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Pottery Restoration Pictures

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Corey and Joann Keller have been in the restoration business for over 19 years. When asked how they got into the business of restoration, Corey said his folks talked them into it! The elder Kellers collected R.S. Prussia and had a local restorer they used for repairs. The restorer was an elderly woman who wouldn't be doing it for much longer and they wanted the younger Kellers to consider learning how to do it. Corey and JoAnn talked about it, did a little research and found that a scheduled vacation to Washington DC, was also at the same time there was one opening in an intensive class on restoration. One class, taught three times a year, only one pupil per class -- that's intensive!

JoAnn opted to take the class, came back and worked with Corey on the mold building and ceramic work. JoAnn found her niche was the actual painting and glazing work. Meanwhile Corey found his was the mold building and repairs -- together they make a great team.

The Kellers work on just about everything ceramic and pottery, including Hummels, Roseville, Hull, David Winter cottages, and Lladro, as well as some glass work including Swarovski.

They're kept pretty busy (I had a four month estimate, but it only took about two months), with most of their business coming from their Internet website and lots of word-of-mouth referrals.

Corey mentioned that the best way to get an estimate is to send them the piece. Although he can get an idea from pictures, these often to do not show all the damage or the problems that might be encountered.

When asked for estimates, prices can be as low as $35. for a small chip or hairline. I also inquired about the soaking method for minimizing crazing, Corey said at times a small piece can be done for their minimum price of $35, but as mentioned above, they really do need to see the damage before making actual quotes.

Keller China Restoration

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