10 cottage-style collectibles

Flea markets, garage sales and local thrift shops are great sources of cottage style collectibles.

The palette
One of the easiest shopping tricks at a flea market is to choose your palette before you even enter the gates. Our favourite cottage collectibles are all in soft shades of blue and turquoise.

1. Floral paintings
It may not be done by an Old Master, but who cares? Keep an eye out for paintings with fresh colours and a great frame. Remember: vintage rose or violet paintings are usually priced higher than other florals.

2. Glass cruets
For those of us who love our collection of pressed glass goblets, the glass cruet (preferably pressed glass) is the next frontier. Track down pieces for as little as $6.

3. Enamelware
European enamelware is highly prized, but North American canisters, teapots and pitchers (often referred to as graniteware) have their own special charm.

Enamelware has been in production since the 19th century. Until the Second World War, the containers were sold plain, and labels would be stencilled on by the store­keeper or added on at home. Today, vintage enamelware tins without any lettering are considered to be the most valuable.
4. Kromex
Spun aluminum kitchen­ware is highly collectible for its kitschy—and colourful —appeal. We love its aqua accents (it also comes in pink, among other colours).

Relics from the 1950s, Kromex pieces are reason­ably affordable ($55 for a cake set in mint condition). Better still, Kromex canisters are known to seal fairly tightly, making them far more useful for storing food stuffs than many of their vin­tage counterparts.

5. Vintage bicycles
Everyone needs a three-speed bike to ride to the market on Saturday mornings. Make sure your find is in good condition before you purchase.