Join me to learn the best tips for collecting vintage mermaids and fish and even what to look out for from top manufacturers like Norcrest, Lefton, Bradley, and Freeman McFarlin and the history behind them! Let’s dive into the magical depths of yesteryear and discover the irresistible appeal of these delightful figurines.
Set of 3 Rare Lefton Mermaid Wall Plaques with Yellow Tailfins
A Brief History of Vintage Mermaids and their Makers:
The 1940s-1950s marked the golden age for the production of vintage mermaids and fish. During this time, countless families across the US adorned their bathrooms and vanities with these enchanting wall plaques, available at local five-and-dime stores and souvenir shops.
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.
Summer’s here, and it’s time to fire for a retro barbecue and up the grill, slip into our favorite vintage summer outfits, and let the good times roll! If you’re like me, you can’t wait to dust off your mid-century treasures and infuse your backyard gatherings with a healthy dose of nostalgia. Let’s dive into some kitschy must-haves that will make your summer BBQ the talk of the neighborhood.
Hot Diggity Dog!
Vintage Lefton Hotdog Head and Hamburger Head Pixieare Condiment Jars
No backyard BBQ is complete without hot dogs and hamburgers, and what better way to serve up your favorite condiments than in those darling Lefton Pixieware mustard jars? These adorable anthropomorphic ceramics, shaped like hot dogs and hamburgers with whimsical expressions, will bring a smile to everyone’s face and add a touch of kitschy charm to your table setting.
Holt Howard Mustard Jar MCM Starburst Franciscan Plate
Shake It Up, Baby!
Retro Fashion and Summer Memories:
Salt and pepper shakers are a must-have for any BBQ, but why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Anthropomorphic salt and pepper shakers are where it’s at! Think cute corn cob couples, smiling strawberries, and even cute corn cob plates with matching skewers! These quirky characters will bring a smile to your guests’ faces and add a touch of kitsch to your table.
And let’s not forget about backyard BBQ fashion! A fun 1950s novelty border print dress adorned with cheerful oranges perfectly complements the summery vibe, while a stylish harlequin print circle skirt makes a statement as you arrive in your classic 1956 Nash Metropolitan. More summer fashion here.
Let’s Get This Party Started!
With your retro treasures in place, you’re ready to host a summer BBQ that will transport your guests back in time. So put on some swingin’ tunes, break out the hula hoops, and let the good times roll! Remember, it’s not just about the food – it’s about creating an experience that’s fun, festive, and full of vintage charm.
Bonus Tip: Of course, no retro gathering is complete without a vintage Polaroid camera to capture those picture-perfect moments of laughter, delicious food, and unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to snap some photos of your kitschy BBQ spread! Share them on social media with the hash tag #retrobbq and let’s spread the mid-century love!
Let’s Get Kitschy Together!
Do you have any favorite mid-century collectibles that you love to showcase at your summer BBQs? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other to create unforgettable retro gatherings.
There are remarkable individuals with a golden touch, turning everything they touch into treasure, and Holt-Howard was one such person. He didn’t just dabble in pixieware; he made it famous. Pixieware is a unique ceramic pottery that has enchanted collectors and vintage enthusiasts worldwide.
Owning such Holt Howard pieces, you’ll appreciate their immense value. Holt-Howard’s creations remain sought-after today, with soaring prices. What makes pixieware so appealing, and how can you begin collecting Holt Howard’s masterpieces? Explore our price guide and collector tips to learn more!
Holt Howard Party Pixie
Collecting vintage Mid-Century modern kitsch ceramics offers unmatched enjoyment. At Crazy4Me, we’re passionate about vintage and kitsch and have curated exceptional Holt-Howard and pixieware pieces from the past six decades. For both experienced collectors and beginners, these items add delight and whimsy to any collection. Dive in and experience the magic—we promise you won’t be disappointed.
Vintage Napco Onion and Ketchup Pixieware Condiment JarsContinue reading →
Dive into the enchanting world of Norcrest mermaids—tiny ceramic masterpieces that capture the whimsical beauty of the 1950s. With their exquisite craftsmanship, irresistible charm, and vintage allure, these collectibles stand out in the world of mermaid figurines. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering their magic, I’ll guide you through their rich history, value, and expert tips for curating your own collection. If you’ve ever wanted to start or expand your Norcrest mermaid collection, you’re in the right place—let’s explore the best tips for finding, preserving, and showcasing these stunning treasures!
Norcrest Mermaid Lipstick Holder
The history of Norcrest mermaids is just as fascinating as the figures themselves. It all began with Hide Naito, a Japanese immigrant who founded a gift shop in Portland, Oregon, way back in 1921. Over time, that little shop grew into a huge wholesale operation. After World War II, Hide and his son Sam made a bold move: they shifted their focus to “Made in Japan” gifts, and that’s when Norcrest China Company was born (in 1958).
Norcrest quickly became a hit, known for its high-quality ceramics. Their mermaids, with their iconic designs, were stars of the collection, gracing bathrooms and powder rooms across America. Alongside these charming mermaids, Norcrest’s whimsical bluebird series and head vases were also beloved. I love that Norcrest became a household name – there’s something so special about owning a piece of that nostalgic history.
Lefton bluebirds have an undeniably captivating allure that draws collectors in immediately. With their delicate features and cheerful expressions, these charming little creatures have soared into the hearts of vintage enthusiasts worldwide. In this guide, we will explore bluebirds made by Norcrest, Napco, Lefton, and Topline Imports. Furthermore, we’ll discover how they became a beloved symbol of hope and share the ultimate price guide for your collection.
Identifying Lefton vs. Norcrest and Topline Imports
Collectors often confuse Norcrest and Topline Imports with Lefton bluebirds. This happens because manufacturers produced them during the same era with very similar designs. For instance, the Norcrest China Company began in Japan in 1953 and created playful, brightly colored birds.
In contrast, Topline Imports usually feature a simpler, elegant design with a distinct matte finish. While many pieces lack permanent marks, you can often identify them by their specific stamps. Lefton pieces typically feature a “Lefton” stamp, whereas Norcrest uses a “Norcrest” mark. Meanwhile, Topline Imports frequently relied on paper labels or foil stickers that collectors may find today.
One reason why collectors confuse these three types of bluebirds is that they were all produced during the same era and share similar design features. Additionally, many of these bluebirds were not marked with identifying information, making it difficult to determine their origin.
However, there are some key differences between these three types of bluebirds that can help collectors identify them. For example, Lefton bluebirds are typically marked with a “Lefton” stamp, while Norcrest bluebirds are marked with a “Norcrest” stamp. Topline Imports bluebirds are often marked with a paper label or foil sticker that reads “Topline Imports.”
Topline Imports Bluebird Stamp and Tag
The most recognizable vintage bluebird manufacturer is Lefton. Lefton bluebirds are high quality and beautiful. George Zolton Lefton who was a Hungarian sportswear designer founded the Lefton Company.
The History of Lefton China
George Zolton Lefton, a Hungarian sportswear designer, founded the most recognizable manufacturer in this niche. He started the Lefton China Company in 1939 in Chicago, Illinois. Although the company produced everything from dinnerware to Christmas decor, the items made between 1945 and 1960 remain the most collectible.
Because Lefton contracted with Japanese factories, many authentic pieces bear the “Geo Z. Lefton” stamp alongside a “Made in Japan” foil label. Consequently, these Japanese-made items have become highly desirable in the modern market.
Lefton Bluebirds – Everyday Dining Collection (pic is from Pinterest) Continue reading →
