T's Ten, Week of 10/27

This week has been busy at the shop! We love it when the air is crisp, leaves are changing color, and we can revisit with familiar faces that stop by the shop each year to see what new goods we've got. Tom had a successful buying trip, and while we don't know the exact date of its arrival, the container should be here sometime in mid-November.

We are also really excited about the event we are hosting with Amanda Brown of Spruce Upholstery. Hopefully by now you have had some time to read about the event, but just in case, you can read about it here. Amanda's book just arrived at the warehouse, and I've enjoyed looking through its pages. There are some really great decor ideas that I had not thought before, as well as a step-by-step explanation of the basics of upholstery. The book is included when you sign up and attend the class, so come by to get a preview! And now, a few treats for you guys to check out!

1. First up, a chest of many drawers! We often have folks stop by the shop searching for a cabinet that can be retrofitted into a bathroom vanity, and this is piece would be great for a project like that, especially considering there is plenty of storage as well. Dealer #444, Chest of Many Drawers, $325.

2. Ethan and I often talk about what our dream kitchen would look like, and we agreed that this kitchen island would certainly be included in the kitchen of our dreams. It's a custom piece made from old barn wood, and constructed by the Amish in Pennsylvania. The barn wood has a lovely finish, and would really complement any kitchen, but especially my dream kitchen. Dealer #AE1, Kitchen Island, $1450.

 3. I'm also loving this Swedish table. The gold highlights carved on the legs and surrounding the top are what really excites me about this table. It's a great height for a small entryway or could even be used as a dressing table. Dealer #150, Swedish Table, $395.

 4. And now a little something for your walls! These posters are fun, and with Christmas just ahead, would make perfect gifts. There are a few "Tattooed Lady" prints, some Johnny Cash, and the Andy Warhol style Dolly Parton is my favorite! Dealer #NYA, Poster Prints, $24 ea.

5. And while we're on the topic of Christmas gifts (I know, I know..not even Halloween yet!), these little collections would make perfect stocking stuffers. Choose from sequin patches, vintage matchbook collections, or old display cards from vending machines. Dealer #297, Vintage Sequin Packs/Display Cards/Matchbooks, $5-10.

 6. This 1940s server/chest of drawers is a lovely statement piece, don't you think? It's a custom piece painted by one of our dealers. I love the dark slate grey juxtaposed with the lighter, natural tones of the birch wood paper applied to the front of the drawers. Dealer #800, 40s Server, $585.

 7. I love this pair of mid-century side chairs. The upholstery is in great shape, and the lines of the arms and legs give a really sophisticated look to them. Perfect for a home office, or flanking either side of a living room floor plan. Dealer #83, Pair of Mid-Century Side Chairs, $495.

8. If you're looking for something less traditional in the way of storage, these chrome lockers are awesome. I love the look of them. They aren't your everyday school locker. A more sophisticated version for sure:) And if you're like me, I can always use more closet space. Dealer #44, Chrome Lockers, $295.

 9. How fun is this mannequin?!? The torso is covered in old newspapers from Italy. Such a fun look. We've been displaying them in the shop as decorative objects, and they certainly add a unique touch. Dealer #44, Mannequin, $125 ea.

 10. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and we've already helped a lot of visitors to the shop out with new dining tables or chair sets. This bonded leather set of 4 (only 3 pictured) would be a perfect addition. I love the chartreuse color and the fact that they are super comfortable doesn't hurt! Down the road they will need some upholstering, but for now you can enjoy them this holiday season when extra guests arrive! Dealer #DC, Set of 4 Bonded Leather Chairs, $198.

Week In An Instant

Images Clockwise, Left to Right:

1. A few weeks ago I turned 30. I kicked the birthday weekend off with this elderberry margarita at WALK in West Asheville, one of our go-to places when we don't feel like making dinner. The cocktail was great, and I turned 30 surrounded by lots of family and friends. And so far, everyone has been right; my 30s seem to be taking shape nicely, although I've convinced myself I'm losing my eyesight due to "old age." 

2. This week Ethan and I visited Sky Top Orchard in Zirconia, NC near Flat Rock. While we were there to pick apples, I ended up getting distracted by all of the farm animals. This goat in particular was hilarious. He refused to move from his sun tanning spot, and the look on his face was one of pure joy. 

3. And then there were apples. And apple cinnamon donuts! It feels like we won a lifetime supply of apples. This weekend we're going to make cider for the first time. 

4. A detailed shot of a kilim runner that sold this week at the shop. I love the pastel pink and royal blue. 

5. While hunting and gathering last week for our booth, I came across this mid-century era painting and couldn't bear to let it go. It looks perfect in our bedroom and because I had to make room for it on our wall, it also inspired an impromptu burst of design inspiration. I began rearranging every little thing in our house and it's looking pretty good!

Also just a quick reminder-have you checked out the upcoming event we're hosting in November? Amanda Brown of Spruce will be teaching class participants how to construct and upholster their own bench to take home. Read more about it here.

Oddfellows Hosts Bench Making Class with Amanda Brown!

Hi Oddfellows friends! I'm excited to announce an upcoming event here at the warehouse. On November 13, 2013 we will host Amanda Brown of SPRUCE Upholstery as she teaches a class of 15 how to construct and upholster their own benches. The event is in conjunction with Amanda's Fall 2013 Book Tour, in support of her newly published book Spruce: A Step-by-Step Guide to Upholstery and Design. In addition to the book, Amanda also has an instructional DVD series called Spruce At Home, and is also a contributing writer to Design*Sponge. In addition to the class at Oddfellows, Amanda will also be hosting a book signing at Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe downtown starting at 7PM. What an honor it will be to have her join us at the shop for a day!

 This class, with Amanda's helpful guidance and knowledge, will teach you how to construct and upholster your own bench to take home. Students will pad, staple fabric, and attach tapered legs to complete a 16"-deep by 48"-long bench. The registration fee includes all materials and supplies, as well as a copy of Amanda's new book. Read below for the details, and be sure to check out Amanda's website SPRUCE for more information about Amanda and her team.

Description: From wooden substrate to finished bench, students pad, staple fabric, and attach tapered legs to complete a 16"-deep by 48"-long bench. Pneumatic tools will be used for this class, including an air compressor and staple guns.

Date and Time: Wednesday, November 13 (1-5pm)
Location: Oddfellows Antique & Design Warehouse 124 Swannanoa River Road

Class Size: 15 people
Registration Fee: $245 per student (includes a copy of the book)

***PLEASE REGISTER AT  https://www.spruceaustin.com/class-descriptions/book-tour-class-registration/ OR CALL (512) 454-8181***

And as if that wasn't enough, Amanda will also be giving one lucky attendee an upholstery tool kit (valued at $225, and $125 worth of fabric). Say what?!? Yes! Sign me up:) This class will probably fill up pretty quickly, so be sure to register soon!!

 

*I would also like to give a big thank you to Becky Johnson, one of our dealers at the shop. She played a big hand in organizing this event!! Thank you again Becky:)

T's Ten, Week of 9/29

A long overdue T's Ten! There are so many fun things in the shop right now, and it was certainly hard to contain my picks to just ten. Although that's almost always the case!:) Be sure to stop by to check out the warehouse.And for those of you wondering, the next buying trip is upon is. Tom will leave this Thursday to hunt and gather. That shipment will likely arrive late October or early November!

1. Everyone's a winner! These trophies from England make great decorative objects, and work well as gifts for a job well done. We have a few in our house, and we use them as a catchall for keys, coins, etc. #44 Trophies, prices range from $35-75.

 2. I'm loving this cozy brown leather chair. And when I say cozy, I mean it! I love the soft, buttery leather and the nailheads outlining the arms add a sophisticated touch. Just in time for autumn, too. I picture a lot of reading by the fire going on in this chair. #444, Bernhardt Leather Chair, $595.

 3. We often get a lot of requests for barstools, and I'm loving this pair. They are newly upholstered in a sturdy vintage fabric, and would be perfect for getting your drink on! #83 Pair of Vintage Barstools, $175.

 4. These chairs have a fresh coat of paint, new Suzani-style upholstery, and would be just the perfect pop of color your home needs! These traditional chairs really freshen up in a modern way once given a bright coat of paint. #800 Set of 4 Dining Chairs, $385.

 5. I'm a big fan of storage, and this industrial cabinet is perfect. Originally, it was used to display McCall's dress patterns, but I imagine it would fit in nicely in an office. You could tuck away quite a bit in these drawers. #297, McCall's Clothing Pattern Cabinet, $175.

 6. Speaking of fun storage, this industrial shelving with gym baskets is also a fun, yet functional option. Lately I've been attracted to the color red, so of course I was drawn to this fun piece. It would be perfect in a playroom because you can use the gym baskets as bins to store toys and art supplies. #NYA Industrial Shelving, $345.

 7. I love this carved Tibetan statue! You'll have to forgive me, because I'm not sure what she's called (Kimmara?), but a customer informed me that this half female, half bird statue is prominent in Buddhist mythology. I think it makes a lovely decorative object and I love that it has a mythological story behind it. #076, Tibetan Statue, $128.

8. I love the scale on this 1940s buffet. It's a great functional piece, and its smaller size makes it perfect for smaller spaces. It would look nice in a dining room, but I think it'd be a fun entertainment cabinet too. Hide away DVDs and the like in the drawers, and keep your flatscreen on top. #44 40s Buffet, #375.

 9. I definitely have a weakness for bottles, and these tall glass bottles are a fun addition to the shop. We usually carry a selection of bottles in varying sizes and shapes but none quite as tall as these! #AE1 Large Bottles, $95 each.

 10. What a statement this carousel horse makes! The stationary horse dates back to the 19th century, and was part of a carousel ride. And because it stands upright on its own, you can put it front and center in just about any room. I'd probably put it on our mantel, or as we've displayed it here, on a credenza just behind a sofa in a living room. #133 Carousel Horse, $1145.

Week In An Instant

It's feeling a lot like fall around here in Asheville! It's probably my favorite time of year, and it's also a great time to visit us at the shop. The changing of the seasons also usually means a trip overseas is in store. Tom will be heading to England in early October to fill another container. Are there any items you've been searching for? Now's the time to let us know! Stop by in person to see us or leave us a note here or via Facebook to let us know what you're after. In the meantime, here's what I've been up to.

 

Images Clockwise, Left to Right:
1. I took an afternoon trip to Boone for a delivery, and on the way back down stopped in Spruce Pine to do a bit of exploring. I had a quick lunch at Knife & Fork, which is home to the best hot dog I've ever had! Then I walked a few blocks down to one of the mineral and gem shops called Rocks and Things. I've always been drawn to rocks and the like, and even had a collection when I was little. So imagine my delight in finding this spot. It's filled to the brim with beautiful gems, dream catchers, even some cowhides! I'll definitely be back for more to add to my collection.
2. I also managed to get away for a quick visit to Virginia to see family. I'm notorious for staying up late digging through drawers in order to find hidden treasures. My search never fails, and this time yielded this beautiful photograph of my mom at the carnival.
3. I've also been a longtime admirer of this marriage quilt, passed down from my great great grandmother. Each patch of the silk quilt has the embroidered initials of friends and family in order to commemorate their marriages. This patch is by far my favorite, but the whole quilt is just beautiful.
4. One of my favorite activities is exploring new places with Ethan. Even if it's just a short car ride away, I really enjoy our snippets of time together, especially now that he's back in school. Just a week or so ago, we took a quick trip to Fairview. We ate at The Local Joint, which is such a hidden treasure and definitely a must! Then we took a short walk, where we met these two horses. I say this a lot, but it's so true. We are really lucky to be where we are, and it's such a treat that we can take a short drive and be surrounded by beautiful farmland and mountains.
5. Last Tuesday I finally made some time to visit the West Asheville Tailgate Market. I usually go every week but have been busy the last few times. I love the sense of community whenever I go, and I almost assuredly run into a friend or two while I'm there. This savory pastry, made by Tara Jensen of Smoke Signals Bakery, was an extra little treat that Ethan and I devoured. You guys must, must try her baked goods if you're in Asheville. At my house we are big fans of her whole wheat bread, but her tarts and pastries are just amazing.Her website is here.
6. And finally, a view of the shop taken from behind the store counter. I'm loving all of the things in this photo right now, especially because the rich textures of the copper top table combined with the warmth of the furniture's wood finishes really evokes a feeling of fall for me.

New Dealer Sneak Peek

We are happy to welcome a new dealer to Oddfellows this month. Courtney and Becky specialize in painting and repurposing vintage goods. Expect to find a great mix of traditional and industrial furniture and accents blended with mid-century modern pieces that the ladies have carefully restored to colorful perfection! Be sure to stop in this weekend to check it out.

T's Ten, Week of 8/18

Hi friends! How about this cool August weather?!? It certainly feels like early autumn in Asheville, but I'm still betting there's more heat to come. I'm certainly in denial that summer is coming to an end, particularly since most of this summer has been very rainy! Despite the crazy weather, the shop has had a great summer season. And before I get started with my favorites this week, The Oddfellows want to give you all a very big thank you!! We were happy to find that we were included in the Mountain Xpress Best of Issue, tying at 3rd for Best Antique Shop 2013. It means a lot to be included in the top 3, and we really appreciate all of your votes and support!

1. I'm digging this map chest that came from the most recent container load. The green metal and brass handles make for one really handsome industrial piece. It's got a great shape, and would be fun in a living room as an alternative to a coffee table. Can't you just imagine one of the drawers left open, revealing an oversized art book, accompanied by a few smaller decorative objects? I can, anyway! Dealer #44 Map Chest, $1,195.

 2. If you like the look of the map chest, but don't quite have the room for something that large, then certainly these industrial file cabinets would do the trick. I would love to use these in our kitchen. We could store recipes in a few drawers, and random cutlery/oversized spoons in the others. Dealer #496, Pair of Industrial Files, $60.

3. I think I might've shared this before on my container picks. But now that this green chest of drawers is in the shop, it literally catches my eye every time I walk past it. It's such a fun color! Dealer #44, Green Chest of Drawers, $325.

 4. I know we can all appreciate this Danish credenza. So much storage space! I love a great functional piece of furniture, and you can never go wrong with a mid-century credenza. #83, Danish Credenza, $695.

 5. I'm also loving this 19th C. French-Canadian primitive cabinet. I love that it can be hung on a wall and used as a little shadow box, or mounted bedside for an alternative to a nightstand. #133, Primitive Cabinet, $425.

 6. For those of you looking for industrial carts, this longer version is super cool. I love the history behind this piece-it was originally used as a luggage cart at the Bristol, TN train depot. But its low, longer size would function very well as a coffee table. Dealer #NYA, Luggage Cart, $399.

 7. I really love the idea behind these lucite boxes. Each one contains its own little antique collection. They would make a sweet gift for a friend into "old stuff", but I like to imagine someone just getting into antiques picking one of these up. It's like an instant starter set! And they would be great displayed on a bookcase. Dealer #231, Lucite Box With Contents, $40 ea.

 8. While we're on the decorative object kick, how about this great industrial object! I love the look of this piece. It has a really great sculptural quality about it, and has a sophisticated-meets-quirky feel. Dealer #076, Industrial Object, $78.

 9. I love a good rusty, crusty toolbox, and this one is teal green to boot! If you cleaned it up a bit, it would be a fun storage chest for a child's room or playroom. Or you could indeed use it to store some tools! Either way, it's a really lovely industrial piece. Dealer #02, Toolbox, $55.

 10. I've saved the largest for last. This 1920s-30s deco bar back is so big it won't fit into my camera frame! It's huuuuuuge. But what a great piece, right? Can't you imagine this sitting pretty in a scene straight from The Great Gatsby? It would be great in a downtown bar or restaurant, don't you think? Dealer #AE1, Deco Bar Back, $8,400.