Collecting Spode's Christmas Tree Patterned China

Fine china has been a popular among collectors for years. Especially popular around the Christmas Holidays is Spode's Christmas Tree pattern china. Created in the 1940's for the American market, the artist of the Christmas tree design had actually never even seen a decorated Christmas Tree when he created the artwork for the plates and other pieces. Originally, his tree was decked with presents instead of ornaments but logic told him the weight of such objects would cause the branches to droop. That prompted him to change the design to what we have today: A delightful tree covered in toys and ornaments and topped with Santa Claus.

Since Spode is still producing pieces of their Christmas Tree patterned china, it is easy for a new collector to get started. There are several good sources for purchasing the Spode Christmas Tree patterned china, but the first thing any collector should do is acquire a good reference book. A reference book will not only contain a history of Spode china, but will also have detailed information on values of specific pieces, along with pictures and resources for collectors. It will also provide information on what to look for when collecting Spode, such as markings on the back of the plate, and possible chips and cracks. One chip or crack changes the value of a piece drastically.

"The Collectors Encyclopedia of English China", by Mary Frank Gaston is an example of a great resource for starting a china collection. This book boasts over 450 color pictures of English China with over 100 manufacturers represented. Current values are also included.

Serious collectors will want to visit Spode's factory and store in England. Located in Stoke-on-Trent, the factory offers tours, has a gift shop and museum, as well as several outlet stores with first and second quality pieces and clearance items as well.

The first place for beginning collectors to start their Spode Christmas Tree china collection is at a large department store like Macy's. Macy's carries the current Spode pieces each year at Christmas time. If you want a nice savings, plan to make your purchases just after Christmas when many of the pieces go on sale.

There are many on-line sources for acquiring Spode china, but it's important to make sure you are dealing with a reputable source or you may end up paying way too much for a sub-standard piece.

DavenportHouse.com sells new Spode pieces at 30% off the retail prices, plus for signing up for their mailing list, you can receive an additional 10% off on your first purchase. Shipping takes from 7-10 days and they require a minimum order of $10.

Replacements.com also sells a huge selection of the Spode Christmas Tree pattern. They offer new, as well as discontinued pieces. You should be able to find just about any piece of this pattern you want to add to your collection.

Another source for adding to your collection is eBay. They always have a good variety of Spode Christmas Tree pieces available for purchase. Be sure to check comments and feedback before buying to ensure you're dealing with a reputable seller.

Finally, let your friends and family know about your collection and that a gift of Spode china in the Christmas Tree pattern would be truly appreciated and cared for. It won't hurt to invite them over for a festive Christmas dinner using your Spode dishes.