Wednesday, September 15, 2010

melmac collection


I love the look, the feel, the colors and designs of melmac (or melamine) dishware. I found these cups in a plastic bag at Savers many years ago for $2.99, without the saucers. But they sure come in handy when I need little containers while crafting. Don't you just love little containers?!


Well yesterday after my Tuesday morning Bible Study, I found a Boonton sugar bowl! Oh my gosh, seriously looks & feels like porcelain. And for a mere 50 cents at my favorite little thrift store in Phoenix. Someday I will find the creamer. I just know it!

I'm actually quite obsessed with the designer of Boonton melmac ware from the 40's- Belle Kogan. She is one of the most fascinating women I've ever read about. Click her name and be inspired.

Belle Kogan (1902-2000) was a Russian born industrial designer and is regarded as the first prominent female in the profession in the United States as well as one of the founders of the profession itself.

 She not only designed for Boonton but also for Bakelite Corp., Red Wing Pottery, Libbey Glass and lots more. 

She was even asked to design a line of ZIPPO lighters in 1938. They are considered to be extremely rare. You can check them out HERE.


Who is inspiring you today?
Check out these thrifty link parties-

7 comments:

Anita Diaz said...

I have that same sugar bowl!! I just got it in a lot of blue and did not have any idea what it was! I am too fascinated with Melmac and am trying to get my 1956 Brookpark pink hyacinth table going.

Beth said...

I love my melmac, too. I have a couple pieces that belonged to my Grandmother and for now, they're in my kids' play kitchen.

RedBettySummer said...

Never heard of this before so I was very intrigued. You have a great collection. I love learning new things from blogs. Thanks for sharing this today. Your blog is terrific!

Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage said...

I'm always so attracted to these when I come across them! I love to use melmac for picnics! So retro!

kluless said...

LOVE this blog post and all the interesting links. I grew up with these dishes so it's a blast from the past for me and so interesting to learn a little about them. Thanks so much for sharing!

Hootin Anni said...

I haven't seen Melmac dishes in YEARS!!! This was one very charming and fun post.

My Show n Tell this week...LINK

Have a super Friday!

Unknown said...

Very fasinating! I haven't noticed Melmac dishes before but maybe now I will when I'm out thifting. Thanks for sharing.