And I'm about to lose my mind. I mean, LOOK AT ALL THESE MCM GRAPES! These fantastic fruits are one of the most sought-after items for vintage enthusiasts, making them difficult to come by. Needless to say, we are thrilled to have acquired a whole collection. (Perks of the job, am I right?!)
We've got smooth and textured, in every color under the rainbow. We've even given them all names! Check it out:
Acrylic and glass grapes were popular decorative items, commonly used in fruit-bowl arrangements and as decorations on chandeliers and lamps.
These grapes were typically made using a process called glass or acrylic molding. Glass grapes were crafted by skilled glassblowers who shaped molten glass into grape-like forms, creating a realistic appearance. Acrylic grapes, on the other hand, were made by injecting liquid acrylic into molds, which were then cooled and solidified.
Various colors were produced to mimic the shades of real grapes. The most popular colors were typically green, purple, and amber, as they closely resembled the colors of common grape varieties. Additionally, some manufacturers offered grapes in shades of red, blue, and clear, providing a wider range of options for collectors.
Rare or unusual colors tend to be more sought after by collectors. For example, grapes in rare hues like black, pink, or multicolored combinations are often more challenging to come across and more expensive.
The types of wood commonly used with decorative acrylic and glass grapes varied widely depending on the specific design and style of the item. However, some popular choices for the base or stems of these decorative grape clusters were typically hardwoods like mahogany, walnut, oak, or cherry. These hardwoods were valued for their durability, attractive grain patterns, and ability to complement the overall aesthetic of the grapes. The choice of wood was often influenced by personal preference, the desired level of craftsmanship, and the intended use of the decorative item.
Driftwood was sometimes used in conjunction with acrylic and glass grapes to create a unique and natural aesthetic. Driftwood, which is wood that has been washed ashore by water, often has an interesting shape and texture due to exposure to the elements. Its weathered appearance and organic form can add a rustic or coastal vibe to the overall design. When combined with acrylic and glass grapes, the contrast between the smooth, colorful grapes and the rough, textured driftwood can create an eye-catching and artistic arrangement. The use of driftwood as a base or stem for these decorative grape clusters offers a distinctive and natural touch to the overall composition.
The availability of acrylic and glass grapes varied. While some were sold already assembled as decorative grape clusters, others were sold in kit form. The kits typically included individual grapes, stems, and sometimes a base, allowing buyers to assemble and arrange them according to their preferences. This provided a customizable aspect to the design and allowed for personal creativity.
Vintage kits may still be found in the antique market or through online platforms specializing in vintage collectibles. However, due to their age and limited production, finding complete vintage kits may be challenging.
Luckily, we've got grapes galore! Head on over to our online store to see them all!