How to Collect Vintage Salt and Pepper Shakers

Collecting vintage salt and pepper shakers can be a very rewarding hobby. Besides adding a decorative flair to your home decor, many of these ornamental gems contain an interesting history that can be uncovered with a little research.

Before purchasing your first vintage salt and pepper shakers, it's a good idea to learn a bit about what's available. This information will be helpful in calculating what to pay for individual sets and in determining the age of antique salt and pepper shakers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide what type of vintage salt and pepper shakers you find most appealing. As with any type of collecting, you may wish to focus on a specific category such as 1940's salt and pepper shakers or items made by popular manufacturers including Fitz & Floyd or Lenox. You can even base your collection upon a certain design of salt and pepper shakers. The most common categories are hangers, huggers, minis, nodders, and stackers.

2. 

   Visit flea markets and yard sales to find good deals on a variety of vintage salt and pepper shakers. Often a seller will not know the actual value of an item and may just be interested in making a little extra cash while clearing out their garage or attic.

3. Browse your local newspaper to find out about tag sales in your area. This is an excellent way to acquire collectibles. Many times the seller may have an entire collection up for grabs. While dear Aunt Olivia may have adored her Blue Willow salt and pepper shakers, her young nephew is not likely to share the enthusiasm.

4. Surf online at Ebay. Here you'll find hundreds of different vintage salt and pepper shakers sets. Search by category, manufacturer, or price of item. Before placing a bid, you'll want to ask the seller about insurance or refunds in case your item becomes damaged in transit.

5. Join a club or organization to learn more about collecting vintage salt and pepper shakers. This is a smart way to learn more about your favorite hobby while meeting others who share your same passion. Many groups hold regular conventions where you can buy, sell, or trade items.

Tips & Warnings

• Always research the estimated value of an item before making a purchase.
• Inspect antique salt and pepper shakers carefully for signs of damage or wear.
• If ordering online, make sure you can return the product or obtain a refund if damaged.

[sbarry77]

on 10/7/2009 Great tips on How to Collect Vintage Salt and Pepper Shakers.. love salt and pepper shakers! 5* and recommended!

[pamatwork]

on 9/19/2009 thanks for the article...I have been collecting salt and pepper shakers for years....some are "vintage" some are not, but I love them because they come in all sorts of themes. I actually use mine when I have guest over and match them to my dinner theme.......

[goldiec]

on 8/17/2009 Thanks for the great tips on how to collect vintage Salt and Pepper shakers!5*

[static404]

on 8/12/2009 Salt and pepper shakers would make such a cool collection. Excellent article.

[grammastacie]

on 7/3/2009 this is something I have always anted to do, thanks! 5* and recommend!