We had a fabulous time designing and decorating these beauties together... but now what? Read on to see how you can care for your teacup to help it pass the test of time. Also, be sure to check out this post for inspiration on how to use or display it in your home!
These hand-decorated Steampunk-inspired teacups were a custom activity for a private event. If you made one, be sure to share a photo with me! You can tag @artventuresyeg on social media, or use #myartventures to share your work. I can't wait to see what you came up with!
In this post, we will go into detail about the do's and don'ts of caring for your cup. If you're curious about how to use it (is it food- safe?!) or looking for inspiration for how you can feature or display your steampunk-inspired teacup in your home, be sure to check out THIS POST.
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Now, let's dive right in with the care tips!
Tip #1 - Let it Cure
This just might be the most crucial tip of all! Dried varnish does not cured varnish make. In other words, while it takes only hours for this finishing coat to dry, it requires a full 28 days for it to cure. Do not get it wet during this time! This is a crucial step to ensure your teacup will stand up to hand washing for years to come.
Reader's Digest version: Leave your teacup alone and let it fully cure for 28 days.
Tip #2 - Hand-wash Only
Now that your teacup has been left to dry and fully cure for 28 days, it can now safely be used and washed!
We used this dishwasher-safe Modpodge as the finishing coat for these teacups. Even though varnish is dishwasher safe (on the top rack of your dishwasher only), these teacups are definitely hand wash only. Neither the paint on the outside of the cup, nor the loose parts will stand up to your dishwasher. Even on the top rack only. Please hand wash these beauties only!
Tip #3 - Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasive Sponges
When hand washing your teacup, use a gentle dish soap (Dr Bronner's is my fave!) and a soft dishcloth, taking extra care with the exterior of the cup. Avoid harsh chemicals, and do not use any abrasive scrubbers, brushes, or sponges.
Tip #4 - Do not put in the Freezer, Oven, or Microwave
I'll keep this bit short and sweet:
These teacups cannot withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, so do not put them in the freezer or apply heat using an open flame.
Because they have metallic elements, they are not microwave oven safe. Keep them out of the microwave.
Do not put these in the oven. They are fragile. They are old. We don't want them to break or to leach any toxic chemicals (like lead, for example, which is common in some of these vintage ceramics). Just don't do it!
Tip #5 - Treasure it!
Last but certainly not least, love your creation and let it shine! Be sure to check out THIS POST for ideas and inspiration on how to make the most of your fabulous steampunk-inspired teacup. Did I miss anything? Do you have any other questions? Let me know by leaving a comment below!
Do you have any questions left? Please don't hesitate to let me know in the comments section.
Your partner in creating,
