Remember we came up with 5 tips to get the most out of your glass show trip and covered the first two here and the third here.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Keep an open mind about what you like – and what you don’t like.
- Ask lots of questions.
- Bring cash or your checkbook
- Respect the dealers’ investment in time and cost
Glass shows are wonderful ways to see pieces and patterns you will never experience if you restrict your antiquing to malls, estate sales and auctions. Dealers have gorgeous displays!
Green and Yellow Cameo Glass at Show
Tip #4. Bring Cash or Checkbook
Trust me. You WILL find something to buy! Don’t let lack of payment stop you from owning that gorgeous Cameo green tall candy jar or that elusive Rock Crystal amber pitcher.
McKee Rock Crystal Amber Set Jim & Leora Leasure
At the National Depression Glass Association show we attended in July 2016 most dealers displayed stickers showing they accept credit cards but a few did not. The lady who sold me the Duncan Miller Art Deco bowl and Fostoria candle holders didn’t take cards – and I forgot my checkbook and had limited cash. She generously suggested we take the bowl home and mail her a check – which I did immediately, even before unloading the car.
Duncan Miller Art Deco Line 16 Amber Bowl
Make it easier for yourself and bring your checks.
#5 Respect the Dealers’ Investment in Time and Cost
This tip won’t be new to anyone; it’s just common sense and courtesy. Two main points here, careful handling and pricing.
Dealers have significant investment even before the show: Buy glass, often buying large lots to get that special piece, cull damaged items, clean, price, pack, set up at shows, sell, rinse and repeat, plus pay for the show space and travel.
Careful Handling. Be careful when you pick up and handle glass, and be even more careful when you put it back. Be especially careful when reaching across a crowded table to get the piece in back; some dealers’ displays are a bit risky. When in doubt ask the seller to get a piece out for you.
Glass Perched Precariously
Personally I love lidded pieces (and I’m still looking for just that perfect candy jar) and always want to take lids off. But I usually avoid it unless considering to buy the piece. It’s just too easy to nick the lid or flange when putting it back on the bottom.
Adam Pink Depression Glass from John and Dovie Fields
One smart dealer had small pieces of foam sheet between her lids and bottoms, a good way to keep the pieces in pristine condition. The Fostoria Lafayette topaz candy jar I considered this summer had a minuscule nick in the rim which disqualified it for me and probably other customers too.
Pricing. Several dealers offered (without me asking) to do a little better on price, or they could work with me if I wanted multiple items. If I’m buying multiple expensive items I don’t see anything wrong with asking someone whether they would consider a discount or are their prices firm, but if they say no, that’s fine and we pay the sticker price.
It’s different at fairs or flea markets of course, where often the items aren’t even marked and sellers expect a bit of haggling. Glass at shows is well-marked.
I remember what it was like helping Dave sell his ceramics at art shows and dealing with demanding bargain hunters. But if someone offers me a lower price I won’t turn it down!
I wish you great enjoyment at your next depression glass show!