tchotchke dot net

A toddler-proof Christmas on a workin’ woman’s budget is a double dilemma. I’m always on the lookout for vintage items, and have quite an affection for the whimsical German tchotchkes I grew up with. A personal rule is to never go broke for an item, and to revel in the thrill of the hunt. And always try see outside of the box. A glass perfume bottle can be a chameleon.

I created this diorama on one of my built-in bookcases, which is safely away from curious hands. Paper trees are layered with mill-cut wooden and bottle brush trees. Vintage finds are from flea markets, swap meets and Goodwill, with items seldom costing more than a dollar apiece.