Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Awesome New Frankoma Pottery, USA Craftsmanship at its Finest!

Can’t believe it is almost the end of June. It was a busy spring. I just returned from a trip to Phoenix to visit with my parents. I am not a flyer, so I packed the car and the dog and set off on a 1947 miles journey west. I have made this trip many times, but usually hit St. Louis at night so I have never stopped at the Gateway Arch. This time it was noon and as there wasn’t any one in the car to cast a dissenting vote – Dobby (my 5-year old dachshund/beagle) was up for a walk so there were no complaints from her. We really enjoyed our time in the Gateway Arch Park.



Parking was easily accessible and reasonable. There were several groups of kids doing the history “thing” and all were friendly and courteous. Of course, Dobby is quite the kid magnet and she enjoys the attention. She can be a super deterrent as well, when I am not feeling in a safe place. Dogs are good! The day was beautiful, bright blue sky and warm weather. The Mississippi was slightly over it banks and Levee Street was covered in water. Two young men were crossing the water-covered street and joking that they were “Crossing the Mississippi”. I stuck my toe in the water, but Dobby wasn’t having any of it. I decided trust her judgment, as the water was very dirty. Many antique and collectibles stores lines the cobblestones streets around the Gateway Arch that will have to wait for another time.


Once we turned southwest, we started running along historic Route 66 and I had planned the trip so was able to stop in Sapulpa, Oklahoma and the New Frankoma Pottery. They are completing their first year under new ownership. The newly refurbished show room was a treat filled with newly made classic Frankoma designs along with some new designs. They also have a free museum of thousands of pieces of Frankoma pottery on lone from a collector. Frankoma is made from terra cotta clay mined from the local Sugar Loaf Hill, one of the few potteries to be made entirely in the USA.


Dobby and I arrived about 9:00 right when then opened and I was able to purchase many pieces for resale. One of my favorites was this Rearing Clydesdale Bookend, an original Frankoma ware/mold #431, designed by Joseph Taylor released in 1942.

They also have beautiful dinnerware and bakeware that will grace any table. Fantastic colors like butter cake yellow, corn flower blue, rasberry tart, bone, red, forest green, and basic black. New patterns of dinnerware such Green Creek and Ranch, in multiple colors.

Wishing all the best to the new owners and continue success. I am thrill about working with them and look forward to new and exciting designs.

And, the show room was dog friendly.. can't ask for more...

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Heisey Glass Opal Beaded Swag Covered Butter Elegant Glass


Well, I just experienced my first wedding for a child. It was a fantastic experience and I have never seen a lovelier bride, but it sure can take it out you. I am still recovering and they are off on a honeymoon in Mexico. We tried to talk them out of it, but they were determined. So far, they email all is well. My daughter was a bridesmaid, so it was all GOOD!

That joyous event was a little detour in my bogging. I did not intend to be gone so long. Still having fun working with my Heisey Glass. This this charming little covered butter dish makes be understand our love of butter -- having something served on such on such a beautiful plate -- it just has to be good! This delightful pattern is called Beaded Swag No. 1295. The pictured Covered Butter Dish is Opal with enamaled floral decorations and gold trim. This was a small table line for Heisey 1899 - 1903 having all the essential pieces for a table setting.
Next week, another detour. Out to Phoenix to visit with my mother. Excited what I will find out there. Hoping to find some lovely pottery! I am driving. Don't care much for flying! Blessings!

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Heisey Glass 36th Annual Auction and I made it!



The National Heisey Glass Museum is owned and operated by the Heisey Collectors of America (HCA). Located in downtown Newark, Ohio, it is always worth a trip to see over 4,500 pieces of glassware produced by the A.H. Heisey Company between 1896-1957.

Each year the HCA gathers glass from donation and it’s collections for a spectacular auction which is a major fund raiser for the museum. Yearly I would make plans and marked the date, but my hopes to attend were annually crushed due to with family obligations.

This was the 36th year and I again, I was determined to attend. I put out the word to friends & family, and had partial success. I could attend Friday, April 17th ~ Hurray!

When I walked into the room, I was flabbergasted by the tables of glass, all beautifully organized, numbered and ready for new homes. The HCA membership were friendly folks, and more than willing to talk about their collections and favorite pieces. This was a well run auction!

I had a fantastic day and I was able to purchase over 100 beautiful pieces of Heisey Glass and will be listing them over the next couple of weeks. My favorite is this beautiful Thumprint & Angle hair receiver with silver lid. Stop by my store daily to see more great Heisey treasures as they are listed. I am having such fun just looking at the glass! ~~ Have a Blessed day!