Ribbons and Trims from Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods (Central Park Space 116 @ Brimfield)
I apologize for this post being a bit delayed... yesterday we had a beautifully stormy, moody day and I spent it sewing a new throw, more on that later. I did promise a Brimfied recap so here goes. This year, as I think I might have mentioned once or twice, I was seriously undecided about some purchases... ahem, but my ribbon haul at Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods (known to Rob's mom and I as 'The Button Lady') was epic. I spent an hour in the booth admiring the trims and ribbons while Connie prowled for doilies and vintage linens nearby. The booth is something to behold... I'm glad I snagged a picture last year as photos were not allowed this year...
I'm planning a wreath for the fall with most of these ribbons... and I just couldn't resist those beautiful buttons. The texture of those trims is really amazing, especially up close...
...and I'm in love with that cherry-colored velvet rick-rack... it's even brighter in person.
So Brimfield came and went again and I learned a great deal this time...
* Brimfield in July, though hot, was much more laid back and quiet compared to the other seasons... some vendors do not show in July... the site has more information on this.
* J&J Promotions (one of the fields that charges an entry fee... May's does the first few days as well) wasn't necessarily worth it in my opinion. Lauded as the "it" place at Brimfield, I didn't see much that wasn't in other parts of the market as well... that could have been because it was July. I probably will skip this next time.
* Ask for the best prices... many dealers will say "I can do better on some things, let me know if you have questions" while you're browsing... feel free to ask about pricing and bargains.
* Bring a list and an eagle-eyed companion (thanks Connie!). Also, Etsy is a good place to comparison shop... we found many things that were much cheaper on Etsy (Jadite Tea Canister at Brimfield for $250, on Etsy for $90)... that is also helpful when bargaining.
* Not all dealers are nice... ignore them, have fun.
* Pack a lunch and things to drink. Connie and I had really delicious burgers at the food court, some of the food is a bit expensive. September is the perfect time for apple crisp... and it is really tasty.
* Know when to walk away and when to just buy something... I have personal experience with that (shoe rack)... which I will think about until September (shoe rack).
* The Shoe-Rack lady is at May's... I'll elbow you on my way to her booth on the first day in September... apology in advance. In all seriousness... hope to see you there!
