How to Collect Spongeware

People that collect Spongeware know that it is an interesting item to collect. The name "Spongeware" comes from the finish and glaze that are on the piece of stoneware, which was made from thick, heavy clay. Rust or blue colored paint was sponged onto the surface of the stoneware creating the beautiful daubed effect.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Decide if you want to collect a particular color or type of Spongeware. Many collectors limit their purchases to a specific color, style of ware or manufacturing company.
2. Learn as much as you can about the Spongeware that you decide to collect by reading books and online articles on the subject.
3. Purchase a price guide that includes a section on Spongeware, such as "Kovel's American Antiques, 1750-1900." Buy this guide at Kovel's website (see link in Resources), it will help you identify Spongeware pieces and their values.
4. Visit local antique stores to look for Spongeware to add to your collection. Talk to the antique storeowner and let them know that you are a Spongeware collector. They will keep that in mind when they go on shopping trips for their store.
5. Browse online antique stores and auction sites looking for authentic pieces of Spongeware.
6. Join a Spongeware collectors club, such as Collectors (see link in Resources) to find other collectors with similar interests.
7. Visit yard sales, flea markets and thrift stores. You might find a Spongeware treasure.

Tips & Warnings

• Spongeware was usually used on farms and other rural areas.
• There are companies today that are making reproductions of Spongeware. Examine your finds carefully to make sure that they are original pieces.
• Some collectors often use the terms "Spongeware" and "Spatterware" interchangeably. This is in error, as they're created by two different methods.