Arranging your china cabinet

Finding the perfect spot in your china cabinet for all your collectibles can be a fun, or frustrating, experience. Start by laying out all the items you would like to put in the cabinet and washing them. (It could be a long time before you do this again, so you might as well take the opportunity now. This way, your china will be ready to use for your next dinner party.)

 

Next, consider whether you want to get rid of any pieces or pass them on to your children or loved ones. Now is the time to purge items so you do not make space for something that is not meaningful, or would perhaps mean more to someone else.

 

Consider what item you would like to draw the most attention to, and make that a focal point and build around it. Also consider what items you use the most and try to arrange those for easy access.

 

When stacking china plates, it is advised to put something between them such as a paper towel or tissue paper to protect them. Also, when storing stemware, alternate them with one facing up and one turned upside down to save space and prevent them from clanging together and chipping.

 

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, follow these tips:

 

Be sure the china cabinet is secure and level before arranging items within it. In older home with uneven floors, you might need to adjust the cabinet so it is stable. If you have children or pets, secure the doors with child-proofing latches. Children can do damage not only to your fine items, but also to themselves with breaking glass.