Easter brings a playful spirit with its vibrant colors, adorable bunnies, and of course, hidden eggs! If you have a soft spot for nostalgic charm, you’ll adore the world of vintage Easter kitsch. Think ceramic bunny planters, whimsical 1950s figurines, and more. Let’s dive into this cheerful world and discover how to build your own collection of Easter treasures.
The Timeless Charm of Vintage Easter Collectibles
Vintage Easter kitsch has a way of stealing hearts across generations. The bright colors, cheerful designs, and pure whimsy take us back to simpler, more playful times. If you’re searching for ways to add a dose of vintage delight to your Easter decor, look no further than these classics:
I have some incredibly exciting news to share with all of you! After years of diligent searching and countless adventures, I’ve finally added the elusive Norcrest Blue Cat Cookie Jar to my collection! This rare gem is one of the most sought-after pieces in the Norcrest Blue Cat set, and its addition marks a significant milestone in my journey as a collector.
The Journey to Completing the Norcrest Blue Cat Collection
Collecting the Norcrest Blue Cat set is not just a hobby; it’s an adventure filled with history, art, and a sense of community. Manufactured in Japan in the 1950s and 1960s by the PY/Miyao company, these adorable ceramic pieces are a treasure trove for any collector. Each piece, numbered on the bottom with a “CT” and sometimes still featuring their original Norcrest foil label, tells a story of a bygone era of craftsmanship and whimsy.
Norcrest Blue Cat Wall Plaque CT-11
I did a post a couple of years ago about the Norcrest Blue Cat set you can read here
The Norcrest Blue Cat set consists of these 12 pieces:
Teapot – CT-1
Oil and Vinegar – CT-2
Jam Jar – CT-3
Salt and Pepper Shakers – CT-4
Sugar Jar – CT-5
Milk pitcher CT-6
Butter Dish – CT-7
Creamer/pitcher – CT-8
Cat Bowl – CT-9
Cookie Jar CT-10
Wall Plaque – CT-11
Teabag Holder – CT-12
Egg Cup – unmarked, no CT number
Tea Cup – mystery item?
Tips for Aspiring Collectors:
Where to Look: Start your search on eBay, Etsy, Mercari, and specialized Facebook collector groups. These platforms are treasure troves for finding pieces like the blue cat wall plaque, creamer, and sugar/jam jar.
Be Persistent: The key to success is persistence. Check these sites daily for new listings, as rare items don’t come up often but are definitely worth the wait.
Stay Alert: Set up notifications on eBay and other platforms to be immediately informed when new items are listed. This proactive approach is how I finally snagged my cookie jar!
Inspect Carefully: When you find a piece, inspect it for any damage, especially in areas like the ears, tail, and necks of the cruet toppers. Remember, condition is key!
Keywords are Key: Use specific search terms like “PY”, “Miyao”, “Big Eyes”, “Japan”, “Anthropomorphic”, “Kitsch”, and “Kitschy Cute” to narrow down your search.
Connect with the Community: Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to ceramic collectors. Here, you can share tips, find leads, and maybe even make a few trades.
Norcrest Blue Cat Tea Bag Holder CT-12
The Thrill of the Hunt
The thrill of adding a new piece to your collection is incomparable. For me, the moment I added the Norcrest Blue Cat Cookie Jar, it was a feeling of triumph and joy. Each piece in this collection, from the teapot (CT-1) to the mysterious, rumored tea cup (CT-13), holds its own charm and story.
Final Thoughts
Collecting these pieces is more than just acquiring objects; it’s about connecting with history, art, and a community of passionate collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, the Norcrest Blue Cat set offers a delightful and rewarding experience.
So, let’s keep the hunt alive! Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next lucky collector to find that rare piece that completes your collection. Happy collecting, everyone!
If you’re passionate about starting or expanding your Norcrest Blue Cat collection, don’t miss out on visiting myEtsy shop. I’ve carefully curated a selection of charming duplicates from this enchanting series, perfect for both new and seasoned collectors. Dive into the world of Norcrest Blue Cats and find your next treasure with us!
Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of vintage Christmas decor with our recently launched eBook, “Vintage Kitschy Christmas: A Merry Introduction to Vintage Ceramic Christmas Trees“. It’s more than just a collection of words; it’s your passport to a nostalgic trip, a warm invitation to enjoy the glow of vintage Christmases, even amidst the summer heat!
Our eBook offers an engaging exploration into the world of ceramic Christmas trees. Dive into their fascinating history, discover their origins, learn about various types, identify leading manufacturers like Atlantic Mold, Holland Mold, Doc Holiday, and Nowells, and absorb a comprehensive guide on how to evaluate their worth. It’s a treasure trove of knowledge and practical advice, perfect for vintage decor enthusiasts.
As we approach the 4th of July, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore how you can bring the vintage 50’s era into your wardrobe and home for a 4th of July Celebration: Mid-Century Outfits & Collectibles with patriotic, nautical-themed Pinup and Rockabilly outfits and mid-century kitsch collectibles.
Nautical Outfits: Classic American Fashion with a 50’s Twist
Patriotic and nautical fashion has been a quintessential part of American style since its inception. These two themes beautifully blend during the 4th of July celebrations, offering an opportunity to showcase your creativity and love for vintage fashion. I am wearing vintage-inspired nautical themed dresses and skirts in the above photos.
The Vintage Nautical Look
Creating a vintage 50’s nautical outfit begins with understanding the basic elements: think sailor pants, wide collars, and navy-and-white or red-and-white stripes. The 1950s was also an era of full skirts and A-line dresses, so feel free to add a full, pleated, midi-length skirt in a navy blue or red to your outfit.
The 4th of July is the perfect occasion to experiment with patriotic colors. Channeling the colors of the American flag – red, white, and blue – into your nautical ensemble will exude vintage charm and national pride all at once.
Complement your outfit with accessories like red scarves, blue sailor caps, or white retro sunglasses to add more authenticity and individuality.
Mid-Century 50’s Kitsch 4th of July Collectibles
The 1950s weren’t just a golden age for fashion, but for home décor too. This era saw the rise of kitsch, a style marked by the use of everyday, mass-produced objects as decoration. This quirky, whimsical style is a great way to add a touch of the 50’s to your 4th of July celebrations.
Patriotic Collectibles
Incorporate the stars and stripes into your décor through items like vintage ceramics by makers such as Napco, Lefton, Norcrest, Josef Originals, and Holt Howard. You can also incorporate 50’s era flags, or even mid-century style tablecloths featuring patriotic motifs. These small touches will contribute significantly to your 4th of July atmosphere.
As we celebrate this 4th of July, let’s honor the past as well as the present. By donning vintage 50’s era patriotic nautical outfits and decorating with mid-century kitsch collectibles, you’ll not only look the part but also feel it. Here’s to a stylish, nostalgic Independence Day!
We couldn’t be more excited to unveil our newest collection, ‘Mid-Century Madness’! Our latest lineup breathes life into the classic elegance of the 1950s and ’60s, reverberating with vivid starburst patterns, the unmistakable charm of Pyrex, and the whimsy of retro mod black cats.
This distinctive array effortlessly weaves nostalgia with the practicality of mid-century modern design, creating a harmony that’s sure to tug at the heartstrings of vintage enthusiasts.
Our collection takes the beloved mid-century modern starburst motif and gives it a delightful twist. A standout feature is the playful addition of retro mod black cats and fabulous Pyrex.
The sleek silhouettes and charismatic expressions of these feline figures embody the spirit of mid-century designs, making them a charming contrast against the energetic starburst backdrop. And, who can resist pink and turquoise blue vintage Pyrex!!
From stylish t-shirts, wall art, kitchenware to cozy home decor, the ‘Mid-Century Madness’ collection offers a variety of pieces to add a dash of vintage flair to your everyday life.
mid-century t-shirts, decor and gifts with Pyrex, starbursts, black retro mod cats
First in the collection is our Mid-Century Madness Starburst Pyrex Mug. Perfect for sipping your favorite brew, this mug boasts a starburst and black cats design against iconic pink and turquoise blue Pyrex dishes. It’s not just a mug—it’s a conversation starter, an artistic piece that infuses charm and nostalgia into your morning coffee or evening tea. You can customize your mug color combo too!
Next, we introduce our Mid-Century Madness Starburst Throw Pillow. Perfect for adding a playful twist to your living room or bedroom, this plush pillow showcases the collection’s signature design on a comfortable, soft-touch fabric. It’s more than a pillow—it’s a stylish statement, a way to infuse your home with an aesthetic that’s both retro and contemporary.
The collection also features the Mid-Century Madness Starburst Greeting Card, complete with the collection’s distinctive design and a touch of kitschy Pyrex in vibrant pink and turquoise hues and black mod cats. It’s more than a card—it’s a heartfelt gesture, a unique way to share your thoughts and wishes with your custom message.
Of course, the ‘Mid-Century Madness’ collection wouldn’t be complete without a wide range of home decor pieces. From chic wall art to quirky accessories, each item carries the signature starburst and black cats design, perfect for sprucing up your space with a dose of mid-century magic.
The ‘Mid-Century Madness’ collection is a tribute to a timeless era, a celebration of retro style re-imagined for the modern day. Ideal for those who love the distinctive style of mid-century modern design, adore cats, or simply enjoy unique, stylish home decor and accessories.
So, get ready to step back in time, enjoy a dash of nostalgia, and embrace the mid-century madness. The 50s and 60s never looked so good!
Hello, pottery enthusiasts and history buffs! Today, we’re diving into the company of PY Miyao Craze: Japan’s Best Novelty Ceramics in America, an iconic ceramics company that captured the hearts of Americans in the post-World War II era.
From whimsical figurines to elegant tableware, PY Miyao’s novelty ceramics have become highly sought-after collector’s items. Join us as we explore the company’s history, its introduction to American audiences, and the lasting impact of its unique designs.
The Birth of PY Miyao Japan Pottery
Established in the early 20th century, the PY Miyao Japan pottery company has its roots in the Aichi Prefecture, home to many renowned Japanese pottery centers. The company was named after its founder, Miyao Yoshida, whose initials PY stood for “Pottery Yoshida.” Miyao’s goal was to bring the artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese ceramics to a broader audience, both in Japan and abroad.
