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Vintage tableware exudes an old-world charm and elegance. These can range from delicate china to retro and chic patterns. As a result, collecting vintage dishes and other dinnerware has become a treasured hobby.
Building a vintage tableware collection will require a lot of knowledge, care, and appreciation for each find.
In this article, we’ll explore how you can find and collect vintage tableware as a beginner.
The Joy of Collecting Vintage Tableware
Collecting vintage tableware isn’t just about amassing a lot of antique items. It’s all about appreciating the craftsmanship and artistry from past eras. Vintage pieces often carry a lot of sentimental value. For example, dinnerware that is passed down through many generations. These pieces would bring you back to that period.
The real joy of curating these dinnerware pieces is to collect the ones that you connect with. A good example is well-designed majolica oyster plates that bring a touch of elegance to any table. So, let your tastes guide you as you build a collection that voices your artistic tastes.
To help you with hand-picking the right tableware, here is a list of popular tableware and its popularity percentage among people.
Starting Your Collection: Key Considerations
Embarking on the journey of collecting vintage dinnerware is both thrilling and overwhelming. There are a multitude of pieces that you could obtain for your home. Also, there are plenty of motivations that drive you to get an ensemble of vintage tableware. So it’s important to have a vision of what you want for your home.
In this section, here are the ways you can start out obtaining your collection:
1. Define your Interests and Style
Determine first what vintage tableware you wish to collect. There are plenty of options that you can choose from for vintage tableware. They can range from Antique China to vintage flatware, hence the possibilities are endless. So first, pick which styles that you find desirable for your home.
2. Educate Yourself on Styles and Periods
The second step in starting out collecting vintage tableware is to educate yourself on the different styles and periods. It will help you gain an understanding of the artistry applied to vintage tableware.
Your possible sources are books, online encyclopedias, antique shops, and collector forums. Understanding the history and value of the items you are interested in is essential.
3. Set a Budget for Buying Vintage Tableware
The next step for you to do is to set up a budget for the tableware. Know how much you are willing to spend on your vintage tableware collection.
You must keep in mind that the prices can be variable; some are affordable and some are expensive. So having a budget prepared can help you to stay focused and prevent you from overspending.
4. Start Small
Starter collectors do not go big from the get-go. Start by buying a few key pieces first. By purchasing a small number of vintage items, you can gain experience and refine your tastes. On top of that, you won’t have to worry about spending too much.
5. Visit Antique Shops or Estate Sales and Auctions
The next step is to visit your local antique shops. If not, you can try to swing by estate sales and auction houses. These three are your main sources of finding vintage tableware items at different price points. Don’t hesitate to haggle and negotiate if you want to gain more for its value.
6. Inspect Items Thoroughly
Examine the condition of the vintage tableware before purchasing. Look for cracks, chips, discoloration, and other signs of wear. Also, don’t hesitate to ask the shopkeeper some questions regarding the item’s history if possible.
Navigating the World of Vintage Tableware
The realm of vintage and antique pottery provides a lovely blend of art, history, and many possibilities. Each piece that you purchase may tell you a unique story.
Many collectors from all backgrounds gain the chance to uncover unique pieces that they can add to their homes. However, you will need to conduct research and expand your knowledge regarding eras and their respective art styles.
You would want to visit local antique shops, and estate sales or browse in online marketplaces to search for vintage wares.
You’ll need to study hallmarks, markings, and foot stamps so you can identify authentic China and glassware. Let your mind become curious and let it guide you as you navigate through the world of collecting vintage tableware.
Caring and Maintaining Your Vintage Collection
Once you start building up your collection, you’ll want to care for your treasures to maintain their quality. Vintage and antique dinnerware are best cleaned with a mild dish soap.
Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can wear off the unique patterns they have. Handwash them with a soft cloth to clean delicate Chinaware and crystals.
Store your vintage pieces in secure spots too, to prevent damage. Also, don’t stack the vintage dinner plates for the same reason.
Don’t be too perfectionistic towards your vintage pieces. Accept the chips, cracks, and other imperfections as they are hallmarks of its history. Treat your vintage tableware like the priceless treasures they are.
Additional Tips for Beginner Vintage Tableware Collectors
If you are new to collecting vintage tableware, you would want to consider these few tips. These will be handy in your journey to collecting fine pieces of tableware
- Start small and collect vintage pieces that appeal to you. Don’t get convinced or swept up by trends.
- When purchasing, inspect each vintage piece for repairs or damage. These are the hallmarks of vintage tableware’s authenticity.
- Learn identifiers so you can recognize valuable vintage brands such as Lenox China.
- Join and participate in online groups to network and connect with fellow vintage tableware enthusiasts.
- Display some pieces of vintage tableware in your everyday table settings.
FAQs
1. How can I determine if a piece is truly vintage?
Look for hallmarks, stamps, or tags that date the vintage table piece. Also, research key identifiers of popular vintage brands online. If you still cannot determine the authenticity, consider sending it to an expert for appraisal.
2. What are some good places to find vintage tableware?
Antique shops, flea markets, estate sales, and even thrift stores can sell some of this lovely tableware. Also, sellers on Etsy or eBay offer vintage for reasonable prices.
3. How do I incorporate vintage with modern dinnerware stylishly?
Mix and match a few vintage accent plates or serverware pieces with your contemporary set. Tie everything together with your table linens and decor using colors from a vintage pattern. For example, use floral patterned vintage tableware to go with your table linens with lace and tablecloth in leaf designs.
Start Small and Gradually Grow Your Collection
Take the tips we’ve discussed here to heart as they are essential in your journey as a collector of vintage tableware. Define your designs of interest, set a budget, and start with a small collection. From there, gradually grow your collection until you have a trove of priceless tableware that speaks different stories from various eras.
Make sure to take care of your vintage tableware to ensure that it will adorn your home for years to come.
