The Pricing Game...Still a Mystery to Me

I had a great sale this week. Several weeks ago I went to a thrift shop looking for something specific, which of course I did NOT find. I did pick up two small designer purses for $4 each. I thought they might be knock offs, but for the price...worth the gamble.

At the prompting of my son Mitch, I did some research on line and decided the vintage Louis Vuitton by The French Company was authentic. I referenced the site that convinced me it was the real deal in my description and listed it on ebay. With a starting bid of $28 and a "Buy It Now" price of $110. It sold for in a half hour for $110.

When something sells super fast I am always left wondering...  Did I list it too low?

I'd seen similar handbags for a wide range of prices.

I guess I could have listed it for $200+ but how long would it have to be in storage waiting for it to sell at that price?  In the end I made an amazing profit, and this time of year I need that fast cash turnaround! 

From my ClassicRetro Archive.....

More items I sold so fast I fear I listed well below their value...

I bought these Unique Mid Century lamps at a yard sale, they sold in 2 hours for $90.

https://www.etsy.com/transaction/55132650

This is one of two Art Deco Sconces - They sold as a pair with cords cut and missing one large bead overnight for $140

https://www.etsy.com/transaction/71922398

This one is hard to even admit. It was pretty early in my Etsy career,

and I have BIG regrets... probably solid silver with a gold wash. 

I gave it away for $20 in about ten minutes!

https://www.etsy.com/transaction/72619577

recently Sold!

I had a nice little rush of vintage sales this week. 

In addition to the Louis Vuitton, two of the items I featured in my last blog post sold...

at least one, the panther lamp, sold because someone saw it on my blog and had to have it. The cute little fawn figurine also sold.

Both my Etsy shops had sales too, from ClassicRetro:

Ironwood Falcon Figurine  -  https://www.etsy.com/transaction/223456409?

Peacock Sequin Applique  -  https://www.etsy.com/transaction/223238022?

1876 Cape Cod Candle Holders by Avon - https://www.etsy.com/transaction/222742457?

and a Vintage Abacus Counting Toy

TomboyGirly is my second Etsy shop. It is a little slower than ClassicRetro  but I have high hopes for this shop which features vintage clothing, handmade accessories from repurposed clothing and upcycled home decor. TomboyGirly had a sale this week too:

Prairie Style Maxi Skirt  -  https://www.etsy.com/transaction/223652193?

It's funny, what sells is often not what you would think is your most sales worthy piece... 

which prompts me to ask,

Why Has This Not Sold?

Vintage Nursery Art Three Puppies Antique Home Decor Wall Art

Super cute retro nursery decor. This piece has a 3D effect. Perfect for a little boys room.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/188700195/vintage-nursery-art-three-puppies

and how about this from TomboyGirly?

Antique White Floral Fabric Bib Necklace / Boot Bracelet

Gorgeous and one of a kind handmade accessory. Perfect addition to any wardrobe.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/188875645/antique-white-floral-fabric-bib-necklace?

I have found that Online sellers in general do not like to divulge their selling prices.

Even I am hesitant when asked on my Etsy site. I DO know what it is like to try to do legitimate research to establish a fair price when listing online, so for that reason I am very open here on my blog.

I'd like to create a place here where there is a lively discussion on what is trending in vintage, and feedback on how and where to sell our wares.

ta ta for now!

my upcycles...

I've sold vintage for awhile now and form the start I longed to be a maker, not just a reseller.
I've always been very creative... from self taught hair stylist to graphic design to landscaping with plants and cooking, my creative outlets have evolved with me.
There is no greater thrill than having someone pay real money for something you've made with your own hands and heart.
Here are a few of my upcycles....

I made my own chalk paint and upcycled these cast offs...

'

shabbified brass candlestick holders

boring brown wood is transformed into purple and white nursery decor

an old wooden jewelry box is given new life with some gray chalk paint and wax

Here are some of my pieces that were created from thrift store clothing and repurposed linens. I made the flowers by felting sweaters or recycled clothing.

 I traded this altered dress for business cards!

antique linens, felted wool flowers vintage buttons = a beautiful sash

Hand torn gift ribbon = 100% recycled cotton

recycled leather jackets, vintage linens and broken jewelry is transformed into  gypsy cowgirl cuffs

I LOVE  this hat. If it does not sell soon, it is MINE!

Save our planet! Buy me!!!

All these eco friendly fashions are available at tomboygirly.etsy.com

I stayed up to the wee hours of the night...errr. morning getting inspired on pinterest.

here are a couple of my favorites..

Ok this has been fun to share but I have to get back to my real life...I really do have one!

One last photo... My latest sale...off to package and ship it now... 

Isn't he so sweet for nursery decor or woodland wedding tablescape?

 

Vintage life blog...first post ever

Well, The day has finally arrived...my first blog post.
I guess it is a modern day diary, only without the lock and key.
Here I will share my vintage scores, celebrate an exceptional sale, Ponder why a piece I think is great hasn't sold....and occasionally pour out my heart.

Best Recent Sale: Persian Curly Lamb Swing Coat With Mink Collar

Best recent score: Art Nouveau Antique Vanity Mirror

Why has this not sold? Amazing retro lighting, perfect for any room in your home.

This TV lamp was manufactured in 1953 by Beauceware. It was produced in different colors using either a panther, swan (most common), horse or cameo. Very few still exist today with the fiberglass shade still intact...and mine is perfect!

Today I did a little thrifting on my way to watch Will's football scrimmage games.
My first stop took about a minute and a half.  Ridiculous prices. $10 for a mediocre vintage dress!
 I walked away.

The next sale was much better. It was a fundraising sale for a mission team. Perfect.
Not only did I pick up an amazing mirrored vanity tray priced right to up cycle with chalk paint, I also found a great white planter, a cotton chenille bedspread, and some shells for the shell chandelier I've been needing to repair for about a year. Oh Yeah.. and a what a bowl for a buck!
Not a huge take, but fun. all for $7.