TREASURE HUNT

Tue., April 18, 2006

Cheryl-anne Millsap The Spokesman-Review

It doesn’t matter if we sit down to three square meals a day, or just grab what we can and eat on the go. There are certain basic tools we just can’t do without. Like flatware.

Knives, forks and spoons are essential.

It’s easy to buy inexpensive stainless at discount stores. You can find high-quality stainless flatware in department stores, mail order catalogs or online.

But, if you don’t like the look of stainless steel flatware with your prized pottery plates, if you like things that have a little history and prefer to surround yourself with vintage items even when it comes to the necessities, what are your options?

Vintage silverplate flatware, the staple of every mid-20th century bride’s hope chest, is perfect.

I spent a recent afternoon wandering through shops looking at vintage silverplate flatware. The choices are amazing.

Most patterns were beautifully sculpted. After decades of use, they have a soft patina that can’t be found on stainless.

High quality silverplated flatware that was manufactured by leading companies such as Rogers & Sons, Towle, and National Silver is still around. And the good news is that if you’re willing to do a little hunting, you can find it by the handfuls. Individually, the pieces can be found locally at thrift stores and flea markets for as little as 25 cents each. Full sets, some still in their original wood cases, aren’t uncommon, and they can be much more economical than new stainless.

Full sets for eight to 12 settings, priced from $50 to $250, many with serving pieces and accessories, can be found at better antique stores.

Like most vintage items, older flatware sets a beautiful table when it is mixed and matched. So if you find a piece, or a handful of pieces, that you can’t resist, just don’t. Build a collection of utensils that are as unique and one-of-a-kind as you are.

You don’t even have to set the table to enjoy your finds.

A bite of ice cream, eaten while standing in front of the fridge and scooped up with a spoon has been doing service for decades, is doubly delicious.

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