CREATIVE USES Proper care is key
Be innovative and try some nontraditional uses for your antique and vintage china.
Use platters and small plates to corral small objects on dressers or counters. In the bathroom, a small platter can hold makeup.
Set smaller china planters on a big platter to hold paper clips, rubber bands, pens, etc.
Use a lidded soup tureen near the front door to stow mail, keys, pool passes, etc. A small dish on a nightstand can hold jewelry overnight.
Pitchers are good for stashing odds and ends, such as lost buttons and sunglasses out of sight but within reach.
Use round plates to set a pot with starter plant seedlings on and cover with glass cloche.
An old china punch bowl can hold floating candles.
Take an antique saucer, cut a photo to fit snugly in the depression where the cup sits and you've got an instant frame.
Follow these tips to clean, care and store porcelain items and they'll continue top be beautiful.
Hand washing is recommended for all fine china not marked "dishwasher safe" on the back, especially pieces with hand painting or metallic trim. Line the sink with a rubber mat or soft cloth. Don't stack dishes -- they will scratch one other.
If you use a dishwasher, make sure dishes can't touch even if they are moved during the cycle. Use the gentle (or china) setting, with no heat and a mild detergent, such as regular-scented Palmolive, Cascade or All.
Make sure that hung storage cabinets are securely bolted to the wall and that shelves are well supported. Ideally, store plates standing up and hang cups from round coated hooks. Look for special racks at discount kitchen and bath retailers.
Place small napkins, paper towels or coffee filters between plates or cups, if you stack them, to avoid scratches. Don't stack more than two cups -- you could damage the rims.
To warm plates, put them first in a cold oven to avoid extreme temperature changes.