How to repair chipped or broken ceramics for display
A clean break in a favourite plate or vase can be glued so it's sound and looks good on a shelf. Here's a simple home method using two part epoxy.
By the Junkie team
Step by step
Step 1: Clean the edges
Wash the pieces and wipe the broken edges with acetone or meths. Any grease or old glue stops the new joint closing.
Step 2: Dry fit
Work out the order the pieces go back together. Use tape to hold them while you check that every edge closes properly.
Step 3: Glue
Mix a small amount of epoxy and apply a thin film to one edge only. Press the pieces together firmly so the glue squeezes out and the joint is tight.
Step 4: Hold it
Tape across the join with tight strips, and stand the piece in a tray of sand so gravity helps. Wipe excess glue with a cotton bud and a little acetone before it sets.
Step 5: Fill chips
Once cured, fill chips with epoxy putty, let it harden, and sand it level with fine wet and dry paper.
Step 6: Colour match
Paint the filled areas with model paints to match, then a thin coat of clear gloss to imitate the glaze.
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