The defining item of country kitchens

When you think of country kitchens you cannot help but think of enamel canisters. They are a must for any country style kitchen. 

This is an original 1930s full set of cream and green enamel ware canisters, not reproduction. This is a full set and includes flour, sugar, tea, rice, sago and coffee. They range in size from 12.5cm to 24cm. The whole set is $195.

We also have a 1930s cream and green bread bin. This wonderful bread bin is 32cm high and has its original bakelite knob. It is $95. 

How to test for bakelite using Simichrome Polish

I have been testing some of our jewellery to see if it is bakelite or not. After searching on how to do it, I thought I would do a easy step-by-step post on how to test jewellery yourself.

1 - Purchase Simichrome Polish. I found it difficult to find in Australia. It is a polish used commonly on chrome so I tried Bunnings, Repco, Supercheap Auto ect. but no one stocked it. So, I have now imported several tubes to make it easier for you to buy.

2 - Collect everything you need. Once you have your Simichrome, all you need is a cotton bud and the piece you wish to test.

3 - Squeeze out a small amount of Simichrome onto a cotton bud. For the photo I put on more than needed, you need only a very small amount for the test.

4 - Rub it on the piece you wish to test. Rubbing on the back of a piece is recommended, however, Simichrome is also used by many people to polish Bakelite. 

5 - Watch for a change in colour. If, after 10 - 15 seconds the cotton bud turns from pink to yellow then it has tested positive as Bakelite. It's that simple. 

I repeated the test on another piece (below), and a you can see, it was not Bakelite. 

It is that easy to test. Once you have your tube of Simichrome Polish it should last you a life time as you only use a small amount for each test.

Happy Testing!!!