Here’s how to properly pack away those precious, yet awkward, breakable items
Need a place for those odd-shaped collectibles? Peter has the answer
QDear Peter, A few years ago, my partner started collecting beautiful candle holders. It was (and is) a lovely idea – except we now have too many to display! We like to rotate them every few weeks. The problem is that we don’t really have a great way to store the ones not on display. Do you? Kay, Lorne, Vic
AHi Kay, I’ll make a confession. I think I have most of the organising ‘thing’ sorted (ha! get it?) but when it comes to delicate, odd-shaped items, it’s tricky. I know that things like platters, vases and candle holders are often difficult to part with, as many have strong sentimental value. The choice then is to display or store them. And storing them leads to two problems: a) how do you store them so they don’t get damaged; and b) if they are stored too well (taped up in lots of newspaper and bubble wrap), you’re far less likely to use them again.
Here are some ideas that may help. First, I need to ask the question that I always start with: do you really need each of the items you’re holding onto? If you find you are having trouble storing all of the beautiful items in your home, it’s time to be ruthless about what you’re no longer using. Thank it for its service, take a couple of good pictures so you can always remember it, then take a look at selling it online, donating it, or gifting it to a loved one.
For the items you’re going to keep, consider the following: 1. Keep a record. For decorative glass items, make sure they are protected properly, but not so well as to never be used again. Wrapping in newspaper or bubble wrap is smart – just don’t overdo it. Before you wrap them, snap a picture and print it. Affix the picture to the outside of the package and/or the box. That will save you the trouble of unwrapping too many things you’re not actually looking for! Often we think we are labelling a box or an item but ‘candlesticks’ won’t necessarily remind you which is which. 2. Protection is key. Speaking of candlesticks, candles and candle holders are delicate. As you finish a roll of paper towel, hang on to the cardboard tube. These are great for decorative taper candles to keep them from getting banged up. Also, here’s a double-duty tip: when was the last time you cleaned out your sock or T-shirt drawer? Those spare pieces are great for wrapping fragile items – and you get rid of the clutter in those drawers, too! 3. Save packaging. My last tip is something that runs counter to what I normally advise: keep the box. Generally, I find that people hold on to too much of the original packaging when they purchase a new item. I’m generally a big proponent of getting that cardboard out of your home and into the recycling bin. But when it comes to delicate things like glassware or candelabras, storing them in their original packaging will help prevent damage. Also, they are generally packaged in rectangular boxes, which are far easier to store than the pieces are when not in their packaging. Happy packing!