China Repairers was established in the 1950s and was probably the first professional ceramic restorer of its kind. It was founded by Pegeen Mair and Angela Drayson and was originally based in St. John’s Wood. Virginia Baron took over the company around 30 years ago, which now operates from Willesden Green, London NW2, after having moved from East Finchley where it was situated for 12 years.
The company specialises in repair and restoration of all types of china: pottery, porcelain, terracotta, stoneware etc., whether valuable, sentimental, or simply china for domestic use. Any missing pieces can be made (including handles, hands and other body parts!) We can carry out invisible restoration so that the repair doesn’t show, or just a “museum” repair as it is grandly known but which in fact just a stick together, fill and touch-in as necessary. Obviously invisible restoration is much more work, especially if there are pieces missing, and therefore much more expensive. Invisible restoration is normally only carried out on “cabinet pieces”, i.e. china that is not used for cooking or eating off, as the glaze doesn’t stand up to a lot of wear and tear.
Prices range from £30 for a simple stick or from £40 for a full restoration.
China Repairers has carried out work for shops (Thomas Goode, Aspreys, Harrods, Lladro, Royal Doulton), Antique Dealers, Insurance and Removal Companies, but a good deal of its work these days is for the general public on items that are precious to them, such as a special gift, purchase or perhaps passed down from a close friend or relative.
We can also redo old, unsatisfactory repairs including taking apart and re-sticking items that are badly stuck.