Pottery is like the best friend you invite over for tea—always lovely and ready to impress. However, just like friendships need nurturing, your pottery requires some tender loving care to maintain its pristine appearance.
From delicate handmade ceramic cups to robust clay vases, every piece has a story, and preserving its charm is easier than you might think. With a few simple habits and tips, you can keep your pottery looking like it just stepped out of the kiln.
Handling Your Pottery: Gently Does It
When moving your pottery, use both hands to ensure even support. Pottery doesn’t appreciate free-fall experiences. This tiny habit will prevent unwanted chips or cracks. Especially when dealing with delicate porcelain or finely detailed ceramics, it’s essential to be mindful.
And don’t forget about gloves, especially if your pottery piece is cold or damp. Bare hands increase the risk of slipping. Thin, cotton gloves offer better grip and temperature insulation. Yes, you might feel like a detective at a crime scene, but your pottery will thank you.
Dusting Off: Keeping Surfaces Clean
Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a feather duster. The aim is to gently sweep away the dust, not grind it into the surface.
For more stubborn grime, consider using a slightly damp cloth. However, ensure that your item is completely dry before returning it to its display. Trapped moisture can lead to discoloration or mold growth.
Avoid using harsh chemicals. Your pottery is a piece of art, not a stubborn kitchen stain.
Water and Your Pottery: A Love-Hate Relationship
While ceramics may seem invincible, long exposure to water can cause trouble.
If you’re using your pottery for practical purposes, like vases or flower pots, consider using a protective interior lining. Plastic inserts are discreet and protect against water seepage, preserving your beautiful piece’s finish.
When washing, avoid direct water exposure. Opt for a gentle, damp cloth instead. If absolutely necessary, a quick rinse followed by thorough drying is safest. Never soak or leave your pottery in standing water.
Repairing Small Damage: A Stitch in Time
There are many repair kits designed specifically for ceramics. A gentle hand and a bit of patience are all that’s needed to breathe new life into a worn piece.
For irreplaceable pottery, consider consulting a restoration professional. They know all the tricks of the trade to restore and preserve your beloved items.
Displaying Your Pottery: Showcasing Without Risk
Make sure your display area is stable and out of harm’s way. Locating it away from high-traffic areas helps prevent accidental bumps. Strong sunlight or heat can fade and weaken your pieces over time, so opt for shaded spots or use UV-protective displays.
For those with a collection worthy of the Louvre, rotating your display allows each piece to be admired and prevents any one item from experiencing too much environmental stress.
A little elbow grease, paired with care and attention, ensures that your pottery continues to reflect the beauty it encapsulates. May your collection stand the test of time!
