Truffle Pigs Sewing Room

January 7th Show Update

2012-01-05T14:27:00.002-05:00

The darling acorn and strawberry emery necklaces above are the project for the first ever

Truffle Pigs Workshop taking place during our antique show and sale

on Saturday at the Holiday Inn in Chantilly, Virginia (see post below).

The workshop/project are by the lovely and talented Deborah Hartwick of Heartwells.

The class will be very informal, come any time between Noon and 5:00 pm

on Saturday. All materials will be provided and there is a small fee.

Remember our show is occuring concurrently with the DC Big Flea right

next door at the Expo Center

so you can shop with Truffle Pigs and the Flea.

Come and join the fun!!

January 2012 Antique Show

2011-12-16T11:48:00.000-05:00

Saturday

January 7 2012

8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Holiday Inn Chantilly

Grand Duke Conference Room

(occurring right beside & simultaneously with the

DC Big Flea, Chantilly, Virginia)

Fresh to the market inventory including:

antique and vintage sewing items • textiles &

fabrics • ribbon & trims • dolls & toys

crafting items • clothing • quilts & more.

New for this show:

“Make and Take” Class

Debbie will be putting together a fun project

to take place on Saturday afternoon...more details to come!

Additional Dealers

A few of our good friends and fellow artists/antique dealers

will be joining us with an amazing array of antique fabrics,

trims, toys and more!

Hope to see you there!

The Truffle Pigs: Stacey Bear, Deb Hartwick & Kim Stout

Our Show in West Virginia

2011-11-30T08:05:00.000-05:00

Deb and I had a fabulous time at Paul Gordon's show in West Virginia. We were thrilled to catch up with old friends, hang out with our artist chums and even get in some antiquing. Unfortunately the photos I took on my phone are not the best but you can see a great article about our weekend over at my sweet friend Jody's Blog. She has posted some great pics of all of us with our work!

Girls Trip!

2011-11-11T08:19:00.000-05:00

Even Truffle Pigs need to take a break once in awhile and get some inspiration. We are hoping to get together in the next month or so and visit this delicious exhibit "With Cunning Needle" at the Winterthur Museum. The touchstone of the exhibit features the Plimouth Jacket, pictured above. Recreated at Plimouth Plantation in 2006 it sheds new light on the tools and skills of 17th century embroidery masters.

Box with embroidery pattern stamps

The exhibit also focuses on the tools, techniques, and the story behind a completed piece--something I have always been fascinated by and a direction I wish more museums would take. I always think to myself, "How did they do that?"

Silk floss

Incomplete crewelwork chair cover

I am hoping there will be lots of Berlin Work (wool work) like that pictured above--it is my favorite kind of needlework.

The exhibit runs from September 8, 2011 to January 8, 2012.

You can make a whole day of it by also visiting the Brandywine Musuem,

Longwood Gardens and of course lots of antiquing and fabulous places to eat--this place is my favorite!

Friends In Christmas Show

2011-10-28T08:34:00.000-04:00

Deb and I will be at this show with our art work and antiques. This just may be my favorite show of the year! It is held in my good friend, Paul Gordon's studio which at one time was an old store and is filled with charming antiques available for sale including toys, sewing items, folk art and of course holiday collectibles. If you are lucky you can take a peak into the rabbit warren of rooms where he makes his amazing creations.

Customers from across the country flock to this intimate little event that seems more like a Christmas Party with lots of sweet treats and Paul's Special Punch. Everyone stays for the entire day, catching up with old friends and walking the streets of the quaint town of Martinsburg visiting all of the unique shops and restaurants.

Artists and friends chatting at the show.

Photo courtesy of King of Mice Studio.

Great News!

2011-10-22T13:25:00.000-04:00

Truffle Pigs will once again be having a show at the Holiday Inn Chantilly, Virginia on Saturday, January 7, 2012 (occuring at the same time as the January DC Big Flea right next store at the Expo Center). Our show will take place in the Grand Duke Ballroom (same location we had in July).

Some exciting changes are in store as well. Paul Gordon, a great friend for many years and an amazing artist will be joining us. Paul has been collecting antiques for decades and is ready to deaccession some of his collection of sewing items, fabrics, trims, dolls and toys.

In addition, in the afternoon we will be offering some classes and/or lectures. Lots more deatils to be determined soon so check back to the blog in the coming weeks.

Halloween and Sewing!

2011-10-15T11:25:00.000-04:00

Witch Scissors

Pumpkin Pin Cushion

Rat Pin Cushion

Black Cat Pin Cushion & Tape Measure

Black Glass Spider Button

1920's Halloween Sewing Patterns

Owl Tape Measure

Pierrot Half Dolls

Folky Sewing Box

Metal Insect Buttons

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

(all images courtesy of Live Auctioneers or Ebay)

Humble and Plain

2011-08-19T09:25:00.000-04:00

Sewing "housewife" or roll up from a confederate soldier.

Steel Clamp

Duck spool box.

Yarn make-dos.

Silk Quaker sewing pouch.

Simple bird sewing clamp.

Cotton and linen thread.

(Pictures 1-6 via liveauctioneers.com, picture 7 pinterest)

Many Thanks

2011-07-27T08:07:00.000-04:00

A gracious thank you to all who attended out first ever mini show this past Saturday in Chantilly Virginia. It was a HUGE success. We were a bit nervous not knowing what to expect when we decided to strike out on our own after we got the news we were wait-listed for the Big Flea.

Our event was held in the Grand Duke Room at the Holiday Inn and couldn't have been more perfect. There was ample room for shopping not to mention the air conditioning on a 100 + degree day! We enjoyed being able to chat and visit with our friends and customers which is sometimes difficult to do at a crowded show.

Plans are already being made for our January 2012 event, tentatively scheduled for the weekend of January 7th---stay tuned!

Sneak Peek

2011-07-15T12:26:00.000-04:00

Enjoy a preview of some of the new merchandise we will be bringing to our show on Saturday July 23, 2011 from 10 am to 4 pm. We will be set up in the Grand Duke Conference room at the Holiday Inn in Chantilly, Virginia. Shop with the Truffle Pigs then stroll right next door to the July, 2011 DC Big Flea!

Over The Top

2011-06-24T09:55:00.000-04:00

Rare French Musical Sewing Necessaire Automoton

Palais Royale Gilded Embroidery Frame and Necessaire

Miniature Sewing Kit and Book in Hen's Egg

Cast Iron Woman at Sewing Machine Action Figure

Bird Sewing Box Spool Holder

19th Century Sewing Lady Automoton

Our New (Old) Show

2011-06-16T09:44:00.000-04:00

Truffle Pigs have a NEW LOCATION!

What: Truffle Pigs Antique Event

When: SATURDAY ONLY!
July 23rd, 2011 • 10 AM to 4 PM
(happening right beside and simultaneously with the July DC Big Flea)

Where: The Holiday Inn Hotel Chantilly next to The Dulles Expo Center
in the Grand Duke Conference Room (Look for our signs!)

Join Truffle Pigs Antiques at a special show with
even more space to bring fresh to the market inventory including antique & vintage:
sewing items • textiles & fabrics • ribbon & trims • dolls & toys crafting items • clothing •quilts • artist-made sewing items and more.

Hope to see you there!

The Truffle Pigs: Stacey Bear, Deb Hartwick and Kim Stout

When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade (or Limoncello)

2011-05-20T10:17:00.000-04:00

To me this saying is curious because I personally love lemons in any form. In any case....when the Truffle Pigs heard whisperings about a big change happening with our favorite show, The DC Big Flea we were quite concerned to say the least. We hoped for the best. Then we got word that we were on the "WAITING LIST."

It seems the size of the show has been reduced to half as the promoters have lost one entire building to a certain big box store: $#!mart. We were dissapointed but understood that the promoters had made the best decision for all concerned, which was a hard one.

We put our thinking caps on to come up with a creative solution and this is where the "lemonade" comes in. We are going to have our own satellite show and you are all invited!

It will take place at the Holiday Inn, located right at the Expo Center/DC Big Flea in one of the event rooms. It will happen the same weekend but we will be there only on Saturday. There are more exciting details to work out which we will post soon but in the meantime we are thrilled to be doing our own more intimate show for our friends and customers.

Cheers!

Stacey, Deb and Kim

Wrap Up: Our Adventures in New York

2011-04-08T14:42:00.000-04:00

Patricipating in the Infinite Variety Quilt Show in New York was a once in a lifetime experience. Deb and I had a fabulous time at the show meeting new customers and assisting the Folk Art Museum.

Here is Deb on the day we set up in front of the case with her work.

I took this picture from above the show on the catwalk.

We even had time our last two days in town to visit some museums. We especially enjoyed seeing the textile designs of Sonia Delaunay at the Cooper Hewitt.

And on our last day there we spent time in the garment district engaged in our never ending quest for cotton velvet-so hard to find these days. We scored at Mood... and got to pet Swatch as well!

Prims Magazine

2011-04-08T14:05:00.003-04:00

Stacey is currently in the Spring 2011 issue of Prims Magazine!
The article gives some insight into her artistic process and inspiration.
Thanks to Prims and Jen O'Connor!

Big Show in the Big Apple

2011-03-03T10:36:00.000-05:00

Exciting News!!! Deborah Hartwick will be a featured Guest Artist of the American Folk Art Museum at the show Infinite Variety: Three Centuries of Red and White Quilts. This will be the largest exhibition of quilts ever held in New York City with the installation of 650 quilts on loan from the collection of Joanna S. Rose. The show runs from March 25-30, 2011 at the Park Avenue Armory and is FREE and open to the public.

Deb (and I as her assistant) will be there from March 25-March 28 as part of the Museum's Gift Shop booth at the show. She has been asked to bring some one-of-a-kind pieces specifically for the show designed in colors of red and white as well as her standard works.

In addition to a Thursday night Gala preceding the show the musuem will also present three special programs regarding the making of the show, a quilt conversation and history of red and white quilts.

Below is a snippet of some of the beautiful antique quilts that will be on display.

We hope to see you there!

Inspired Ideas from Inspire Co.

2011-02-08T07:40:00.001-05:00

Stacey and Kim are appearing in the Spring Issue of Inspired Ideas over at Inspire Co. aka Amy Powers. This emagazine has over 20 projects authored by artists including Mary Engelbreit, Charlotte Lyons and Jenn Docherty. Click below for a little preview.

Amy does an absolutely amazing job of compiling a great mix of projects and the graphics are gorgeous. Just reading it puts me in the mood for Spring already!
I designed a fun and funky Pincushion Ring using vintage fabrics and Kim instructs how to make her sweet thimble size waxer using bee's wax.

Follow the link to subscribe!

Shout Out to a Truffle Pig Fan

2011-01-17T09:20:00.000-05:00

We love it when our friends share pics with the blogging world about their collections and one of my favorite blogs to read is Elizabeth Holcombe's "Words & Whimsies" . Her recent post about the haul she came home with from Truffle Pigs is a visual feast! She muses on all sorts of topics concerning vintage collectibles and decor and her adorable pincushions have been featured in several national publications. Be sure to check it out!

Home Again Jiggety Jig

2011-01-11T09:43:00.000-05:00

Finally unpacked now after the whirlwind of the DC Big Flea this past weekend. This was our best show in 2 years as evidenced by the mobbed booth that didn't subside until after 4 pm on Saturday. We are thrilled and optimistic that perhaps the economy may be on the re-bound. Our friends and customers have always been loyal and we pride ourselves on making items available at all price points; from the trims and buttons for 50 cents to the sterling silver chatelaine for several hundred.

We are grateful that the Flea is one of the few antique shows that allows us to sell our own sewing designs. They are made with all vintage materials and this time we really pulled out all the stops with some unique items. Our favorite part of set-up is show-and-tell when we reveal our newest piece to squeals of delight from each other. Almost all of them have found new homes so it's back to the drawing board to start planning for the next show.

Thank you dear friends for stopping by to purchase and more importantly to chat--we love catching up with you!

Shopping at the DC Big Flea Market for awesome deals.

2011-01-04T11:15:00.001-05:00

Check out this video by these two collectors of vintage clothing.

Join Us This Weekend

2011-01-04T11:13:00.001-05:00

Spotlight on a Truffle Pigs Fan

2010-12-30T13:46:00.000-05:00

Oftentimes we get to meet other creative artists when we are at one of our shows. Last July we met the talented Christina Muse who makes amazing boxes filled with found objects. As you can see she is particularly fond of sewing items when it comes to creating her art.

Here is what she has to say:

"I have a fondness for sewing items because our whole family sewed, even my dad. He made down vests and jackets for camping. My mom would make hot mini skirts and dresses and everyone wanted to know where she bought her clothes. She refused to buy me clothes and bought fabric instead and said make it yourself. Didn't mind because I loved sewing. Now those little items are making their way into my art".

Christina's work has been sold in some local galleries and shops. You can view more of her work and contact her here.

Just goes to show that the vintage sewing and craft items we sell are often parlayed into something far beyond their intended use!

Truffle Pigs at the DC Big Flea!

2010-12-10T09:05:00.003-05:00

Saturday January 8, 2011 9 AM to 6 PM

Sunday, January 9, 2011 11 AM to 5 PM

Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia

We are Booths # 433-434,

Row H in the South Building

(click to see larger)

We will be bringing many "fresh to the market" antique and vintage sewing items, trims, fabric, buttons and toys and will be seriously discounting some of our older inventory.

In addition we will have some exciting new designs of our own artwork (pincushions, emeries, sewing boxes and more).

Check back for more updates about the show!

Follow this link for directions and lodging Damore' Promotions

and follow The Big Flea on Facebook for show updates.

Feel free to comment with any ??? or requests

Hope to see you there!

Stacey Bear Kim Stout Deborah Hartwick

What Will The Weekend Bring?

2010-12-02T08:35:00.000-05:00

Two big events are occuring this weekend and the Truffle Pigs (Stacey, Deb, and Kim) will be hoping to make some good purchases for our show coming up. Both of these venues will have antiques that just may be beyond our reach financially, however we always consider these outings an opportunity for learning and inspiration.

Jeffrey S. Evans Auctions will present the Sewing Collection of Hilda S. Fried which will contain a lifetime of fine needlework and sewing items. Seeing such a beautiful array of fine antiques in one place is a great way to educate yourself and the excitment of an auction can be contagious--I hope we don't get carried away!

We always make it a point to attend the Eastern National Antique Doll Show. Vendors often bring doll related items and some of the most rare dolls, toys and textiles can be found here.

We also plan to stop along the way during our travels at some favorite SECRET spots to gather more treasures for the show in January.

Friends in Christmas

2010-10-23T10:55:00.000-04:00

Stacey will be heading to Martinsburg, West Virginia for "Friends in Christmas". The show is on November 13, 2011 from 9 AM - 2 PM at Paul Gordon's Studio.

Click here for more information!

A Gathering of Craftsmen

2010-10-23T10:44:00.000-04:00

Debbie will be traveling to Connecticut this holiday season as one of the exhibiting artists at "A Gathering of Artists". The show will take place on November 13 & 14 at the Gallery: New England Historical Connection, 300 Danbury Rd. Wilton, CT. Show hours are: Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM and Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM.
This is the 2nd year for this high quality show, an offshoot of the Wilton American Craftsmen Show.
More information can be found here and here.

Show Cancelled

2010-10-19T10:25:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends,

Unfortuately Truffle Pigs will not be participating in the Baltimore Big Flea as we had previously planned. One of us will be out of the country on those dates. We hope you will visit the show anyway at the Timonium Fairgrounds, October 23-24.
You can see us again as always at the DC Big Flea: January 8-9, 2011 and July 23-24, 2011.

Affordable Fun Fashion

2010-10-19T10:10:00.000-04:00

Tough economic times call for creative solutions. Though not strictly a sewing project this was a fun and affordable way to send my girl off to homecoming with a unique dress. Last Spring we purchased a cute pink ballet style frock in the clearance section of Forever 21 for $12. We knew we wanted to do something with embellishment to jazz it up a bit. We thought about trims, zipper rosettes and sculptural details. Finally we hit upon an idea-why not a painting! We took as our inspiration the Spring 2008 Prada Collection and went with an ethereal quality as far as theme and painting style.

The theme for the dance was neon/glow-in-the-dark so I lightly added glow-in-the-dark paint to some strategic areas. I haven't been able to figure out how to get a picture of this though!

Truffle Pigs on the Road

2010-09-27T19:32:00.001-04:00

One of us anyway. Debbie Hartwick will be taking part in the legendary Waterford Homes Tour and Craft Exhibit taking place this weekend in Waterford, Virginia. I will be assisting. This high quality craft show is one of the oldest of it's kind in existence and it is quite an honor to be juried in. Deb will be selling her wares as well as demonstrating so if you are in the area try to stop by.

And please don't make fun of us in our colonial costumes.

Selvedge Magazine

2010-09-14T09:35:00.000-04:00

Our favorite sewing-textile related publication is now available

at a reduced price "American Rate"!

Hooray!

On occasion Truffle Pigs would part with hard earned cash to purchase this gem but 9 times out of 10 we would make a bee-line for the latest issue at our favorite chain bookstore and enjoy this publication while sipping latte in the comfy leather chair. And then return it to the shelf.

So glad Selvedge is now at a more affordable cost.

Don't Miss Truffle Pigs at the Flea

2010-07-13T14:42:00.002-04:00

Please join us again this summer for the DC Big Flea!

This could be our best show ever with even more fresh to the market

antique items-we have been searching high and low all over the northeast and south.

In addition we will be seriously discounting some of our older stock.

Our booth space has moved once again,

we are number 757-758 in the North Building. As you enter the building

turn left and go to the first aisle along the wall which is aisle A.

We are about the second booth on the right.

Go to Damore Promotions for show information,

driving directions, hotels and

a $2 coupon off the price of admission.

And follow Damore on Facebook for pictures

of some of the items vendors will be bringing.

Hope to see you there!

The Truffle Pigs

Stacey Bear Kim Stout Deborah Hartwick

Pretty Pictures

2010-07-13T13:20:00.001-04:00

Lovely and inspiring sewing items in my "virtual" collection:

(images from various antique auctions)

Felt Bonnet Girl needlecase

Sterling figural pin cushion

Folky green spool box

Mother of pearl figural needlecase

Velvet theorem pin cushion

Brass windmill tape measure

Owl pinkeep with glass eyes

Peg wooden doll in wooden egg

Not really a sewing item but charming just the same!

Dorset Buttons

2010-04-20T09:57:00.000-04:00

Not too long ago I read the book "Burning Bright" A Novel by Tracy Chevalier, I have always enjoyed her books and was pleasantly surprised to find quite a bit of reference to Dorset buttons. The main characters in the novel manufacture Dorset Buttons, a common cottage industry of the time. I have come across these buttons from time to time but never realized the story and workmanship behind them. As so often happens, my curiosity was piqued as I was reading so I started researching the web to learn more.
Pictured below are just three types of Dorset buttons:

Blanford Cartwheel

Crosswheel

Knob Dorset

(Above pics courtesy of the British Button Society)

They are considered to be the very first thread buttons and were often made by lacemakers. Thread is wrapped around a flat washer or ring and then filled in with stitches.

Modern day Dorset buttons have exploded into a infinite number of designs and colors:

craftypod

stitchinfingers

knityoga

Gina B Silkwork, Passementerie and Costume Accessories

is a fabulous site that gives lots of background and historical information on dorset buttons, not to mention other sorts of

needlework, ribbons, tassels, laces and more

it's one of my favorites!

I've never tried to make Dorset buttons but there are a huge number of sites out there with instructions so I think i'll have to give it a try.

Catching Up...Finally

2010-04-15T11:48:00.000-04:00

It has been a while since I posted, having had an extremely busy month blogging here and helping out with this. Can't believe it's over already but what a huge success-and, increased funding from the state for arts projects in York!

Onto other exciting happenings. A sweet surprise arrived in my mailbox Tuesday, the May Issue of Where Women Create !

I feel so fortunate to be included in this amazing publication, published by Stampington & Company .

They are at the forefront of promoting artists and creativity as well as fostering connections among so many of us. The article and accompanying pics show my studio (in a RARE moment of tidyness) and there is a great shout-out to the Truffle Pigs and this very blog!

The photo shoot was great fun, and not stressfull at all, although I do look a little pale here-probably because I hadn't seen the sun for days busily getting ready and choosing my outfit (if you know me you know I'm all about the fashion). Shown are just 2 pages of the article, you'll have to check the rest out for yourself.

Thanks so much to JO and most of all to JEN for making it all happen!

Knitting Nancy and Spool Knitters

2010-03-11T18:06:00.001-05:00

I have finally decided to part with some of my Knitting Nancy's or

Spool Knitters. I have always loved these whimsical little toys that are

part knitter-part toy-part doll.

The colors and shapes are so fun and uplifting.

This one came complete with original box, picture book of designs for rugs, coin purse, and even a doll.

This Nancy below is very similar to the one I used as a child to make rugs, pillows and hats for my Barbies.

You can view more about these cuties in my ebay listings.

And you can read much more about them at crazyhaberdasher

she has a wonderful blog about Nancy's and sewing items.

Beautiful Stitching on the Silver Screen: "Bright Star"

2010-02-23T19:13:00.000-05:00

I finally had a chance to see the film "Bright Star", about poet John Keats and his lady love Fanny Brawne.

Sewing, handwork, textiles and early 18th century fashion play a big part in this film, not to mention beautiful cinematography and superb acting. The movie opens with a super close-up of a needle stitching and the character of Fanny Brawne stitches and creates her own garments throughout. From the age of 12 Fanny kept a fashion scrap-book, something dear to my own heart.

Here are some great links related to the movie including

Keats House in London. Fanny's sewing kit

And Sophie Digard who made the sweater garments for the movie.

Fuzzy Balls

2010-02-04T09:04:00.000-05:00

I just purchased these crocheted sewing pincushion balls and am in love with them. I have seen these occasionally while out and about, usually sold by dealers who specialize in sewing-americana-folk art-Pennsylvania antiques. The colors, texture and pattern are so interesting---I will surely be on the hunt for more>

Below, some more pics of balls for your viewing pleasure

(pics below courtesy of Pook & Pook and Conestoga Auction)

String balls and a puzzle ball pincushion. I believe these are based upon the "God's Eye" string technique.

Pom Pom plush ball.

Several pieced pincushion balls, crochet balls, wrapped string make-do pincushion and 2 chickens.

Puzzle balls, string ball, pom pom etc..

Sting ball pincushions.

European ball pincushion.

Lady and her huge ball made from granny squares.

Sneak Peak

2010-01-05T16:29:00.000-05:00

Just a few of the new items we will have at this weekend's DC Big Flea:

Truffle Pigs will be located in the NORTH Building (the past several years we were in the South Building). We are one of the first booths along the wall if you turn immediately to the right upon entering.

I am crossing my fingers that it doesn't snow!

Also on Sunday the DC Big Flea is offering free admission to

anyone under the age of 30 with picture ID for "Young Consumer Sunday",

“We are seeing so many more young people in their twenties shopping our shows,” says Joan Sides, who founded the Big Fleas in D.C., Fredericksburg and now Baltimore. “Too, they are tired of the mass-produced, Ikea, cookie cutter look that was so popular in the late ‘90s. And, they are finding that these pieces, that were so affordable and necessary in decorating their first home or studio apartment, just can’t take the wear and tear of daily living.”

Dc Big Flea January 2010!

2009-12-22T08:35:00.000-05:00

I can't believe the next Big Flea is only three weeks away!

As soon as Christmas is over I will have to get back to all of those projects that are in the works and finish pricing all the new inventory. Deb, Kim and myself have come across some great new finds for your shopping pleasure. Some sneak peaks to come in my future posts!

Happy Christmas to all!

2009-12-17T08:24:00.001-05:00

Image courtesy of Tasha Tudor!

Time Travel

2009-12-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

If we could go back in time The Truffle Pigs may want to visit a Civil War era Sanitary Fair. These fairs were held to raise funds for the war effort on both sides. Fairs and Bazaars would offer items for sale: handwork, needlework, gift items, food, plants, paintings, dolls and more. Some large fairs were held in Brooklyn, Philadelphia and Chicago. Many sewing items would have been made for sale: pincushions, needlebooks, pen wipes, knitted and crocheted socks and shawls.

Chicago Sanitary Fair

Doll sold at the Brooklyn Sanitary Fair

The Brooklyn Museum will have a special exhibit starting in January 2010

Brooklyn Museum Exhibit

courtesy of Historical Society of Pennsylvania

Living History Exhibit of a Sanitary Fair

Friends In Christmas

2009-11-10T08:28:00.000-05:00

I will be heading to West Virginia this weekend for a fun show at my friend Paul Gordon's studio---I have known Paul for years and he is one of the most creative people I know. We will be joined by some other great artists and pals: Kitty Babendrier, Allen Cunningham, Dara DiMagno and Leslie McCabe.

Here are some picture's from last years show:

If this show doesn't get you into the Christmas spirit-nothing will!

Pretty Pictures

2009-11-06T09:36:00.000-05:00

I finally have time to catch up after the Baltimore Big Flea. It was a great show and we met many new friends and customers and loved catching up with some we hadn't seen in a while. We brought some fun Halloween themed items this time.

My Button People

Debbie's Cat and Mouse Pincushion

Kim's Rabbit Pin Cushion on Celluloid Box

Vintage Dog Tape Measures

2 Chicks hanging out in a Bra

I had many more pictures but they came out blurry. I must take some time to go to Pioneer Woman's Blog

and read up on the photo section. She has great tips, and I admire her photography as well.

Ciao!

Won't you join us?

2009-10-20T12:25:00.000-04:00

The Baltimore Big Flea will be taking place

this weekend and Truffle Pigs will be there!

Dates: October 24th and 25th

Saturday 9-6 Sunday 11-5

Admission $8 good for both days

Free Parking

The Mid-Atlantics Largest Antique Flea Market

Comes to Maryland with over 800 Booths

State Fairgrounds, Timonimum MD

We are in Booths 599-600 in the Cow Palace and

are located in the right side of the building on a corner.

See you soon!

Chatelaine Bits

2009-10-15T10:39:00.000-04:00

Chatelaine is French for "mistress of the castle". Whether it's an Equipage(waist hung item with long chains that held keys to storage areas of the home: spices, teas, documents and food stuffs) OR a Chatelaine ( a popular term during the Regency period to describe a waist hung adornment used to organize household tools and as a fashion accessory) I know that they are beautiful, rare and a coveted category in sewing collectibles.

circa 1883, source: NY Public Library

Pinchbeck (alloy of copper/zinc) Chatelaine c. 1730-1735

collection VMA

Sterling Chatelaine c. 1895 Collection Grant-Kohrs Historic Site

Ribbon Chatelaine, Godey's

Tools may include: scissors, perfume, pomader, pincushion, pinkeep, thimble holder, button hook, tablet, waxer, pencil holder, wax seal, tape measure, mirror, knife, spectacle case, purse, dog whistle.

Materials: silver, steel, brass, gold, leather, ribbon and bone, tortoise, gutta percha.

source: John Leech Archives

This may be the most practical chatelaine of all!

Feeling Creative-Yeah!!

2009-10-08T09:29:00.000-04:00

I have been so darn busy lately---my part-time job (started working for the local symphony in January), gardening, daughter's activities, organizing the studio and inventory etc...I haven't had any time to do anything creative since July! For someone who used to spend 40+ hours a week making art this is a huge change. So a few days ago I decided to make myself sit down and create---an idea that had percolating in my brain for awhile. I am in LOVE with these cuff bracelets(even came home from work one day and resumed creating instead of making dinner!). They combine all my loves-textiles, lace, buttons and various bits and bobbles.

I'll be taking them with me to the Maryland Flea in a few weeks, but I will have to keep a few for daughter and myself.

We Return Triumphant!

2009-10-01T09:30:00.000-04:00

Two or three times a year The Truffle Pigs (myself, Deb Hartwick and Kim Stout) get together for a buying trip. We spent last weekend doing just that at Extravaganza Weekend in Adamstown, PA--and we were joined by two good friends! Nicole Bowen of Necessary Excess and Kitty Babendreier of Calico and Buttons. It was a whirlwind of shopping and the weather was great--we even took time for some show and tell in the hotel on Friday night.

If you know us very well you could probably guess whose loot belongs to which one of us. Most of this is for resale or to use in our art work but some will be for gifts (and a few just to keep).

Thisis a darling toy that features wooden acrobats, Debbie collects things like this as well as Push Puppets.

A sweet quilt scrap with early novelty fabric of a whippet dog.

A common scene--we search every bag, box and tin for good buttons--unfortunately this one held no treasures.

Charming perfume that Kim found.

Here we are (I am the photographer) left to right: Nicole Bowen, Deb Hartwick, Kitty Babendreier and Kim Stout.

Lastly, this was the find of the weekend--it looks like just your regular run of the mill stockinette doll but lift the apron and she is anatomically correct! With some strategically placed fur and a bit of beautifully crocheted lady parts. I would love to show you the picture but in these politcally correct times some may take offense. She is really quite charming and proud of her femininity. We plan to give her a name and make her the Truffle Pig mascot!

Sweet Emeries

2009-09-23T20:12:00.000-04:00

Emeries are one of the most sought after collectibles in the world of sewing collectibles. The most common shapes are strawberries but they can also be found as other fruits, animals and acorns. True emeries are stuffed with--Emery!--tiny steel filings of a sand like texture.

Sterling capped emeries are particularly desirable like the acorn above which is constructed of chamois.

The fabrics can be wool, silk, velvet and man made materials with silk being more desirable-it is often found in poor shredded condition. Strawberries often are embellished with beads or tiny threads to represent seeds. In picture three is shown a wax strawberry-not a true emery but a waxer for making thread extra strong.

The last three pictures (carrots, ladybugs, mice) are contemporary emeries made by Deborah Hartwick http://www.heartwellsdesigns.com/, so sweet!

(pictures 3 and 4 from Green Valley and Bonhams Auction Houses)

Treasure Box

2009-09-03T10:36:00.000-04:00

As long as I can remember I have collected stuff. My first real collection when I was about 13 was specimen shells. I started out as everyone does picking up pretty shells on the beach and soon graduated to purchasing rare varieties at specialty shops during summer vacation with my hoarded allowance.

Antique buttons hold the same fascination: they appeal to my sense of visual excitement with a myriad of colors, textures, materials, and themes. This box is a jumble of my favorites waiting to be organized onto button cards. As with all my collecting it is not always the most valuable ones that I am drawn too (although that is sometimes appealing in itself) more often it is just that they are just so dang awesome!

Pretty Pictures

2009-08-21T15:22:00.000-04:00

South Central PA has been experiencing some particularly stormy weather this summer so I thought I would post these atmospheric pictures of a storm that I took ---for some reason they remind me of the Civil War photos taken by Matthew Brady. When I look out the back towards the farm lane and the Bald Hills I sometimes daydream about what it was like here at our 1812 home during that time. Gettysburg is only 20 miles from us. I wonder if they could hear the sound of the cannons?

Collectors Corner: Victorian Beaded Baskets

2009-08-21T14:40:00.000-04:00

From time to time I am going to post about a favorite collectible that myself, Debbie or Kim are quite passionate about.

I am starting off with one of mine: late 19th c early 20th c beaded baskets and other miniature items. There is not much information out there about these items but they are indicative of the kind of handwork that was popular at the time. I have found some limited history suggesting that they may have been made by Native Americans as well as at schools for the blind. They are constructed of tiny glass seed beads strung on wire.

Besides baskets I have found them in other forms such as: cups, pitchers, chairs, tables, watch pockets and mats. The sizes range from a tiny chair that is 1 inch high to a fancy basket with dangling flowers all around that is 8 inches in diameter. Ornately beaded items have been around since medieval times and the French are well known for their intricate beaded flowers and Immortels---beaded wire wreaths placed on the graves in cemeteries. Instruction and patterns for these beaded items could be found in the ladies magazines of the day such as Godey's. They are an early pre-curser to the safetypin bead baskets popular in the 50's and 60's but are much more delicate and intricate.

I have paid anywhere from 99 cents to $50 for them and on one occasion I was in an Ebay bidding war for a tiny beaded chair that soared to $90! Fortunately I came to my senses and bowed out before the end of the auction and less then a month later I found a similar tiny chair in even better condition for 99 cents. It just goes to show that sometimes it's wise to be prudent when the collecting fever starts to take over!

Thank You!!!

2009-08-06T17:03:00.000-04:00

A BIG ThankYou to everyone who came out to see us at the DC Big Flea in Chantilly Virginia this past weekend. Despite the economy business was booming for us and we had a great time. To me the best part is seeing old friends-and new ones and chatting about sewing, antiques, and all those things that we all seem to love.

Thanks also to Miss Mickey Mackey for hosting us at her "Hotel" --I slept like a baby!

Location Location

2009-07-23T10:21:00.001-04:00

Many of you have inquired where our booth will be located in our upcoming show the DC Big Flea held on August 1st and 2nd.

We are booths #555-556 in the South Building.

Deb, Kim and I have been working feverishly on some great new summer sewing pieces to bring to the show including bird pincushions, new strawberry emeries and some insect related pieces.

I leave this Tuesday for a few days at our annual family reunion in the mountains of PA.

Besides hiking, bike riding and swimming in the "secret" swimming hole I love to sit on the back porch and sew (picture). It's very quiet and restful and the older generation rocks along with me and regals me with stories of their own sewing pursuits. My husband's family comes from a long line of prize winning quilters and they seem pleased that some of the younger generation carries on the tradition of sewing, knitting and crocheting.

Along the way to the mountains I plan to make some stops at some antique shops to hunt for some more ribbons, trims and fabrics to bring to the flea!

DC Big Flea- It's Here Before You Know It!

2009-07-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

Several times a year we get together and do some selling at an antiques show. The next one we have coming up is the DC Big Flea in Chantilly Virginia (see previous post for details). Here are some pictures from some previous shows:

1. The Truffle Pigs: Stacey, Deb and Kim; 2. Antique Buttons; 3. Strawberry Emery Babies; 4. Dolls and Toys; 5. Vintage Fun; 6. Wide shot of our booth; 6. Vintage fabrics and more

We hope you can join us there!

August 2009 DC Big Flea

2009-07-10T11:13:00.000-04:00

Always on the Hunt!

2009-07-09T12:25:00.000-04:00

One of the most enjoyable parts of having an antiques business is getting out there and looking for treasures. Deb, Kim and I search on our own ( we live in separate states: Deb in MD, Kim in VA and I live in PA).

But twice a year we make a pilgrimage to Adamstown, PA for Extravaganza weekends. This is one long marathon of shopping--we have been know to start at 5 AM and we'll go until 9 PM when the shops close. This is also our chance to get away and reconnect as friends. Spring Extravaganza happens around the time of all of our birthdays so part of the festivities when we get back to our hotel room involves opening gifts(usually handcrafted), eating desserts and a special toast to ourselves.

Pictured: 1.Part of my haul; 2.Kim and Deb; 3.Beautiful quilt with hand stitching; 4. A dealer's van; 5. The line to get in!

Introducing the Truffle Pigs Sewing Blog!

2009-07-06T12:20:00.000-04:00

Concerning all things related to sewing, antiques, art and more! The Truffle Pigs are Stacey, Deb and Kim--three friends who met as artists and also shared a love of antiques. We go gaga over antique and vintage buttons, ribbons, pincushions, spool holders, thimbles, chatelaines, textiles and the list goes on.....!

We hope to cover in this blog our adventures rooting out those elusive antiques, a bit of history about sewing collectibles, and the inspirations that help us to create our own handcrafted sewing collectibles.