The Daily Fix: Repair Chipped China

Your favorite china plate sustained an unsightly chip? Don't despair. True, that pretty porcelain will never be 100% again, but there is a bright side: a careful repair job can make the damage almost unnoticable. Here's how:

Step 1. If they are soiled, clean both the plate and the chip. Allow them at least 24 hours to dry. Stash the chip in a safe place in case it accidentally ends up in the trash!

Step 2. Do a trial run. Before cracking out the glue, fit the pieces together. Make sure you know how to align them correctly. And test how quickly the glue is released from its tube.

Step 3. Select a glue that is appropriate for ceramic repair. A quality super glue or epoxy should give a strong, seamless hold. Here are three products you might try:
Super Glue Gel. A thick, no-drip glue designed for easy application to gritty, porous surfaces like porcelain.

Gorilla All-Purpose Epoxy. A tough, impact-resistant product that sets in just five minutes.

Loctite Household Contact Cement. This latex product allows for easy cleanup with water and it dries clear. The manufacturer says it's waterproof and dishwasher safe.

Tip: If using a slow-drying adhesive, you may be able to color-match it to your china. Just purchase a small tube or jar of oil-based enamel paint that matches the item you need to repair. Expel a small blob of glue onto a piece of cardboard or a paper plate, then use a toothpick to blend in a few drops of the paint.

Step 4. Coat the back of the chip with glue. Dab it on quickly but gently with a toothpick, a nail or a disposable craft-sized paintbrush. You can also use a Q-tip trimmed of one fuzzy end.

Step 5. Place the chip in its original position, press gently and hold for 30 to 60 seconds.

Step 6. Carefully scrape away excess glue with a blade. Do not clamp the china. The pressure could break that fragile porcelain chip in half.

Step 7. Leave it alone for at least a day or so. This gives the glue a chance to dry and begin the curing process.

Finally, a safety reminder: most glues will not withstand extreme temperatures. Do not use your repaired plate or dish in the oven. Also, skip the dishwasher and opt for a gentle hand washing instead.