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Repairing the Handle on a Valuable Antique Georgian Teapot

The age and fragility of a Georgian teapot will inevitably lead to it sustaining damage, unless it is treated very carefully. The handle is one of the most vulnerable points on a teapot, and it can break off easily. If you cannot afford to have your Georgian teapot repaired by an expert, you can repair it yourself. Be aware that breaks and repairs will adversely affect the value of the piece, particularly if the repair is not professionally executed.

Things You'll Need

Fine sandpaper
Glue (ascertain the correct type)
Cotton ball
Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the broken surface and determine if the teapot is made from porcelain or pottery, since the type of glue you need for the repair will differ. Pottery has a grainy texture and will scratch easily with a sharp blade while porcelain has a glassy texture that is very difficult to scratch. If the teapot is porcelain, use a clear, slow-setting epoxy, and if it is pottery, use a white polyvinyl acetate.
- 2
  Scrape off any residual glue from the teapot and handle and sand exposed surfaces with a fine-grade sandpaper.
- 3
  Wash the piece and allow it to dry thoroughly.
- 4
  Apply the glue according to the manufacturer's instructions. Take the time to read the instructions; they vary significantly between products.
- 5
  Fit the handle to the teapot and hold it in place until the glue starts to bond. Be patient, as it may take a few minutes for the glue to start to bond, at which point you can release pressure.
- 6
  Wipe off any excess glue with a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol.

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