1.8.2011

Can you spot the Silver Service Secret in this photo?

Cleaning silver is not my idea of a party, but it’s a necessary task and the reward is so worth it! I found the Society of American Silversmiths’ website to be particularly helpful on the subject of caring for your silver. Once you’ve shined your prized possessions, you want them to remain in their gleaming state as long as possible. If you choose to display your silver, here are a few tips to help minimize tarnish and extend the bling factor:

• 3M Anti-Tarnish Strips – The 3M strips are favored because both sides of the paper contain activated charcoal and you get more bang for your buck.
• Silica Gel – These gel canisters are rechargeable… the color indicator lets you know when it is saturated. All you have to do is pop it in the oven to recharge. How green is that?! You can use it over and over and over…
• Chalk – By far the least expensive (less than $1!) and most easily accessible. You can easily break it and store it anywhere. My silver savvy friend uses chalk and I’m going to try it first! I’ll let you know how it goes!

12.18.2010

I have a slight obsession with all things silver and old, so I thought I’d share them with you in small bits! Silver pieces aren’t necessarily expensive and add character and charm to any vignette around your home.

I recently learned that a good friend of ours has a passion for antique silver as well. He has such great tips on having your pieces serve double-duty (or more).  For example, you can find beautiful silver water/wine pitchers ranging from $20 to $200. Check out this beauty…

Water/wine pitcher beautifully displayed with china

While you might be ready to use it for your Christmas dinner, it also makes an amazing flower vase throughout the year. Imagine a beautiful bunch of purple tulips in this lovely! I found a deal at this store on eBay for a beautiful pitcher… only $25!!

How do you use your silver? Pictures welcome!

xoxo

Amy