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For collectors and enthusiasts of vintage decorations, blow molds hold a special place in the realm of nostalgic collectibles. These colorful, illuminated figures have lit up gardens, rooftops, and living rooms, bringing festive joy across various holidays. In this post, we delve into the history of blow molds and explore the iconic brands that made these charming ornaments a beloved part of holiday traditions. A Brief History of Blow Molds Blow molding as a manufacturing process began in the 1930s but didn't become popular for holiday decorations until the 1950s and 1960s. This technique involves blowing air into a heated plastic tube until it expands to fit a mold—hence the name "blow mold." Once cooled, the plastic retains the shape of the mold, creating everything from Santa Clauses to Halloween pumpkins. The rise of suburban living post-World War II coincided with the popularity of blow molds, as more families sought to decorate their new homes during the holiday seasons. The affordable, durable, and eye-catching characteristics of blow molds made them a hit, turning them from simple decorations into sought-after collectibles. Iconic Brands of Vintage Blow Molds Several manufacturers became famous for their unique and high-quality blow molds. Let's explore some of the most notable ones: 1. Empire Plastics Corporation Founded in 1958 in Tarboro, North Carolina, Empire Plastics quickly became a leader in the blow mold industry. They produced a wide variety of figures, from traditional Christmas angels and Santas to Halloween ghosts and witches. Empire is particularly known for its detailed, vibrant designs that captured the festive spirit of the holidays. 2. Union Products Union Products, founded in 1956 in Leominster, Massachusetts, is best remembered for its famous pink flamingo lawn ornament designed by Don Featherstone. The company also created a plethora of other holiday-themed blow molds, which remain highly collectible today. Union Products' pieces are cherished for their classic designs and enduring charm. 3. General Foam Plastics Another major player was General Foam Plastics, based in Norfolk, Virginia. Established in the late 1950s, they specialized in Christmas and Halloween decorations but also produced items for Easter and other holidays. Their products are known for their durability and the brightness of their colors, making them favorites for outdoor displays. 4. Poloron Products Based in New Rochelle, New York, Poloron Products was another influential name in the world of blow molds. They are known for their innovative designs, particularly their life-sized figures, which brought a magical touch to many holiday displays. Poloron's attention to detail and realistic painting set their products apart from others. Collecting Vintage Blow Molds Collecting blow molds can be a delightful hobby for those interested in vintage Americana. When collecting, pay attention to the condition of the paint, the rarity of the figure, and the working condition of the light fixture inside. Markets, online auctions, and estate sales are great places to find these treasures, and prices can vary widely based on rarity and demand. For those new to collecting or looking to add to their collection, networking with other collectors can provide valuable insights and leads on where to find the best pieces. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to vintage decorations are also excellent resources. Conclusion Blow molds are more than just holiday decorations; they are nostalgic symbols that capture the spirit of celebration and community. As we continue to appreciate and collect these charming figures, they remind us of the joy and brightness that festive seasons bring into our lives. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, the world of vintage blow molds offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a colorful hobby to brighten your future. Happy collecting!

When you’re deep in the world of antiques, each piece isn't just an item; it’s a snippet of history, a story from the past. But what happens when these treasures show signs of wear or damage? The decision to repair or replace can be a tricky one, with various factors to consider. Here’s a guide to making those tough choices, ensuring your antiques continue to enchant for years to come. Assessing the Damage The first step is understanding the extent of the damage. Is it a minor cosmetic issue, or is the integrity of the piece compromised? Minor issues like scratches or dents can often add character to an item, reflecting its age and history. However, significant damage might require professional restoration to preserve its value and functionality. Emotional Value vs. Market Value Consider the item's value to you personally against its market value. Some pieces might hold sentimental value, making them irreplaceable regardless of their monetary worth. In such cases, if restoration is possible, it’s often worth the investment. Rarity and Authenticity Rarity significantly impacts this decision. A rare item, even damaged, can be highly valuable. Authenticity plays a crucial role here; a professional restorer can often fix a piece without diminishing its authenticity and value. When to Repair Repairing an antique is usually the preferred route when: The damage is repairable without altering the piece's original character. The item is rare or unique, making replacement impossible or impractical. Restoration adds value or functionality to the piece, making it usable or display-worthy again. Sentimental value outweighs cost, and you cannot envision parting with the item. Finding a Skilled Restorer If repair is the chosen path, selecting the right professional is paramount. Look for restorers with expertise in your specific type of antique. Recommendations from fellow collectors, antique dealers, or local museums can be invaluable. Always check a restorer’s credentials and past work to ensure they’re a good fit for your precious item. When to Let Go Sometimes, replacement or letting go is the better option. This might be the case when: Restoration costs exceed the item's value, both in terms of market and sentimental value. The damage is too extensive, meaning restoration would result in losing the piece's historical integrity. The item is not rare, and a similar, undamaged piece can be found without much difficulty. The Decision Is Personal Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace a damaged antique is a personal one, influenced by your attachment to the piece, its historical significance, and its financial value. Whether you choose to restore an item to its former glory or let it go in favor of a new treasure, each choice is part of the journey in the world of antique collecting. Remember, every antique has a story, and your decision on how to care for it adds to that narrative, ensuring it continues to be told for years to come.

Hey everyone! We’re thrilled to announce that our brand-new booth at the Decades Reclaimed Vintage Depot is now open! It’s been a blast getting everything ready for you – from picking out the perfect spot to giving the walls a fresh coat of paint and arranging all our finds. We're so excited to join the family at this historic antique mall, and we can't wait to welcome you. Whether you've got a particular treasure in mind or you're just in the mood to meander and mingle, we've got a bit of everything. Come on over, have a look around, and let’s chat about the unique stories each of these gems has to tell!

Big news from the Poshlando front—we’ve officially emptied out our old 20x30 storage unit! This isn’t just a tidy-up; it’s a total clear-out. That trusty old space has seen its fair share of antiques, knick-knacks, and the occasional dust bunny, but it’s time to say goodbye. Don’t get us wrong, it was super useful while we needed it, but there’s no denying the awesome feeling of cutting down on expenses. Selling off the last items from the unit wasn't just liberating—it was a savvy move for our budget. No more monthly rent bill? Yes, please! We’re all about finding joy in the simple things, and streamlining our operations is definitely one of them. With a little extra cash in our pocket and one less key on the keychain, we’re feeling pretty good. Here’s to more space in our shop and more savings for growing Poshlando even bigger and better!

We've had a fantastic journey at Lakeland Antique Mall, and it's time to grow our Poshlando family. The search for the perfect second location led us straight to Decades Reclaimed Vintage Depot. Their community spirit and impressive online presence really resonated with us. We've found our sweet spot inside the Depot and have been busy transforming it. There's been cleaning, painting, and a little bit of decorating magic to make the place feel just like us. It's shaping up to be quite the snug haven for antique lovers. We're buzzing with excitement to open up our second location! Keep your eyes peeled for the grand reveal. We're nearly there and can't wait for you to join us at our new booth, where we'll continue to share our love for all things vintage and unique.

We recently snagged a 20x30 storage unit packed with all sorts of stuff, aiming to find some cool antiques for Poshlando. What it turned into was a full-on family affair. Yep, we ended up dragging the kids to the storage unit every day for a week, diving into boxes and figuring out what was treasure and what was just, well, not. It was a mix of treasure hunt and a bit of a reality check—sorting through someone else’s memories to find those special pieces that would fit right into our collection. It was definitely an adventure, with the whole family pitching in to spot the gems among the junk !