The Vintage Minx

06/16/2023

So this is a vacuum radio tube! These are the tubes used in the tube tester shown previously. The general purpose is to be used for signal amplification as well as current rectification. These can burn out over time and is worth using a variac the first time you fire up a dusty tube radio. This will help restrict the voltage so as to not blow a tube. They can be obscure to find which can slow the restoration. The coding on the side is very important denoting voltage, company model number and the number of pieces inside. Not all have each and every prong on the bottom. There is a small bump “key” on the bottom of the circle. To count your pins you must go clockwise from this set point. Now you know!

#1940 #1930

06/15/2023

More essentials. Tube checker and tube manual. This is a tube checker, which allows you to test the for any defects and quality. (Cool fact: these were build yourself projects enthusiasts would order in the - the company has been revived as of #2022 ) The tube manual was gifted to me upon an old box of tubes. It has been an invaluable resource. The RCA that I have been working on was rewired to accommodate a tube that was not in the specs. Its interesting to find the path of thinking that someone has used in the past.

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06/14/2023

Sometimes you just need a flashlight and a chopstick. One of the most used tools was a beautiful simple chopstick. It helped to move the capacitors and resistors and wires without overwhelming the connections. Plus it brings an additional layer of safety to prevent shocks. The web of wires can be so delicate and tight that a narrow object that won’t puncture or conduct anything is essential. I will definitely keep in one in my toolbox at all times. What random object has become mandatory in your toolbox?

09/10/2022

✨SOLD These two stunning mid century style ceramic cats. I’m obsessed. They are in fantastic condition. The large one stands over 15” tall. Always statement pieces. Perfect timing for spooky season. (I decorate with them all year).

09/08/2022

I’m on Instagram too! Check out my lastest post on getting the most out of a smelly couch

Melissa Ferguson shared a post on Instagram: "Marketplace find with hidden secret. This is a 3 piece set I bought. Turns out the blanket over the love seat in the sale photo was due to the weak bladder of the geriatric owner. I didn’t bring it into my house until it was dry cleaned. But found out ...

08/23/2022

Tip of the day!

You can ask to use the electrical plug at the thrift store. This way you can make sure that your item is going to work before you buy it! Thrift stores don’t usually take returns so don’t gamble with your money.
Kindly ask to use the electrical plug and smile when it lights up 😊

08/21/2022

For sale. One of my favourite finds. Vintage mineral oil lamp. I replaced the cord and upgraded it to a grounded plug for safety. The motor is so quiet. Definitely a conversation piece. Dm for info

08/13/2022

🏷This beauty is up for sale.!
Vintage 1950s pink sectional.
Check out those cute MCM legs.
Message for more info.

06/09/2022

Buyer beware. This is on me. I know better and I didn’t do better. Marketplace can be like the wild west. You never know what you’re going to get and sometimes you don’t get what you’re hoping for. I was fortunate with my story because I was able to get a refund but generally marketplace is you get what you get, there’s no refunds or returns. Here’s what I’ll remember to do for next time. Carve out 5 to 10 minutes to actually look at what I’m trying to purchase. Take a flashlight in case it’s dark and open all the drawers look underneath, look at the feet, use the light to inspect. Also if height and dimensions are important take the tape measure. I thought I was prepared I had all the moving stuff I needed in the back of my truck but I was mentally frazzled and I didn’t spend the time I needed to make sure the items were as they should’ve been. I am very grateful that the person took them back and I made sure to take them back immediately to get that done and dusted. Has this ever happened to you?

06/03/2022

✨Available ✨
Check out this beautiful boho vintage botanical piece. Pressed flowers from 1995 the artist took special care with this. Look how well it’s aged. I love the detail on the back. The frame has some bumps which I think goes with the vibe. This piece measures 24” by 19”. 🏷 $25

06/01/2022

Gotta love vintage pieces beside the window. It’s important to be careful with textiles and items that will bleach or deteriorate in the sunlight. That’s a quick way to wear out or lose value of your piece. Items like this stunning copper and brass piece are the cats meow for sun spots.