Dial-a-Maid
China should be stored with care to avoid chips or scratches in the glaze, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service in Evanston, Il.
For Plates, Bowls, and Saucers, when those dishes are stacked, the bottom of one can scratch the one beneath it, says Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook. Place a cushion between them to reduce the risk. Paper plates, coffee filters, and felt rounds are just right for cradling plates, bowls, and saucers without adding bulk. alternate dishes and inserts.
For Cups and Mugs, store these rim side up to guard against chipping. Cups and mugs can also be hung from cup hooks, but do not hang antiques or pieces that have been repaired. Store bought coated wire racks can add shelves in between shelves to double the number of pieces you can store.
When you need to repair broken china, here are a few suggestions:
* Wash pieces in warm, soapy water. Rinse well. * Let pieces dry for several hours, than arrange on a flat, work surface. * Determine in what order you will join the pieces, start with the pieces near the center and work outward. * Use a fast-drying, water resistant epoxy. Swab the common edges with acetone, which will allow ensure the pieces are clean of oil and dirt.* Place a thin, even bead of epoxy along one edge. * Join the two pieces and adjust for a close fit. * Remove excess epoxy by wiping it away with acetone-soaked cotton swabs. * Place tape across the joint to hold pieces in place until the glue has cured. If the design is fragile, apply tape to the back of the joint as well, says a 40+ year old Residential Cleaning Service in Evanston, Il.
