For many collectors hanging antique molded and free blown glass ornaments have come to represent the ultimate way to decorate your Christmas Tree, adding sparkle AND nostalgia from the past to your modern holiday. Hand decorated, fragile thin-walled ornaments with silvering, fancy designs, mica glitter add an elegance that is not possible with modern more cheaply made styles. Obviously once you have found your special treasures, you want to take special care in handling and storing them. Some tips:
When hanging on your tree, place higher up to avoid accidental “bumps” (and to help you see them better!)
If dusty, use a makeup brush to gently remove dust & light dirt. If still dirty and does not have any spun glass extra detail that could be damaged, some recommend submerging carefully in warm soapy water using only your hand to wash. Allow to air dry.
Store where temperature does not fluctuate too much. Damp cold basements or heated attics can damage the silvering and cause the hand-painted designs to flake. Look for a safer storage location with consistent temperature range with minimum moisture.
Do NOT store wrapped with newspaper as the ink print can rub off onto the glass. Acid free paper is best.
Either remove hooks, OR store with hooks not touching the glass to avoid scratches.
Divided boxes can either be built OR purchased.
Carefully store, and now start looking forward to finding NEW examples to add to your collection for NEXT year’s joyous holiday Check out our large collection of ornaments at our connectibles store.