Behold, two untouched time capsules of Howe brand "Renew-It-Yourself" lawn furniture webbing – a compelling artifact from the twilight of the 20th century. These sealed packages offer a fascinating glimpse into an era defined by outdoor living, the rise of synthetics, and the burgeoning DIY ethos. The vibrant teal hue, punctuated by a clean white stripe, screams ~1980s design sensibility, a period known for its bold color choices.
The declaration of "Miracle Polypropylene" on the packaging is a telling indicator of the times. This plastic marvel promised durability and weather resistance, a stark departure from the fussy natural fibers of yesteryear. This packaging isn't just cardboard and cellophane, it's a primary source, offering a tangible connection to the consumerism and marketing strategies of a bygone era.
The "Renew-It-Yourself" moniker speaks volumes about the burgeoning DIY movement, empowering homeowners to mend and maintain their own belongings, a sign of self-reliance and thrift. Observe the "Kiddie City" price stickers – a direct link to a now-defunct retail chain, hinting at a pre-internet shopping landscape. A bit of digging would reveal Kiddie City's operational timeline, further anchoring this treasure in time. And there it is: "Howe Plastics of N.J., Freehold, Monmouth County, New Jersey." Freehold, a town nestled within the fertile lands of Monmouth County, was undergoing its own transformation during this period, transitioning from agriculture to suburban sprawl. Howe Plastics, no doubt, was part of this shift.
Turn the package over, and you'll find instructions, detailed instructions, for application with screws, clips, tacks, or even a needle and thread. It was all about flexibility and utility. The provided estimations for webbing lengths required for a standard four-strand chair and chaise lounges paint a picture of the common outdoor furniture styles of the day. And the stock number "611"? That's a potential key to unlocking further details about Howe Plastics' product line and manufacturing history.
The packaging, while showing some expected signs of age, remains intact and sealed – a genuine piece of NOS (new old stock). This allows us to examine a vintage product in its original, unused state. The teal webbing, visible through the plastic, provides a visual feast, showcasing the material's color and texture. I'm telling you, documenting the weave pattern, color variations, and material thickness is crucial for comparing it with other similar materials from the period. Look closely at the photos. Every detail, from the branding to the "Kiddie City" price stickers, has been carefully documented to preserve this visual record for future research. A deep dive into Howe Plastics, Kiddie City, and the history of synthetic furniture materials will undoubtedly enrich the story these humble packages tell.