How to Store Blue Willow China to Preserve Its Value
Blue Willow China is one of the most iconic porcelain designs in the world. With its intricate blue-and-white patterns, featuring landscapes, birds, and pagodas, it is a beloved piece for collectors and a staple in many homes. As a valuable collectible, it is important to store Blue Willow China properly to preserve its beauty, condition, and, most importantly, its value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new owner, understanding the best practices for storing your Blue Willow China will help you maintain its timeless elegance for years to come.
In this article, we will explore the most effective ways to store Blue Willow China to ensure it remains in pristine condition, retaining its beauty and monetary worth.
1. Understanding the Value of Blue Willow China
Before we dive into the best storage methods, it’s important to understand why Blue Willow China is so valuable. Its value comes from various factors:
- Age and Rarity: Antique Blue Willow China pieces can be worth a significant amount of money, particularly those produced by famous manufacturers like Spode, Wedgwood, and Royal Worcester. The rarity of certain designs and specific periods of production can also add to their value.
- Condition: The condition of Blue Willow China is key to its value. Chips, cracks, and discoloration can significantly reduce the worth of a piece. Keeping it in excellent condition is critical, which makes proper storage essential.
- Historical Significance: The Blue Willow pattern has a rich history, dating back to the late 18th century. Pieces with historical significance are particularly prized by collectors. This includes early editions, limited-run pieces, or those with unique variations.
Given the delicate nature of this collectible porcelain, proper storage will help you preserve both the aesthetic and financial value of your Blue Willow China.
2. The Basics of Storing Blue Willow China
To keep your Blue Willow China in the best possible condition, it’s essential to follow basic guidelines for storage. These steps will prevent damage and maintain the original appearance of the pieces:
a. Keep in a Dry, Cool Area
Porcelain is sensitive to extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations. Blue Willow China should be stored in an environment that is:
- Cool: High temperatures can cause the porcelain to warp or crack over time. Avoid storing pieces in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators or stoves. A temperature range of 50-70°F (10-21°C) is ideal.
- Dry: Moisture can lead to the growth of mold, discoloration, and deterioration of the glaze. Avoid storing Blue Willow China in damp areas like basements or attics. A dry, well-ventilated room will protect the pieces from excess humidity.
Additionally, store your Blue Willow China in a location that avoids sudden temperature shifts. Keep it away from windows, doors, or air conditioning units, where drafts or sunlight can cause temperature fluctuations.
b. Use Protective Wrapping
When storing Blue Willow China, always use protective materials to keep the pieces safe from scratches, cracks, or chips. Some options include:
- Bubble Wrap: Wrapping each piece in bubble wrap provides cushioning and protection against bumps and falls. This is especially useful for delicate items like teacups or smaller decorative pieces.
- Cloth or Linen: Soft cotton cloths or linen towels can be used as an alternative to bubble wrap, especially for items you plan to store for long periods. These materials prevent friction and scratches.
- Acid-Free Tissue Paper: For extra protection, use acid-free tissue paper to wrap around the items. This is especially important for more valuable, antique pieces. Acid-free tissue paper ensures that no harmful chemicals will affect the glaze or porcelain over time.
c. Store Items Upright or with Padding
When storing Blue Willow China, the way you arrange the pieces matters. For plates, bowls, and saucers, ensure they are stored upright, similar to how they would be placed in a china cabinet. Here’s how to properly store them:
- For Plates: Stack plates with a piece of padding or soft material between each one. This will prevent them from rubbing against each other and causing damage. Never stack too many plates on top of each other, as this can lead to pressure and cracking.
- For Cups and Saucers: These should be stored separately, preferably with cups turned upside down and saucers stacked with padding between them. This will avoid any potential for breakage, especially if the cups have delicate handles.
For larger items like serving dishes or platters, place them carefully on a padded surface or shelf to prevent them from being knocked over.
d. Avoid Storing in High-Traffic Areas
It’s important to store your Blue Willow China in a location where it is less likely to be handled frequently. High-traffic areas increase the risk of accidents or damage. Some safe storage options include:
- Glass Display Cabinets: Display cabinets with glass doors are ideal because they offer both protection and visibility. However, make sure the cabinet has soft padding and is placed in a stable, cool area away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
- Shelves with Doors: If you’re using a shelf for storage, consider using one with doors to keep the china protected from dust and potential impacts. Make sure the shelves are deep enough to prevent pieces from tipping over.
- Boxes or Storage Bins: If you’re storing items away from sight, ensure you use boxes that fit the pieces well. Choose sturdy, shallow boxes with dividers to keep items from shifting.
3. Storing Blue Willow China in a Cabinet or Display Case
While cabinets and display cases are excellent for showcasing your Blue Willow China, they must also provide the proper protection. Here’s how to choose the right storage furniture:
a. Choosing the Right Display Case
If you want to display your Blue Willow China while keeping it safe, choose a display case that is:
- Made of Wood or Tempered Glass: Wooden display cabinets with tempered glass doors offer a solid structure that will protect your china from external damage while allowing you to appreciate the pieces. Be sure that the glass is thick enough to prevent breakage in case of an accidental knock.
- Equipped with Soft Padding: Some display cases come with soft padding on the shelves, which helps prevent scratches and protects the pieces from direct contact with hard surfaces. If your case doesn’t come with padding, consider adding some yourself using foam or fabric.
- Secured with a Lock: If you’re concerned about children or pets, look for a display cabinet that locks to prevent accidental handling or damage.
b. Avoid Crowding
It’s tempting to fill your display case with as many pieces as possible, but overcrowding can lead to accidental chips, scratches, or the pieces becoming unstable. Ensure there’s enough space between each piece so that they’re secure and won’t touch or knock into each other.
4. Long-Term Storage Considerations for Blue Willow China
If you need to store your Blue Willow China for an extended period, here are a few additional tips to consider:
a. Avoid Using It as Everyday Dinnerware
While Blue Willow China is durable, it is primarily designed as a collectible item rather than everyday dinnerware. Frequent use can lead to wear, scratches, and potential breakage, which will reduce its value. Use it for special occasions or display purposes instead.
b. Rotate Displayed Items
If you choose to display Blue Willow China, avoid leaving the same items on display for too long. Exposure to sunlight, heat, or humidity can cause fading or deterioration. Rotating items occasionally helps preserve their condition and keeps your collection looking fresh.
c. Cleaning Before Storage
Before storing your Blue Willow China, always clean it thoroughly. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to wipe the surface, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the glaze. Ensure that the pieces are completely dry before wrapping or storing them.
5. Conclusion
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the beauty, integrity, and value of Blue Willow China. Whether you’re a collector of antique pieces or a lover of the classic design, following these guidelines will ensure your Blue Willow remains in excellent condition for years to come. By keeping your pieces in a cool, dry area, using proper padding and storage containers, and handling them with care, you can preserve their value and enjoy their timeless beauty for generations.