8 Ways To Collect Vintage Spode Christmas Dishes

Collecting vintage Spode Christmas dishes can be a fun and rewarding hobby, especially for those who love the holiday season and beautiful ceramics. Spode is a renowned English pottery company that has been producing high-quality ceramics for over 250 years, including a wide range of Christmas-themed dishes. Here are eight ways to collect vintage Spode Christmas dishes:

Spode's History and Significance

Before we dive into the ways to collect vintage Spode Christmas dishes, let's take a brief look at the company's history and significance. Spode was founded in 1767 by Josiah Spode, who revolutionized the pottery industry with his innovative techniques and designs. Over the years, Spode has produced a wide range of ceramics, from fine bone china to earthenware, and has become synonymous with quality and elegance.

Understanding Spode's Christmas Dish Production

Spode has been producing Christmas-themed dishes for many decades, and their designs have become highly sought after by collectors. To collect vintage Spode Christmas dishes, it's essential to understand the company's production methods, including the materials used, the designs created, and the marks and signatures that appear on the pieces.

Researching Spode's Christmas Dish Designs

Spode's Christmas dish designs are incredibly diverse, ranging from traditional holly and mistletoe patterns to more modern and abstract designs. To collect vintage Spode Christmas dishes, research the different designs that were produced over the years, including the dates of production and the materials used.

8 Ways to Collect Vintage Spode Christmas Dishes

Now that we've covered the basics of Spode's history and Christmas dish production, let's move on to the eight ways to collect vintage Spode Christmas dishes:

1. Start with a Theme

When collecting vintage Spode Christmas dishes, it's essential to start with a theme in mind. This could be a specific design, such as holly or snowflakes, or a particular type of dish, such as plates or cups. Having a theme in mind will help you focus your search and ensure that your collection is cohesive.

2. Research and Identify

Researching and identifying vintage Spode Christmas dishes is crucial to collecting. Look for marks and signatures on the pieces, such as the Spode logo or the designer's signature. You can also use online resources, such as collector forums and auction sites, to learn more about specific pieces and their values.

3. Shop at Antique Stores and Auctions

Antique stores and auctions are excellent places to find vintage Spode Christmas dishes. You can search online for antique stores in your area or check out local auction houses that specialize in ceramics.

4. Check Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces, such as eBay and Etsy, are also great resources for finding vintage Spode Christmas dishes. You can search for specific pieces or browse through listings to find unique and rare items.

5. Join Collector Communities

Joining collector communities, such as online forums or social media groups, is an excellent way to connect with other collectors and learn more about vintage Spode Christmas dishes. You can ask questions, share your finds, and get tips on where to find rare pieces.

6. Attend Collector Events

Attending collector events, such as antique shows and ceramics conventions, is a great way to meet other collectors and dealers. You can see vintage Spode Christmas dishes up close and learn more about the pieces from experts in the field.

7. Consider Restoring Pieces

Some vintage Spode Christmas dishes may be in need of restoration, such as repairing cracks or chips. If you're skilled at restoration or know someone who is, consider purchasing pieces that need a little TLC.

8. Display and Enjoy Your Collection

Finally, don't forget to display and enjoy your collection! Vintage Spode Christmas dishes are not only valuable but also beautiful and festive. Consider displaying your pieces on a wall or in a glass-front cabinet to showcase your collection.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Collecting vintage Spode Christmas dishes can be a fun and rewarding hobby, and with these eight tips, you'll be well on your way to building a beautiful and valuable collection. Remember to research, identify, and authenticate your pieces, and don't be afraid to ask for help from experts in the field.

If you're interested in learning more about vintage Spode Christmas dishes or have questions about collecting, please leave a comment below or share your thoughts on social media.