Adventures to come!

I have been keeping this secret since I have had other things to talk about but this week’s update will fill you in!  In my business life, many things happen that just seem to materialize and I just cannot explain why I was so lucky to be at the right place at the right time with the right instincts for everything to happen.  Finding the awesome Fernand Leger rug was one of those moments.  Although I am blessed to have it in my possession, I knew early on that it came with some issues I had to tend to like the cleaning (a $250 investment) and then there is the restoration work to replace the knots that were chewed by some hungry moths which is quoted but out of my budget without a buyer in the wings. I have spent a lot of time researching it and have purchased materials useful in my quest.  You see, the woman who is responsible for this awesome piece was responsible for bringing back the tapestry arts in the 1920’s in addition to being a patron of the fabulous artists she honored.  Her Paris fashion house, Maison Myrbor, also turned out haute couture clothing which is found in museums around the globe.  The tapestry arts were never a booming industry but she exhibited over the years and info can be found.  

Back to how I fit in here.  I was contacted by a woman who works for a prominent estate, now museum of the family’s collection and he has my rug in her collection along with another in the series.  They have no info on them and are hoping I will share my research  with them. Of course!  I will be taking time to write my notes out for her and will be visiting the estate when they open for the season this spring to meet with her.  I cannot wait and will be sharing my experience with you all when I get back. I have one local stone to unturn on this research as the traveling exhibit where the rugs in my series where sold in the 60s came to Allentown so the museum is on my list to contact to see if they have info or perhaps staff or volunteers I can reach out to.  This whole adventure will help me build provenance with the rug as well as myself.  Overall a fun adventure!  Such a special piece of art and textiles with only 20 or less ever made.  A super rare collectible!  

On another note I am running a sale on most furnishings in honor of my birthday month just in the Etsy shop.  If you are looking to add something to your home, reach out now to secure the price.  Many items leave me with little profit at that price but I need to move some big items so trying to entice the people with them in their carts to commit.  Subject to end at my whim.  I also have a set on hold that will be delivered next month to New Hampshire.  Reach out if you see something and are near or could meet me during that trip.  If it fits with the set I would meet for a fee way less than the cost of shipping. 

Don’t forget I have an album of new gift appropriate items pinned to the top of my Facebook.com/madformodmalissa page where you can claim items, fill a box and I will pack and ship to you.  These are all priced at wholesale! With spring holidays on the way, take a look and claim some goodies!  I will need your email and will send you a PayPal invoice. If you are local to me I can get your items delivered.​

Thanks for following! Lots more fun to come soon!  ​

​Xo Malissa 

New Items, In the Home Stretch.

Interesting tidbit....the wave couch designed by Adrian Pearsall was not only produced by Craft Associates, it also was made by his later company, Comfort Designs (Kingston, PA).  I found no marks on this piece to attribute it positively to Pearsall, but most things I have read say the size is indicative of the origin, which this one checks out.  Regardless, these wave couches are fantastic and super comfy! 

The Wave couch is in the final stages and is scheduled to be complete at the end of the week.  I cannot wait to see it!  I just finished the legs.  They were sanded down, restained and new poly top coat.  I just have to install the floor glides that get hammered in.  So excited to see this beauty and the fabric is to die for!  I will get some pics when she is home waiting delivery. I got prices to have my X benches put back together (I still have to tear apart the 2nd bench....this will take me a while!) so I am ready to get them done as soon as I finish the tedious tear down.  I was thinking of using the same joybird fabric as the wave couch but in blush or a moss green.  They are both beauties!  I will need 6 yards.  If anyone wants to jump in and claim them I will work a little faster and it's not too late to choose the fabric! I estimate finish price for the pair to be $650-800 depending on if you buy direct from me or if they get listed in my online markets and are subject to fees, etc.  They are extremely tedious and labor intensive. They look awesome at the foot of a bed and they are VERY hot in today's decorating trends!

2 couches are now available! This is listed as a set and priced to sell at $500 with delivery or meets in my region included.  They are HOT.  Generally in good shape with some wear on the arms.  Will be cleaned and sanitized prior to delivery. 

Super sexy convertible couch is available.  Price negotiable for cash/regional shoppers.  Reach out if you are in the market.  It is a great piece!!! Will be cleaned/sanitized prior to delivery.  Super springy supports bounce like an old car seat. Under seat storage and back reclines flat for snoozing.   

The gold velvet couch and chair has been a very hot item for me and sadly, they are not going to be cheap to ship.  I have been working with a west coaster and quite frankly, the quotes are coming back $1000-2000.  This set needs a closer home.  Preferably one I can deliver to.  If you are in the region or would be willing to meet and can transport, this set will be stunning in the right décor.  I might be able to get more reasonable shipping east coast or even Dallas TX as I have a ushipper that goes there a few times a year.  I spend a lot of time pricing shipping and it makes me sad when I can't find something that works for my buyer, but it is what it is.  I have this set priced to MOVE so if you love it, message me right away and we can see if we can make it work.  It is in multiple carts on etsy right now.  Don't forgot, PLYCON quotes instantly in my chairish.com/shop/madmodworldvintage shop.....add the item to your cart like you are buying it, make sure your zip code shows up and you will see the shipping and fees.  FIRST TIME SHOPPERS can get a coupon for signing up for an account or message me with your email and I can have one sent to you!  I do occasionally beat this shipping price but it really depends on where you are.  USHIP for me is less than impressive.  I do not get bids most of the time which is seriously depressing!

This lovely vintage dress form adorned with beautiful scarves and bags will arrive in my space at Fleetwood Antique Mall later this week!  (Dress form is priced and available!)  I plan on Wednesday but we have snow coming so no promises!  Will try to have her there before we leave for the weekend!  That said....I will not be available this weekend for quotes/inventory related questions I cannot answer off the top of my head or shipping.  Please make all purchases by Thursday evening so I can get shipped before I leave!  Othewise, will ship early next week!

In other NEWS, I just got to my wholesaler to restock some goodies for my booth that I like to use as filler and fit my eclectic/boho/camping theme.  Not only did I come home with some cute items like MORE PLACEMATS!  These never stick around long!  I have 2 sets (of 4) of mixed Kantha mats and 3 sets of matching blue/white patterns so come check them out in the etsy shop!  $30 each set plus ship.  They are always popular and do not last long.  Perfect for your dining table or use when you are camping!  They are so fun.  Also with Kantha items, I picked up scarves and 2 cute cross body bags.  I am picky about my bags and selected these because they have leather straps, are adjustable, lined inside with zipper pocket and an open pocket for stashing important items.  They are super cute and perfect for going out, shopping and festival season!  I am adding a dress form to the booth this week and didn't want her to be naked so filled her with scarves and bags!  Hope you can stop by as this cute stuff would make great Valentine's gifts!  All NEW with tags!

I am a savvy shopper and was able to score 2 boxes of goodies in a deal Primitive's by Kathy had going on.  These are all items I do not typically buy to resell but are fabulous gifts and I decided to offer them at WHOLESALE pricing!  That means, these are the prices I would be paying for them, retail is marking them up 50% more!  I hope you stop by my facebook page facebook.com/madformodmalissa and have a look! There is a video of me going through the box and telling you about the items, I suggest you take the time to watch it as you get my opinion and specs.  Then see the album which is pinned to the top of my wall where you can comment and claim items.  FILL A BOX!  These are all small items so I can pack a box for you and price shipping.  You will be invoiced via PAYPAL so all I need is your email address to send the invoice, which will be done as soon as I pack your items and calculate the shipping.  This is so fun and I am thrilled to be able to let you guys WHOLESALE shop with me!  You will find GREAT GIFTS for Valentine's Day/Easter and Mother's Day!  Let me know if you have any questions!  I will leave the album up for a month or two.  Unclaimed items will either be used for giveaways or may be priced and put in my booth.  I hope you can find some things you love.  **My best shipping rates are east coast/mid west.  I will not have access to Fed Ex discounts via paypal but I do have a UPS account so if you are in my worst prices USPS zones, I will price at the cheaper rate for you. I always check for the most cost effective way to get you the goods! 

Box signs, small pillows, mugs and pottery, new from my wholesaler! Check out on my Facebook page and claim what you love! Gifts galore!

Philanthropy:  If you have been following me a while, you know I LOVE to give back to places I use for research and other art preservation causes.  I recently found out that the American Art Archives in DC is allowing folks to pay to have items digitized.  So, you pay for the digitizing and get a copy of the files and then they get uploaded to their online system so ALL can enjoy them online.  It is kind of like sponsoring the records.  I decided I would like to sponsor Bruno Mankowski's records.  I am pretty certain he has no living spouse or children at this point and I feel like it will help share his story.  Plus, there are enough of my naked lady sculptures out there and by the folks contacting me direct or seeing them on ebay, I know it will be found!  It will cost approx. $1200 to have the two totes I reviewed digitized.  I want you guys to know I will be working towards raising the funds for this so you know supporting me is not only supporting my small business, but I also give back to the organizations I work with!

STAY TUNED for final pics of the wave couch!  I will send an interim update when I pick up and can get some better pics taken....snow coming so that might hinder it a bit.  Have a great week!

xo Malissa

I have 6 pillow cases. $16 shipped each, add $13 if you'd like a pair. Advertised on my instagram page, email if you’d like one and I will send invoice via PayPal. 

Holiday Promotions Start Now! SHOP SMALL, shop often!

I have a few things to buzz about for the holiday season coming up as I get myself organized.  Here is what is happening:​

ETSY SHOP: 10% off all inventory except furniture and fabrics is on NOW THROUGH NOV 20!  Early birds are being rewarded! Stop by and see if you can knock some gifts off your list or shop for yourself, I WON'T TELL! 😜  ​

BLACK FRIDAY GIFT WITH PURCHASE.  I did this last year and prepared to do it again! I got lots of little items from Primitives by Kathy to give away!  Any etsy orders shipping from Thanksgiving through Christmas will get a free gift from me! 🎁 while supplies last but I have plenty so do not think I will run out. If you shop earlier, just message me that you want the Christmas gift and I will include in your package.  I love doing this and hope my customers like it.  GIFT WRAP? I will gladly do a special wrap or add a card for you, just message me.  Etsy wants us to charge and specifically offer it and honestly, so few people ask for it that when they do, I accommodate no charge.  I want your item to make it safely so my main concern is packing it properly. 

If this bowl were for sale, I'd be pricing it between $50 and $80.  You can claim it FREE with a $200 purchase! 

FLEETWOOD ANTIQUE MALL SPACE.  The mall may run some promos and I may participate but nothing is firm yet. Starting today in my space only (tags marked MW) I am offering up a fabulous 8" Catherineholm enameled Lotus bowl in harder to find yellow and green​.  From today through Christmas, the first person who spends $200 (in a single transaction) in my shop will be able to take this great bowl home FREE! I only ask you take a pic of you in my space holding the bowl when you claim it! 💕👌  if it goes unclaimed by Christmas, it will go back in my china hutch.  😂🤘🏼 

MAY I SUGGEST? I just stocked up holiday items, added my beautiful dining set at a crazy cash/carry price.....$1000 for 6 restored chairs and a table! I have the chairs at $1200 online without the table. Come see it, all set with glassware and china looking pretty.  I have a few great pieces on display! I also have gifts from Primitives by Kathy and lots of fun vintage goodies to choose from.  Don't forget the Lane Rhythm Hutch is also available for a crazy low price of $500!  If you are looking for a handsome bookcase or china/collectibles Hutch this could be the one! Priced for the local market and ready to use!  

Stop by and shop the mall! It really is a fun place with an awesome selection.  Let me know how you like it! ​

Took a few pics of the daybed as I removed from my showcase.  It is such a lovely piece.  If you know of someone looking for a multi use piece like this, send them my way! I will deliver in the region. Perfect for a nursery for new parents, den, spare room and more.  All newly restored with sturdy metal frame on gorgeous hairpin legs. 💙

all new foam, professionally upholstered.

Includes original details like piped edging, tufting and zipper access on the small pillows. 

Thanks for following along! I will have more updates on my rocker restoration soon! Fabric is on the way! XO Malissa

Chairish- where it is at. A look at this newer marketplace taking the internet by storm.

I sell in more than one online market. Some of my items are listed in one, some in all.  Although up to now, I have been focusing on my etsy shop, things have been changing over there and I decided to add some of my higher end smalls to chairish.  I figure I would tell you guys about that market as I do feel they are positioning themselves to become a force to reckoned with. 

HOME Screen in the Chairish App.  

I got involved with Chairish a few years ago.  They are a relative newcomer in the online marketplace and a lot of folks are unaware of them. They are presenting to an upscale audience focusing on interior designers. There are no vintage requirements and they encourage sellers to offer late model Furnishings and Decor.  They also offer white glove shipping nationwide which they arrange at incredible rates. I price shopped Plycon on my own and they are seriously half of that. Although white glove shipping is a splurge, it really is a great choice as all you need to do is say 'put it over there' and they will, taking all the wrappings with them when they leave.  I sling a lot of furniture and can say that alone is worth forking over the dough!  

2 of my items showing up in a search for BOMBAY. 

Chairish is a curated collection.  That means someone there decides if they want your item listed.  If for whatever reason they do not want it, it gets denied.  It is a way of controlling what is associated with their brand.  The audience is Interior Designers shopping for clients and savvy homeowners in the know.  Sellers are also grouped by region and often offer deliver or pick ups.  This is how you can shop smartly without driving up the price with shipping costs.

There are some great features in the App! First up is a VIEW IN YOUR SPACE feature.  

Currently only offered by Chairish and their really high end sister site, DECASO, this fun feature lets you use your camera to overlay this scalable image over you room.  See how cool my mirror would look hanging in my VW Vanagon?! 😂

From the desktop browser, I have also been able to PRINT A TEAR SHEET which looks like this. Also an Interior designer feature but helpful if you are coordinating your own project.  

As you can see above, shoppers can make offers. Sellers can accept or counter.  When you make an offer, be aware that everyone who has HEARTED that item gets a push email that announces HURRY! MALISSA HAS MADE AN OFFER OF $250.   

SHOPPING TIPS:  you can score a $20 off coupon as a new shopper just be signing up for an account or message me your email as I can have one sent to you.  I also just printed out a packing slip for a buyer and it included a coupon code for $20 off a purchase of $100 or more on a return trip.  You can ask questions directly to the seller as a public comment.  Please note there there is not a private communication system nor will they encourage direct contact between buyer and seller off site.  They will, however, assist as a go between and forward info between parties.  Just contact customer service to initiate.   TRUST:  although listings are edited by Chairish, know that they do not authenticate any item being sold.  I have observed some shady practices by dealers in this market.  Like any other marketplace, make sure you ask questions and get proof.  If the dealer cannot provide, you may want to find someone who will to purchase from.  

TRADE DISCOUNTS.  Are you an interior design pro? Chairish recently launched a Trade program where, once approved, you would be eligible for trade discounts as offered by sellers of 10-30% off listed price.  I personally feel I price fair so have not jumped into this. Realistically, prices need to start higher to accommodate this on top of the already steep commission.  I am going to wait it out and see.  Shoppers always can make offers so not being featured in the promos is the only thing I will miss out on.  

Pop over and give chairish a try! You can follow my shop at chairish.com/shop/madmodworldvintage and find me under Philadelphia sellers! ✌️Happy shopping! Allow 6-8 weeks to receive white glove furniture shipments! I had been taking 2 weeks just to get things picked up!

xo Malissa

Weekend Shopping Options.

FLASH SALE!  My Etsy shop will be on sale today at 2pm, concluding oct 6 at midnight.  10% off everything, no coupon required.  Come have a look!

Looks like fall is finally on the way and what a great weekend to head out and enjoy some shopping. This post is for my regional fans and will include shopping info for the big shows this weekend in eastern PA plus where I will be on Saturday.  

3 times a year my local area features a large show which draws bargain hunters, pickers and Antique fans from all over.  This weekend are those events and I will attempt to navigate you through. 

Starting TODAY through Saturday-Extravaganza at Renningers KUTZTOWN. Kutztown is an adorable college town and features a quaint and bustling Main Street filled with unique shops like popular Sorelli Jewelry, Paisley and Company bath shop and Firefly Bookstore.  There are food options as well including Kutztown Tavern and Brewery and just out of town is Saucony Creek Brewery and Gastro Pub, home of my favorite seasonal brew, Maple Mistress.  From town, take Noble Street out to Renningers Farmers Market and head out back to a large outdoor market feature hundreds of vendors selling all sorts of antiques and vintage goods. Make sure you visit Renningers.net and print out the $1 off admission coupons!  Admission is $15 today, $10 Friday and $5 Saturday.  The farmers market in the front building is open Friday and Saturday.  Bring your cooler and stock up! There are meats, eggs and produce plus many delicacies like baked goods and even wine tasting inside.  Food stands are reasonably priced.  On Saturday, there are indoor Antiques vendors as well.  Not sure if they will be open on Friday or perhaps some will be tending their stand.  Free admission to that building by the way. 

Make sure you take a pit stop on route 222 just south of Kutztown to visit my pop up shop at Fleetwood Antique Mall! We are only a few miles away and I am sure you will find the selection and prices are fabulous! I just added a bunch of new items in my relocated space.  Find me on the 2nd Floor, rear of the barn.   

Currently featuring my restored Heywood Wakefield chair and the gorgeous day bed. 

Next up, head to Adamstown. Keep in mind, these are the most expensive Antiques in the area.  You may find a hidden treasure, but things here are in many cases priced higher than my online markets! Most co ops will have sales and other promos going on and some will have outdoor vendors.  I love stopping at the Mad Hatter and have friends who sell there.  It's a must see if you travel to Adamstown.  From Kutztown, continue on 222 south.  There will be an Adamstown exit south of Reading and take route 272 straight into Antique central.  You can pick up a map at your first stop. Make sure you plan on Shrupp's Grove Flea Market. It is a lovely shady spot filled with vendors and I really enjoy shopping there.  Enjoy the area fauna! You will see horse and buggy's with Mennonites and Amish.  There are many regional food specialties to enjoy as well!  Ring bolongna, Scrapple, AP cake and Shoo fly pie.  Make sure you try something new!  

I hope you get a chance to seek out some treasures!  I will be set up on Saturday at Pyrex and Vintage Fest in Havre De Grace, MD. The street will be closed down by Joretro and approx 30 vendors will be selling pyrex and vintage goodies. The town is adorable, the weather should be perfect! Hope to see some fans!  What pyrex I have left will be $5 each dish.  I am also packing camping/picnic items and will have hen on nests, china sets and some small furnishings. My bestie and helper will be bringing vinyl records. Come see us!  It is an amazing event and if you enjoy pyrex, this will be over the top for you! Event runs 10-3. Hope to see you there!  Event page at Facebook.com/pyrexfest