Archive for the 'Tea Sets' Category
We attach sentimental value to the things passed down to us from previous generations regardless of whether or not they are worth enough to parade onto the stage of ‘The Antiques Road Show.’ What we consider an heirloom may differ from the opinions of others. One way to measure an objects value is if we would even consider parting with it.
The miniature tea set that belonged to our great aunt Agnes might not be in mint condition but if the value is in the memories, then the character blemishes inherit that value as well. Perhaps it is the story of how our mother, as a young girl, removed it from the curio to play with one day and having had an accident tried to slip it back unnoticed.
Most people collect memories along with the many special pieces of kitchen or dining room decorations. The story behind this or that item might be long and involved. Some of the stories might simply relate to why they’ve come to own the item in the first place.
We aren’t always shopping for curio decor, but when something we see either reminds us of an event or possibly someone we know, it becomes special. If a miniature tea set brings back memories of someone special in our lives we usually purchase this as a gift. When the memory strikes closer to home, the set usually follows us back there.
As a part of the socialization process, many young children go through a stage during which they imbue their stuffed animals with human characteristics. Parents tend to find this stage endearing, and it doesn’t last long. Some young girls even go through the trouble of setting up a tea party for their dolls and teddy bears.
If your daughter is inclined to host such a party – or if she invites some of her real friends over to the house – it’s a good idea to have a miniature tea set on hand. These sets are just as adorable on display as they are during use. They can act as a conversation piece and a piece of home décor.
Decorating the little curios, hutches or shelves with a miniature tea set invites even greater color possibilities, or thematic ideas to our cooking and dining environments. Not just another knickknack, these tea sets say something about our tastes.
Whether we’re lovers of floral design, or wildlife a decorative miniature tea set can accent almost any room. When our tea set is on a tray that is easily moved, this decorative display can travel anywhere from the patio to the dining room depending on our plans.
I remember my daughter receiving a special Christmas gift from her grandparents in England. When we opened the box to remove the miniature tea set, I recall the sound of the pieces clinking together and thought to myself these won’t last long. They assured us however that the set wasn’t expensive and was intended to be played with. Three sisters later some of those cups and saucers have still survived and they are still treasured by all.
I don’t know if they’ll develop a love for tea parties later in life, or a desire to collect miniature tea sets to adorn their homes. Yet the endless hours spent in elaborate games involving something unusually delicate certainly builds a sense of appreciation for finery.
There’s nothing more relaxing than a cup of nicely brewed tea, but caring for the tea pot after the fact can be somewhat troublesome. After all, tea stains can be particularly persistent and difficult to remove. And this can ruin the entire look of a teapot. It can even begin to adversely affect the taste if those stains are prevalent enough.
That’s why it’s best to check into your cleaning options. If the teapot can withstand the dishwasher, this is the best way to thoroughly clean and sanitize the set. But if your tea set is more fragile, you’ll have to wash it by hand. Just make sure to use a mild soap that won’t chip or erode the pattern of the teapot. Also, use boiling water for the best results. This helps ensure that many of those pesky tea stains will be eliminated.