The history of vintage tapestries and woven goods is a rich and fascinating one that spans centuries and continents. These intricate pieces of art not only serve as decorative items but also provide a glimpse into the culture and history of the societies that created them. From ancient civilizations to medieval Europe and beyond, the art of tapestry weaving has evolved and thrived, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate collectors and historians alike. In this article, we will explore the origins of tapestry weaving, the techniques and materials used, as well as the significance and popularity of vintage tapestries and woven goods.

Egyptian and Greek Times:

The art of tapestry weaving dates back thousands of years, with evidence of early tapestries found in ancient Egyptian tombs and Greek archaeological sites. These early pieces were most likely used as decorative hangings or as coverings for furniture. The techniques used during this time varied, with some tapestries being woven on simple hand looms while others were created using more complex methods.

The materials used also differed, ranging from wool and linen to silk and gold thread. One of the earliest known examples of tapestry weaving is the famous “Gehenna Tapestry,” which dates back to the 2nd century BCE. Discovered in Egypt in the late 19th century, this tapestry features a highly detailed depiction of a hunting scene, showcasing the skill and artistry of the ancient weavers.

The Medieval Period:

Other early examples of tapestries can be found in ancient China, where silk tapestries were woven and used as wall hangings or as decorations for clothing. However, it was during the medieval period in Europe that tapestry weaving truly flourished. It was during this time that tapestries became highly sought after by the nobility and royal courts across the continent. The popularity of tapestries during this era can be attributed to various factors, including the technological advancements in weaving techniques and the demand for grandiose and exquisite artistic displays.

The production of tapestries during the medieval period was a complex and time-consuming process. The designs were meticulously planned and drawn on a cartoon, which served as a blueprint for the weavers. The weavers would then select and dye the yarns, carefully matching the colors to the cartoon. The tapestry was woven from the bottom up, row by row, using a combination of warp and weft threads. The warp threads were stretched vertically on a loom, while the weft threads were woven horizontally. The weft threads were carefully interlaced with the warp threads, creating the intricate patterns and design of the tapestry.

Medieval tapestries often depicted historical events, religious stories, or scenes from daily life. They served not only as decorative pieces but also as a form of storytelling and propaganda. The images portrayed on these tapestries were often carefully chosen to convey a specific message or to showcase the wealth and power of the patron. The size and complexity of these tapestries meant that they were often commissioned by the nobility or the Church, making them highly prized and luxurious items.

One of the most famous examples of medieval tapestry is the Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England in 1066. This massive tapestry is over 70 meters long and provides a detailed historical account of the battle of Hastings. The Bayeux Tapestry showcases the intricate weaving techniques and the skill of the craftsmen who created it.

The Renaissance Period:

As the Middle Ages came to a close and the Renaissance emerged, tapestry weaving continued to evolve. The Renaissance period brought about a renewed interest in classical themes and a focus on intricate detail and perspective. Tapestry workshops across Europe sought to incorporate these new artistic techniques into their designs, resulting in tapestries that featured vibrant colors, lifelike figures, and breathtaking landscapes.

The 17^th and 18^th Centuries: 

During the 17th and 18th centuries, tapestry weaving underwent yet another transformation with the rise of the Baroque and Rococo styles. These tapestries featured elaborate designs, often depicting mythological scenes or floral motifs. The workshops of famous tapestry manufacturers, such as the Gobelins in France, played a significant role in the production of these remarkable works of art.

The 19^th and 20^th Centuries:

In the 19th and 20th centuries, tapestry weaving experienced a revival, with artists embracing the medium as a form of artistic expression. The Arts and Crafts movement, which emerged in the late 19th century, celebrated the handmade and sought to revive traditional craft techniques, including tapestry weaving. Artists such as William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones championed the revival of tapestry weaving and established workshops to produce their intricate designs.

Today, vintage tapestries and woven goods continue to be highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts. These beautifully crafted pieces not only add a touch of elegance and history to any space but also serve as a testament to the skill and creativity of the craftsmen who created them. Whether it’s a medieval masterpiece, a Renaissance-inspired design, or a contemporary work of art, vintage tapestries and woven goods will forever hold a special place in our artistic and cultural heritage.

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Vintage collections are more than just a hobby; they are a reflection of our history and personal style. Whether you collect vintage clothing, vinyl records, antique furniture, or any other unique items, it’s important to find creative ways to display and showcase your treasures. Not only will this bring your collection to life, but it will also serve as a source of inspiration and spark conversations with others who appreciate the beauty of vintage items. In this article, we will explore 10 creative ways to display vintage collections that will elevate your space and make your prized possessions shine.

Create a Gallery Wall: 

One of the best ways to showcase your vintage collection is by creating a gallery wall. Select a variety of frames in different sizes and styles that complement the theme of your collection. Arrange your vintage items in an eye-catching pattern, mixing and matching colors, shapes, and textures. This display will not only add visual interest to your wall but also provide a focal point for your vintage treasures.

Use Open Shelving: 

Open shelving is an excellent way to display your vintage collection while keeping it easily accessible. Choose a floating shelf or opt for a vintage-inspired bookcase and arrange your items in a visually pleasing manner. Experiment with different heights and group similar items together for a curated look. Consider adding small plants or artwork to break up the collection and add dimension to the display.

Curate a Shadow Box: 

Shadow boxes provide a unique opportunity to display and protect fragile vintage items. Use a shadow box with a glass front to create a mini-museum of your collection. Arrange your vintage items on different levels within the box, using small stands or hooks if necessary. Add a label or description for each item to provide context and enhance the storytelling aspect of your display.

Incorporate Vintage Display Cases:

Vintage-inspired display cases add charm and authenticity to your collection. Look for vintage lockers, glass-front cabinets, or even repurpose old suitcases into display cases. Use these cases to showcase smaller items such as jewelry, china, or trinkets. Arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing way and let your vintage treasures steal the show.

Create a Curio Cabinet:

If you have a considerable vintage collection, invest in a curio cabinet to keep your items organized and protected from dust. Curio cabinets come in various sizes, styles, and materials, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your collection. Arrange your items by type, color, or era to create a visually appealing display inside the cabinet. Consider adding LED lights to illuminate the items and make them stand out even more.

Utilize Vintage Trunks or Suitcases:

Vintage trunks and suitcases serve as both storage and display pieces. Stack them in a corner or use them as a coffee table, and showcase your vintage collection by opening them slightly to reveal a glimpse of your treasures. You can also use these trunks or suitcases to store smaller items inside while displaying larger pieces on top.

Hang Vintage Clothing as Art: 

Vintage clothing is not only meant to be worn; it can also be treated as artwork. Hang your favorite vintage pieces on the wall using decorative hooks or hangers. Mix and match different textures and colors to create an eclectic look. This not only adds visual interest to your space but also preserves the delicate fabrics of your vintage garments.

Incorporate Vintage Props:

Adding vintage props to your collection display can help set the scene and add a touch of nostalgia. Use vintage cameras, old radios, or antique books as props to complement your collection. This creates a cohesive theme and allows you to tell a story with your display.

Create a Vintage Vignette: 

Vignettes are small, curated arrangements that tell a story or evoke a certain mood. Set up a vintage vignette by selecting a specific theme or era and arranging your collection accordingly. For example, create a 1950s diner vignette with your vintage kitchenware and vinyl records. Add small details like retro signage or vintage advertisements to enhance the ambiance.

Install a Rotating Display:

If you have a large vintage collection, consider installing a rotating display. This can be a wall-mounted or freestanding display unit with rotating panels or shelves. This allows you to showcase more items without overwhelming your space. Change the display periodically for a fresh look and to highlight different pieces from your collection.

Displaying vintage collections in creative and thoughtful ways allows you to celebrate their uniqueness and share your passion with others. By incorporating elements like gallery walls, open shelving, shadow boxes, vintage display cases, curio cabinets, vintage trunks, and suitcases, vintage clothing as art, vintage props, vignettes, and rotating displays, you can transform your space into a personal museum that reflects your style and love for vintage treasures. So, dust off your vintage collection and start displaying it with pride.

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Homeowners have several opportunities to reduce the overall amount they owe in taxes by claiming certain items on their taxes.

Here’s an overview of a few of the major tax benefits of owning a home.

Standard Deductions or Itemized Deductions?

The state and local tax deductions homeowners can claim on their taxes are designed to reduce their overall taxable income. Homeowners can choose between claiming standard deductions or itemizing their deductions.

Standard Deductions

A standard deduction describes the fixed amount the IRS allows U.S. taxpayers to deduct from their taxable income. This is done without itemizing each expense. For the 2023 tax year, the standard deduction is $13,850 for single filers or married individuals filing separately and $27,700 for joint filers.

If you choose to claim the standard deduction, you can’t also claim itemized deductions.

Itemized Deductions

Itemized deductions are specific expenses you can deduct from your taxable income, provided you furnish valid documentation for each expense. Some common itemized deductions include:

• Mortgage interest
• Property taxes
• Home equity loan interest
• Home repairs or improvements (in certain circumstances)

The caveat to the itemized deduction is that the total amount must exceed the standard deduction of $13,850 for single filers and $27,700 for joint filers.

Which Deduction Should You Take?

If you have significant mortgage interest, you may benefit more from itemizing your deduction than taking the standard deduction. However, you should consult with your accountant or another tax professional to make sure you’re choosing the most advantageous option.

Five Tax Deductions Available for Homeowners

If you want to move forward with an itemized deduction, here are five opportunities available to you as a homeowner.

Keep in mind that there are requirements, qualifications, and limits on all the benefits mentioned in this article. Some you may qualify for, while others you may not.

1. Real Estate Tax Deduction

A property tax deduction allows you to deduct the property taxes you paid during the tax year on your tax return.

You pay your property taxes to your local government. The amount of taxes paid is based on the assessed value of your real estate property. Depending on the value of your property along with the local tax rate, the amount of your deduction will vary.

This itemized deduction is only available on taxes you paid during the tax year. You must have actually paid these taxes to claim the deduction.

There are limits to the amount of property tax you can deduct. Currently, the tax law for 2023 limits real estate tax deductions to $10,000.

2. Mortgage Interest Deduction

Mortgage interest is the amount you pay to a lender as a fee for borrowing your mortgage through them. The amount you pay in mortgage interest will depend on a number of factors, including:

• The value of your home
• Your credit
• The type of loan you qualify for
• The year you began borrowing

If you have a $200,000 mortgage with an interest rate of 4%, you’re paying $8,000 in yearly interest. This puts you close to the cap for a standard tax deduction. You can use these payments as an itemized deduction as long as you meet certain requirements:

• You can deduct mortgage interest on your primary residence and one other qualified residence, like a second home
• Your mortgage must be a secured debt, which means it’s backed by your home as collateral

Like anything else, there are limits on mortgage interest deductions. Currently, the IRS rules that homeowners may deduct up to $750,000 of home mortgage interest costs. Depending on your situation, you may be able to add your mortgage insurance premiums to your deduction.

3. Home Office Deduction

If you have a home office, you may be able to deduct some of your expenses as a home office deduction. There are specific rules around using this deduction, so it’s important to make sure you qualify.

To qualify for a home office deduction, you must use your home office space regularly and exclusively for business. It must also be the principal place where you do business or meet with clients or customers.

Assuming you qualify, the next step is to calculate the percentage of your home that you use for business purposes. In order to find this number, divide the square footage of your home office by your home’s total square footage.

You can also deduct certain eligible expenses if you use your home for business, such as utilities, insurance, and maintenance costs.

When deducting your home office space you’ll need to complete IRS Form 8829. This form can help you calculate the total amount of your home office deduction.

4. Home Equity Loan

A Home Equity Line of Credit Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) offers homeowners a flexible way to borrow funds. This can be used for a variety of purposes, such as:

• Debt consolidation
• Home renovations
• Education expenses

In some cases, interest on a home equity loan is tax-deductible. This is true when the loan funding is used for making improvements.

At this time, qualified home equity loan interest is tax deductible through 2026.

5. Mortgage Points

Mortgage points are fees you pay to a lender when closing on a loan to secure a lower interest rate on your mortgage. One point is equal to 1% of your total mortgage amount. For example, if your mortgage is $200,000, one mortgage point would be equal to $2,000.

Paying mortgage points can lower your interest rate, resulting in reduced monthly mortgage payments. This could potentially save you thousands in interest savings during the life of the loan.

Mortgage points are tax-deductible in the year you pay them, though the deductions are subject to certain restrictions and limitations. The IRS considers mortgage points prepaid interest, which means they can be itemized deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040.

Tax Credits vs. Tax Deductions

Standard or itemized deductions aren’t the only potential tax benefits of owning a home. Another venue you can explore is tax credits.

Your tax deduction reduces the amount of your income taxes. Tax credits, on the other hand, are dollar-for-dollar reductions on the taxes you owe. If you owe $5,000 in taxes and have a $2,000 tax credit, your tax bill would drop to $3,000.

Tax credits are usually based on specific circumstances like paying for college tuition, adopting a child, or installing energy-efficient windows.

Two big tax credit benefits homeowners can take are the energy-efficient property credit and the first-time homebuyer credit.

Energy-Efficient Property Credit

Energy-efficient property credits provide a financial incentive to invest in energy-efficient improvements and additions, such as:

• Solar panels
• Wind turbines
• Geothermal heat pumps
• Fuel cells

Energy credits allow you to claim a percentage of the cost of installed energy-efficient equipment. These percentages vary depending on the year you installed the equipment and the type of property you installed it on.

In 2023, this credit becomes equal to 30% of the total amount paid on qualifying home improvements. Or, you can take the annual $1,200 credit limit.

To qualify for this credit, your property must meet the outlined energy-efficient requirements. Additionally, all new equipment must be installed in your primary residence. Second homes and rental properties are not eligible.

The energy-efficient property credit is non-refundable. It can’t ensure a refund if the credit exceeds your tax liability.

First-Time Homebuyer Credit

The first-time homebuyer tax credit was a federal credit program that offered financial assistance to first-time homebuyers. This program was active between April 2008 and September 2010.

In 2021, U.S. lawmakers introduced the First-Time Homebuyer Act. This would grant first-time homebuyers up to $15,000 in refundable federal tax credits. As of March 2023, the bill has not yet been passed into law.

If and when it passes, first-time homebuyers who satisfy the specific requirements can qualify for a $15,000 tax credit. They would have to meet the following criteria:

• Being a first-time homebuyer
• Not owning a home in the last 36 months
• Not exceeding the area’s income limitations
• Purchasing a primary residence (rental properties and second homes don’t qualify)
• Being at least 18 years old or married to someone who’s at least 18
• Purchasing a home from a non-relative

The tax credit will equal 10% of the home’s purchase price and cannot exceed $15,000.

Other Tax Benefits of Owning a Home

These aren’t the only tax benefits available to homeowners. If you were to sell your home, you might also qualify for:

• A capital gains exclusion
• Rent deduction for temporary housing
• Write-offs for moving expenses

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You’ve probably experienced it: a strange phone call claiming to be from the IRS, a notice you’re late on a bill you’re sure you paid, or a congratulations for winning a sweepstakes you never entered. These are all examples of scams – and we want to help you identify them.

What is a scam?

A scam is any deceptive act that attempts to steal your money or sensitive information. Scammers often pose as an institution or individual you know, like a financial company or a friend or family member, to convince you to send them cash or perform an action that lets them access your personal data.

What is a phishing attack?

Phishing attacks are one of the most common scam methods. With a phishing attack, scammers will pretend to be a person or organization who the victim trusts using a fraudulent email, text, phone call, or website. They’ll try to trick their target into downloading malware, sharing sensitive information, or otherwise exposing themselves to cybercrimes.

Victims of cybercrimes may experience identity theft, credit card fraud, ransomware, and financial losses.

How to tell if someone is scamming you online

Now you’re probably asking yourself: how do I avoid a scam? It’s not difficult once you know these four red flags.

1. Scammers will say they are someone important.

The scammer will pretend to be a real organization or someone you’d trust, like the Social Security Administration, or make up an official-sounding acronym or name.

2. Scammers will say you won a prize or are in trouble.

The scammer’s message is likely to be extreme, saying you owe money, that there’s an emergency, or that you’ve won a sweepstakes or lottery.

3. Scammers will tell you to act – now.

Given their message, the scammer won’t let you wait. They’ll tell you the situation is urgent, and you need to do what they say right away.

4. Scammers will ask for a very specific payment method.

Offers to provide cash later or call back aren’t useful for scammers. They will ask for a wire transfer, peer-to-peer payment, gift card code, or other form of immediate money transfer.

How to spot a phishing email

Our four scammer signs also apply to phishing attacks. These are common tactics scammers will use in an email scam:

• Claiming there’s a problem with your account or payment information
• Saying there’s been suspicious account activity or log-in attempts
• Asking you to confirm personal or financial information
• Including an unknown invoice
• Wanting you to click a link to make a payment
• Saying you’re eligible to register for a government refund
• Offering a coupon for free stuff

Details that indicate these messages are fake include a general email greeting, misspellings or grammar mistakes, and email addresses that don’t match the organization’s official address. You should also avoid clicking links in suspicious emails, as these may send you to fraudulent websites.

Identify scam phone calls and text messages

Emails and websites aren’t the only methods scammers use. Phone calls and text messages are home to similar scams with different details to watch out for.

1. Scam calls will come from unknown numbers.

If you don’t know the number, don’t answer. Even if the caller ID is from a local area or familiar organization, scammers can spoof numbers to appear trustworthy.

2. Scam calls will ask you to do something.

If you answer the call and are asked to answer a question or hit a button, hang up. Scammers use simple “Yes or No” questions to gather valuable data, and hitting a button to stop getting calls identifies a potential victim.

3. Scam calls will sound important.

Family members and government agencies are common scammer disguises. Before you do anything, hang up and call your loved one if identified as such – and know that institutions with your private data will usually provide a written statement before a phone call.

4. Scam calls will pressure you to act.

You’ll hear you owe the scammer money. Or that your loved one needs help now. But these statements are just giving you a sense of urgency so you don’t think about the request. Don’t give in to their demands.

How to stop scam calls

To avoid scam calls, register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry. Legitimate telemarketers will avoid calling numbers on the list. You should also use call blocking tools and password-protected voicemail to help block unwanted calls.

How to report a scam

Different scam methods have different methods of reporting.

• Phishing emails should be forwarded to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. If you received the phishing email through a work email, report it so your company’s IT team remains aware of active threats.
• Phishing text messages should be forwarded to SPAM (7726).
• Phishing phone calls should be reported to your robocall-blocking technology to help the company block the number from reaching you or other people.

If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam, it’s critical to act urgently to minimize any financial damage.

• Report the crime to your local police or sheriff’s office and state attorney general
• Contact your bank and credit card companies to cancel any cards exposed to the scam
• Reach out to the credit bureaus to freeze your credit and place a fraud alert on your credit reports
• Change your online passwords to prevent scammers from accessing your accounts

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