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How to Collect Ceramic Vases

Ceramic vases come in many shapes, sizes, colors and age. Purchase new vases in retail outlets or go on a treasure hunt and purchase vases at garage sales, thrift stores, flea markets and auctions. Treasure hunting provides a more diverse range of vases for the collector to acquire. Set aside an area to either display or store the collection once it is attained. Keep an eye open at all times when shopping to find vases to add to the collection. The best place to find antique vases is flea markets and auctions.

Things You'll Need

Books on vases and vase collecting

Instructions

- 1
  Look through books on vases to determine a vase design and style that is appealing. Locate websites such as Murano Vase, Gardening Gone Wild and Antique Marks to learn about antique vases. Learn the history of your favorite artist and study his work. Learn the markings of the artist. Find a vase pricing guide to use when purchasing. Use this information when looking for and purchasing vases.
- 2
  Shop for old vases at thrift stores, garage sales, flea markets and auctions. Look at each vase carefully before purchase. Check for cracks and chips. Run a finger around the top edge and bottom edge of the vase to feel for any chips or cracks. They are not always visible to the eye due to the color and design of the vase. Purchase the ones that fit into the collection.
- 3
  Hand wash all vases. Do not put them in the dishwasher. Old vases especially do not withstand the temperature or the water pressure inside a dishwasher. Use a gentle soap and a soft cloth. Remove water marks with a solution of alum and water. Do not use any of the corrosive chemicals available today to remove lime buildup. It may damage the vase.
- 4
  Display the vase collection in a prominent location or store them with sufficient packaging so they will not break.

Other Collecting