The Leslieville Flea is a curated Toronto-based flea market that specializes in vintage, upcycled and handcrafted goods. Their vintage vendors search far and wide for the best finds. To see for yourself, head to The Leslieville Flea on July 9th at the beautiful Ashbridge estate in Leslieville and/or July 22nd at the Distillery District. For all the details and maps go here.

WOO-HOO DECOR

SDTC: Tell us who you are and what you curate?

My name is Sonja Stefanovic. The day my corporate career ended, I sighed with relief. Then, I jumped up and clicked my heels together whilst joyfully yelling, “Woo-Hoo!” That is when I took my love of collecting unusual and timeless pieces and created Woo-Hoo Décor.

Woo-Hoo Décor is inspired by fond remembrances of the homes I grew up in, filled with heirlooms lovingly handed down and cherished. I love the idea that something old can be given a new life, especially when paired with something new to create a whimsical and unusual space. I have a passion for vintage china, bar ware and glass, be it 1930s depression and carnival glass, beautifully cut crystal or newly recycled glass.

What is your find of the week?

This exceptional Bakelite Bar Tool Caddy. This rare and highly sought-after set of bar tools was made in the early 1960s by Glo Hill, a Montreal-based company known for its high-end chrome and Bakelite pieces. This set features deep cherry red Bakelite and gleaming chrome, all on a revolving caddy – just as beautiful on display as it is functional!

Why did it catch your eye?

It is VERY unusual to find a complete set like this with its original caddy. Also to find out that the Bakelite was sourced from the U.S. and then imported by Glo Hill into Montreal where it was manufactured.

What’s the story behind it?

I found this on one of my picking trips. It had been neglected and my challenge was to bring it back to life…so…a lot of elbow grease, patience, some research and success!

How do you see it living out the rest of its days?

This will make a fantastic addition to any bar for the savvy collector of fine bar ware.

SHABBY TABBY VINTAGE

Tell us who you are and what you curate?

My name is Kim Hockney. Shabby Tabby Vintage is named for my tabbies Burly and Maggie. I’m a vintage lover from way back before it was vintage. I’m always on the lookout for ‘that’ piece! Its all about the thrill of the hunt for me. If I love it, it’s in my shop!

What is your find of the week?

This beautiful mid-century lamp.

What’s unusual about this particular item? 

I love the mottled teal colour. Very current AND the base and the shade are in mint condition.

Is there a story behind it? 

I found it while helping a friend clear out her home of 50+ years. It had been in the family all that time but unused for years. So exciting!

How do you see it living out the rest of its days?

I see it living its life with a true mid-century appreciator!

SHES-CRAFTY

Tell us who you are and what you curate.

My name is Chris Roberts. I’m a full-time stylist, part-time creator and part-time flea founder. I make recycled/upcycled goods from wood and metal goods that inspire me.

What is your find of the week? 

This vintage typewriter table.

Why did it catch your eye?

I have been looking for a piece to fit beside our fireplace since I took out the built-ins last month. I wanted something that was unusual, vintage and that fit my budget. I saw this piece and knew immediately. It fit like it was meant to be there. And I knew I wanted something vintage metal in the room. Being patient always pays off…you will eventually find the perfect item for your space.

Is there a story behind the item? 

It was an old typewriter table…nothing special about it, but reminds me of the kinds of tables you’d see in Mad Men. Simple, functional, yet sturdy and well made. This is a quality piece even if it’s not fancy.

How do you see it living out the rest of its days?

In my dining room, beside my fireplace, as an extra serving surface and to house our audio system. When you find that perfect piece for your room, it just completes the whole space!