Meet my Friend, Jim Klinko, at Furniture on Consignment!

This past weekend, I dropped in to see my friend, Jim Klinko. Jim runs a business in Westport,CT called Furniture on Consignment. www.fine2consign.com We first met when he opened his original store in 1993 around the corner from my home on Turkey Hill. Jim works hard to see that his inventory turns over quickly and I made a point of stopping in frequently because I never knew what treasures I’d find there. But Jim also has a keen sense of what my interests are and never fails to call me when he finds something he thinks I may like. Over the years he has been a wonderful resource providing many props for television and magazine shoots. In fact, several years ago, we even taped a television episode with Jim in his store.

Jim and I standing in front of some antique doors that he recently found


Jim has also been very helpful in selling objects for me. Selling on consignment means an item’s owner splits the profits from the sale with the consignment shop at a ratio of 60-40 between seller and shop. And despite the division of profits, it’s a popular way of selling unwanted furniture and other household goods since Jim and his staff make it seem effortless.

The store is full of all types of furniture, chandeliers, lighting fixtures, dishware.

Jim sells mirrors, prints, and many kinds of rugs.

Everywhere one looks there is clutter, but don't worry, Jim knows exactly where everything is.

Jim keeps a bulletin board with many photos. Here we are at a party ten years ago.

Jim likes to work out. He used this body building competition photo for an ad in a local newspaper. It brought in lots of business, as you can imagine!

Comments

[Kenn]

I've had the pleasure of stopping into Jim's store in the past. It's a great place. You can spend hours looking through everything! Thanks for sharing, Martha!

[Carolyn]

I wish I had a consignment store like that around me. What a nice store. And Jim ain't nothing to sneeze at either!

[CreoleInDC]

This is an area I'd like to learn more about. What exactly do you look for in furniture consignment stores? I know what I like but am always on the fence regarding if what I'm about to pay is a good price.

Also...there are so many "brands" of furniture that I'm not familiar with and would like to know more about.

[Lisa Topham]

I have known Jim for almost 20 years, and he has furnished my houses for that long. The store is filled with hidden treasures, and Jim has an incredible ability to make things work. My home is furnished with one of a kind things, that I am always complimented on.
The shop should be visited frequently, for Jim is always on the find, for fabulous things.

[Nancy]

Wow, what a neat shop and Jim is not so bad either. ;-)
I would lose myself in a store like that. I much prefer old over new and enjoy finding those odd little treasures everyone else looks past.
Thank you for sharing!

[Kerry]

I've LOVED watching Jim in the past and hope to see him on your future tv shows. His creative talent and positive energy mesh beautifully with your own. More Martha, more Martha & Jim!

[Angie]

What a wonderful shop and I love the photo posted from the bulliten board. Ten years ago, couldn't be, you look great, timeless.

[jessica~]

What a great shop! I'd definitely check them out if I saw that ad!

[PamperingBeki]

Oh I think I could spend hours browsing the inside of that store! It looks fabulous!

[Paula]

I'm lucky enough to live near this store - it's a great resource. I think it might be time for another TV tour......Jim is very friendly & trustworthy and can teach viewers a lot about buying/selling at consignment shops.

[myra denton]

Hi Martha, I love your show so much. I hope one day some of your habits rub off on me because I sure need it. But the reason I'm writing is I can't try your soup at Cosco because I live in a very remote area in Whittier, NC and I don't even know where the nearest coscos is, but I did get the recipe on the show 1/30/08 and can't wait to make it, but I really would like to get the mushroom soup recipe. If you have on your show I want miss it because your are on Tivo.

[Pat Kenyon]

I have shopped at Jim's store for many years. I have always found unique and useful furniture and decorative items. Jim is a great looking guy and always friendly and helpful.

[carey]

I have been to Jim's store several times his pieces are unique and beautiful. I have passed the word on to my family and friends who love the store just as much as I do. I am greatful that I can find a store that I would normally have to travel to NYC to find right in my backyard

[Judy]

I have had the pleasure of browsing Jims store many times.My daughters and I have purchased furniture from Jim and I have also sold some items in his store.Jim is always very helpful, personable and cheerful when we visit!It doesn't hurt that he is also very handsome!!!

[Trish]

I would love to get a closer look at some of those lampshades! I have a really old lamp that needs a new shade with a little bit of fringe on the bottom to maintain its antique look. I also think I see an old wooden medicine cabinet that I'd be interesting in owning.

I remember the show when you took us to see Jim's consignment shop and I laughed then when you said it was cluttered but he still knew where everything was. Sometimes if I get too neat, I don't know where anything is either and that's because I forget to label things!

If I ever find myself in Westport, I would definitely want to visit his shop. He has some great looking items. Trish

[Pam From California]

I could get lost in there for hours what adventures to imagine with all those long lost treasures! We have NOTHING like his shop here in my area of Ca, all the gems and neat items have long gone elsewhere maybe to the east coast no doubt! Jim is good looking no wonder Martha shops there ~
Pam from Ca

[Jodie]

So excited to get an email from Typepad this morning and have it mention that you've started a blog! I will be one of your avid readers! Welcome to Blogland! :)

[Izabella~]

Extreeeemly excited to see you have started a blog!!

You are my muse!!

I hope you will be sharing on how you find time in the day to accomplish all that you do...I am still trying to find the store... "to buy some time" ;)

~Izabella

[Izabella~]

Extreeeemly excited to see you have started a blog!!

You are my muse!!

I hope you will be sharing on how you find time in the day to accomplish all that you do...I am still trying to find the store... "to buy some time" ;)

~Izabella

[Jan Erickson]

Hi Martha, What a great blog about your friend Jim Klinko! Not only is he handsome, but he has a fantastic consignment shop. Oh, how I wish I lived in your area so I could visit his shop. I love the coat you are wearing in the 2nd photo. It looks so warm and cozy. Thanks again for sharing. Jan

[Molly]

I was just in Jim's shop this morning and bought a large headboard. I am a "regular" there. Most of my favorite pieces have come from this Westport Wonderland of a store. Jim and Nancy and Chris are all delightful. I looooove stopping in to see them.

[Margie]

It looks like my house. Well without the balloons and pictures of naked (almost) men. Those could be a decorating moment however.

[mary lee]

Martha,You sure have your finger on the pulse of what's happening! I know my pulse is racing after seeing that hunk Jim!I think I need to go consignment shopping soon.Thanks Martha.

[JO]

Hi Martha... It's a good thing I dont live close to Jims store or I would be bankrupt buying from him every day... What a fabulous place to lose yourself in...

I have to say that is one of the cleverest ways ever to advertise... obviously it worked !!

JO

[Danielle]

Hi Martha - speaking of furniture, I have been looking for the perfect poster bed for months...found your Seal Harbor Poster Bed by Bernhardt and ordered it and the paw foot table at first glance. They are perfect and I can't wait for these beautiful pieces to arrive!

[Mohd Norizham]

good stuff...thanks Martha for sharing it with us...the items sold seemed gorgeous and in tip-top condition...it's for sure a great option for bargain I guess..

[Todd]

Martha and others----I have been to furniture on consignment 2 personally in Westport, CT (I live in Fairfield, CT) and I must say that out of all the consignment shops in Connecticut that I have experienced this one is by FAR the best. The prices are great, the service is great, the owner is always there and personally taking care of business and the selection of items is so broad I dare not even list them because it will take me way to long! For anyone looking for any type of furniture go here first before even a real furniture store (unless you wanna pay $2000 for a couch that at his store would cost $700 and still be in a condition acceptable for your home).

[Andrew Ritchie]

I've only ever driven through Connecticut en route to other places, but I would love to make it a destination so I can explore places like this.

-Andrew

[Pat]

Great photos of Martha and Jim at Furniture on Consignment. Really happy to see Jim doing so well since he learned everything from me and Richard. We had some wonderful times with Martha when she did shows at the original Consignmart in Westport. Hang in there guys!

[Dianne Wood]

Hi Martha, What a nice and interesting place. I would LOVE to go snooping aroung in there. Seems like Jim has quite a fan club now....LOL I love your blog and would love to add it to my favorites on my blog site. Is that ok.
Thanks for sharing,
Warmes wishes,
Dianne Wood
www.desperatediva.typepad.com

[Tanya Whelan]

I had no idea Martha Stewart has a blog!! I'm so looking forward to seeing more and I love the personal feel of the blog. I'll definitely be stopping by Jim's shop next time I'm in the area!

[M&Co]

I'm so fond of your gorgeouse blog, and the Martha Stewart website! I love going to consignment shops searching for the perfect item! I rarely buy something though as I am extreamly picky, but for me the hunt is half the fun!

[Amy]

MMMM, who cares about furniture, anyway? And when is the handsome Mr. Klinko opening his Houston store?

[Jen Rizzo]

I have to say I wish I lived near there. I sell hand painted and repurposed furniture on consignment from a booth and I would love to sell and shop there! We really have to take the time instead of buying new, to think "old new" positively.. Consignment is amazing!!! You can decorate, get great finds and do it all on a budget!

[Dolores (Klinko) Cenci]

What a nice store! My maiden name is Klinko- my dad is from a good Polish family from the Scranton, PA area. Wonder if we are related?

[Kathy]

Hi, Martha,
Thanks for telling us again about Jim's store and its treasures. What a wonderful place!
Kathy

[Mike]

Oh my God he's CUTE!

You guys would make a cute couple Martha. You need to put more man candy on here.

;)

[Jim Klinko]

I want to thank Martha and her sister Laura for the wonderful blog they put online. The response has been overwhelming.I have received emails from across the country, I have been freinds with the family for many years, and have had some of the most memorable times of my life. The response has been so great that I apologize for not getting back to everyone, I have recently adopted a two year old boy and have been busy with him as well as running my business, but I will respond to all of you who have been so kind to take the time out and email me.I hope that you all can come and visit Furniture On Consignment. Thank You Jim Klinko

[Rita Fusaro]

I love this store! I always walk out with a treasure, but, best of all is that Jim ALWAYS gives me a big hug. Needless to say, you will find me there often.

[Sarah]

I live in Westport and get to frequent this store. Martha is right. There is always a treasure there waiting for you. It's worth a drive if you live a few hours away.

[jo fanning]

I love to shop in consignment stores of all kind. This is a very interesting store, and the prices appear to be great...