to think about it before I could answer. I have said more times than once.....(especially this last year),
I deconstruct and reconstruct vintage jewelry.
Often I find myself first deconstructing a vintage piece, most often a rhinestone necklace, bracelet, brooch or shoe clip. I then begin adding and/or subtracting gemstones, pearls and crystals, charms, chain and relics, lockets and vintage findings,
constructing to my heart's desire!

I love scanning Etsy, perusing local antique shops, visiting favorite vendors at antique and quilt shows, AND occasionally happening upon an estate sale.....often times with my daughter. Yep, she too has the bug. No, not looking for vintage jewelry, but for just looking.
That is where it all starts you know. I can see her now in my mind's eye last September during Antique Week.

She is my spotter. Making that second sweep through a tent is a critical job.
And, she is good at it. Really good.You never know what you might find hiding in just the most tiniest of places.
Perhaps a lovely old tin sitting unnoticed on the end of a dresser.

How about these? Could I possibly use a pair of children shoes?
Or, how about this lovely old jewelry box?
Perhaps a new prop for my display table.
I see so many stacks of Mexican sugar molds.
This was a first, rising out of an old washtub ....just like the one my grandma (Josie) used.Layers of lace piled high on silver cake stands. The lace, $8-$20,
was a little too pricey for me.
I looked further. There is always the next tent.
I find two of these. Stuffed full of lace. And, in a vintage mason jar.
Two for $25 or one for $15...why did I just buy one?
Now on to the good stuff.
That will have to be Day Two.
(Texture credits go to: les brumes)