Often the piece will look great on display, even though it isn't meticulously restored. "I want my customer to be happy, so I'm pleased to work with them to decide what the best way to approach the repair of their piece. I also make sure that people understand that this is cosmetic restoration and the pieces can not be used after they are restored. They can be cleaned with a damp cloth, but they can not be used for food, soaked, or scrubbed."
"I am very up front with people when I think they shouldn't bother restoring a piece. If the repair will cost more than the piece is worth, I tell them I think they shouldn't bother having it restored. Many times, a mint piece could be purchased for less than it would cost to repair the damaged piece. I always suggest they buy another piece if the piece isn't sentimental, and if the repair will cost the same, or more than a mint piece would cost."
It doesn't always pay to have pieces restored for resale.
Want more information? Contact Joan Riba at Fixes China.
