Before today, I'd never been to a set sale; they're wonderful things where movie productions sell off their excess props and wardrobe. I'd gotten wind of today's sale for Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, a film starring Dustin Hoffman and Natalie Portman that was shot here in Toronto (but we'll have to wait until it's release in 2007 to see it), and found my way there in the studio district shortly after the opening of the sale.

It was like visiting a yard sale from some bargain hunter's wildest fantasy: prop rockets ships; manhole-sized lemon slices made of fibreglass; 2 metre tall chairs which could double as lifeguard outposts; costumes and wardrobe to suit a Barnum & Bailey production.

Items that would have sold for a pretty penny at Black Market on Queen East were going for a song, less if you were a capable bargainer. An unworn pair of Levi's 501s? A mere $7. A dangerous looking pinstripe suit? $10. Neon crepe flowers large enough to double as an umbrella? Name your poor student price. And I did.

Among my prizes was a shirt of such violent, radiant orange that standing near it will result in a 3 minute tan and enough skull & crossbones pirate tri-corners to cover the heads of a flotilla of buccaneers (I have plans for those at the cottage...arrrh!).

I know I should keep such a groovy location under wraps as I may return tomorrow to pick up the priced-to-move last-minute dregs but I'll pass it along anyway and hope the good karma returns. So, if you find yourself in the neighbourhood of 30 Booth Ave (west of Carlaw, north of Front) tomorrow between 10-2 pop into the back of the studio for a rummage. Who knows? You may find that wagon wheel coffee table you've been coveting.