That Time Again...

Here at Cochran's we have begun work on the 2015 edition (our 26th annual!), to be published in early October. Right now we're contacting everyone who participated last year, plus a number of shops that contacted us after we went to press, to let them know our deadline (August 31!) and rates for next year.

If you have a store or antique-related business or produce an event in the five Western states (WA, OR, CA, NV, AZ) please click on PARTICIPATE in the menu above and see what we have to offer. Then click on your state on the little map, and you'll see the rates for that region.

Cochran's entire 152-page travel-size map guide is printed and distributed to the stores and shows in early November, and then uploaded on this website at the beginning of the new year. Click on CONTENTS in the menu above to visit any of the five states and their stores. Or see our Events section directly after our color section, to see antique fair and show schedules for the rest of 2014.

Doggie Night at Cottage Jewel Soiree

If antiques, art objects and pets are a big part of your life, there's a special event with your name on it in Danville, CA Thursday evening, May 22. Cottage Jewel invites animal lovers to come in that day and select a 1950s rhinestone collar for 20% off, so you can spiff up your furry friend for a "bitches in bling" photo opportunity. From 5-8 pm local author Peggy Stevens will be signing copies of her new book of poetry inspired by her rescue cat Tommy.

Marcia Harmon often keeps Cottage Jewel open late for evening soirees like this, and also hosts workshops in creating found art. Next workshop is Sunday, June 8, 1-4pm, to learn how to make exquisite mini book pendants. The store, which offers a blend of antiques, vintage, period jewelry, artisan wares and novelties, is at 100 West Prospect, Danville. Call 925-837-2664 for more information, or to sign up for the June 8 workshop, or visit the website at www.cottagejewel.com.

Hot Off The Press: Cochran's 2014 Collector's Guide

When Sue Keith at Susantiques in Aloha, OR got her boxes of the new Collector's Guide, she went right to her computer and made a color-coordinated sign to place on her counter. She's been doing this every year since she started advertising in the Guide. Everyone who walks into her shop leaves with a Guide.

We love you, Sue! Thanks for helping us celebrate our Silver Anniversary!

Books should be reaching the southernmost point, Arizona, by the middle of next week. Happy antiquing!

The 2014 edition of Cochran's Collector's Guide is printed and ready to be shipped, beginning next week. AND there's a version of the entire book uploaded and is ready for downloading as a PDF on your mobile devices, such as your smartphone or tablet.

We are still encountering some bugs in the Internet version, in particular links to pages, and links within store listings to their websites, etc. We expect to have those pesky issues dealt with soon.

Some new communities are in the new book, including quite a few in Northern California. Take a look!

Coming up this Sunday the 29th: The biannual Antique and Collectibles Fair in Old Town Clovis, CA. More than 80 dealers will bring their finest finds for your selection. Wanda Leon, for instance, has just gotten back from an exhaustive summer-long buying trip along the World's Longest Yard Sale and who knows what she's brought home. Also, you can bring something for a free appraisal by Kathy Osterberg. Admission and parking are free.

Photo: oldtownclovis.org

Old Town Clovis is one of those lovingly restored downtown districts that take you back, so that a stroll through the streets feels like you've been transported in time. They've set a wonderful example for any American community looking to revive their heritage.

You can check out ongoing events in town on a blog, and there's a virtual tour you can take on the Old Town Clovis website. Antique Fairs are held in March and September, sponsored by Business Organization of Old Town.

If you go to Clovis, meander through the many antique shops in Old Town. You can refer to a map of shops in Cochran's Guide, just select Contents and then click on Clovis.

Take Hubby Shopping for Mantiques

Men have been deeply involved in antiques since the first caveman started collecting old bones, but still when a lot of guys think of antiques they picture spindly gilded furniture and pretty dishes, not really their cup of tea (hope that remark doesn't sound sexist). They get that glassy-eyed look when you want them to go with you shopping in antique stores. But now there are stores that boldly offer "mantiques," "architectural," "industrial" items that definitely spark a man's interest.

One we just came across this morning is called Acme Garage, in Medford, Oregon. They describe their store as follows: "At over 6600 sq ft, our co-op is packed with high-octane vintage items." When you go there, you might want to bring a truck!

Guys! Imagine this "settee" in your man cave!

Check out their Facebook page for a preview. It's a guy kinda thing, from the banner featuring four pin-up girls reminiscent of mechanics' calendars, on down...a miner's carbide lamp, advertising signs for once-popular petroleum products, metal lockers like you had in high school, stuff from dismantled post offices and bowling alleys, giant sign letters, 1950s billboards, neon signs, repurposed furniture and all the elements a fella needs to do some repurposing on his own...Well, you get the idea. Lots of photos for inspiration.

 They've got a sign out front that says "Drop him off at Acme Garage...Free Mansitting." So next time you're in Medford stop at 2784 West Main St, bring the hubby and don't be surprised if he has the time of his life.

Paradise, California is a town named for a pun, according to local lore: someone came up with "Pair-O-Dice" and it evolved into Paradise. The main drag through Paradise is Skyway Blvd. where you'll see a string of antique and vintage stores, definitely worth the detour off Highway 99 to spend an afternoon exploring. And thanks to the wonders of the Internet, you can do a preview visit to these two stores: Skyway Antique Mall, and Bainbridge Antiques.

Skyway Antique Mall has its own website, a simple straightforward collection of lots of photos. You get an impression of a very large store, with a big selection that includes fine wood furniture.

Bainbridge Antiques has a page on Facebook, where they post excellent photos of the store and newly-arrived items. Here's a homey display of colorful kitchen pottery and glassware, like Fiestaware, Fire King, Russell Wright and Hull plus old crocks, etc. You can also find items from Bainbridge Antiques on eBay.

Paradise is off Hwy. 5 east of Chico. Other stores you'll see along the highway are Jeannie's Consignment, Skyway Blue and Aunt Mabel's General Store. On the way you'll pass veggie stands featuring the area's trademark olives and other locally-grown produce, and amazing red buttes that reminded me of a miniature Grand Canyon. Beautiful country!