E-group Online Beginners Guide for Collecting Fenton Glass
By Kelly Anderson in cooperation with
members of the Fenton-glass e-group
Modified for the web by John Gager
Fenton-Glass E-group
What is the Fenton-Glass E-group?
The Fenton-Glass E-group is an email list for collectors and admirers of Fenton Art Glass. This forum is for the cordial discussion of the methods and products of the Fenton Art Glass Company. The owner and moderator of the group is Frank Sereno.
How do I join Fenton-Glass E-group?
That is easy! First you go to the website at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fenton-glass/ Then click on the “Join This Group” button on the front page of the group site. If you are not signed in, you will be asked to enter your Yahoo! ID. If you do not have a Yahoo! ID you can click on the link “New to Yahoo!? Sign up now”. Set your membership preferences. When you join, you can choose a profile you'd like to display to the group, select the email address at which you'd like to receive group messages, choose how you receive group messages, and more. I highly recommend you join the group via the group page at the link above so that you have access to all of the group's web features (Photos, Files, Links, Polls, Calendar.) In addition you will have access to the My Groups page, where you can easily manage all of your memberships and e-mail messages.After you have made all of your selections, you will receive a confirmation message. Just reply to this message and your subscription will be complete.
How do I navigate the Fenton-Glass E-group website?
Once you have joined the
e-group there is a guide built into the website to help the new member
become more familiar with the site
1. Go to the e-group website which you have already joined by following the
instructions above at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fenton-glass/
2. Click on [Edit My Membership] in the top right hand corner
of your screen on the website itself.
3. On the page that comes up you hit the [Home Help] right
under the previous button.
4. Here you have the page designed to help you navigate your way through
the entire site.
There are several sections here:
Getting Started A FAQ section for getting started with the group
Your Yahoo! Groups Account Which helps you personalize your yahoo
experience
Yahoo Groups Features which explains all of the features of the website
like the photo's section, etc.
Other Yahoo! Groups Questions Where there are a few other questions
that a newcomer might ask.
Fenton-Glass E-Group Members sites and Ebay ID’s
Bonnie Riley -- Rubyblues at Ruby Lanes -- www.rubylane.com/shops/rubyblues
Ernie Conrad -- Fenton Art Glass & Collectibles -- www.garlic.com/~erniec/fenton.shtml
Ernie’s Mostly Fenton -- Glassware, Gifts & Collectibles -- http://erniesmostlyfenton.com/
John & Ann Fenton -- Fenton's Collectibles -- http://fentonscollectibles.com/
John Walk -- Walk Memory Lane Antiques -- www.walkmemorylane.com/
Pete & Sheila McMillen -- McMillen & Husband -- www.mcmillenandhusband.com/
Barb Colligan -- The World of Glass Exclusives -- www.glassexclusives.com/
Bill & Joan Rhoades -- For You Only -- www.foryouonlyantiques.com/
Chuck & Sharon Bragg -- B&B Shop @Collector online -- www.collectoronline.com/stores/bbshop
Chuck & Sharon Bragg -- B&B Shop @facets -- www.facets.net/bbshop/
Cliff Hughes -- Cliff's Glass House -- www.tias.com/stores/cgh/
Connie -- Gifts, Glass & much, much more... -- www.giftsglass.com/
Donna Christie -- Christies Collectibles -- www.christiescollectibles.com/
Dwen Lilly -- A Real Glass Act -- www.rubylane.com/shops/arealglassact
Greg Steele -- Art Glass & Collectibles Shop -- www.tias.com/stores/agcs/
Jean & Paul Perry -- Our Shop Antiques -- www.ourshopantiques.com/
Jo-ann -- Booth11 Collectibles & Antiques -- www.rubylane.com/shops/booth11
John & Linda Rippert -- Rippert's Glass Rainbow -- www.dealersdirect.com/Dealer/Rippert/index.html
Maggie Gammon -- Commonplace Books -- www.abebooks.com/home/COMMONPLACEBOOKS/
Michael & Lori Palmer -- Glass House -- http://www.rubylane.com/shops/glasshouse
Shelby Lollis -- Collector online -- www.collectoronline.com/shelbysplace
Shelby Lollis -- Shelby's Place -- www.shelbysplace.com/mall/
Susan Bargar -- Bargar Jewelry.com -- www.bargarjewelry.com/home.cfm
Susan Howell -- Susan's Selections -- www.rubylane.com/shops/susansselections
Terry Shuffler -- Dreams & Rainbows -- www.dreamsnrainbows.com/fenton.htm
Thom McCarthey -- Yokefellows @Ruby Lane -- www.rubylane.com/shops/yokefellow
Kelly & Steve Tonel -- Classic Glass -- http://classicglassdirect.com/us.html
Darlene A. Johnson -- Afterglow Antiques @Ruby Lane -- www.rubylane.com/shops/afterglowantiques
Louis and Charlotte Rouse -- The Showcase -- www.theshowcase.freeservers.com/
Gil & Mary Nadeau -- Fenton Glass E Store -- www.fentonglassestore.com/
John and Linda Rippert -- www.stores.ebay.com/id=159377&ssPageName=L2
Janet Foster -- http://www.stores.ebay.com/cyberspacecollectiblesandgifts
Kevin & Tammy Davis -- http://www.stores.ebay.com/id=166577
Cheryl Webber -- Cheryl's Collecting Page -- www.webbergroup.com/home/collect.htm
John Gager Fenton Fanatics -- www.fentonfan.com
Rick & Tina's Fenton, Home -- http://home.att.net/~t.gaither/wsb/html/view.cgi-home.html-.html
Stu Horn’s Rose Bowl Collection -- www.justglass.com/stua.html
Marty DeMotta -- http://home.attbi.com/~martyd50/wsb/html/view.cgi-home.html-.html
Darlene A. Johnson -- www.afterglowantiques.com
Note: eBay ID's underlined are links to a particular seller's "Items for Sale" page on eBay. Just click on their eBay ID to get a list of items this seller might have up for auction.
Ebay
Seller/Buyer User ID's
|
|||||
Name
|
eBay
ID
|
Name
|
eBay
ID
|
Name
|
eBay
ID
|
| Andrea Calhoun | glasslady123 | Dwen Lilly | Dlilly | Melva McGinnis |
hobnober |
| Anita Olson | harriedmomof4 | Eric Weber | sellsquick | Michael & Lori Palmer | glass_house |
| Barb Ley | bcley98 | Frank Sereno |
f_sereno | Neva Wood | mybear@ev1.net |
| Betty Thomas | betzi4fenton32 | Holly Gadomski |
Dudebabys@aol.com | Ollie and Ron Paxton | barrypaxton |
| Bev Spencer | ebybj | Jean Leach | mimijean54 | Paul & Linda Anderson | paa74 |
| Beverly Darling |
fentonocd | John Gager | fenton-fan | Peggy Greene | jpg-unlimited |
| Bonnie Riley | Rubyblue | John and Linda Rippert | rainbows | Robert Burgess |
lzr04 |
| Chris McGraw | fentonhabit | John Walk | glassaholic59 | Robin Gadomski |
Pinkpony2 |
| Claire Kauffung |
luckyc | Judy Lujan | glasslass | Sarah Plummer |
Fanoffenton |
| Clifford Hughes | cahac | Julie Avra | Glassjules | Shari Chamberlin |
sharih1969 |
| Colleen Ott | colleen-1951 | Karen Zellars, J.D. | karenlaw1 | Sharon Bragg | fenton-lady |
| Connie DeAngelo | giftsglass | Kelly Anderson |
loveschalice | Sheila McMillen | sheesh2 |
| Darlene & Kevin Johnson | afterglowantiques.com | Kevin & Tammy Davis | tea_rose_cottage | Shelby Lollis | shelbysplace.com |
| Debby Claxton |
chumley1 | Leslie Bailey | lotusnotesgirl | Stu Horn | glassluvr |
| Debby Oaklief |
sarahoak1 |
Linda Beech |
Linda1245 | Susan Howell |
susans*selections |
| Dick & Dona St. Cyr | mexme | Linda Dees | ldees13 | Terry Joley |
fentondoller |
| Dodie Levi | giftimes | Linda Marsh | dollardoll | Thom McCarthey |
sftanda |
| Donna Anderson | dja527 | Louis Rouse | rousemark | Trish Castillo |
pampered_punkin |
| Donna Christie |
needafentonfix | Maggie Gammon | maggieclaire | Trudy Green | tgreen* |
| Donna Hatch | canalsdh | Marty DeMotta |
martyd50 | Wesley & Janet Foster | muzzleloader |
| Dorothy B | goldendaze | Mary B. Haubrick | ic.youens | ||
This is easily summed up in seven words “Fenton Art Glass is a modern American Tradition” as Alan Linn put it in “The Fenton Story of Glassmaking” (revised ed.1995). He went on to say that “the fine craftsmen and women and all those who support them provide the most important ingredient of Fenton glass---people.” And because of the excellent craftsmanship of all those people Fenton glass is sought after by collectors from around the world, all in appreciation of knowing it is American made and made well. The history of Fenton Art Glass Company itself is a tribute to the American dream and the beautiful glass that they have made for almost 100 years is the evidence of that dream. Now to fill in the technical blanks about the actual glass rather than the nostalgia which attracts so many, here are a few links to help you get more familiar with Fenton Glass.
Fenton Art Glass from the Glass Encyclopedia -- www.glass.co.nz/august.htm
The Fenton Glass Company website has a section called Glassmaking 101 if you are interested in finding out how some of their beautiful creations are made. You can find Glassmaking 101 here -- www.fentonartglass.com/glassmessenger/glassmaking_101.htm
There are also additional books and videos on the Fenton Co. website here -- www.fentonartglass.com/cart2/asp/item_index.asp
Fenton does not make china or porcelain. However, there were/are companies in England with the name "Fenton" who does make china. I can assure you that these companies are in no way affiliated with the Fenton Art Glass Company.
Fenton Art Glass Company in Williamstown, West Virginia
Where can I find some history and other information on the Fenton Art Glass Company?
Fenton History on the Fenton Glass Co. website -- www.fentonartglass.com/aboutfenton/about_fenton_glass.htm#Company%20History
Fenton and the City -- www.geocities.com/wvmartys/fentoncityword.html
Fenton News Past and Present: Articles Regarding Fenton Art Glass -- www.geocities.com/wvmartys/seufer.html
The Last Great American Blow Glass Maker -- www.grammytique.com/library/Fenton/fentonglass.html
Where can I find information on the Fenton Museum?
www.fentongiftshop.com/museum.asp
Where can I find information on the Fenton Gift Shop and how do I contact them?
Fenton Gift Shop
420 Caroline Avenue
Williamstown, WV 26187
(304) 375-7772
(800) 319-7793
Fenton Gift Shop Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00am
to 8:00pm
Saturdays: 8:00am
to 5:00pm
Sundays: 12:00pm
to 5:00pm
*January thru March, we
close at 5 pm weekdays.
*Closed New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas
How can I join the Fenton gift shop email list?
Join by following the instructions at the bottom of this page www.fentongiftshop.com/contacts.asp
Are tours of the Fenton Company available and what are the specifics on taking a tour?
Yes and you can find the information on taking a tour on the Fenton Gift Shop website at:
Email: tours@fentongiftshop.com
Phone: 304-375-7772 (ask for the Tour Station)
www.fentongiftshop.com/tour.asp
Where can I find a map to the Fenton Art Glass Company?
www.fentongiftshop.com/travel.asp
The Glass Messenger is a quarterly publication from Fenton Art Glass Company. It offers the subscriber the option to buy an exclusive piece of glass yearly that only Glass Messenger subscribers can purchase. It also provides information on new designs, products and upcoming collections. You will get the chance to read about many of the artists and craftsmen and women that work at Fenton as well as special articles about upcoming events. To subscribe go to -- www.fentonartglass.com/glassmessenger/glass_messenger.htm
Is there current or past Fenton catalogs online?
The latest Fenton catalog can be found at www.fentonartglass.com/catalog03/catalog_index.asp. The Fenton Fanatics site also has online catalogs starting with 1950 and 1961-71. You can get to the catalogs at:
http://www.fentonfan.com/Catalogs/CatMain.htm
Are there any Fenton supplements published online?
Fenton Fanatics website
has a section for Fenton supplements that cannot be found anywhere else
online. John Gager the owner and webmaster of the site has an extensive
collection going back to 1974. The supplements can be found at --
www.fentonfan.com/Supplements/SupMain.htm
How can I find a Fenton dealer near me?
www.fentonartglass.com/locateadealer/dealer_locator.asp
Fenton Family Members
Where can I find out more about Fenton Family members?
Here is an article about the Fenton family on the Fenton Glass Company Website -- www.fentonartglass.com/specialevents/special_events_history.htm
You can also find out more information about each individual family member by visiting the special events site where you will find a short biography of the members who are scheduled for Signing Events at this website, just select the family member you are interested in learning more about -- www.fentonartglass.com/specialevents/special_events.htm
What is a family signing and how do I find one in my area?
Every year in the spring and fall Fenton Family members visit Showcase Dealers all across the United States to meet with the collectors, sign their glass, talk with them and answer those special questions that might be on their minds. There is also an exclusive piece of glass to commemorate the event and usually there is some extra time to have a piece or two signed that are brought from home depending on the dealer and how much time is left. You can find out more information and look for the schedule to see if a dealer in your area is having a signing event by going to the Fenton Glass Company website at -- www.fentonartglass.com/specialevents/special_events.htm
Other Fenton Events
What other events happen throughout the year at Fenton Art Glass Company?
There are three main events that I believe are all organized around the Fenton gift shop.
Memorial Day Sale -- You will find great storewide savings during a four day annual sales event.
Annual Tent Event -- At the tent sale you will find substantial savings on world-famous Fenton Glass...all summer long. Selections include factory overstocks, special order items, preferred seconds, lamps, QVC items and more. Weekly specials too!
Labor Day Sale -- The traditional Labor Day sale is a 4-day Fenton Family Signing Event.
What are the Fenton conventions and some of the events surrounding the conventions?
The conventions are hosted by the collectors clubs and are the largest gathering of Fenton collectors in the United States. They are normally held in the summer every year and you can find out more information about the conventions when you join any of the collectors clubs. Each Club normally offers a Glass Sales room where Convention attendees can purchase items made exclusively for the Club. There are all types of activities for the whole family and it is a highly recommended event for any Fenton collector. FAGCA members have access to Fenton's "Special" room where Fenton samples, Dave Fetty exclusives, and many unique pieces are offered for sale to the members. Both conventions have table displays where you can view Fenton Glass history, past and present. Also the clubs offer a special time set up for glass ID. There is a panel of experts who will examine any piece of glass you wish to take and determine the origin -- hopefully Fenton. Various members of the Fenton family attend many of the functions of both clubs.
Each club has seminars
that are educational in glass making and Fenton. Also, clubs usually
sponser special tours and other activities for the club members.
There is a banquet following the conventon, and many of the Fenton family
members are there to socialize with the rest of the club. Usually an auction
follows the banquet with many "One Of A Kind" pieces being offered.
Also many auctions and glass sales occur just before, during, and after
the conventions. For several years there have been glass sales at the Marietta
fairgrounds, Williamstown High School, and the park in Williamstown. Usually
many people in the towns will have yard sales with the focus of selling
Fenton. Check with FAGCA and the NFGS for more information
on local events.
What are some of the local hotels to stay at during visits to Fenton Glass Co.?
Comfort Inn – Marietta, OH – 740-374-8190
Econo Lodge – Marietta, OH – 740-374-8481
Holiday Inn – Marietta, OH – 740-374-9660 (National Reservation 1800 HOLIDAY)
Hampton Inn – Marietta, OH – 740-373-5353 (National Reservation 1 800 HAMPTON)
Super 8 – Marietta, OH – 740-374-8888
Knights Inn – Marietta, OH – 740-373-7373 (1 800-526-5947 is toll free direct to Marietta location or National Reservation Center 1 800-843-5644)
Days Inn – Williamstown, WV – 304-375-3730 (National Reservation 1 800 DAYS INN)
**** Be sure and make your reservations well in advance (as in 6 months to a year) for Convention stays
What is the purpose of the Fenton Glass collector clubs?
The purpose of a Fenton glass club is to educate people on the various pieces that have been made in the past or are currently being made. The whole objective of a collectors club is for the education of glass in general --- Fenton specifically in this case. They are non profit making organizations. Fenton makes special glass pieces specifically for each of the clubs but the glass is limited quantities and generally only members of that club can purchase them.
What are the different Fenton Glass clubs and how do I get in contact with them?
There are many other local clubs around the country but these are the only ones that submitted websites. In most cases you will be able to get into contact with your local club by contacting one of the parent national Fenton glass clubs.
Fenton Art Glass Collectors of America -- http://fagcainc.wirefire.com/
Fenton Finders of Puget Sound -- http://mysite.verizon.net/res1p5xt/FFofPS/
Fenton Finder’s of the Ozarks -- http://fentonscollectibles.com/fentonfinders.htm
Fenton Finders of Greater Kansas City -- Bevandjon@aol.com
Fenton Finders of West-Central Minnesota -- intvclee@willmar.com
National Fenton Glass Society -- http://www.fentonglasssociety.org/
Fenton Glass Society of the Ark-La-Tex -- http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FentonArkLaTex
The Pacific Northwest Fenton Association -- http://www.glasscastle.com/pnwfa.htm
Fenton References and Articles on the Web
Are there any references for Fenton Glass on the internet?
There are many references on the Web for Fenton glass. Here is a list of some of the best and there will be many more in this FAQ article but these are the most popular with their associated websites:
Fenton Art Glass Company -- www.fentonartglass.com
Fenton Fanatics -- www.fentonfan.com
Fenton-glass E-group on yahoo – http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fenton-glass/
Emporium Limited E-group on yahoo -- http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EMPORIUMLIMITED/
The Charleton Line -- www.glasshousenc.com/charletonline/Page_1x.html
Charleton E-group on yahoo -- http://groups.yahoo.com/group/awco/
Fenton Cactus pattern -- www.maxframe.com/FCACTUS.HTM
Fenton Cactus pattern www.maxframe.com/GLASS/FENTON/CACTUS/GreentownCactus.htm
“Fenton Stars & Stripes Collection……Helping to Heal” by Sharon Bragg -- www.eletra.com/col/e_000008514000013364.cfm
“The Southern Belle Collection” by Mary C. Walrath -- http://www.glassexclusives.com /newsletter #2
“A Concern or Celebration for Collectors” (Rosso Glass) by John Sample -- www.icnet.net/users/davepeterson/rosso.html
Lora’s World of Fenton -- (good reference on mice and bears) www.fentonworld.com/
“Ride the Wave of Fenton’s Crest Series” by Tammy Springer -- www.collectingchannel.com/cdsDetArt.asp?CID=119&PID=100505
“Fenton’s Coin Dot Marks the Spot” by Tammy Springer -- www.collectingchannel.com/cdsDetArt.asp?CID=116&PID=101962
“Stretch Glass Bounces into Collections” by Tammy Springer -- www.collectingchannel.com/cdsDetArt.asp?CID=116&PID=103814
“Rare Carnival Glass has Collectors seeing Red” by Tammy Springer -- www.collectingchannel.com/cdsDetArt.asp?CID=60&PID=107440
“Fenton Fairy Lights, 1953 – 2002” by Raymond & Barbara Carver -- www.fairy-lamp.com/Fairylamp/FentonFairyLamps.html
“Jon Saffell - From Fostoria to Fenton” by Debbie Coe -- www.kaleden.com/articles/3200.html
“Happiness is Fenton Glass” by Ferrill J. Rice -- www.kaleden.com/articles/67.html
“The Wrisley Story: The Early History of Fenton Hobnail” by Michael and Lori Palmer -- http://fentonfan.com/Articles/Wrisley/Wrisley_1.htm
References and articles of interest for glass other than just Fenton
Is there a site on the web that can provide me with links on other types of glass other than Fenton that I might find interesting?
Useful and Interesting Links on Glass -- www.netnz.com/glass/links.htm#Reference
Alladin Knights of the Mystic Light --- www.aladdinknights.org/
Waldens Index of Glass & China Terms -- www.matchings.com/dictionary.htm
National Milk Glass Collectors Society -- www.nmgcs.org/tips.htm
Vaseline Glass Collectors of America -- www.vaselineglass.org/
National American Glass Club -- http://home.att.net/%7ENAGC/
Glass Museum Online -- www.glass.co.nz/
Glass Encyclopedia -- www.glassencyclopedia.com/
“Westmoreland Glass with Charleton decorations” by Michael and Lori Palmer -- www.westmorelandglassclubs.org/feature.html
There is a complete list of Fenton Books and some books that contain some good sections on Fenton at the end of this guide.
I cannot afford to buy all of the Fenton books out there so which ones are must haves for a new collector?
There are so many differing opinions about which books are the best for beginners but I have tried to narrow them down to five in two categories. Of course if you are collecting something specific like “cats” then you would want to get “Fenton Glass Cats & Dogs” by Tara Coe-McRitchie; or if you collect “milk glass” you might want to buy “The Big Book of Fenton Milk Glass 1940 – 1985” by John Walk but you can find a list of those books at the end of this guide. The books listed here are general books on Fenton for collectors of older Fenton or contemporary Fenton. They were the top 5 suggested books by the Fenton-Glass E-Group members and will give you a good general education on both history and identification with a lot of other good information as well. Remember however that if you want to learn Fenton patterns and shapes you might want to include books from both groups. Note that I am only including the title of the book and the author’s name here as the complete information for each book can be found at the end of the guide.
Collectors of Older Fenton These books not only show colored examples of various Fenton patterns, shapes and colors, but also have a lot of history of the Fenton Company, and show Fenton advertising from those time periods.
Fenton the 1st 25 years by William Heacock
Fenton the 2nd 25 years by William Heacock
Fenton the 3rd 25 years by William Heacock
Fenton Art Glass 1907 - 1939, Identification and Value Guide 2nd edition by Margaret & Kenn Whitmyer
The Big Book of Fenton Glass 1940 - 1970 4th ed by John Walk
Collectors of Contemporary Fenton These books will be great guides for identification for most of the contemporary glass made by Fenton both in their general line and their QVC line.
Fenton Glass the 1980s Decade by James Measell
Fenton Glass the 1990s Decade by James Measell
Fenton Glass Compendium 1970 – 1985 by John Walk
Fenton Glass Compendium 1985 – 2001 by John Walk
Fenton Glass Especially For QVC by James Measell
Fenton books can be bought many places online. These are just a few suggestions and tips on getting the ones you need.
Fenton Art Glass Co. Fenton has a selection of books available on their website especially books by Jim Measell and William Heacock. www.fentonartglass.com/cart2/asp/item_index.asp?category=History+Books or you can call the Fenton Museum and order them directly at (304-375-7772 ext. 255). Fenton is working on putting together a special promotion package deal for 5 of their books covering the time from the beginning of the company through the 1990’s.
Directly from the Authors -- Some of the books available can be purchased directly from the authors and the bonus is that they will be autographed by the author. Here are two authors that will usually be able to provide you with their books and how to contact them.
John Walk can be emailed at jwalk@swetland.net and he promises to sign all books bought directly from him. (see list of books at end of guide)
Michael and Lori Palmer’s books can be contacted about their book through their website at: www.glasshousenc.com/charletonline/Page_8x.html
Schiffer Books -- www.schifferbooks.com
Collector Books -- Margaret & Kenn Whitmyer’s books can be found at: www.collectorbooksonline.com or can be called at 1-800-626-5420 7 AM TO 5 PM CST
LW Books -- www.lwbooks.com
Fenton Dealers -- To find a Fenton dealer go to www.fentonartglass.com and click on locate a dealer.
QVC -- To see what is available there go to www.qvc.com . Keep in mind the Fenton dealers and QVC carry separate offerings from each other. Usually once a month Fenton Glass is on QVC to present new items. A Fenton family member is there to discuss the individual pieces and some of Fenton history with the program host.
Flea Markets etc…
Antique stores
Internet Searches -- Just do an internet search on one of the popular search engines for Fenton Glass and you will most likely come up with many places you can buy Fenton Art Glass.
Internet Auctions -- Ebay, Yahoo and other internet auction sites are some of the best places to find Fenton glass. Here are the main sections on eBay for Fenton Glass:
Fenton (all categories): http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2719/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Bells: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2720/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Burmese: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2721/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Crests: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2722/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Figurines: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2723/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Hobnail: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2724/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Limited Editions: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2725/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Shoes/Boots/etc.: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category2726/index.html?from=R0
Fenton Other: http://listings.ebay.com/pool2/listings/list/all/category21/index.html?from=R0
Yahoo Auctions for Fenton can be found here:
http://list.auctions.shopping.yahoo.com/20264-category-leaf.html?
Amazon.com Auctions for Fenton can be found here:
http://s1.amazon.com/exec/varzea/ts/browse-auctions/68695/103-4335679-4089453
What types of Fenton should I collect?
Collect whatever you enjoy. Don't worry too much right now about whether or not it will appreciate in value. As you start building your collection and learning about the different patterns and glass treatments, you will probably start focusing your collection to the pieces you enjoy, and what will also most likely increase in value.
How
do I identify a piece of glass as being Fenton?
Buy the Books! I
cannot stress this strongly enough. The best way to get comfortable in looking
at a piece of glass and knowing it's Fenton is to study the many reference
books that have been published over the years. By looking at the pictures
and reading the history, you will soon start to learn the mould shapes, colors,
crimp styles, and other features that makes a piece of glass Fenton.
QVC database If
you cannot find a piece of modern Fenton glass in any of the Fenton catalogs
there is a good chance it might have come from QVC you might try the QVC
database on the Fenton Fanatics website. Just type in as much information
about the piece you can and see if you can find any matches. The address
is -- www.fentonfan.com/webdata/members.html
Catalogs & Supplements Keeping a library of Fenton catalogs & supplements is a great way to help identify your Fenton. Although you won't be able to value your glass, at least you will know when it was made, the decoration or collection name, and the ware numbers. If you don't have access to the older catalogs or supplements, the Fenton Fanatic web site has a vast library of those, and more are being added each month:
Catlogs: http://www.fentonfan.com/Catalogs/CatMain.htm
Supplements: http://www.fentonfan.com/Supplements/SupMain.htm
Ebay Another way of finding out more information on a piece you own is to find some characteristic and do a search for it on ebay. For example: If you have an amethyst carnival rabbit you might search for --- Fenton amethyst rabbit or bunny, or Fenton carnival bunny or any other combination of those characteristics that the piece you have might be located under.
Fenton Forum Fenton Forum is a bulletin board where you can post pictures and ask questions of experts and other collectors who maybe able to help you identify a piece but you will have to register at the site before you can use it. http://forum.fentonartglass.com/cgi-bin/Ultimate.cgi
Fenton-glass E-group Join the Fenton-glass e-group as mentioned earlier and send a picture to the group and usually someone will be able to help you identify the item and answer any questions you have about Fenton in general. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fenton-glass/
What is the difference between pressed glass and blown glass?
Pressed Glass
Pressed glass is where there is no air used in making the glass. The molten glass is just put into the mould and the plunger uses pressure (the force of the plunger) to force glass into all parts of the mould.
Blown Glass
Blown glass is where the molten glass is put into the mould while air is blown into it to allow the mould to be completely filled out.
What are some of the more common types of glass or glass treatments that Fenton makes and where can I find some information on them?
Vaseline Glass – Translucent or opalescent yellow Glass which glows under ultra-violet light because it contains uranium. http://www.vaselineglass.org/
Carnival Glass -- Carnival glass is made by spraying the glass with various chemicals and reheated to bring out the iridizing. You can find more information on how this is done here: http://www.glass.co.nz/carnival.htm
Opalescent Glass -- Opalescent Glass comes in many different colors but has areas of milky white opalescence within the glass this is because of the addition of bone ash which turns milky white in some areas when the glass is reheated.
Burmese Glass -- A yellow custard glass that has gold in the formula that turns a rosy pink color in some areas as it is reheated and then cooled.
Coin dot -- Glass that has various uniform size dots formed within the glass, normally opaque glass with translucent dots formed with heat sensitive glass.
Crested Glass -- Glass items with applied "trim" in either clear crystal glass or a contrasting glass color to t he rim of a vase, basket or other piece.
Milk glass -- Milk Glass is a term used by glass-makers for opaque white glass.
Hobnail -- Hobnail glass has a regular pattern of raised knobs introduced by Fenton in 1939.
Stretch Glass -- Stretch glass is created by reheating carnival glass and reshaping it so that as it cools the carnival finish has a broken or stretched appearance and a velvety look but a semi rough texture. http://members.aol.com/stretchgl/whatis.htm
Satin Glass -- Satin glass is made by sand blasting the piece to take off the surface shine – leaving a satin finish.
Slag Glass -- Slag glass is an opaque pressed glass with colored streaks, usually white and/or cream streaks on any other color. Fenton has produced slag glass in just about every color.
Adding frit is a special technique that is sometimes used in decorating items it gives the pieces a texture that can be felt as well as seen. According to the 1981-82 catalog"...after the artist finishes painting the flowers, each petal is given an extra dimension by hand application of small particles of glass. The piece is then refired to make permanent Fenton's unique petal "icing." Note: Some collectors also call this "frit"
How do I find the values of my glass?
Again, all of the reference books on Fenton Art Glass include some sort of price guide. Some are printed within the book itself, and others come with a seperate price guide which are updated on a periodic basis.
Are the price guides accurate?
In some cases yes, and others, no. The main thing to stress is that it is exactly what it infers, just a "guide". Variables such as collector demand, the economy, and other factors can determine the value of a certain piece. I've seen some pieces go for way over book prices, and others way under. So never use price guides as the final determination on values.
How do I determine what I should value a piece for?
That's a tough one to answer because it depends alot on the individual. For example, if there is something that I REALLY want for my collection, I will sometimes go beyond the book prices. eBay is a good reference in that often times you can get information on what certain or similar pieces are going for at auction. Some of the club newsletters contain classifieds on glass for sale that you can use as another reference.
Fenton Exclusives, Samples and Whimsies
A Fenton Exclusive is a piece of glass that has been commissioned by a Fenton dealer or an individual. They are usually made from leftover Fenton blanks and are normally very highly sought after in the collecting community because of the limited number and rarity of the piece. The dealer or individual who commissions Exclusive pieces works with one of the Fenton artists and decides upon the design of the piece and then when they know what they want the piece to look like Fenton produces the pieces specifically for that individual or dealer. These pieces are not so easily identified since they do not appear in any of the Fenton literature. It is normally up to the collector to seek those pieces out themselves. Here is an article by Mary C. Walrath on Giving Birth to an Exclusive Limited Edition -- http://www.glassexclusives.com/wklyltr7.htm
A Fenton sample is usually a rather rare piece often one of a kind. Samples are usually made for one of two reasons. The first is when a piece is experimental and one or a few samples are made to see how they will look and to decide whether or not Fenton is going to decide to have them in their regular line. If they are not chosen for the line they are usually sent to the Gift shop where they are sold as samples. The other way a sample may be made is in the development of a Fenton exclusive. As the dealer or individual who commissions the piece works with the artist to decide upon the decoration that they want to have put on the glass a few pieces may be made and presented until it is decided which one is the design they want to have produced. In this case usually the dealer or individual ends up with the preliminary samples leading up to the final designs as well but in some cases these are also sent to the gift shop and sold as samples.
Traditionally, a Whimsey was a piece of glass that a glassworker might design and make on his own time either at lunch or after work and might include pipes, canes or glass darning eggs etc…. Today’s whimsies refer more to an alteration of an “in line” piece either from the general line or maybe from exclusives made for clubs. The alterations often entail a twist in the middle of a handle, a flattened top, or a different type crimp than was originally on the piece. The variations of Whimsies are potentially endless and are usually based only on the limitations in skill or imagination of the glassworker. Because of the rarity or in some cases oddity of the piece they often bring higher prices than the regular line items.
General Catalog Line/NIL (Not In Line)
What do the terms General Line and NIL mean?
General line items are pieces of glass that are in the yearly catalog or catalog supplements. They appear in the Fenton literature for the year that they are made. The tern NIL means “not in line” and those are usually pieces that have either been commissioned by a Fenton dealer such as an exclusive piece, a sample, or a whimsey. Another category often referred to as NIL are pieces that are considered after market pieces which are bought as blanks and then designed or painted by an outside artist who is not employed by the Fenton factory. After market pieces are not necessarily highly sought after by most collectors but those who want a special piece painted will often buy these pieces to have something that is a one of a kind pieces painted specifically for them. Some of the aftermarket pieces that are painted by former Fenton artists are still highly collectible if the collector is interested in collecting from a particular artist. Always remember to ask if these pieces have been fired though because if the glass is painted and the design is not fired on you might be disappointed later when the paint begins to peel or disintegrate.
Fenton Artists Signatures and Family signatures
Fenton Artists Signatures
Are
all decorated Fenton pieces signed by the artist?
No.
Fenton had a decoration department in the early 1900's until the depression
of the 1930's, but on those early pieces, you will not find a artists signature.
In 1968, a decoration department again was formed, but it was not really
a requirement for the decorators to sign the piece. So you might find some
decorated pieces from that time period signed, and others unsigned. But by
the early to mid 70's, almost all decorated pieces were being signed by the
artist, and it has become a Fenton trademark to this day.
Where can I find the signatures?
On most pieces of Fenton glass, the signature will be located on the bottom of the piece, usually beginning with "Handpainted by" and the artists signature. On a few pieces, you might find the artists signature on the side, but not very often. On lamps, including most fairy lights, the signature is on the inside bottom of the globes rim.
Do some artist signatures increase the value of the Glass?
Opinions differentiate on whether the signatures actually increase the value of the glass but most collectors definitely desire them. Some collectors only collect pieces painted by a certain artist and to them the signatures are very important. For example: Louise Piper, who headed and actually formed the current design department is one of the most recognizable artists. Her signature is highly sought after and prized by collectors and will often increase the value of an item.
What is a independent decorator/artist?
An independent decorator/artist is someone who buys blank pieces of glass from Fenton and then decorates them to sell as their own creations Some of the independent artists are former Fenton employees and actually have an collector following. These artists are usually more collectible than the unknown artists or the decorators who are not known as Fenton artists.
How can I know if a piece of glass was painted by a independent artist?
Sometimes it's hard to tell if a piece was painted by a independent because the similiarity in decorations they may produce vs. what Fenton has done currently or in the past. The best way to know is by studying the Fenton books and catalogs. After awhile, you will start to recognize what looks like something handpainted by Fenton, and what hasn't. Also, the Fenton Fanatics web site maintains a list of Fenton artists, including a list of known independent artists. You can view this list at:
http://www.fentonfan.com/Misc/ArtistsList.htm
Fenton Family Signatures
Some pieces of Fenton have family signatures on them. Do these increase the value of the piece?
Fenton first started special Family Signature pieces sold on QVC. In 1994, they started a "Family Signature" series as part of their yearly catalog line, and continues to this day. Also, many pieces in Fenton's Connoisseur and Centennial Collections will have a family signature. These pieces are not personally signed by the family member, but instead are added using a decal transfer of the fascimile signature. Older family signature pieces, especially dated ones, can have an affect on the price of a piece.
What are the numbers and letters that Fenton uses to identify their glass?
The numbers are Fenton’s ware # and letters are the color codes. For example: I have a Favrene 3 ¼” cat. The ware number for that particular mould is #5165 and the color code for Favrene is FN, so the cat is identified by Fenton as ware number 5165FN.
Is there a site online to help with the ware #’s that Fenton uses for its moulds?
Yes. Although the QVC Database at the Fenton Fanatics site certainly doesn't have all of the moulds you will find, it does have many of them. You can do a search on ware numbers or general object shape (basket, vase, etc.) Also I have been told that in the front of John Walk’s books “Fenton Rarities” and “Big Book of Fenton Glass 1940-1970” there are pictures of some of the moulds with listed ware #’s.
How do I decipher the Color Codes that Fenton uses to identify the different colors of glass?
Fenton Fanatics chart -- www.fentonfan.com/Misc/ColorCodes.htm
Ernie Conrad’s list -- www.garlic.com/%7Eerniec/fen_code.htm
When did Fenton start marking its glass with a embossed logo?
Fenton first started marking their glass with the embossed logo in 1970 on a special Carnival Glass selection to differentiate between the new and old Carnival. It was then added to other moulds so that by 1975, almost all Fenton moulds included the embossed logo.
What do the different logos mean and is there a place online where I can learn more about them?
Fenton Fanatics site -- www.fentonfan.com/Misc/Logos.htm
About collectibles site also has a little information about the Fenton logos -- http://collectibles.about.com/library/priceguides/blfentonlogo.htm
Handlers Marks on Fenton Baskets
Is there a site where I can identify the handlers mark stamped on my basket handle?
www.glasscastle.com/hmarks.htm
What are seconds Markings and what are some other indications that a piece might be a second quality piece?
Article by Ann Fenton on Fenton Seconds -- www.fentonfan.com/Articles/Seconds/Seconds.htm
Sometimes when you buy a piece of glass from the Fenton Gift Shop there will be a numbered sticker on the piece. These numbers are just the gift shops way of keeping track of merchandise. Here is the list of what each of the numbers mean:
10 – 1st Quality
11 – 1st Quality Limited Edition
12 – 1st Quality Lamps
13 – 1st Quality Milk Glass
13 - FGS Special Products
14 – 2nd Quality Lamps
15 – 1st Quality Lamps (Discontinued)
16 - Featured Artist Work
17 - Samples
20 – 2nd Quality
21 - Lamp Exclusive
23 – 2nd Quality QVC
24 – 1st Quality Gift Shop Exclusive
27 – 2nd Samples
30 – 1st Quality (Discontinued)
31 – 1st Quality QVC (Discontinued)
What are the different types of Fenton stickers and what do they mean?
http://www.glasscastle.com/fstickers.htm
Should I remove Fenton Stickers and price tags or do they increase the value of a piece?
It is debatable as to whether stickers and price tags add any value to the piece. It helps to identify that it is a Fenton piece, but beware unscrupulous sellers have been known to take labels from Fenton pieces and put them on non Fenton pieces. The labels on older pieces are especially helpful when trying to identify a piece as Fenton, because glass prior to 1973 doesn’t have the Fenton embossed logo. Some good reasons for keeping the price tags on the glass are because they provide mould ware #s and color codes for your glass which you might want later when searching for pieces to fill in your collection. The price tags might also assist you later if you decide to have your collection insured.
What is a safe way to remove the stickers or price tags without damaging the artist signatures?
The signature and other Limited Edition markings are fired onto the bottom of the piece of glass for permanence just like the decoration. It won't damage any of the markings to remove the price tag. Just use warm soapy water to remove it and it should be fine. Note that some collectors like to leave the price tags on their pieces so that they have some way of keeping track of how much they paid.
Should I keep all of my Fenton boxes?
Some buyers are fanatical about the boxes. If you think that you might resale any of your items at any point, it's a good idea to keep boxes and certificates especially boxes for Connoisseur and other limited edition pieces. It doesn't necessarily add to the resale value, but it might make it easier to resell a piece. If you want to choose to keep your boxes you can break them down and store them in a big plastic storage box so they don't take up as much room.
Handmade Glass Features/Flaws/Damage
There are many features in handmade glass that are not considered flaws but are instead just that features. Because of the nature of being handmade there will be tiny bubbles sometimes or things like that but they do not usually affect the value of the glass. Some other things that are up to the taste of the collector are the varying shades of color such as in Burmese glass or the degree of opalescence in opalescent glass. Some people prefer more some prefer less.
A flaw in the glass will be anything that might occur during the manufacturing of the glass and the degree to which the flaw takes over the pieces and detracts from the beauty of the glass is probably when it should be considered undesirable. Things such as large bubbles, poorly crimped items, lopsided pieces, uneven handles or missing hobs on hobnail. All of these flaws occur during the glass making process but the pieces with particularly detracting flaws should not have left the Fenton Factory in the first place and hopefully you will not encounter any pieces like this unless they slip by Fenton’s strict quality control or are marked as “seconds.” But remember sometimes a second can even be desirable when it is a beautiful piece. Seconds are usually more affordable if you are particularly attracted to the design and can’t afford the first quality piece. Damage to a piece of glass is more of a detractor to the value of glass than manufacturing flaws which are just a part of the handmade glass process.
Damage is an entirely different thing. Things such as chips and cracks will definitely affect the value of the glass. A ‘fleabite” is a small chip or flake of glass that usually occurs when the piece of glass has been dinged against another piece of glass and even though it doesn’t affect the beauty of the glass it is considered damage and will affect the value. Any type of damage will drastically reduce the value but if it is a beautiful piece of glass otherwise it will still look lovely sitting in your curio with the damaged part turned so that you can’t readily see it.
How do I go about selling my glass?
First glass needs to be identified and classified by pattern and condition. If the piece is in poor condition then generally it will not be worth much unless it is very rare. On the other hand if it is mint condition and meets some of the criteria such as desirability, age or is a limited edition then there are several venues in which you may choose to sell it. Just listing your glass on Ebay maybe one of the best options for selling your glass but some other places would be Fenton collectors, dealers or antique shops. Collectors are usually the best if you expect to get top dollar for your glass. Most dealers or antique shops will only be able to give you enough for your glass so that they can make a profit unless of course the dealer also happens to be a collector and you have something they really want.
Can I wash my Fenton and what are some recommended ways of washing the different Fenton treatments?
Yes soapy water is effective for most cleaning but remember that if you wish your stickers to remain on the soapy water will take them off. Also some people have said that they have not had a problem cleaning their Fenton glass in the dishwasher. The risk is up to the individual I would probably hand wash the item because I have also heard stories about breakage because of the temperature change particularly with milk glass.
What are some of the products I can use for cleaning off sticky substances like glue residue from the labels and price tags or rust stains from the insides of vases etc…?
The following products have been listed by collectors to clean glass:
Goo-Gone --do not use on satin glass it may leave an oily stain
Warm soapy water -- to remove stickers you may have to let them soak for a while
Polident Denture cleaning tablets -- may help remove rust stains if left over night
CLR (Calcium, Lime and Rust remover) -- suggested for the inside of stained glass vases
Shell Buzzy’s Formula