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How to Replace Discontinued Collectible China

Many times china dishes and other pieces get broken or misplaced leaving a collection incomplete. Discontinued china pieces from sets or pattern collections may be hard to find, but there are many sources available to replace these pieces. Most of the popular china pieces by makers, such as Royal Doulton, Mikasa, Waterford China, Lenox and others can be located for replacement. Use these steps to help you find discontinued replacement china.

Instructions

- 1
  Identify the discontinued china pattern and manufacturer. Most china collectibles are marked with the pattern number and with the maker's name on the back. Look for the pattern and maker under china dishes, cups and saucers you may still have. Note if there is a year of make identifiable on the back of the pieces for dating.
- 2
  Take pictures of the discontinued china collectibles. If you don't understand the markings on the back of the china, take pictures of whatever you may have remaining. Make sure the pictures are clear so that the maker and pattern can be read by a knowledgeable person.
- 3
  
  Visit manufacturers internet sites to find discontinued china. If you can identify the china maker go to the website and find any remaining inventory. Contact the maker by e-mail, telephone or fax and describe the pieces needed. The china maker may have inventory left at warehouses, factory outlets or retail stores.
- 4
  Use a china replacement service company. There are many china matching and china replacement companies online. Access these services database and look for matching pieces for your china collections. If you know your china pattern or manufacturer these databases can be searched using them. Some of the china replacement services accept pictures that are used to further identify china patterns and makers and to locate pieces.
- 5
  Find local dealers of collectibles china, eBay sellers, flea markets, consignment shops, hotels and estate sales. Discontinued china can be replaced using these additional sources. Talk to dealers and shop owners; they may be able to locate your china collectibles from other retail dealers.

Antiques