Month: October 2023

What are some of the different types of pottery?

On By wisdomlaneantiquesIn Beginning to collect, Pottery, Tips for the beginner, Vintage, Vintage, Vintage!, Vocabulary WordsLeave a comment

When you jump into the world of antiques and collectibles you will see a wide range of pottery that’s on the market.  It could be transferware, stoneware or even art pottery—you really never know what you could run across!

What are some of the different types of pottery that you will find?

Ironstone—this is a type of pottery that made its debut in the UK in the early 1800’s.  It is similar to fine stoneware and was developed by potters in Staffordshire England as a cheaper alternative for porcelain.

Agateware—this is a type of pottery that is decorated with a combination of clays that have contrasting colors.  The name of this type of pottery comes from the agate stone which has different colored layers in it.

Raku Ware—this is a type of Japanese pottery that is traditionally in Japanese tea ceremonies.  The pieces are fairly porous vesels that are a result from low firing temperatures and lead glazes.  The traditional process sees the fired piece removed from the hot kiln and allowed to cool in the open air.

This is a small portion of the different types of pottery that you will find on the market.  What types have you run across?

Tips for garage sale shopping

On By wisdomlaneantiquesIn Garage SalesLeave a comment

It’s that time of year for garage sales to start to pop up everywhere.  If you happen to find one that could be on the way to work (or it could even be near where you live) what are some tips to keep in mind when you go?

The first is not to block neighborhood driveways—park sensibly so that people can get in and out of the driveway.  After all, you are shopping at the seller’s home.

Greet the seller when you first get there.  A friendly attitude may lead to a lowered price on an item.  It may even lead to being able to bundle a few items together at a lower price.

Don’t plow through their merchandise.  It took hours for them to set up and price everything—don’t destroy the sellers display.  When you pick up an item that you don’t want, put it back where it was.

Lastly, thank the seller.  Wish them a good day.  Frankly, before its all over, they no doubt will be exhausted.

What other garage sale shopping tips do you know?