JB Knacker

Back to Regular Hours at the Shop

2012-01-31T06:37:00.000-08:00

This Wednesday is February 1st...can you believe it?! And on Feb. 1st, JB Knacker goes back to regular hours (Tuesday-Friday 1-6pm & Saturday 10am-3pm). It was a great January at the shop, a record-breaking January! But it wasn't all facials and manicures being open just on Saturdays in January! There were some long days that stretched far into the night to whip that shop into shape, and make it look different each and every Saturday! The shop is ready for February...full and looking good! A new delivery of the good old stuff to the shop tonight and then open tomorrow! Hope to see you!
~Brenda

Chocolate, Wine & a Little Valentine

2012-01-26T06:24:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, January 28th is our chocolate, wine & a little Valentine Saturday! We'll open our doors at 10am and stay open 'til 5pm. Sweet Madeline will be gifting us w/ her wonderful mini-cupcakes again this week along w/ chocolate nibbles and sips of wine...JB Knacker will be a good place to hang out! We'll be changing up the displays and hoisting new cupboards and dainty pink velvet chairs through the doors...along w/ many vintage collections that have been gathered just for you. We'd love to see you!

And back to regular hours next Wednesday, Feb. 1st...remember, Tuesday-Friday 1-6pm & Saturday 10am-3pm! Can next week really be February...whew!

~Brenda

Celebrate Life

2012-01-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

Join JB Knacker this Saturday, January 21st from 10am-5pm. We will be toasting our mothers, fathers and all those that said yes to Life! JB Knacker will donate 20% of all sales on this day to Birthright of Ames. Birthright helps any girl or woman regardless of age, creed, marital or economic status, who feels distressed by an unplanned pregnancy. Its services are free of charge. And because this Saturday falls one day from January 22nd, the tragic anniversary of Roe vs Wade, we will be celebrating Life at the shop! Birthright's mission statement goes something like this..."It is the right of every pregnant woman to give birth and it is the right of every baby to be born." Birthright has been a leader in this community in positive outreach to women who find themselves pregnant and scared....emotional encouragement and supportive counseling as well as tangible items such as maternity clothing, infant and toddler clothing and supplies are readily available. I am so proud of the work these volunteers do on a daily basis and want to help support their outreach. I hope you do too! Update: you helped JB Knacker to raise just over $200 for Birthright...way to go!

The shop is looking great w/ lots of fun, new, old pieces...lace, pottery, glass, linen, wood, jewels and so much more. Hot coffee and tea will be on as well as yummy petite cupcakes (while they last)! And be sure to grab a pretty petite floral arrangement in honor of your mother, father or anyone in your life who had the courage to say yes to Life!

Brenda
BIRTHRIGHT IS THERE
...for every woman who calls for help. Whether that call is for nothing more than an anonymous pregnancy test or for friendship and support lasting through the delivery and beyond, Birthright is there. Every woman is special and deserves to be treated as an individual.

Fresh, Fun & Fiesty Saturday at JB Knacker ~ Jan. 14th

2012-01-13T23:28:00.000-08:00

Just got back from twirling the shop around. We'll have the hot cocoa and tea on and specials throughout the shop...would love to see you (10am-5pm)!

~Brenda

Fun, Fresh and Feisty Saturday ~ January 14th

2012-01-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

I got my winter weather wish, but a bit less wind and a lot more snow would have been even nicer! I think things should settle down just enough to have a sunny brisk Saturday. The shop will open at 10am sharp this Saturday, January 14th and hot cocoa with whip cream will be served up by the cupful!! We have hauled some really good pieces into the shop since last Saturday and as promised, a few new product-lines will be revealed. I know pictures are worth a thousand words, but man, it's cold outside, and I don't have 'em yet...so, I will do another blog post later tomorrow night w/ pics. Would love to have you by the shop and shoot the breeze w/ us! Joan and I love a good chat!! We'll close up about 5pm.

Brenda

Soup Saturday Today 10am-5pm

2012-01-07T06:12:00.000-08:00

Soup's on! Would love to have you stop by the shop today! We have a big $1 bin filled w/ all sorts of good junk and specials throughout the shop. Next Saturday at JB Knacker: fun, fresh & fiesty ( a look at JB Knacker's new "product line" for 2012). Have a wonderful weekend!

Brenda

Soup Saturday ~ 10am-5pm Jan.7th

2012-01-05T09:04:00.000-08:00

cozy hot soup pic from www.salon.com

It's January...and what a weird weather January it's been. I know most of you are like, "Yippee...no snow!" But I spent my younger years in Maine and northern Minnesota and well, I miss the snow! Most retailers have been ecstatic w/ this weather as well. But gosh...how do you have a proper Soup Saturday at the shop when it's a mild 56 degrees outside on January 7th?!

last winter looking toward the barn

You just do! Since I have spent the rest of my years here in Iowa, I have learned to adapt to whatever is thrown my way...it's the Midwestern attitude! So....Soup Saturday at the shop it is! We will open the shop doors at 10am w/ a whole new look for the shop! Cheese soup, potato soup and chicken soup w/ rice will be served from real cups and bowls...yummy!! Joan and I have flipped the shop to a very different look. Reds & pinks with whites & blues are mixed in the front room w/ lots of sparkly glass, tarnished and some polished (really?!) silver...lots of ironstone and white pottery and a good dose of industrial goodness round it out. The next room is fun: a whole wall as a chalkboard w/ a funky industrial map case as your coffee table. A parts bin lines one wall w/ an enchanting garden scene on the brick portion of that room. A good functional Martha Stewart meets galvanized potting area on the enclosed porch! And the upstairs...well, I can't brag about it 'til we finish it...lots of lockers, mirrors and vintage clothing and such to wet your appetite!

We are open 'til 5pm on this Saturday. There will be a good $1 bin/tub and mark-downs on lots of good stuff around the shop. I promise pictures tonight!

Brenda

'Twas the week before Christmas

2011-12-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

We're having fun at the shop on these days leading up to Christmas! I don't believe it's ever looked better. We decided that this is the time we really need to look our Christmas best, so we continue to gather all the vintage baubles and finery to embellish the place. I really dislike going into a store this time of year and looking at skimpy displays...depressing! So head over to the shop and have a cup of coffee and take your time winding through the downstairs, porch, upstairs and finally the old kitchen...there's a lot to see! Please check on JB Knacker's Facebook page for specials especially the after-Christmas sale (one day only) on Monday, Dec. 26th from 9am-5pm...all vintage Christmas 50% off!

Still have a few of these wonderful little 1940's Christmas pendants at the shop ~ $10 each and will ship!

Hours leading up to Christmas:

**open Tues-Fri 1-6pm this week; open 10am-1'ish pm on Saturday, Christmas Eve (just call 233-2600 after 1pm to see if we're still there)

**open Monday, Dec. 26th from 9am-5pm for the JB Knacker vintage Christmas sale (50% off all Christmas for one day only!)

**open Tues-Fri 1-6pm & Sat (New Year's Eve) 10am-3pm the week after Christmas

**open every Saturday in January 10am-5pm (not open weekdays in January)...each and every Saturday has a different theme and fun specials!

still praying for a white Christmas

Have a blessed Christmas,
Brenda

Black Friday and Other Updates...

2011-11-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

JB Knacker will be open on Black Friday from 9am-6pm. The shop will have 20% off throughout and fun door busters! My newest employee, Joan (love her!), made mention that she didn't think we needed to have 20% off..."things are flying out right now...don't think we need to do a discount." I thought about this a while and then came to the conclusion that it's tradition at the shop and is a nice "thank you" to loyal customers and a nice surprise to new customers!

Door Busters ~ burlap wrapped bundle of evergreen embellished w/ vintage ornaments ($3 while supplies last) and "snow" covered mason jars great for luminaries ($2 while supplies last)

We will also be open on Saturday, Nov 26th from 10am-3pm...restocked and ready for a busy Saturday! And the town of Gilbert will celebrate Christmas next Saturday, Dec. 3rd w/ a home tour and Santa coming into town on the firetruck...also big tradition! JB Knacker will be ready for shoppers and friends on this day w/ treats and cider and more restocking, whirling and twirling of great new old finds! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving tomorrow and hope to see you!!

Brenda

And don't forget to sign up for our birdhouse charm workshop on Monday, December 5th from 6-8pm. Sarah Dorn and I will be demonstrating how to make this fun little balsa wood birdhouse charm. Cost is $25 and incl. all supplies, a ball & chain necklace and snacks and beverages throughout the evening. Call the shop at (515)233-2600 to register!

JB Knacker
a vintage home store
Tuesday-Friday 1-6pm & Saturday 10-3pm
123 Main Street, Gilbert, Iowa

JB Knacker Christmas Bash ~ Saturday, November 12th

2011-10-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

JB Knacker Christmas Bash
Saturday, November 12^th
10am-5pm

Remember Christmas as a kid…snow & sledding, skating & hot cocoa, family & food and midnight service & baby Jesus…JB Knacker hopes to keep those memories fresh and ready for this next generation! Join us for a wonderful day!

Junk-Down to Christmas Workshop!

2011-10-26T17:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday, November 13th

from 1:30-4:30pm at the shop.

Join us at JB Knacker to create a one-of-a-kind advent calendar.

All supplies provided.

It would be great if you could bring a basic craft kit (scissors, pencil, ruler and favorite adhesive). Beverages and yummy treats provided throughout the afternoon. This workshop will be in the trusty hands of resident paper artist Lara Gustafson w/ Brenda (owner of JB Knacker) assisting.

The Junk-down to Christmas calendar is made using a metal cafeteria tray and all sorts of vintage ephemera. This is a project-oriented workshop which means you will go home w/ a beautifully finished advent calendar to use this season or give as a wonderful gift. You will also learn some tricks on adhesion, staining & stamping and other fun handmade secrets!

The cost of the afternoon is $35.

You will also have the opportunity to gather all the supplies you need to make more of these at home ($15 each). You will find this project addictive…just ask our participants from last year’s workshop! To sign up, just call the shop at (515)233-2600 during business hours (Tues –Fri 1-6pm & Sat 10am-3pm). This workshop is held the day after JB Knacker’s big Christmas Bash Open House so the shop will be decked out and dripping in Christmas…fun!

Limit of 8 participants for this workshop so don’t delay!!

Ghouls Night Out at JB Knacker

2011-10-04T12:16:00.000-07:00

I just couldn't let Halloween go by this year without doing a little something at the shop, sooo...

Ghouls Night Out

image via Pinterest

A JB Knacker Halloween Party

Friday, October 7th from 6:30pm 'til 8:30ish

at JB Knacker

**no costumes necessary unless that helps you get into the spirit

**treats & drinks, wickedly fun vintage stuff, special guests Steve Hosch and Lara Gustafson and just a hauntingly good time...would love to have you by the old place!

Brenda

Fall for Junk...September 24th 8am-3pm!

2011-09-20T08:07:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, September 24th from 8am-3pm JB Knacker is hosting a really fun event. We throw the old shop doors open early at 8am, serve a light breakfast, have 20% the entire shop, host 15 creative vendors out in our side yard, hand-out maps to 8 area barn sales and lure you back to the shop between 2-3pm for a junk basket drawing not to be missed!! Tell your family and friends...spread the word 'cause this is the last event of this type for the season!

Our vendors who will be set up in the side yard include: Tricia Hall (jewelry and more), Sarah Dorn (jewelry and more), Jeff Tadsen (vintage refunked), Chris Backes (metal designs), Mary Husske (vintage and more vintage), Pam Hobbs (vintage and more vintage), Michelle (vintage and more vintage), Kate Hinrichs (vintage redesigns), Jenny and Becky (vintage and retro), Ann & Dorothy (vintage and repurposed), Natalie (colorful jewelry and vintage) and Peggy Petersen (vintage garden and more).

Barns on the route will be:

Carter Station w/ special guest Rusty Pumpkin ~ Story City

Junk'in 4 ~ Story City

Barntiques ~ Nevada

Red Barn Rustics ~ rural Boone ***thanks Carla for the "Fall for Junk" name***

Junk Refunkery ~ rural Boone

Once Was ~ Boone

Bittersweet 'n Berries ~ rural Boone

Dakota Junktion ~rural Ames

I would like to thank you all ahead of time. There is a lot one can do on a beautiful fall day...and you chose to junk w/ us...and you'll be happy you did...all of us are putting our best junk forward for you to embellish your home & garden, give as a one-of-a-kind gift or just treat yourself to a unique piece of history!
See you Saturday!

Brenda

***Hmmm...what to put in the Junk Basket to be given away at 2:30ish on Saturday...how about an old gym locker basket "tricked-out" w/ a metal # from Urban Forge (see above) and chocolate and a couple of new mags (Flea Market Style, Country Living) and a few more surprises...you'll want to head back to the shop for a chance at this and to grab any junk you missed first time around!!

Gearing Up

2011-09-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

September is going to be a wild ride! The shop has turned to an autumn look w/ metal, wood, burlap and mums. Halloween will creep into the shop around the middle of September while I am away at the Junk Bonanza in Shakopee, MN. Not necessarily the Halloween of your childhood, but more of a grownup old world, potions and hexes sort of Halloween...think chandeliers, candelabras and ravens. The Junk Bonanza begins Thursday, Sept. 15th...early bird entry at 8am and continues through Sat., Sept 17th! The JB Knacker booth is coming together nicely (in my head, that is) w/ a very quirky yet functional natural history theme w/ pops of color. The shop will be held down by paper artist, Lara Gustafson. Lara loves Halloween...so between twirling the upstairs of the shop into a devilish nature, you may find her working on her ever popular Halloween cards and tags. JB Knacker will also have a nice surprise for those of you who pop into the shop during those days that I am working my booth at the Junk Bonanza!

JB Knacker's last Main Street Flea Market will be held on Saturday, Sept. 24th from 8am - 3pm...note the early start! We will have a light breakfast buffet of donuts, muffins, fruit, juice & coffee, everything in the shop will be 20% off and plenty of vendors in the side yard of the shop peddling their wares. And our vendors have been good...whether you're looking for vintage, metal, funky jewelry or fall embellishments...we've got it! We will also have maps to all of the area barn, chicken shed and carriage house sales (so far 7)!! And will lure you back to the shop at 3ish w/ something really fun...stay tuned!

This day is also our little town's Harvest Festival. It's a time to celebrate the bountiful harvest, enter the pie baking contest and reunite w/ old friends. JB Knacker will be on the historical society's tour...a hay rack ride around town w/ stops at historic buildings. Tales will be spun about the days when Doc barbered/cut hair in the front room of the shop and his wife, Helen sorted the mail. Or back a little further when the old shop was Bush and Gerstein Music Store in the early 1900's...and maybe a few spooky tales as well - fun!

That will wrap up the special events in September, but I also have to give you a quick glimpse of the fun to come in October. JB Knacker is reviving the Halloween Party. Some of you die-hards may remember Julie and I throwing a Halloween Bash back in 2007 ~ a costume party no less. Well, this year, the old shop will be having another spooky night on Friday, October 7th from 6:30 - 8:30ish pm. Local artist Steve Hosch will be on hand w/ a shrine of his spooky assemblage pieces and day of the dead masks, treats & tricks will be served and everything you need to celebrate in style this season will be on hand for you to peruse...think beakers, test tubes, candelabras, refunked spooky portraits and so much more! A fun evening indeed!

                                                                                                                    Brenda

JB Knacker Main Street Market and Shop Hop!

2011-08-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

Fall is just around the corner...I can feel it, smell it and even start to see it in the crackly corn husks out in the field waiting for harvest. The mornings and evenings are different...cooler, dewier and mellower (are those last 2 even real words...in my mind, they work). I love this...maybe because in the Midwest it is such a fleeting time.

The shop will be awakened w/ all things harvesty...the old place has grown kind of used to this late summer lull where wonderful pieces slip in, are placed, purchased and slip out again....all without much of a shake up at all. It will be a gradual shake-up...over a week's time, but by next Friday (August 26th) those that are on the Fall Shop Hop will love it!

Here are the details of the Shop Hop...

The 1st annual Fall Shop Hop takes place Friday, August 26th 10am-4pm and Saturday, August 27th 10am-4pm. There are a total of 8 Story County shops on the Shop Hop: Blumsters, Moose on the Loose & Chicken Shed Primitives...all in Huxley; Sheldahl Crossing in Slater; Julieann's in Nevada; Antique Iowa in Story City; and Left Bank Studio and JB Knacker in Gilbert! Each shop will be having specials, treats and together we are going in on 8 gift certificates to be given away to those that "hit" all 8 shops!

At JB Knacker, we will have shop specials on Friday (and note we will be open 10am-6pm on Friday to greet Shop Hop shoppers) and fall treats served...on Saturday, August 27th it's a bit of a different story...

The JB Main Street Market will be in full swing by opening time at 10am. This is our 3rd flea market in the shop's side yard this year and proves to be a very exciting one! We have wonderful vendors peddling their creatively fantastic wares from repurposed jewelry to fun metal home and garden art...vintage furniture to refunked lighting...yummy baked goods to artsy primitive goods! Do names like Mama Peacock, Jeff Tadsen, LOL Salvage, Urban Forge and Red Barn Rustics make you just a bit curious? Other creative vendors coming ... Keith from Anything But New, Linda from Hargrove Made It, Mary Husske, Jody from Smil'in Moon, Wanda's baked goods and Pam Hobson. If it's a wonderfully cool pre-autumn morning, the cider will be hot and no matter the temperature outside, the donuts will be heaped on a big old platter. We will also be having handmade demos throughout the day...think metal stamping, jewelry and journal making...).

Brenda

It's a New Year!

2011-08-18T07:42:00.000-07:00

Well, it is for me anyway. The day the kids go off to school is bittersweet for me. They are excited and not so much all at the same time...sad to have summer go by so fast...eager to see friends. What does the new school year have in store for my senior, 7th grader and 4th grader? Still have the soon-to-be sophomore in college home for a few more days and my senior in college coming home from his St. Louis internship tomorrow (update: I am giving prayers of thanks as my son just called and was in a car accident...he is unhurt, and that is all I care about at this moment...we will go down and pick him up tomorrow). How quickly things can change. And of coarse, little Cecilia will be my side-kick all year long...going on junk trips and working at the shop w/ mom! What does this new school year have in store for you? Even if you don't have kids or the kids are all out of the house or maybe not even in school yet...can you smell it in the air...a new season...a new year?

In the next few days, I will be posting the exciting events to come at JB Knacker in the next few weeks...the shop will be getting whirled into an autumn mode and the side yard will be full of vendors in just over a week!

Pardon the Mess

2011-08-05T21:58:00.001-07:00

Pardon the mess, our blog will be undergoing an transformation this weekend :-)

It's Gonna be a Good One...Flea Market this Saturday, July 23rd !

2011-07-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

I do believe I was supposed to have a picture of the flea market cart that will be raffled off at 2:30ish on Saturday afternoon. A picture was just not in the cards today! Instead, close your eyes and envision a black wire cart w/ ultra-precision wheels, luxurious rubber-grip bar...ok, ok, this is what it's all about - if your name is drawn from the galvanized bucket (have to be present to win) you get a great flea market cart (thank you Kay at Barntiques) to stash all of your flea market finds; a very cool and urban canvas # pillow w/ typewriter key tag to curl up w/ in the back of your pick up when your flea buddy has to go back for just one more find; a pretty prairie bouquet in a classic old canning jar; and a stash of great decorating books and magazines!

Our flea market vendors are set...10 of them...really talented and sweet people. And even though the old shop has schlepped through this week without a pinch of air conditioning, my heating & cooling guy says it will be ready to go on Saturday! My week of gathering was not hampered a bit by the numerous meetings w/ various mechanics who had never, ever seen a blower motor like the one in my furnace...no, not a bit. The hampering crept in more of the homemaking/good mothering skills...timely meals, washed dishes or clothes, swept floor, uncluttered porch, bathed children...not-so-much!

Thankfully, I've left a nice chunk of work yet to be done on Friday...but we'll be ready! If the crowd is as large as the last flea market (June 25th) and the rain holds off, we will be checking out in the kitchen of the shop as well as outside. There are fun places to be checked out on Saturday (and we'll have fliers to 'em all), but we want you to return for the BIG drawing as well as one last swoop through the vendors and shop. Then stay if you can...JB Knacker will slowly shut down by 3ish...we'll pull up a chair, open some cheap wine or crappy beer and enjoy a good small town car & tractor show...would love to have you by the old place!

Brenda

Big Day in Gilbert next Saturday!

2011-07-16T20:10:00.000-07:00

Small towns have a way of throwing a really good party! And that's what we're up to in Gilbert next Saturday, July 23rd. The JB Knacker Flea Market is back with wonderful vendors in the side yard of the shop from 10am-3pm...Tracy from Once Was, Sarah from Mama Peacock, Tricia from Vintage 35, Mary, Becky and Lara (who haven't named themselves yet), Jodi from Smil'in Moon (maybe...Jodi if you see this call me and confirm), Tawnya's cupcakes from the Ames Cupcake Emporium and several other quality vendors! If you were at the Flea Market on June 25th, you'll know what I am talking about...awesome vendors! JB Knacker will be a "new" shop inside...we have to be 'cause we've sold down to the bare bones...this is going to be a fun week of gathering!! Cold blueberry infused lemonade will be on tap all day.

We're also going to have directions to 3 great barns that are opening their big old doors and letting the vintage tumble out next Saturday: Carter Station w/ special guest Rusty Pumpkin will be in Story City; Barntiques in Nevada and Ted's Shed in Woolstock!

Head back to JB Knacker near the end of the afternoon (2-3pm) and put your name in the drawing for a flea market cart ~ or as we call it a junker's survival kit (it will be stocked w/ some fun stuff). You have to be present to win. We'll draw at 3pm and then relax a bit before the tractor show begins at 4pm on Main Street...I'm thinking crappy beer and cheap wine. So, to be legal and all, BYOB/BYOW...some good old Schlitz, Milwaukee's Best or even Boone's Farm will do nicely. I'll have some trashy snacks (but good eats) like Ritz and cheese in a can. There will be food down the street at Open Flame and then a band/street dance at 8pm! What a fun little town!!

Leave a comment and let me know you're coming!
~Brenda
\

July...bring it on!

2011-06-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

Here at JB Knacker, we're looking forward to the good 'ol month of July! We are open regular hours this Saturday, but will be closed on Monday, the 4th...and then back to our regular summer hours after that (Mon.-Fri. 10am-6pm & Sat. 10am-3pm).

After Junkin in June last Saturday, I have been recovering...got a little bit of a chest cold. But getting a little run down was never so worth it! The crowds were amazing even in the rain...they never stopped coming. The flea market vendors did a superb job w/ really wonderful stuff and display...thank you all! And I have heard wonderful comments from the occasional sales and shops that were on the route..."best day we ever had"..."it was amazing"...and one gal just shook her head and smiled in disbelief! So thank you customers for sharing this day w/ us. Is there another in the works for this year?...stay tuned...maybe October'ish?!! Oh...I forgot to say congratulations to the winners of our junk survival kits...Shelley and Miccia.

In the meantime, we are gathering and sprucing up all of the empty spots in the shop. We have a very pretty Queen Anne style table and 4 caned back chairs coming in by Saturday. New old concrete in the form of a cute bird bath and big tulip shaped urn will be in soon. The best old cabinet cards and lace will be in the shop by tomorrow. More cute metal lockers in blue and white...coming soon. Fun ornate mirrors just leaning up against my hickory tree at home will be in shop tomorrow as well. And best of all, my mom and sister and I are going on a little road trip tomorrow to gather more finds (hope I feel better)!

JB Knacker will be host to the 2nd flea market of the summer in the side yard of the shop on Saturday, July 23rd from 10am-3pm (the later start gives our vendors that come from a little farther away a fighting chance to get the booth set and ready to go). Many of the same vendors as last Saturday will be here as well as several new ones! That day is in conjunction w/ a "shop hop" going on between the towns of Huxley, Nevada, Story City and good old Gilbert! Also a car and tractor show will be happening on Gilbert Main Street that day...lots of good old fashioned fun! That's the news for now...have a wonderful 4th of July!

~ Brenda

Junkin in June drawings at JB Knacker

2011-06-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

OK, pretty sure prop styling is not my thing. But I promised a sneak peak at the junker's survival kit. This kit includes: a vintage locker basket, a vintage apron, a vintage canning jar filled w/ flowers, cool beverages and sweet treats, a vintage measuring tape, a fresh-off-the-press junkin t-shirt (actually, they're at the screen printer as we speak), a fresh decorating/junking magazine and 2 tickets to the Junk Bonanza in September ~ a $70 value!

Because I am "flying" from here to there getting things prepared for Saturday, I forgot to photograph the tickets in the basket...but you will get them! And best of all, we will be drawing for 2 of these baskets!! All you have to do is be present at JB Knacker by 2:30pm for the first drawing and 3:00pm for the 2nd drawing...and yes, your name can be in for both drawings (well, unless you won the first one).

Good luck and can't wait to see you on Saturday!
~Brenda

Junkin in June

2011-06-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 25th is 1 week away and central Iowa has a treat for the locals and those of you who want to travel a bit further...because this day will be worth it! I think a tentative title for the day has been Junkin in June...but all of us involved are so dang busy getting our shops, barns, sheds, chicken coops and carriage houses spit shined...as well as our vintage wares polished and positioned...well a formal name has really never surfaced. But for the sake of all being on the same page (and are we ever), Junkin in June it shall be! And what is Junkin in June? It's a day filled w/ free breakfast, great deals, a flea market, drawings for great Junk Bonanza (awesome junk venue held in Sept. in Minnesota) prizes, 7 occasional sales, and a shop grand opening all in central Iowa.

JB Knacker is rolling in lots of vintage goodness right now. We're also perking up the shop in certain places...like the kitchen and the upstairs...so by the time June 25th rolls around, you will hardly recognize the place (in a good way!). We will also be host to a flea market in our side yard w/ so far 9 talented vendors: Mama Peacock, Vintage #35, Cheryl Tomlison Designs, a photography booth, a vintage clothing booth, Wanda's wonderful baked goods, macrame art/jewelry booth by Mary, ephemera and 50's kitchenware booth by Lara and a booth by Smilin Moon Designs.

I like to think JB Knacker is "ground zero" for this fun day...we open doors at 8am w/ 20% off the entire shop. We offer a light breakfast of muffins, fruit, juice and coffee. A wonderful flea market of talented vendors (see above) will be in the side yard. We will have maps to all of the great occasional sales in the area and a couple of fun shops (one having its grand opening) and then we lure you back at 2pm w/ ice cream and 2 big drawings we think of as junker's survival kits (they each incl. 2 free tickets to the Junk Bonanza plus so much more). You must be present to win. Stay tuned and check back as I will have a picture of said survival kit in the next few days.

The following shops will be open on this day and would love to have you stop in!

JB Knacker in Gilbert: 123 Main St, Gilbert, IA 50105…(515)233-2600 *Join The Breakfast Club at 8am and enjoy a free light breakfast, 20% off entire shop, flea market in side yard and from 2-3pm come back for Junk Bonanza drawings (everything you’ll need to have a successful junkin trip to the Bonanza including the tickets!) & ice cream ~5 miles north of Ames on Hwy 69, west at Gilbert Casey’s corner to Main St

One Man’s Junk in Ames: 114 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010… (515)-233-5865 ~on the east corner of intersection of Duff Ave & Lincolnway in Ames

Sheldahl Crossing in Slater: 408 Main St, Slater, IA 50244…(515)228-3060 *Grand Opening of vintage shop that also has coffee/ baked goods…open 9:00am-4:00pm on Saturday ~Hwy 69 south, turn right onto 210W or just take Dakota Ave south out of Ames and keep going ‘til you hit Slater

The following occasional sales are on the tour and have been waiting for this day to throw open their doors and welcome you!

Dakota Junktion in north Ames: 2222 North Dakota Ave, Ames, IA 50014…(515)450-6920 Saturday: 9:00am-3:00pm ~turn north off of Lincolnway in Ames at Dakota Ave, over railroad tracks and first curve in road…look for sign or out of Gilbert on George Washington Carver, west on Cameron School Road, south on North Dakota Ave

Once Was in Boone: 325 Linn St, Boone, IA 50036…(515)238-3795

Saturday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm & Sun: 10:00 am-4:00 pm ~into Boone from Hwy 30, turn north onto Story, turn east on Mamie Eisenhower, right on Linn or follow the signs from the Junk Refunkery

Junk Refunkery in rural Boone: 1759 205th St, Boone, IA 50036…(515) 230-6140 Saturday: 10:00am-4:00pm & Sunday10:00am- 4:00pm ~turn west off of Hwy 17 onto 205th St & follow the signs

Red Barn Rustics in rural Boone: 2007 205th St, Boone, IA 50036…(515)432-8421 Saturday: 9am-4pm ~ again on 205th St, just go east from Junk Refunkery or from Hwy 30 going west, turn north on gravel road just past the United School building and go to 205th St, turn east & look for sign

Bittersweet ‘n Berries in rural Boone: 140th St, Boone, IA 50036…(515)432-7577 Saturday: 9:00am-4:00pm ~north on Hwy 17 to 140th; east 1 ½ miles…look for signs

Barntiques in Nevada: 2000 5th St, Nevada, IA 50201…(515)382-2380 Saturday: 9:00am-4:00pm ~Either take Hwy 30 into Nevada or old Hwy 30/Lincolnway into Nevada…Kay’s barn is located in the NW corner of Nevada…just find 5th St and follow it that direction ~ Kay will be handing out fun old key's w/ metal tags...you'll just have to go to get the details on this fun give-away!

Sweet Annies in rural Elkhart: 2438 NE 142nd Ave, Elkhart, IA 50073…(515)367-3042 Saturday: 8:00am-3:00pm ~this chicken coop can be found by taking Hwy 69 to Alleman corner, turn east and look for signs or take I35 to Elkhart exit, go west and look for signs

**Actual maps and written directions available at most sales and shops

**Note that both Once Was and Junk Refunkery are also open on Sunday, June 26th

**Just ask at any of the sales for more directions or to be pointed in the right direction and thank you for joining us on this day

Oh HAPPY dAY!

2011-06-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

lovely old bottles and canning jars and coffee jars...lots of fun old glass for you to choose from

Ephemera...we got it!

This little bird bath sold, but we have 2 more chunky white ones left

St Frances statue still available

The Garden Party is behind us now, but oh...it was a gooood one! The weather held...was a bit cloudy...just reminded me of a summer morning tending the garden before the sun breaks through. Thanks to all of you that made it out. I appreciate your support and your word-of-mouth advertising you do for the shop. And a big thanks to my shop girls...Sarah, Ambrianna, Lizzie, Clare, Joy and Kate...for helping get everything done. Also, thank you Jane for these wonderful pictures you took during the party!

The fun never ends at a small brick 'n mortar shop...we've extended our hours this summer! Some shops condense hours in the summer, but not old JB Knacker...bring it on! The summer hours are Monday - Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday 10am-3pm ~ almost double our regular hours! We have projects we want to tackle and vintage we need to get out, so we are working doubly hard to bring you the best stuff!

OK, Blogger isn't letting me load any more pictures right now, so I will get to my last item of business for this post...The Breakfast Club is just 23 days away...Saturday, June 25th from 8am-3pm!! This is one of the best days of the year at JB Knacker! We open the old doors early at 8am, serve you a light breakfast, have 20% off the whole shop and have a flea market of wonderful artists and junkers in the side yard. If that's not enough, we send you on your way w/ a map to 6 plus occasional sales in the area (barns, chicken coops and carriage houses). Really...it's that good. So, start planning your day now...you'll need a van, truck or even trailer if you are super serious! More to come on this...oh, so much more!

~Brenda

Garden Party 2011...Tomorrow (Saturday, May 28th)!

2011-05-26T22:04:00.000-07:00

Just 24 hrs. to go 'til our Garden Party, and it looks like the weather may be just fine! Hope to see you on Saturday anytime between 10am - 3pm. We'll have hot coffee and donuts in the morning (not gourmet...but still good eats) and break out the lemonade and cookies/bars later in the day. Vintage garden will be everywhere inside and outside of the shop on this day. As well as JB Knacker's signature look...ornate old frames, wire locker baskets, crystal & silver, cottage pottery, vintage dresses, metal lab stools, ephemera, linens...so much more!

Saturday Deal of the Day

2011-05-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

sorry....no peonies have "popped" yet...hopefully in time for next Saturday, though!

Wow, things are growing w/ all of this rain! The Garden Party is in just one week and the plants should be pretty lush w/ all of this precipitation. Today's (Saturday) deal of the day is: pretty little pint canning jars w/ pretty bunches of snowball flowers or lily of the valley tucked inside ~ $3.00 each! Hope to see some of you!

Brenda

Thursday & Friday Deals of the Day

2011-05-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

Thursday and Friday deal of the day at JB Knacker will be $4.00 typewriter key charms! We have a plethora of fun typewriter and old cash register key charms that would look great alone or added as another charm to a bracelet or funky junk necklace. So head on over to the shop to see what we've been up to, and help yourself to a handful of $4 keys!

And remember, all of these deals are leading up to the big garden party on Saturday, May 28th 10am-3pm...so keep checking the blog!
Brenda

Tuesday's Deal of the Day

2011-05-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Just starting the yard work leading up to the garden party on Saturday, May 28th. Well, mowing the tall grass is a start...but so much more to do. The big girl, little girl and I are heading to the greenhouse today to pick out pretty perennials and flowering baskets or at least the "ingredients" to make them.

Now for Tuesday's (May 17th) deal of the day...# pillow covers are just $15 each! These pillow covers measure 18" x 18" and are made from sturdy canvas and hand sewn w/ an envelope type closure. They each come w/ an authentic typewriter key tag and look great w/ an IKEA 20" x 20" feather pillow (not incl.) stuffed into each. The #'s we have remaining are the lucky #7 and the nice even #4 and are heat pressed onto the pillow cover in large black font...way cooler than Pottery Barn (and might I add, done at JB Knacker 1 1/2 yrs before Pottery Barn)! At $15, they are almost 50% off retail price. Stop in tomorrow and say "Hi" to Sarah (I'll be at a park w/ a bunch of 3rd graders checking out pond life).

Brenda

Gearing Up For a Garden Party

2011-05-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

The Garden Party at JB Knacker is a mere 2 weeks away and boy, do we have our work cut-out for us...the turning of the soil, the sowing of the seed and the gathering of the vintage goods! Mark your Farmer's Almanac for Saturday, May 28th from 10am - 3pm rain or shine! Until then, check this blog daily for the JB Knacker deal of the day...it's our countdown to the big Garden Party and will be a fun teaser of what's to come!

~ Saturday (5/14) deal of the day~
vintage silverware garden marker just $2.00 each

One of the most delightful things about a garden is the anticipation it provides ~ J.E. Johns

Charm Bracelet Workshop at JB Knacker

2011-04-25T12:34:00.000-07:00

trinkets

some of Sarah's rings in a cute display at the shop

anagrams & keys and so much more can work as charms...be creative!

We would love to see a full room at the shop this coming Friday night (April 29th). JB Knacker will be hosting a great charm bracelet workshop from 6pm 'til 8ish pm. Sarah Dorn from Mama Peacock will be leading the workshop and I will be assisting. If you've never met Sarah before, this will be a treat. She has a wealth of knowledge in creating fabulous pieces of jewelry, and lights up a room w/ her positive uplifting outlook! You will learn joinery techniques in putting your one-of-a-kind charms onto your bracelet as well as a few new techniques in altering charms such as stamping metal, inking and collage. I have been squirreling away fun little trinkets in preparation for this workshop, and Sarah has a wonderful stash of new and old lovelies to choose. The cost is only $35.00 for the evening and all supplies are included. And you go home w/ a beautiful charm bracelet that you created. This is a fantastic price for this workshop as I usually see these bracelets sell for upwards of $50.00 at shows and shops! We will also be stuffing our faces w/ angel food cake, whip (as my kids call it) and strawberries...tea and wine will also be served. How do you sign up? The old fashioned way...just call the shop at 233-2600 and we'll reserve a spot for you!

Record Breaking and Dangerous

2011-04-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

March was a record-breaking month for JB Knacker! Thanks to all of you who had a part in that in a big way or even some small way...I appreciate all of you! The last 2 weeks of March saw all sorts of cool vintage come into the shop and then fly out as soon as I placed 'em. But one can revel in success only so long or it's back to "square one." So...

The shop will be getting another overhaul in the next 2 days to gear up for April. Wire and metal and old glass...a plethora of vintage science models that would make the most talked about art...big sturdy functional lockers in the best color...darn good ephemera...lots and lots of sturdy metal lab stools...old thick bubbly glass science bell jars/cloches (one on a funky metal pedestal)...and gym locker baskets, yeah we got'em!

You'd think we dismantled a high school...well, we did play a part . It was bittersweet to walk through this once majestic 4 story school in NW Iowa...and it wasn't even my alma mater. Listening to alumnus talk about the good old days and which room was Mr. Hinkle's...who, by the way, had a science room to die for! For the life of me, why wouldn't you take this stuff to the new building...wasteful...but I guess that's how the junk cycles.

I am not a normal junker when it comes to auctions...hate 'em and try to avoid them at all costs. Well, my husband thought better on this one and dragged me along. It was an all day deal (who has all day to spend at one of these?) and crowded (at my age, funny things are happening to my hormones making me unnecessarily panicky in a crowd)! So I would wander off away from the crowd to let my husband bid on the skeleton in the lunchroom...off to a quiet part of the building...say, the music room (deep breath...Hail Mary, Full of Grace...this prayer has helped me through a few panic attacks in my day)...lucky for me, I spy a gaggle of wire gym baskets under the stairwell. The rest is history (or dare I say, Physical Ed)...it was a good day. But with the good, you gotta take the bad and downright dangerous...like driving home w/ a box full of hydrogen tanks and glass vials of neon, mercury and the element that kills superman in the back of your vehicle (didn't know what was in that box when we loaded it...should they even have auctioned that off?).

Well, lucky for us when we arrived home w/ our van of vintage goodness, poison and explosives, our sweet girls had baked their little hearts out...rhubarb strawberry tarts and chocolate cherry cookies...yummm! Here's to a fun, adventurous and downright "dangerous" April!

~ Brenda

Have I Not Done One of These in a While?...a Sale!

2011-03-22T19:06:00.000-07:00

I don't think I have...a good old fashioned shop sale...say, like 20% off of everything! Well then, it's time! I have been plenty busy scouring the landscape for wonderful stuff and have had the honor to have some wonderful stuff come knocking on my door! So let me throw a few pictures out...

Fun stuff abounds...and these pictures are a few days old...since then, I have had the best time in an old barn and chicken shed (don't think too much into that)! Oh yes, the details of the sale...

JB Knacker Shop Sale ~ Saturday, March 26th from 10 am - 3pm! Everything in the old 2 story building and the side yard will be 20% off for this day only!

I have to brag just a little...the prices at JB Knacker are very fair...so at 20% off, you've got quite a deal on some pretty unique stuff. This is not the frivolous stuff we've been told to stay away from by the financial advisers due to the economic down-turn...this is good old garden stuff to get the kitchen garden going and sturdy furniture that will last more than another generation and true blue mason jars w/ zinc lids and metal lockers, wire baskets, real birds' nests, cement birdbaths, crystal chandeliers, primitive wood in many forms and just plain great finds to motivate your decorating spirit as spring begins. This sale will only be advertised on this blog, the JB Knacker Facebook page and to those of you that are on my email list...so pass the word along if you're the sharing type and thank you for keeping my job so much fun!
Hope to see you,
Brenda

Spring Fever Event Freebie

2011-03-03T06:07:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to show the fun little gift w/ purchase you receive at JB Knacker's Spring Fever Event on this Saturday and Sunday (while supplies last!).

A super cute and functional garden marker stamped into embellished vintage forks & spoons...I better get going...got a lot of hammering to do! Hope to see you at Spring Fever ~ Saturday 10am-5pm & Sunday noon- 4pm!

~Brenda

Spring Fever Event

2011-02-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

The snow has melted and allowed us to find several lost toys and a sled or two thought to be gone forever! Yellow grass, lots of mud and a different damp cold that chills you to the bone...not my favorite time of the year! I need to brush this pre-spring ugliness aside and focus on what is to come...Spring Fever... JB Knacker's fresh twist on all things spring and the vintage rebirth is only 5 days away!

But first, a little silliness...no, let's call it craziness. The sun shone and the winds blew warmer air our way last Saturday allowing the 2 bigger girls a chance to commune w/ a local rodent. Lest I remind them of rabies...but you gotta love how good those little creatures are at playing dead... and no, she didn't pet it...just staged for her Facebook!

   Spring Fever
"And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it fairly makes your heart ache you want it so!"    ~ Mark Twain

                                  Saturday, March 5th 10am - 5pm and Sunday, March 6th noon - 4pm

Here's the scoop on this Saturday & Sunday, March 5th and 6th. On Saturday, our hours are 10am - 5pm. Spring will be plunked all over the shop. What does that mean? Just come on out to discover...be thinking slate, pottery, wire, chippy painted wood, moss, painted metal, bubbly old glass, bark...a very organic twist, but also a little something for every style! There will be a fun vintage garden gift w/ purchase while supplies last. We are open from noon - 4pm on Sunday, and we will continue with the fun gift w/ purchase on this day as well. Yummy treats, beverages and loads of inspiration served all weekend! Saturday tends to be a little wild at times, so if that makes you nervous, I highly recommend the slower paced Sunday. There will be restocking done on Saturday night, plenty of treats and maybe a bit more time to chat with you about your garden, kids and latest projects. Whatever works for you...we would love to see you! Have a great rest of the week!!
~Brenda

February Faves...

2011-02-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

We're back to regular hours at the shop after a wonderful January of Saturdays only and then a couple of sweet snowy days to start February. Shopgirl Kate will be at the shop today to greet you and help you w/ those special finds ( I will be home w/ a croupy, feverish 2 yr old...woohoo!).

yummy soaps w/ the sweet smell of spring to arrive soon

The gears are turning for a special smallish event in February...still pondering it over my morning coffee. With Spring Fever coming the first Saturday in March (JB Knacker's intro to all things spring), it's hard to know if I can fit another "thing" into the next couple of weeks.

But first, let's digest a little bit of a JB Knacker style February...

Enjoy this wonderful month...

Brenda

Goodbye January...

2011-01-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

We're approaching the last Saturday in January and it's somewhat bittersweet. These "Saturdays only" in January have been fun and allowed me a wonderful break during the week (sort of). But I think most Iowans and most from the Midwest welcome February w/ open arms. The winter is long in these parts, and we all crave more sunshine and daylight...so mother nature and father time (remember the song from Charlotte's Web...) keep rolling on.

Made a fun road trip this week and loaded up the vehicle w/ the good stuff (globes, wire, mirrors, old jars w/ zinc lids, cool diamond-paned windows, metal totes and funky metal drafting stools). The little one was wedged between all of this but happily slept the whole way home (was a wild thing while I was searching, though).

Hope you can all make it out this Saturday, January 29th 10am - 5pm. I do know the free bin will be spilling over...lots of fun free stuff has gone home w/ many a customer this past month. Their biggest question, "Are you sure this is free?" Sometimes it's just time to let "it" go and that's how I feel about the cool old stuff in the "free bin." I'm thinking about having a lace and linen bin as well. I will never get all of the wonderful fabrics, clothing and bits of beautiful lace I have collected over the years washed, starched or ironed...never...so this will be a fun bin to go through...it may just be a $1 an item!

The upstairs room is getting put back together as a paper and ephemera room...think button and paper flowers, ephemera collections, trinket bags, funky twine and notion tags ~ you'll just have to come and see...it's all in the details!

And with February beginning next Tuesday (also the return of our regular hours at JB Knacker), stay-tuned for a festive event that I've been dreaming up...

~ Brenda

Life is Precious

2011-01-18T12:56:00.000-08:00

This Saturday is fast approaching and because it falls on January 22nd, the anniversary of Roe vs Wade, we will be celebrating Life at the shop on this day. We will also be donating 20% of what gets put into the old cash register on this day to Birthright of Ames, whose mission statement goes something like this..."It is the right of every pregnant woman to give birth and it is the right of every baby to be born." Birthright has been a leader in this community in positive outreach to women who find themselves pregnant and scared....emotional encouragement and supportive counseling as well as tangible items such as maternity clothing, infant and toddler clothing and supplies are readily available. I am so proud of the work these volunteers do on a daily basis and want to help support their outreach. I hope you do too! This is a day to be thankful for our mothers and fathers who said "yes" to Life!

Update: thank you to all of the wonderful people that made their way to the shop on Saturday...$176.00 was raised to help Birthright of Ames!

To make this day extra special, Tawnya from The Cupcake Emporium in Ames will be whipping up some yummy treats for all to enjoy and liquid refreshments will be on hand to wash all that goodness down.

New vintage items are making their way to the shop all week...cool metal locker units, more funky metal street signs and oh so functional, yet stylish metal work stools (a theme of metal?). A new look for our windows will be unveiled as well (think paper, old photos and pops of color).

Come and celebrate Life w/ JB Knacker...it's a wonderful thing!

Shop hours on Saturday, January 22nd ~ 10am - 5pm

Brenda

This Saturday at JB Knacker

2011-01-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

January is flying by...do you all feel that way, too? This Saturday (Jan. 15th) is just a couple of days away and yes, I am scrambling, juggling and flipping as fast as I can. Many big pieces have left the shop during the last 2 Saturdays and tons of smalls as well! But never fear, there is always more to be found, dusted off and placed in just the right spot. Three wooden bookshelves have found there way into the old shop in the last couple of days as well as a dainty painted coffee table and an old radio cabinet that would make the best wine/liquor cabinet. Another wonderful iron bed painted chippy white and maybe just maybe, a beauty of a 7ft harvest table will make it's way to the shop before Saturday?! Lots of fun new old books w/ great colors, titles and probably darn good reads, too (if you're into that). I'm unpacking fun little stuff as we speak...ironstone, silver platters, linens and creating wall hooks by combining painted old wood pieces with vintage wire hooks. Also hoping I can recruit the college age son and his friends to move the monster cupboard in the front room to its new location and change up the feel of that old general store room a bit.

Fresh, fun and feisty are the key words for this Saturday at the shop...would love to have you check us out! Open Saturday, January 15th from 10am - 5pm...always fun, unexpected specials/sales throughout the shop on these Saturdays in January! Stay tuned for thoughts & sales for the last 2 Saturdays of this month!

~ Brenda

Soup Saturday

2011-01-07T07:05:00.000-08:00

"In January
it's so nice
while slipping
on the sliding ice
to sip hot chicken soup with rice.
Sipping once
Sipping twice"

~ Maurice Sendak

Slide on over to JB Knacker from 10am - 5pm this Saturday (the 8th). We will be serving up bowls/cups of hot soup...yum! And while you are sipping, you can be rummaging for crazy, cool vintage! We would love to have you by the old place!
~ Brenda

Spring Cleaning

2010-12-29T09:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I don't see the New Year as a new beginning. The new beginning in this house is more the first day of school in late summer. January 1st actually feels more like "spring cleaning" to me...out w/ the old (2010) and in with the new! At the shop, nothing really gets thrown out...but some does get sent to a new home...Goodwill, a consignment store, Salvation Army or deconstructed to be made into something new and fresh. What is left of Christmas gets lovingly wrapped and tucked away 'til next year. The beautifully tarnished soft pink ornaments are grouped together and placed in big apothecary jars for Valentine's Day. The dry, poky, once-fresh evergreen and tree get hauled outside to the back of the shop for Dan and Gary (Gilbert town crew) to chip and use as they see fit. Once I dig in, I really start to get inspired for the new look for this new year...2011. I see soft fresh pastels, organic and natural at its finest, and neutrals with pops of glossy black.

JB Knacker will be open on January 1st from 1-4pm. And every Saturday in January thereafter (Jan. 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th from 10am - 5pm). We will return to regular hours on February 1st (Tuesday - Friday 1pm - 6pm and Saturday 10am - 3pm).

My goal at the shop is that each and every Saturday will have different looks, cool new old pieces and fresh decorating ideas for you to tuck away for your own home. See you real soon!!

'Twas the week before the week before Christmas...

2010-12-13T07:34:00.000-08:00

And all through the shop, not a ... sorry, too much thought to make that work! But here it is less than 2 weeks before the blessed day! The kids have been waiting for snow and Santa and most importantly, the birth of Jesus. Trying hard in our house to keep that order right. At the shop it can be a struggle to mix retail and the deep religious importance of this date...but I attempt to do it w/ a sense of reverence, elegance and even humbleness to the holiness of this event...and a twist of humor to keep the kid in all of us happy. So w/ that in mind...let me fill you in on what's happening this week at the shop:

**Tuesday, December 14th after we close up shop at 6pm, the soldered charm workshop begins! We have room for more! This is a wonderful opportunity to make a couple more gifts for those on our list. Many people have taken the "Handmade Christmas" challenge and this would be a wonderful way to stick to that theme of heartfelt and handmade. The cost is $35 and you get to create 2 custom soldered charms! Give us a call at (515)233-2600 to sign up.

**Wednesday, December 15th we will be host to a fun make-and-take at the shop w/ local artist, Lara Gustafson from 1-3 pm. Beautiful Christmas tags and mini-booklets will be the craft of choice...don't miss it!

**Big News and a bit of a change from last year...JB Knacker's last day of being open before Christmas(and for the rest of December for that matter) is this Saturday, Dec. 18th. We will have extended hours from 9 am - 5 pm! Christmas will be 50% off (includes wreaths, vintage ornaments, nativities, old ice skates, Christmas cards (handmade & vintage), sleds...and much of this Christmas is being brought out just this week! Also, JB Knacker's gift cards will be 20% off on this day!! We don't do a plastic gift card at JB...these little beauties are altered antique cabinet cards tucked into a burlap sleeve...a beautiful gift to a loved one or you!

Thank you and bless you for supporting my shop this year...it's been a very good year for the little shop, but it couldn't happen without your loyalty and wonderful word-of-mouth advertising you do for JB Knacker! I look forward to 2011 at the shop...what new events will pop up this year?...what new workshops will develop?...what new vintage inspired handmade items will be created?...and the vintage stuff to be discovered keeps me going!!

thinking about using this for the Christmas family photo, but the little one is missing (she's to the left in her car seat coloring her bare legs w/ permanent marker)...difficult to get all the kids together at once

And finally, for the third year in a row JB Knacker will be open only on Saturdays in January. Each and every Saturday in January (yes, even January 1st!!) JB Knacker will throw open our old doors to a new look from the Saturday prior. It keeps us on our toes to create new looks and provide fresh vintage stuff!

January 1st (limited hours) ~ 1pm - 4pm
January 8th ~ 10am - 5pm
January 15th ~ 10am - 5pm
January 22nd ~ 10am - 5pm
January 29th ~ 10am - 5pm

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
Brenda

Main Street Christmas

2010-11-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

Join us this Saturday, Dec. 4th in Gilbert...a town just 4 miles north of Ames. A small town known for great schools, pride in community, a darn good tractor club, and a handful of dedicated businesses. We are hard workers and it shows.

Now this little Christmas celebration on Main Street isn't all fussy and fancy...but it will be good hometown fun! JB Knacker and The Left Bank Studio open our doors at 9 am sharp. We'll be cozy and welcoming and brimming over with Christmas fluff and gifts galore. There will be hot cider & coffee, gourmet cocoa and tasty Mimosas to quench your thirst and warm your souls. Nibble on quiche, fruit and baked goods while you shop. The Left Bank Studio will artistically wrap any gift purchased inside their brick 'n mortar shop. The Gilbert Historical Society will set up camp inside JB Knacker's doors and will be spinning folklore as well as selling their ever popular Gilbert school slates throughout the day.

Down the street at Open Flame, enjoy wine & beer tasting w/ appetizers from 2:30-4:30 pm. The old fashioned small town Christmas celebration will conclude w/ carols and tree lighting at 5:15 pm while we wait for Santa to arrive via the firetruck at the fire station at 5:30 pm. Plenty of popcorn and fellowship for everyone as the little ones share their Christmas wishes w/ Santa 'til 6:30 pm.

And as a nice ending to a perfect small town day, a drawing for a workshop (for up to 5 people) presented by both JB Knacker and The Left Bank Studio plus a $20 gift certificate to The Open Flame!

Black Friday at JB Knacker

2010-11-24T19:15:00.000-08:00

Here's the scoop on Black Friday at JB Knacker...we open at 9am. Everything in the shop is 20% off! Our door busters are JB custom pillow covers (eye chart and number) $20 each, vintage typewriter keys $5 each and our chunky hand-cut soaps $2.50 each! A drawing for a $50 JB Knacker gift card at the end of the day. Hot cider, coffee and homemade gingersnap cookies all day...we'll break out the wine at 3ish. Make-and-take craft from 1-4pm w/ local artist, Lara Gustafson... Believe Santa gift tags (only $1) and mini tag booklets (only $2)... really great gifts or decorations for your home! An abundance of "nature" out in the side yard...bundles of twigs, funky branches, fresh evergreen...and inside, a full shop of new old stuff awaits!! We close at 6pm to restock and "fluff" for Saturday (10am - 3pm). Can't wait to see you and Happy Thanksgiving!!

Vintage Typewriter Keys $5 each...disregard the date...don't know how to use a camera@#!

Chunky Hand-cut Soap in orange clove, mulled cider and pumpkin cheesecake $2.50 each...again, disregard the date@#@%!

Eye Chart Pillows (these w/ feather inserts)...remember, these pillows also come w/ a fun vintage typewriter key attached to the little tab on each pillow $20 each (feather insert not included, but fits a 18" x 18" - 20" x 20" pillow insert)

2010-11-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

Hope this shop update finds you all healthy and looking forward to Thanksgiving. We're possibly looking at our first 1-2 inches of the white stuff the day before and that makes the kids at my house really happy!


Boy, I miss that old orange truck for hauling

Since our Vintage Christmas celebration on the 5th, 6th and 7th, we have helped haul some big pieces out the old shop doors ...big metal locker units, sturdy farm primitive chairs, spoon-carved beds, 7 ft. bookshelves, oak mantles and a whole lot of smaller pretties that will grace homes for this season and beyond! Can you tell these pieces are missing? Not even! The shop is full and as one item leaves a new old piece takes its place...mind you, there is no warehouse, just crazy me on a mission to find the best stuff to keep the shop full, exciting and fun!

So come check out JB Knacker this Saturday. I'll bake up a big batch of ginger cookies and have hot coffee & cider waiting. There will be new old ornaments in all the fun colors for this season, primitive wire baskets in all shapes and sizes, old wood sleds w/ metal runners, chippy green park benches just waiting to grace your porch, sweet crunchy leather kid boot displays, vintage snowshoes, lasso "wreaths" and a whole lot more!


we first introduced these little guys 5 years ago and have brought them back in a big way

And if you're thinking a gift card might be the way to go for your special someone...no plastic here...way better...vintage photos altered for the season. You could even nestle one into one of our shimmery vintage Santa Baby heels (vintage high heel glittered w/ a vintage jewel embellishment). If you're a little more country...we'll slide the gift card into a burlap sleeve. Either way...a super thoughtful gift.

Our German silver glass glitter for all of your Christmas projects will be stocked any day now, and we will even have complete kits w/ said glitter for you to give to that special someone who can't get enough of creating.

Next week, JB Knacker will be open regular hours on Tuesday and Wednesday (1-6pm), closed on Thanksgiving and open extended hours the day after Thanksgiving (9am - 6pm). Be ready for for a fun day at the shop on Black Friday...more treats, $50 gift card give-away, make-and-takes from 1-6pm (really fun Believe tags & mini journals) and great specials just for that day! More on those specials next week...

Brenda

And We're Off...

2010-11-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

Last weekend's A Vintage Christmas at JB Knacker was just spectacular! All twinkly and cozy with heavenly live violin music playing and wine flowing and well...thank you to all who came out...not only on Friday night, but all weekend long!

Next on the platter at JB Knacker...we are hosting our "Junkdown to Christmas" tonight at the shop from 6:30-8 ish ~ looking forward to creating w/ several of our fun customers (Colleen, Monica, Kristen & friend, Mary & daughters, Lauren and Jenna)! We do have room for a few more...so if you can, give us a call at the shop today (233-2600) and we'll get you signed up!

Black Friday at JB will be fun! We will open at 9am and stay open 'til 6pm. As always, a drawing for a $50.00 gift card (you will love this year's gift cards from the shop) will happen at the end of day, and a really good sale (door busters) will be happening...stay tuned for the specifics on that. It will be warm, cozy and festive at JB Knacker on the day after Thanksgiving so be sure to stop by the old place!!

More to come as this beautiful season progresses...slow down and take it all in. I can't wait for that first snowfall...can you (be nice w/ your answers!)?

Brenda

A Vintage Christmas Celebration Next Weekend...But First, a Sale

2010-10-26T07:40:00.000-07:00

Get to the shop this Friday and Saturday as everything will be 20% off ~ I mean everything! At JB Knacker, we are preparing for the big turn-over of the shop as the beautiful new season of Christmas is upon us. A Vintage Christmas Celebration at the shop is very close. We will be closing the shop on Thursday, Nov. 4th and during the day on Friday, Nov. 5th to whoosh the old place into a shimmery winter woodland.

First snowfall of 2009

The shop doors will be flung open on Friday, Nov. 5th at 6pm sharp. Beautiful music, divine desserts and sweet wine will flow on this evening until 9pm. It will be the BEST time to view JB Knacker's unique twist on this season's decorating.

The joy and fun continues on Saturday, Nov. 6th from 10am - 5pm and Sunday, Nov, 7th from noon - 4pm! Warm beverages and homemade desserts will greet you at the door.

Are any of us really fans of a fast-paced, commercialized Christmas? At the shop, we hope to emulate the goodness of nature at this time of the year and promote vintage well-loved pieces that inspire you to decorate affordably, organically and simply. With the end result being a slow -down of this beautiful season so you can enjoy the small wonders: a snow day w/ the kids flying down the hills on a sled, a cookie session w/ the nieces and nephews or an afternoon at the care center helping w/ a craft (all things I hope to accomplish this year!).

Let's talk repurposed, hand-made and salvaged...not made in China, totally unique and reusable throughout the year...that is what JB Knacker fearlessly promotes in our gifts, furniture and vintage pieces. This year, there will be an abundance of journals, jewelry, scarves, ephemeral decorations and salvage.

We have our work cut out for us, but we are happy to do it! This is an exciting and beautiful time of the year and we look forward to sharing it with you...

Brenda

Junk Bonanza ~ JB returns from the JB

2010-09-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

Just a few pics of the JB Knacker booth at the Bonanza! I wasn't sure it would come together, but at the eleventh hour shop girl, Kate and I pulled it off. When I look at the whole booth from a distance...possibly could have used a better backdrop. But hauling in one more big thing was not in the cards as the rain came down in buckets and the thunder roared on set-up night.

Once again the Bonanza was run professionally and smoothly by all of those involved. The crowds were great, the vendors sweet and the prices fair to say the least! The display in the booths was intimidating...it was soooo good! Thank you to all of the friendly faces from Iowa...and I mean ALL of you because Iowa had a great showing!

No time to rest as JB Knacker will be host to a little flea market out in our side yard on Saturday, October 2nd from 8am - noon during Gilbert's Harvest Fest. We will remain open 'til 3pm on that day...I need a little time to spiff up for my 25th class reunion that evening...at least time to clean the dirt out from under my fingernails and put on a pair of jeans without paint on them!
Brenda

Turning Over

2010-09-10T05:50:00.000-07:00

Time to turn the shop over to a crisp, fresh & maybe a bit of a spooky autumn mood. Favorite items to decorate with: bales of hay, corn stalks, crows, cobwebs, old bottles and pops of color in turquoise, poppy and golden yellow.

Would love to see you at the shop! And remember, JB Knacker will be closed on Wednesday, September 15th as we will need a day to whoosh the shop back into a cohesive look. We are vendors at the 3 day show ~ Junk Bonanza in Skakopee, MN on September 16th, 17th and 18th!! As a thank you for coming by the shop on the days that we are in the northland, you will receive a 20% off coupon to be used on November 6th or 7th toward your total purchase at JB Knacker's Christmas Open House!!

Thank you for supporting the shop!

Brenda

A Studio Night

2010-08-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

You are invited to a fun yet relaxing evening at the shop on Monday, August 30th from 6-8pm. A time to enjoy beverages and nibbles, shop a new palette of textures & colors, and then nestle in to share ideas...plan fun workshops, create our studios and just chat about wild dreams.

We have pulled through some historic weather and just plain tough times this year as a community. We have prayed and helped a family or two going through a rough time. At the last event, you donated bags and bags of canned goods, paper goods and baby items to The Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry in Story City. And your response to Kevin's cards at the shop has allowed him to donate even more items to the food pantry!

So on this night, I want you all to relax, mingle w/ friends, glean and share ideas all in a fun creative atmosphere. I also have a selfish request on this night... help me get pumped up for the Junk Bonanza ~ the big show in Minnesota on September 16-18th. Tell me what items you would love to see if you were going (and many of you are!). What colors and items get your heart beating faster and what type of display would make you run to get to it first.

I might even sneak in an entrepreneur or two to talk a bit about how they got started in their venture, their biggest fears and the "thing" that happened that surprised them most.

The shop doors will open at 6 pm. Shopping and wild mingling (or is it wild shopping and mingling) from 6-7pm. Settling in at about 7pm-ish in the front room for swapping of ideas, dreams and plans to keep us going through the next season and beyond!

Drop me a quick line (jbknacker.brenda@gmail.com) and let me know if this is an evening you can't live without...can't wait!

Brenda

Pause

2010-08-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Just a needed pause in the activities...and some thank you's...

A big "THANK YOU!" to all of JB's customers who came out on July 24th for the last Breakfast Club of the season. And a thank you for those generous customers who brought a donation to the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry in Story City...canned goods, diapers, paper towels and all sorts of food items were donated and will be soooo appreciated! Wonderful vendors in our side yard on that day were Sarah, Kristen, Ted, Nannette, Tracy and my "little girls." They had great booths!! We also had a fun, creative workshop a few days before the Breakfast Club consisting of a little soldering and a little stamping and resulting in some great necklaces!! Thank you to all who participated.

The shop continues to do a brisk business, turning over great old stuff at a fast clip. The Junk Bonanza (you know the big show in Shakopee, MN) is right around the corner for me. It makes me lose sleep at night w/ all of the ideas going through my head for the shop and the show! JB Knacker will be closed on Wednesday, September 15th as we load the truck in the wee hours of the morning and just maybe (quite possibly) leave the shop in shambles. We'll be closed just this one day...so little elves can come in and spruce it up! I would love to see you at the Bonanza. It's not too far away and is the best sort of overwhelming you can imagine!

Just so I don't get too caught up on all that I need to get done, I am planning a little evening get-together at the end of August. A Monday evening...maybe August 30th...just thinking out loud here...an evening about where we create. It will be a mix of entrepreneur stuff and studio stuff. An evening where we can think outside of and around the box. The kids will have settled back into their routine and the smell of autumn will just be creeping into the air. A great time to get a kick start into what we do so well...Nesting. What is your nest going to look like as we head into another Iowa winter. Let's look forward to this time of the year together! I will send out the information very soon...so if you're not on the email list...get on it ASAP!

Brenda

Blatant Shop Promotion

2010-07-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Seems that is all I've been doing on this old blog lately. In my defense, the days are spinning by and we've just got a lot going on at JB Knacker ~ really!

July's Breakfast Club ~ right around the corner...Saturday, July 24th!

On the docket: 8 am ~ shop doors open to a new look and 20% off the entire shop with your donation of a food item for our local food pantry! What do we mean by a new look? Well, it means we stay up 'til the wee hours shuffling in new old finds like galvanized stuff, old signage, funky painted wood tables and fresh vintage linens. We may be so wicked tired that we leave the cobwebs on farm primitives straight out of the barn and forget to price a few (ok...sometimes a lot of stuff...just ask... as the price I come up w/ on 1/2 hour of sleep is usually lower than if I think on it!!).

A light breakfast is served and a flea market of vendors will be out in the side yard! The vendors will be creative and varied serving up vintage wares, funky and cool jewelry, whimsical and bright accessories for the kiddos, hand-crafted furniture and primitives and whole lot more!! The 20 % off at the shop ends at 10am, so don't be late.

We will have maps to any area occasional sales that are happening and any other hot spots. But do come back to Gilbert as an antique car & tractor show begins at 4pm and Prairie Moon Winery will be next door at Jo's for wine tasting also at 4pm. We will close at 5pm on this day and vendors are encouraged to stay right 'til the end. There will be watermelon slices and cold water and pop sold to quench your thirst as well as other food throughout the day. Join us for a celebration of summer in a fun, small town! I do believe there is a street dance beginning at 8pm...oh, think of the fun to be had all day long!

Brenda

Thanks a Bunch!

2010-06-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

Wowzers! What a great day Saturday was!! Remember...it was the first Breakfast Club of the season, and boy oh boy, it was a good one! A big thank you to all of the wonderful JB Knacker fans and those just curious about the whole thing that showed up. I'm not sure I should write this, but I really, really figured only about 6-8 of you would take me up on the whole Breakfast Club Junk Tour ~ hitting all 7 stops on the tour (barns, chicken sheds and carriage houses packed w/ the good stuff ~ junk) and then returning to JB Knacker to claim your junk charm prize. I mean, that is a time commitment...but you obviously realized how good all of these places really are. I was prepared w/ 10 junk charm necklaces ready to roll. You blew me away w/ 27 of you returning to JB Knacker w/ smudged, folded and slightly damp maps...signed w/ each occasional sale owner's signature. I was creating charms and stringing them on chain faster than you could stencil a number on a galvanized bucket (and I'm not being sassy...that's about how long it took me to make each necklace). And that makes me so happy! I have already used about 5 exclamation points in this paragraph so far!(6) Best day ever at JB Knacker...yep...and for that, I am grateful. I know times are tough. Many people are choosing to cut back on anything that does not appear to be a necessity. So I will continue to strive to keep the shop fresh, the prices fair and the events fun and creative. Because we all need that fun, wild outlet and cool things at good prices to snazzy up our live and our homes.

With that said, we are in full speed ahead mode...mixing up vignettes, hauling in goodies of the vintage nature and planning the next big event ~ July's Breakfast Club! Now, this is a little confusing, but usually we do this event on the last Saturday of June and July. But the last Saturday in July falls on an important weekend in my family life ...so, July 24th is the next JB Knacker Breakfast club. And we are in luck as this day just happens to be Gilbert's car & tractor show. Not an old car & tractor enthusiast?...well, you haven't seen the Gilbert car & tractor show...I'll let it slip that in year's past, there was a calendar for sale featuring the "boys" of this said club! It's old school plain & simple... vintage, clean fun. It's usually 110 degrees in the shade on this day, so JB Knacker will be hosting a flea market in our beautiful shaded side yard. There will be vendors of all kinds...vintage, hand made and foody. We will bring the junk to you this time around. The shop will be over-the-top impossibly crazy good! We'll have to be with such great competition just out in the yard. And yes, there will be some sort of prize for you. I'm not exactly sure what you have to do to earn this prize so stay tuned...

We just returned from another very fun and exciting experience this evening! Former shop girl, Tawnya had her "run-through night" at her cupcake emporium ~ Yummie's Cupcake Emporium at 300 Main Street, Ames. Can I use the word "Wowzers" again? The food is fresh and filling...from soups & sandwiches to pasta and fruit. The decor is decidedly 40's-50's vintage diner, and the cupcakes w/ a tall glass of cold milk...yummy! She will be open for business in a few days, so check the place out. You will be coming back for more (I am proud of you, Tawnya)!

Lastly, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love being able to do what I do. Those that returned to JB Knacker after a hot day of junking, were dear enough to give me awesome feedback..."It was soooo much fun"... "Everyone had such good stuff"...."My favorite buy from the day?...it would have to be the antique metal stamping kit"..."Thank you for hosting this!"

You are so welcome...
Brenda

The Breakfast Club ~ Saturday, June 26th

2010-06-15T12:31:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of giving our customers what they crave, The first Breakfast Club of the season is right around the corner! Join us Saturday, June 26th bright and early. We throw open the old doors at 8am. We treat you to a light breakfast. Everything inside and outside of the shop is 20% off from 8-10am! We then send you on your way outfitted with a map to all of the area occasional sales (barns, chicken sheds and other buildings overflowing w/ the good junk)!

JB Knacker is open the whole day...well at least until 3pm. So, for the truest junkers and antique mavens out there...and I mean those guys and gals that hit each and every hot spot on the map, there is a special prize for you! Return to JB Knacker w/ your map in hand (the proof you will need to collect your prize), and we will present you w/ your "trophy!" OK...I would love to present each and every one of you w/ a beautiful sterling silver loving/trophy cup from 1898, but instead you will be presented a funky stamped metal charm and junk necklace that will remind you of this adventure long after it's over!!

Hope to see a big crowd bright and early! But remember there will be more treasures brought out throughout the day at JB and what's better than a glass of lemonade under a big shady tree after a hard day of junking?! Can't wait!

Brenda

Simply...

2010-05-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

The day was mid 8o's w/ low humidity and high spirits among the 4 graduates and their families. The peonies were lush and heavy w/their sweet scent of late spring.

Sometimes last minute ideas are the best...an old book folded just so as to hold the napkins, a fun vintage plant carousal for the yummy cupcakes, the old door that once graced the front of the shop worked splendidly as a photo display (once we wedged in the old baby crib springs)!

Simply put, it was a beautiful day filled w/ family & friends!

A Simply Pretty Place to Celebrate

2010-05-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 29th ~ closing a bit early for a celebration

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JB Knacker will be host to my daughter's graduation party on Saturday, May 29th beginning at 1pm. So...we will be open from just 10am - noon on that day. I would love to have you by between those hours to shop a simple palette of whites and creams w/ soft splashes of pink here and there. Galvanized metal & wire, primitive wood, ironstone & matte pottery, burlap & linen...those will be the accent pieces and add the "color" to the front room and the side yard ~ these will be transformed into a simply pretty place to celebrate. All will be for sale w/ the exception of a few pieces that may be borrowed just for this special day. Any larger pieces purchased that morning (or "special" pieces that I love and absolutely have to have present for this occasion) won't be available to take home until after the celebration. Arrive promptly at 10am for the best picks!!

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Recap and Forward into Wild Territory...

2010-05-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

We're headed into another wildly fun & busy week both at the shop and on the home front (I'll spare you those details). Just wanted to show you a handful of our vendors last Tuesday night at Open Market...it was super windy but warm and an overall good start to our Tuesday Open Markets. They all set up fun & professional booths and were ready for business at 4pm. A big Thank You to last Tuesday's vendors ~ Jaclyn and her Dad, Darwin from Dakota Junktion, Carla from Red Barn Rustics, Janice from the former Farmhouse Vintage, Sarah and Emerson, Wanda, Kristi & Jessica Bolar, Kayleen Rinehart & sisters, that lovely couple from Marshalltown (sorry names escape me) and my 2 little "squirts" Joanna & Gretchen!!

Tuesday Open Market in Gilbert will be held from 4-7pm on Tuesday (of coarse), May 11th and it looks like the rain may stay away long enough to get in a good evening of markets. Wanda will be serving hot coffee and desserts from Jo's shop as well as baked goods. Sarah will be peddling her school spirit wares and other beautiful jewelry and such. Clare will be displaying her bounty of romantic found treasures from days gone by. Our furniture craftsman, Ted, will be hauling great furniture finds down from up north. Kim will have a rack or two of vintage clothing and fun vintage accent pieces, and Anna will have all things hand made. I'm hoping to have a few more vendors along for the ride on this Tuesday as well. So be sure to check out Main St, Gilbert from 4-7pm every Tuesday from her on out ~ dress snuggly warm this Tuesday and be ready for complimentary hot cocoa if needed (it's May in Iowa ~ you never know)!

Last Tuesday from 6-8pm 3 gals met for Open Craft Night at JB Knacker. They shopped the Open Markets first and found some great treasures to haul home, and then headed inside JB Knacker to set up their craft session for the evening. They celebrated someone's 40th birthday w/ a cupcake cake and a beautiful little pottery vase of lily-of-the-valleys and then went on to learn the ins & outs of making a shadow bird box. These gals were from Madrid, DesMoines and Ames and coordinated this night together ~ I love that! And that is how Open Craft Night at the shop is supposed to work...stake your territory, get comfortable and create together!

I'm not going to have a workshop in May as the month is already jam packed w/ activites...I think you all would agree. Stay-tuned as JB Knacker will be host to possibly 2 workshops in June (possibilities include: a soldered charm workshop, a button bracelet workshop, a "take-a-hammer-to-it" workshop w/silver and metal stamping).

my girls may need to use their time & camera more productively

I'm thinking these blog posts are just too informative lately...need to just post some silliness soon (the above will have to do for now)...would love to see you one or all of these Tuesdays or for that matter anytime these old shop doors are open!! Just email me if you want to be a vendor and/or if you need more info. about something.
Brenda

Open Market in a Small Town

2010-05-03T12:12:00.000-07:00

Check out our small town this Tuesday, May 4th from 4-7pm and every Tuesday thereafter. Open Market will feature talented and creative vendors from around the area selling their wares in front of JB Knacker and our neighbor, The Left Bank Studio. So far about 10 vendors have promised to be present this Tuesday selling antique furniture, architectural salvage, primitives, repurposed junk, jewelry, potted plants & cut florals, cheesecake & baked goods, cupcakes, wonderful mother's day gifts and more! Both JB Knacker and The Left Bank Studio will be open 'til 8pm on Tuesdays, and both will have a comfortable place for you to shop, eat, craft (Open Craft Night at JB Knacker ~ see previous blog post) and observe talented artists creating their wares. Remember to save room for The Open Flame's $1.50 burgers. Hope you can make it...you'll love our small town!
Brenda

Vintage Button Bracelet Workshop and so much more!

2010-04-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

A busy and fun week ahead. I really only try to look 1 week ahead at a time. I call not planning too far out in advance being "flexible." But this time of the year there is just so much going on! At JB Knacker, we have a full plate of fun stuff coming up.

This Thursday evening (April 29th) from 6-8pm is our Vintage Button Bracelet Workshop led by local artist Mari'l Moses. Class fee is $35 and includes everything you will need w/ the exception of vintage buttons (but we do have a wide variety available at the shop for you to purchase at a great price for workshop participants). A wonderful way to make a keepsake piece of jewelry w/ grandma's or mom's vintage buttons. There are still 4 openings available for this workshop...so call the shop (515 233-2600) to sign up.

This coming Saturday (May 1st) is Gilbert's city-wide garage sales beginning at 8am. JB Knacker will open early at 8am and have fun May Day favors (JB Knacker style) while supplies last. We may even get the "$1 table" out in the side yard (everything on that old table will be $1 each) in true garage sale fashion!

Open Market Night begins Tuesday May 4th. There will be vendors of all kinds set up outside of JB Knacker and our neighbor, Left Bank Studio from 4-7pm. This will happen every Tuesday evening May through October. It's our way of creating a little "community" in our great little town. If you want to be a vendor, just call the shop (515 233-2600) or email me. And as you know, all of the shops on Main Street remain open on Tuesday evenings until 8pm beginning in May as well. Oh, and don't forget to grab your $1.50 burger at The Open Flame...lots going on Tuesday evenings!!

So JB Knacker decided to throw open the old doors to all of you creative types on this night. Come for Open Craft Night at JB from 6-8pm. There is no fee. We just ask that you bring your imagination and any supplies you will need. We will supply a creative space for you to work on your projects and to collaborate w/ others that love making things.

OK...that should do it for this week. Stay tuned for updates for next week. Let's see Mother's Day, more Open Market and Craft Nights to come and announcement of the next JB Knacker Workshop!

April at JB Knacker

2010-04-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

April...we've made it through another tough winter but we're not quite to the balmy lazy days of summer. It's spring in Iowa and with that comes rain showers, mud...lots of mud, tulips & daffodils, track meets & prom, confirmations & first communions. It's also the beginning of garage sale season and the start of the occasional sales in the barns and sheds. Junk is more plentiful and repurposing becomes easier as the temperature outside allows us to sand and paint and refigure our finds.

April at JB Knacker is all of the above. We are a great place to be on a stormy overcast April day. Daffodils lean out of our old blue canning jars, and moms pop in between their kids' races at the nearby high school track. We have scarves, purses, pins, bracelets, gloves and anything that resembles proms gone by...even a few dresses, as well as great pieces 'n' parts to alter any outfit. JB is also a great place to find that unique faith filled gift for those loved ones receiving their First Holy Communion or Confirmation into the church...bibles, rosaries and religious relics to name a few. And if you can't wait until the weekend to get your fix on occasional sales, we're open during the week to fill that need of finding a great piece at an incredible price!

Wow...I sound like an ad. But I write what's in my head and what's happening in my life. I have to admit, I love a nice stormy rainy day occasionally. And I have been picking daffodils like crazy to place around the shop. Also heading to a lot of track meets to see my senior girl run the 3000 M. And having a good time helping that senior girl create a very cool prom dress from a pretty 1950's prom dress (actually, a good customer and artist friend helping on that front...pictures to come). We just celebrated my daughter, Julia's confirmation into the Catholic church yesterday. And I am just plain having fun incorporating a lot of new old pieces into vignettes around the shop. I sometimes have to remind myself it's o.k. to gather a pile of like-minded pieces together w/ no purpose as my customers like to create and imagine the possibilities for themselves.

Life is good.

Brenda

Open Market news & other shop ramblings

2010-03-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

Do you really want to hear that I forgot my camera again? I didn't think so. So no whining...just the facts. JB Knacker was hopping last week...especially Wednesday...a fun place to be. Rumors always get going when I have a big Penske moving truck pull up in front of the old shop. Out of that truck hopped Sara and Jane from up north...you know the gals w/ the great occasional sales in Carver, Minnesota . Well, they had been on a great expedition pretending to be like the American Picker guys (probably way better at it, though) and had filled that truck 3/4 full of funky junk...chair carcasses, galvanized stuff...oh, it was good stuff. Of coarse they said they could tell me where they had been, but then they would have to kill me - you know how that goes.

I eagerly invited them into the old shop even though they were being secretive...heck, they still had a 1/4 of that truck to fill (and I could see more room if one went up). I had Miss Cecilia, my 19month old "associate" on this day.

We had fun! We talked, we laughed, we complained, we chased Cecilia, we lost Cecilia, we found Cecilia. I am proud to say, that I helped those girls fill that truck, and I think helped them to lose any child-bearing longings and desires.

Shop girl Tawnya arrived just in time for Cecilia and I to wish the Minnesotans good luck, try one more time to get them to reveal their new hot junking spot (no luck) and then head to our next destination...violin lessons. Yes, I must be present during my 7 yr old's lessons so I can "help" her practice at home. James (the musician) does not yet realize this old dog isn't retaining much...oh, he's a great teacher, but thank goodness Gretchen is a quick learner...for my part, I appear knowledgeable of what he is saying and nod a lot. I was a little preoccupied w/ going through the lists in my head as to what I needed to get from home for the soldered charm workshop that would be happening that evening at the shop.

On to the workshop I hustled. Tawnya had made the best cupcakes ever for the participants, cherry and Oreo cookie cupcakes...she is going to have the best cupcake emporium ever (I will do a post on that soon)!! It was a good night. These gals were quick learners and dived right in! The soldered charms were all different sizes and styles. We also tried our hand at stamping metal for their embellishment charms...like I said, these gals were talented! So a big thanks goes out to Becky and Jenny from Cedar Falls, Ann from Greenfield, Ginny and Anna from Ames, Andi from Ames and Marcia and Anna from Ames (I know... a lot of Anna's this night)...and of coarse, Penny our resident solder queen, who makes it all possible!

The rest of the week settled a bit from Wednesday, but just a bit, as the shop moves through junk at a quick clip. We are gearing up for our next workshop at the end of the month (April 29th) ~ Button Bracelet workshop led by local artist, Mari'l Moses. Call the shop for more information. This is a new workshop for us. We have been having a ball w/ all of our old buttons...sorting them into glass jam jars, making button bouquets out of them...so, why not beautiful bracelets. This workshop is only $35.00, and I can see it becoming a favorite!

May will bring w/ it the start of Tuesday Night Markets in Gilbert. Every Tuesday night from 4-7pm May through October is a chance for all of you budding entrepreneurs to get your feet wet and come sell your wares at the Market. It only costs $5.00 per night to set up a small booth in front of JB Knacker (or the side yard) or Left Bank Studio. JB Knacker will also be hosting "Open Craft Night" inside the shop from 6-8pm on every Tuesday night. This allows creative types to have a place to sit and work on projects w/ other like-minded crafters. There is no fee, just come & create. All-in-all, we are hoping to create a bit of community on Tuesday evenings in Gilbert. As always, the Open Flame is serving their $1.50 burgers that night. Call the shop or email me w/ any questions about Tuesday Night Market or Open Craft Night.

Thanks for reading the ramblings of 40-something shop keeper. Hope to see you soon (just in...old trellis, wire shopping carts, old shutters, more ironstone...)!

~ Brenda

I'm Ready Now

2010-03-14T13:46:00.000-07:00

I secretly desire to be organized. I pretend I'm really ok with my procrastinating ways. Truth be told, I need to pace myself much better.

Take for instance, JB Knacker's Spring Fling Celebration held last weekend. Tawnya and I worked all evening before the opening painting, cleaning and just plain "whooshing" the shop into a different look. I then sent her home as she had yummy cupcakes to whip up for the next day, and I continued on into the wee morning hours. My husband was sweet enough to "volunteer" his time to help from 9pm until he was just too grumpy. For some reason this year, I followed him home...not to sleep, oh no,no,no...just to shower and freshen up a bit.

I returned very early in the morning hours before the doors were to be opened for the celebration. I kept saying to myself, "Come on Brenda...a little faster...you can do it!" And yet, there was still piles of junk and pretties on the floor as the customers arrived. So much stuff still needed to be tagged (truly, my Achilles heel).

All I can say is... these people who shop JB Knacker are the BEST! They are flexible, laugh easily and down-to-earth!! And they somehow put up w/ my deviant ways. Now, I am not saying there is no need to improve, that they will always put up w/ me, and I can just coast from here on out. Their carefree attitude inspires me to be better. I am going to start to work on my procrastination problem tomorrow...I love Mondays just for that reason!!

Seriously, I want to thank all of those beautiful people that make staying up all night sooooo worth it! You came out on a cloudy, rainy weekend to celebrate the beginning of spring with us. I loved the chatting, the kids playing (parents chasing the kids)and the catching up on all the happenings. Thank you for your support and all of the nice comments.

I love this job ~ Brenda

Spring Fever

2010-03-02T06:14:00.000-08:00

"And when you've got it, you want ~ oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!" ~ Mark Twain

Spring Fever Celebration

Saturday, March 6th 10am - 5pm & Sunday, March 7th noon - 4pm

Can't wait to see you this weekend!! We are whipping the store around w/ all things spring! Garden will be big as will primitives and architectural salvage. Fresh furniture pieces, lovely trinkets & ephemera will be nestled into vignettes JB Knacker style. Join us this Saturday & Sunday for our Spring Fever Celebration and partake in yummy treats, beverages and loads of inspiration all weekend!

A Sale to End Winter

2010-02-19T11:47:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 20th 10am - 3pm at the shop!

Wouldn't it be nice if this sale actually ended the snow...oh, to have that kind of pull. Even though I don't...it will still be a fun and thrifty day for all of you! I'm hoping to feel cleansed and ready to work w/ a "fresh" palette as we get ready for JB Knacker's Spring Fever event.

Furniture will be 30% off, all items on the enclosed porch will be 30% off, most jewelry will be 30% off, all items on the huge hutch in the front room will be 30% off and other random items throughout the shop will be marked down!

JB Knacker's Spring Fever event will be in just 2 short weeks, and I'm looking forward to hauling in fresh vintage items to make the shop sing spring! So save the date for Saturday, March 6th 10am - 5pm and Sunday, March 7th noon - 4pm!

Fun with Dick and Jane

2010-02-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

We're back to our regular hours: Tuesday - Friday 1-6pm and Saturday 10am - 3pm. And we're ready for Valentine's Day! Stop by for a hot cup of coffee or tea and check out the transformation of the shop...

Wild vs. Mild

2010-01-23T02:47:00.000-08:00

It's been a wild winter here in central Iowa. Who was I telling this past fall that I predicted a mild winter. I guess my gut feeling isn't always right?! I was just one letter off, but oh, what trouble one letter does make! Grabbed a bunch of pictures at the shop yesterday. Enjoy...

Ivory seam-binding, fabric hearts embellished w/ keys and locks, funky jewelry displayed on an primitive hog scraper (new function), vintage chocolate boxes and perfume bottles, sequined strawberries and flower vases wrapped in wool felted "sweaters"...lots of romance and prettiness at the shop.

Our soldered charms have been a big hit especially w/ our new sarcastic line of charms. An old watch fob used as a locket...

The 7 ft harvest table w/ chalkboard top would be great for after school homework...I mean, the kids could write directly on the gosh darn table to show their work. A quick sponge down, and you're ready to set that same table for supper.

JB's # pillows are all currently sold and then some, but we are working hard to get more batches done ~ you are welcome to place your order ($42.00 for pillow cover w/ feather pillow form or $32.00 for just the pillow cover) they are first come, first serve. The exciting thing is we have new designs coming soon!

I totally have a thing for old brass stencils and vintage baubles (especially pink).

A pretty little girl w/ bangs so short and her church gloves on~love it! How about a painted drop-leaf table in the perfect shade of blue for 2010! And a wire basket filled w/ vintage clothes pins...perfect.

A Breath of Fresh Air

2010-01-03T15:49:00.000-08:00

It's time for JB Knacker to take a bit of a break from the "daily grind." I stood at the threshold of the doors on the front of the shop just as the sun was going down this evening. I took in a long, deep, cold breath and said to myself (talk to myself a lot), "Saturdays only in January will be a good thing." I looked around the front room. It will feel good to move things around and scrub floors and fix trim and hang more chandeliers.

I hope you can make it to each and every Saturday in January! Although JB Knacker will be closed during the week throughout January, that does not mean that we won't be feverishly working to bring you fresh looks and wonderful specials throughout the shop! This Saturday, January 9th will have vintage Christmas gathered onto one medium-sized farm table and priced to fly out the door! The 7 foot harvest table will be hoisted into a different spot...as well some big cabinets (one that has yet to be brought in). A beautiful painted buffet will grace our front room and several vintage metal signs will be hung on the old shop walls. Inspiration boards will get their finishing tweaks and put out w/ other fun JB Knacker originals.

Our shop hours on January Saturdays will be 10am - 5pm. I've extended the closing time until 5pm as it's just a little harder to get an early start in this frigidly cold Iowa weather. But at JB Knacker we say, "bring it on!" JB's ready for the cold weather w/ hot coffee and homemade molasses cookies waiting for you. The shop is toasty warm inside and the great finds and prices will really warm your heart! Can't wait to see you this Saturday!! Brenda

2009-12-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

As Christmas is less than a week away, I thought I'd let you know our hours of operation. Next week we will be open Tuesday 1pm - 6pm as usual and drum roll please...we will open 7am on Wednesday morning (Dec. 23rd) serving a hot breakfast (free), offering free creative gift wrap services and ALL CHRISTMAS IS 50% OFF!!

Sometimes I think I'm crazy to do this to myself a couple of days before Christmas, but then I remember how I love a crowd and the excitement of friends popping into the shop to say "Merry Christmas" and the wonderful smells of Christmas and the music and...well, I hope this day becomes an annual tradition of sorts. We hope to help those who haven't even started shopping yet (please pass this on to all of the men you know) as well as those of you that need to just add a few more finishing touches. And just so you know, there will be new Christmas out on this day (even though it will be getting marked down) and new items added. We will be acting as personal shoppers for some who just have no idea where to start and putting fun little "gift baskets" together only as JB Knacker can.

If you work, you'll want to stop in right at 7am, get a bite to eat, shop and get anything wrapped that is being given as a gift. You are welcome to come back after work to pick up your already wrapped gifts if time is an issue. We will stay open through 6pm so really anytime throughout the day is a great time to visit. This will be a fun & festive day!!

JB Knacker will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to be w/ family and celebrate the Lord Jesus.

The old shop doors will be open Saturday, December 26th from 10am - 3pm as usual w/ 50% off Christmas items and many other specials throughout the shop ~ a good day to be at JB Knacker, I promise!!

The following week, we will be open regular hours Tuesday, Wednesday and on Thursday (New Year's Eve), we will close a little early at 4pm. Christmas items will continue to be 50-75% off. We will be closed on Friday, New Year's Day.

January ~ JB Knacker will be open on Saturdays only 10am - 5pm. So the first Saturday is January 2nd...then January 9th, the 16th, the 23rd and finally, the 30th. This allows us to freshen up the walls and floors w/ new paint and polish and spit-shine anything that is a little drab. There will be fresh looks for the new year...softer, prettier and flouncier, and each Saturday will have a special theme and fun surprises!

We will resume regular hours in February.

Hope this helps you plan your visits to the old shop and as always thank you for reading this blog and supporting JB Knacker ~ Merry Christmas!!

Christmas is Coming, the Goose is Getting Fat...

2009-12-08T15:54:00.000-08:00

Well, it's the second week of December and the snow is flying outside and the wind is whipping it into blizzard conditions. I hope everyone is cozy at home in these parts and able to just stay put. The shop will be closed today (Wednesday the 9th). If I lived within walking distance of the shop, I would love to putter around and create new vignettes and finish projects. But instead, the lights and decorations will go up on our tree at home and the kids will sled down hills (or dive into snow drifts) and hot chocolate will be sipped and gingerbread baked in the oven. It will be a good snow day.

Guess what I forgot to announce? The winner of our Black Friday drawing. Lynn Clark...you have a big fat $50.00 gift certificate waiting for you at the shop!! Congratulations and thanks for all of you that came out and shopped JB Knacker on that day ~ it was a good one!

We rolled into the first week of December and watched a lot of tarnished silver fly out the door in the form of big old ornate platters and fancy schmancy candy dishes and perfume trays. Did I mention the monster metal urn in the front window has been gone for a little while now...on its way to Cedar Falls, but it has been replaced w/ a smaller version (but still a nice size) black metal urn that rests on our 7 foot harvest table.

We hauled in one of 2 very large oak cupboards from an old school in Davenport, Iowa after the pretty buffet sold.

Lots of old wire and metal grace our shop in the form of old garden gates, tool boxes, wire "memo boards" and old advertising signs. Beautiful glass domes and cut glass dessert dishes, depression glass sugar & creamers and etched glass goblets rest on our old storefront shelves.

Costume jewelry chains, brooches and earrings mix well w/ our vintage inspired soldered & typewriter charms and a new line of chunky organic earrings have been selling fast.

Many who have never ventured into JB Knacker may have preconceived notions that we are just antiques lined up against the walls or consignment or heaven knows what, and certainly not a shop that would be worthy of buying gifts for those on their list. They are so wrong! Just pulling up to the front of our shop and stepping in to the smell of our wonderful hand poured soaps and french vanilla coffee brewing should do the trick. The gifts that grace our shelves are one-of-a-kind because they are carefully selected vintage pieces (by me!) or designed uniquely for our shop by a creative local artist. Grain sack number pillows, window sash letters, jewelry (from earrings to charmed necklaces), chunky hand poured soaps, funny & endearing cards, beautiful old books and ornate frames are just a smidgen of what we have to offer.

It was fun to listen to a couple of new customers in the shop last Saturday..."Look what I found! I've been looking all over for one of these and they have like four of them and they are only eight dollars each!! Oh my gosh, did you see these...you have got to get one for mom, she will love it!" That kind of stuff makes my day!

Have a wonderful week and hope to see you at the shop!

Crazy Busy

2009-11-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

Is that how time flies? You just get crazy busy and "whoosh" it's Thanksgiving! Crazy busy can be a good thing...a very good thing in the retail world. A Vintage Christmas last weekend was wonderful! OK... the 70 degree weather was a little weird for the first weekend in November in Iowa. But on the inside... the mix of hot cider, french vanilla coffee, almond & Christmas sugar soap and homemade goodies was enticing. Christmas and vintage was being brought out all weekend during the festivities. As quickly as one item sold another was there to replace it. And this is only the beginning of what JB Knacker will be offering in vintage and vintage inspired goodness for the season. Our next big event is the day after Thanksgiving. We will be open with extended hours from 10 am - 5pm that day and our door busters will be something to behold. In this creative world of JB Knacker, where new old stuff is brought in daily and fun "marriages of old pieces & parts happens spontaneously, hard to know exactly what those door busters might be...maybe doors - that's kind of funny. We will also have a $50.00 drawing for a JB Knacker gift certificate!

You won't find this stuff at any mall or big discount chain...you really won't find much of it anywhere but right here at the shop. I encourage every one of you to look at decorating for Christmas w/ a different "eye." Use old sleds, metal & wire fence gates, chippy old chunks of fence, mesh wire wreaths, wood crates & painted trunks, mossy statuary and bird baths ~ all very organic and reusable choices as well as unique. JB Knacker will even lend a helping hand to fill those organic vessels ~ pine cones, twigs, branches, evergreen boughs and assorted nature will be in abundance in our shop and side yard.

Our gift line is all locally hand made ~ fingerless knit mittens, apple jackets, coffee sleeves and mug huggers have all had a bit of kitschy bling added to them. Sarcastically charming soldered charms, junk embellishment charms and typewriter key charms ready for one of our new or vintage chains or add them to your own existing chain or bracelet or key chain or use as a gift topper or ornament or sun catcher or bookmark... How about a very yummy chunk of hand-cut soap in the scents of Christmas Sugar, Almond, Twigs & Berries, Lemon Verbena, Georgia Peach or Cotton Breeze. Pair our soap w/ one of our chunky ironstone dishes or a delicate floral cottage dish (free w/ purchase of soap) and you have a really great gift for just $5! A grain sack numbered pillow or window sash letter are really fun gifts that you can personalize to your recipient w/ their favorite letter or number (as long as it is 2, 3 , 22, 23 or 33)!

And you have to check out our growing paper and trinket room: ledger pages, old music pages, old postcards and Christmas cards, vintage and antique photos, maps, flashcards of #'s, words and letters, BINGO cards, buttons, lace, old seam binding and ribbon and our very newest item...silver German glass glitter!

Suffice it to say, you need to check us out! Can't wait to see you at the shop!
Brenda