Vintage Christmas

Re-Enameling Vintage Jewellery

It wasn't until I purchased an interesting vintage Christmas brooch that someone had already repainted but in quite a gaudy green, that the idea of re-enameling came to mind. So off I went to the large craft shop in town and edged my way through the men buying small pots of enamel paint for their model soldiers and vehicles.

 

I now buy my little pots from a local model shop and so far I have been the only woman in there! But do not let this put you off. The enamel pots are not just available in Khaki and army brown but bright gloss colours that are ideal for jewellery. Gather your paints, brushes, kitchen paper and newspaper together first

 

Clean the jewellery that you want to paint and allow to dry. Use a just damp cotton wool bud for this.

 

Lay onto a piece of newspaper or a piece of kitchen towel

 

Make sure you are not smoking as the paint is flammable and use in a well ventilated room

 

Use small craft paint brushes and wipe after wards on a towel.

 

When opened, stir the paint well before use and a little goes a long way.

 

Paint the area and allow to dry, then paint again - gives a good colour that lasts longer

 

Either match the original paint and you may have to blend different paints to match the colour

 

Or you can experiment and paint new shades to be slightly more modern

 

Experiment on some junk jewellery first before going to paint a more expensive piece though

 

A great way to recycle jewellery that has small chips or the plate has worn. But be careful it can be addictive

 

Have fun!

 

There are a large variety of locations where you may find fabulous vintage jewelry. But if you don't have experience buying vintage treasures then it would be best to take some time and do a tad bit of research before you head out to shop. Having said that, the following are outstanding places to check out when you head out to hunt for your vintage earrings or brooches.

 

Vintage clothing shops and consignment stores: These shops don't just sell fun clothing. You may also find fantastic vintage brooches, rings, earrings, and other gems at local vintage consignment stores and clothing shops. Often the shop manager will be able to tell you a few things about the vintage treasures they have for sale. They will very likely be able to tell you about the type of gemstones (or fake gemstones) that are in each. Prices will usually be a bit higher than at the resale shops but you will probably be able to find vintage pieces at a reasonable price.

 

Resale shops: Think Goodwill, Salvation Army and other thrift type stores. Many people make regular donations to these stores and they generally have a very large inventory that spans all of the vintage periods. These shops are a fabulous resource for finding vintage jewelry especially costume pieces. And, if you keep your eyes open you might just find a few fine vintage pieces.

 

Estate and garage sales: Yep. Wake up early on the weekend, jump in your car, and head out to some garage and estate sales to find great vintage jewellery. You may have to claw through a bunch of items to find just a few good vintage pieces but they are there just waiting to be found if you do a little work.

About the Author

Kristin Johnson, Owner & Editor. A Winnipeg native, (who doesn't say "eh") she loves icy, fresh winter days, sauerkraut & perogies, Saskatoon berries and year-spherical hikes at Bird's Hill Park. She's the eldest of a family of four, but being a twin let her shirk her role of "first born" to her added disciplined twin sister, in favour of a life less pre-planned. Being raised in an "artsy" home helped her acquire an appreciation of each one things handmade plus set her on a path dabbling in pott

If I make all my Christmas presents, will I be considered cheap?

My husband and I are barely putting food on the table, but the extended families still expect Christmas presents (25 people). I'm planning on doing Calligraphy, wreaths, homemade candles, and jewelry boxes. I'm also looking for vintage posters on Craigslist and making frames for them. I guess I just want an outside opinion.

In a related question, if and when times are good, I'm tempted to continue the homemade Christmas thing because of their attitudes. Do you think in-laws that demand $100 presents deserve it?

This is not cheap at all. I love this idea. At least you're trying to still send christmas presents during your time of struggle. Many people would decide to be a Scrooge and not do it at all! =)

Your ideas are great, I think they're better than buying something. So don't worry at all.

Think of what the in-laws would do. If they were in your situation, would they do what you are?

And again, remember it is Christmas... even though they can be demanding, I'm sure you still love then. It's still important to show them you care.

See what their reaction is to their gifts this year. If it's foul, talk to them about it. Be sincere.

Hope this helps and your financial status becomes better with the New Year!

Vintage Christmas Ornaments