The following are some common questions that could help you determine if your piece is worth fixing; and furthermore, if you want to have it fixed. Here are some questions to ask yourself to see if it is a good idea to repair your object:

• Is it a one of a kind or rare piece?
• Does it have historical significance or sentimental value?
• Is it a part of a set? Collectibles usually have a better value when they are part of a whole set.
• Will it be stabilized through restoration and prevent further damage?

With a good description (what your item is made of, how many pieces it is in, height and width of the piece, etc), simpler jobs are easier to estimate by email. It is very helpful if you can email or send a photo. If your item is in a number of pieces, and the damage is beyond a simple description, we can give you a range in estimate. It is best to see the piece in person for a proper evaluation, and then give you a final estimate. See the contact page for email addresses and telephone numbers. Three basic methods for repairing your art or antique object exist. They are:

• Glue only - Some pieces look great simply glued properly back together again.
• Partial restoration - Glued and missing pieces filled to match. Great for those “in use pieces” such as plates, cups, platters, ect.
• Complete restoration - Your piece is glued, filled, painted to match and reglazed for that virtually invisible repair. Great for those “just for show” pieces.

Yes! We use a high-strength non-yellowing epoxy resin that was developed specifically for conservation and restoration use. It cures crystal clear and has superior holding strength. Formulated to match the index of refraction of most glass, it resists yellowing and can withstand the torture of time with proper care. We can also fill and fabricate some missing glass sections. You can wash your piece, and even use it as well.

Be sure to find as many pieces as you possibly can, check the surrounding area where the piece broke. You’d be surprised where pieces end up, under chairs, or tables, etc. It is advisable to wrap the large pieces separately so they do not bump into each other during transportation and cause further damage. Any smaller chips, or slivers should be put in a small container, small baggie, envelope, or whatever you have handy, but never use tape directly on the smaller pieces. The more pieces that we can use, the better for the piece. If some of the pieces are too small to use we can fill those missing chips and slivers.

Either have a professional mailing service pack your piece for you, or if you want to pack the piece yourself be sure there is 4 inches of packing material surrounding your piece and make sure the contents of the package do not shift. Please include in the package your name, your return address, your phone number, and email address so we can contact you when your piece arrives and with a confirmed estimate for the cost of repairs.