JUNKIN - CLASS 101

I never know exactly what I'm searching for until I spot it.  Even with only a vague idea of how and where I might use it, I'm absolutely positive it's the right thing to have--right now.  The decision to buy is based on irrepressible desire with no thought to "can I afford it." Value is self-determined.  And, when I finally reach home and the new purchase looks terrible everywhere I put it, I'll have no regrets because I spent so little for it, enjoyed the hunt, and realize that by tomorrow or next week or in a year when I trip over it in my storage house it will be just the thing I need most at that moment.

ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR THE HUNT

• A magnet:  for testing metals.  A magnet won't stick to "pot" metals or brass.
• A small magnifying glass:  to look for chips, cracks, dates, marks, names of artists, and manufacturing trademarks.
• A pen and paper or notebook:  for keeping track of purchases and how much you spend.  Receipts, sometimes get lost, or you can't read the handwriting.
• A list:  of what you're hunting for is incredibly helpful, particularly at a large flea market, where things can get a little overwhelming.  That doesn't mean you can't stray from what's listed, but it can keep you focused.

HAGGLING

I always ask a dealer if she can do better, unless, of course, the item is really cheap or seems fairly priced.  Before I bargain, I make a pile of things I'm interested in.  A dealer is more apt to make a deal on a group of things than a single item.

JUNKIN SOLO OR ENSEMBLE

Most diehard junkers are loners.  They want no distractions, no lagging behind, and no competitiion.  I must admit to having these tendencies, but junking with my husband, my sister or a friend is always a load of fun.  The bad thing, of course, is when you fixate on the same things.

RESTRAINT

When I go into a shop or large flea market I try to look the whole place over at least once.  I check out the things that make my heart beat faster, and then go back and start asking questions.  There are times I have lost something I loved because I heart back.  Listen to your heart.

MONEY

There's lots of stuff out there for a dollar or two.  Take along twenty singles and a few fives or tens.  Some people don't like to make change, or don't have it, and sometimes cash can get you a better deal.  Take a major credit card, your driver license for identification and a bunch of checks.

JUNK DRESSING

• Comfortable clothes are the rule.
• If you'll be outside, dress in layers.  Don't wear a heavy coat you can't get rid of.
• Never carry a purse, I fold my money, a credit card, and driver's license into the pockets of my jeans.  An alternative is a bag that you strap around your waist (fanny pack).
• Wear a hat to keep the sun off your face.
• Sunglasses tend to get in the way.  I'm always taking them off to scrutinize something.  If you want them, I suggest attaching them to a cord that can hang around your neck.

I HOPE THIS GUIDE WILL HELP YOU AS YOU HUNT FOR THAT NEXT TREASURE.  MY FAMILY SAYS IT IS A DISEASE--YOU JUST CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF "JUNKIN" BUT i SAY--IT'S RELAXATION, STRESS-FREE FUN!

HAPPY JUNKIN