7 Houseware Collecting Books Richard Coles and Experts Use to Master Collectibles

Gene and Cathy Florence bring decades of glassware expertise to this focused guide on collectible glass from the 1940s through the 1960s. You’ll find detailed descriptions and current market values for 128 patterns, including popular Fire-King pieces, with each entry supported by vivid color photos and original company catalogs. The authors dig into the history and appeal of each pattern, offering you insights that go beyond simple identification—helping you understand rarity and collectibility nuances. If you’re serious about mid-century glassware, this book equips you with the knowledge to appraise and appreciate your finds confidently, though casual hobbyists might find the depth more than needed.

Gene Florence, a lifelong collector who transformed his passion for glassware into a career, offers an extensive catalog of Depression-era kitchen glassware in this fifth edition. You’ll find over 4,900 pieces meticulously organized by color and pattern, complete with precise dimensions and up-to-date market values. This book equips you with the detailed knowledge to identify, evaluate, and appreciate Depression glass, making it ideal whether you’re cataloging a collection or hunting for authentic pieces. While focused on historical glassware, the clear photographs and thorough descriptions also make it accessible for newcomers intrigued by this collectible niche.

This tailored book explores the art and challenges of houseware collecting, crafted specifically to match your background and goals. It reveals the nuances of identifying, acquiring, and valuing diverse collectibles like glassware, pottery, and metal pieces. By focusing on your interests, it examines historical contexts and material characteristics that distinguish valuable items, while guiding you through preservation and display techniques that ensure your collection's lasting appeal. This personalized approach blends broad expert knowledge with your unique collecting journey, making complex information more accessible and relevant.

Simon Moore, an expert in historical artefacts, brings his meticulous attention to detail to the evolution of English spoons from 1650 to 2000. You gain insight into how spoon designs reflect social hierarchies and artistic movements, such as the Arts and Crafts Movement’s impact on European and British styles. The book guides you through identifying spoons by origin and era, with vivid contrasts between medieval ducal silverware and commoners' base metal spoons. If you’re intrigued by cultural history expressed through everyday objects, this concise volume offers a focused look at a seemingly simple but richly layered collectible.

What started as a childhood fascination with glassware evolved into Gene Florence's professional pursuit, shaping this detailed guide on collectible glassware from the 1940s through the 1960s. In this book, you gain a thorough understanding of mass-produced and handcrafted glass patterns from the post-Depression era, with clear alphabetical listings and price evaluations. The inclusion of vivid color photographs helps you identify both common and rare pieces with ease, making it especially useful for collectors aiming to authenticate and value their finds. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just exploring mid-century glassware, this book offers concrete insights to sharpen your expertise.

After analyzing countless examples of American pottery, Jeanie Klamm Wilby developed a detailed guide that dives into the decorative styles and production methods of turn-of-the-century pottery and whiteware. You’ll find over 600 illustrated examples and insights on more than 60 potteries, along with practical advice on starting a collection and caring for stained china. This book is ideal if you want to deepen your understanding of American ceramics history and enhance your collecting expertise. Whether you’re just starting or already an experienced collector, you’ll appreciate the clear values and identification tips woven throughout the chapters.

This personalized book offers a tailored 30-day plan designed to accelerate your houseware collecting skills by focusing on your unique interests and experience level. It explores essential collecting principles, identification techniques, and market insights in a way that matches your background and goals. By synthesizing expert knowledge into a customized learning path, the book reveals how to quickly recognize valuable pieces and build a meaningful collection. This approach provides a focused and engaging experience, helping you navigate the complexities of houseware collecting with confidence and enthusiasm. Whether you're interested in glassware, pottery, or antiques, the content adjusts to your specific areas of curiosity and desired pace.

What makes this volume distinct from its predecessors is the focused attention on cups and saucers that collectors can actually find today, rather than rare or inaccessible pieces. Jim and Susan Harran bring their extensive expertise to bear with over 1,000 color photographs and detailed sections on items like cabinet cups, English bone china, and even art glass from top American and European factories. You’ll also find valuable insights into marks identification and updated 2007 values, making it a practical guide for both dealers and enthusiasts. If your interest lies in cups and saucers within houseware collecting, this book offers a straightforward, richly illustrated resource to deepen your understanding and improve your collecting skills.

After analyzing hundreds of kitchen collectibles across three centuries, Linda C. Franklin developed this extensively researched third edition to serve collectors with a definitive guide. The nearly 650-page volume doubles the content of its predecessor, offering detailed identification and valuation for a vast array of kitchen items, supported by ample photographs. You gain precise knowledge about historical styles, materials, and pricing trends, enabling you to distinguish authentic pieces and understand their market worth. This book suits seasoned collectors aiming to deepen their expertise and serious enthusiasts eager to expand their curated collections with confidence.