My Obsession with Transferware

My love for collecting things needs no explanation. I collect mostly vintage items, and today I am sharing my transferware collection.

Today, I will delve into the fascinating history of transferware, share my passion for collecting, and offer tips on incorporating these treasures into your home decor.

The Art of Collecting Transferware: A Timeless Treasure for Every Home

As an avid collector, I’ve spent years scouring flea markets, online marketplaces, and discount home decor stores in search of these exquisite pieces that add a touch of elegance and charm to any space.

Exploring the History of Transferware

To truly appreciate the allure of transferware, it’s essential to understand its origins and evolution over the centuries. The history of transferware can be traced back to 18th-century England, where skilled artisans sought to replicate the intricate patterns of expensive imported Chinese porcelain.

Using a revolutionary technique known as transfer printing, intricate designs were transferred onto ceramic surfaces using specially prepared paper and ink.

Initially produced in shades of blue and white, transferware quickly gained popularity among the masses thanks to its affordability and accessibility. As demand grew, manufacturers began experimenting with various colors, including brown, black, pink, green, blue, and red, resulting in diverse patterns and styles to suit every taste and preference.

You can find vintage transferware in blue, red, pink, green, brown, black, purple (mulberry), and multicolored. Pieces marked with “Limited” or LTD were likely made after 1860. “Made in England” indicates the piece was made throughout the 20th century.

There are many new transferware pieces currently sold. Companies such as Spode, Royal Copenhagen, Royal Stafford, and Johnson Brothers sell some of their most popular patterns.

What I love most about transferware is that the patterns are truly timeless, making it a classic that is loved today just as much as it was in the 18th century.

On this blog, I may sometimes use affiliate links, which means a small commission is earned if you purchase via the link. The price will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.

The Thrill of the Hunt of Transferware

For collectors like myself, the thrill of the hunt is half the fun of acquiring new transferware pieces. Whether browsing through flea markets, antique shops, or online marketplaces, discovering a rare or unique find is always exciting.

Each piece, from vintage plates and platters to teapots and tureens, tells a story of bygone eras and cherished traditions, making it an exceptional addition to any collection.

Embracing Versatility in Home Decor

One of the most appealing aspects of transferware is its versatility in home decor. These timeless pieces can be incorporated into various interior styles, from traditional and farmhouse to eclectic and bohemian.

Here are some creative ways to use transferware in your home:

Display as Wall Art

Hang a collection of vintage plates or platters on a blank wall to create a charming gallery display that adds visual interest and character to any room.

Create a Tabletop Vignette

Arrange a mix of transferware pieces, such as plates, bowls, and serving dishes, on a dining table or sideboard to create a captivating tabletop vignette as a focal point for entertaining.

Use as Everyday Dinnerware

Don’t save your transferware for special occasions—incorporate it into your everyday dinnerware rotation for a touch of elegance during everyday meals.

Incorporate into Seasonal Decor

Mix and match transferware pieces with seasonal accents, such as pumpkins for fall or florals for spring, to create festive table settings and displays throughout the year.

Where to Find Transferware

If you’re eager to start your collection of transferware, there are plenty of places to search for these coveted treasures:

Flea Markets and Antique Shops

Explore local flea markets, antique fairs, and vintage shops in search of hidden gems and one-of-a-kind finds.

Online Marketplaces

Browse online marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy, and Chairish for a vast selection of transferware pieces from sellers worldwide. I buy transferware on Etsy quite frequently.

Discount Home Decor Stores

Keep an eye out for budget-friendly transferware reproductions at discount home decor stores, which offer affordable options for those just starting their collection. Most of my Royal Stafford Asiatic Pheasant dinner plates are from TJMaxx and Home Goods.

Estate Sales and Auctions

Attend estate sales and auctions in your area to discover unique transferware pieces at competitive prices.

The Joy of Collecting

For me, collecting transferware is more than just acquiring decorative objects—it’s a passion that brings joy, inspiration, and a sense of connection to the past.

Each piece in my collection tells a story, evoking memories of days gone by and sparking conversations with family and friends.

Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of blue and white patterns or the warmth of brown transferware, there’s something truly magical about the timeless beauty of transferware.

I love mixing and matching dinner plates, especially when we entertain. The engagement party we hosted for my son Andrew and his bride Charlotte was for 60 people. The large number of guests required me to use every plate I had in this color there.

My favorite pattern is the Asiatic Pheasant. I can’t explain why I have seen this exact plate with three manufacturers listed on the bottom: Royal Stafford, Wedgewood, and Johnson Brothers. But it just means this pattern is easier to find, right?

I am slightly embarrassed to say that I own these dinner plates in five different colors: black, blue, red, pink, turquoise, and green. A few years ago, I found them at Home Goods (for $5 each).

I think I like the black plates the best.

The red plates are perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Fourth of July, and more.

I worked with Spode for a few years and acquired several new plates for my collection.

I loved combining brown and blue transferware.

One of the first blog posts I ever wrote was jokingly titled “My Life as a dish-Hoard-der“. I took the photo below for that blog post. It was my collection six years ago. Since then, I have added five more sets of transferware dinner plates. I know I am obsessed with these plates.

I have imposed a self-moratorium on buying any more plates! 

If you want to see the names of these patterns, click on any of the numbered links below.

1-Spode Celebration* // 2-Noritake Richmond*  // 3-Portmeirion Pomona // 4-Royal Stafford Asiatic Pheasant-Black // 5-Johnson Brothers Rose Chintz // 6-Minton Bridal Veil* // 7-Wedgwood Edme // 8-Johnson Brothers Old Britain Castles-Pink Christmas * // 9-Spode Festival* // 10-Royal Staffordshire Avondale* // 11-Wedgwood Osborne* // 12-Enoch Wedgewood Kent*

*Many of these are discontinued, but I love the website Replacements Limited, which I linked to almost all discontinued pieces. You can still purchase them here.

So why not start your collection today and embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and endless possibilities in home decor?

The possibilities are endless with transferware, and the joy of collecting knows no bounds.

Amazing Vintage Decor!

You can pin the image below to your Entertaining, Collecting, or tablescape boards on Pinterest (click the Pin button in the top left corner). You can also follow along with me on Pinterest!

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