Yesterday, thanks to a really helpful husband, I got to spend 5 hours at the Alameda's Antiques by the Bay (sans Kids)! This once a month market is a must see. I have lived here for 10 years and some how have missed out on it until this past Sunday. This enormous and diverse market is worth the $5 it costs to get in. Just make sure to get there early so you have time to see it all. Oh, and bring a large vehicle.
I found some great things, and although it was difficult, I held back on the furniture. You can find some great deals and if your willing to do a little bargaining you can get even better deals. These little glass buttons were $4 (with some bartering) and the little purse I got for a dollar! I figure I can use it as is or take it apart and use the purse frame to make something new. 
If I could have I would have bought one of these cute mini-sewing machines from the 40's. The guy who sells them also refurbishes old singers which are also awesome and totally functional.
I was looking mostly for fabric and accessories and tried to stay on task by only spend the $50 I had in cash. I stayed away from the ATMs, though they are really handy in a pinch. This skirt is great, not sure if I should actually try to wear it or use it to make something new.
This necklace was my one splurge. It was nice when I bought it but it cleaned up even nicer.
I would say they day was a success - it actually turned out to be sunny and we meet some really nice people. My advice for making your trip a success - Bring lunch and water so you can spend whatever you bring on the goods, the food was only OK anyway - $3 hotdogs, $7 Indian food...etc. Decide what you want to buy and give yourself a cash budget then leave the cards in the car. I'm telling you stuff is dangerously cute. Finally, wear sunblock. I got this crazy sun burn - a combo of a farmers tan and necklace ring around my neck.
2 comments:
aaah i love the fabrics you found!! i would definitely make something new with the skirt, the fabric's great, but the cut is so-so.looks like there's enough to make it into something interesting :-)
Sounds like you had a great time. Think it's hard to stay on budget now? ...wait until your daughter is a pre-teen & she wants to tag along! I usually go to Canton every month (when it's not 105 degrees) & my 12 yr. old likes to go with me. At first, I figured it would be great mother/daughter time. The 2nd time, I thought, this is cool. She is getting into vintage items & it's something fun that we can share. Now, she is picking out vintage jewels to buy!!! It's very hard to say no... esp. when I am buying for myself. Boy, does it make the $$ go by faster. :) We have started bringing our own water, soda, & snacks too. xoxo, Joanna PS. I like your finds... and the skirt looks good on you.
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