Hi Everyone! A few weeks back, I popped into one of my favorite antique malls, and walked out with this wonderful old packing box. It was in wonderful shape, the graphics were awesome and I love the inky blue label on one of the sides.
I did a little research and found the company started out in the 1800's and are still in business today, now making ice cream toppings. If you are interested in a little Robert A. Johnston Company history, you can check that out here.
I just love that the label is still basically intact!
Both long sides say the same thing. Fascinating that it claims not to be part of any trust, as being a part of trust back then was frowned upon.
The label on the other short end is my favorite - I don't know why. I think it is the actual cursive handwriting by some long ago quality control guy or gal that intrigues me. So quaint.
So, what to do with this box? It kind of sat pushed aside in our family room for several weeks until I went to JoAnn's to get some supplies for another project. I came across the most wonderful fall florals and knew I had to use them in this box! (at least for now!)
Two of the flowers were made from burlap and have French writing on them....there was a big crowd around these flowers when I was at the store, so I was grateful to have grabbed the two I did!
Here one is up close and personal - so cute!
I also selected three very large flowers - one in reddish orange, one in a lime green, and finally, one in a golden yellow. Perfect with the colors in my family room - see how they complement the pillow in the background? I just love these!
I rounded out my purchase with a few other basic stems, added some I already owned, and finally plopped a raffia pumpkin in for a touch of fall.
We have a landing half where up our staircase, where the stairs take a jog, and there is a ledge for décor also. I have never - in all of the ten plus years we've lived here - been happy with anything I have decorated this space with. Don't know - it is just a constant nemesis! For now, I put my box and a wood/iron piece I have used in many different rooms over the years - also something that I love, but have never been happy with any place it has called "home." (it is one foot out of here, I think, because it just never looks right! Have you ever bought something you loved, but it never really worked in your house?)
But, anyway, here is both of their homes for the moment. The iron piece adds some needed height and a pop of color behind the stained box. I like it - just not in love. The box, however, is a keeper - looking forward to using it many ways!
So, that's me thinking inside the box today! Thanks for stopping by.
Jane
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