The production of chintz did require an amazing amount of handwork because the designs were transferred by hand from lithographs on to the individual piece. The knowledge that a young woman spent hours placing the transfer patterns on each piece of chintz makes that much more appreciative of the treasure. T he process, which resembles the application of a decal, required meticulous cutting and matching to ensure that the joins of each piece were practically invisible. Gilding the piece of china by hand was completed before firing. C omplete dinner sets, tea pots and coffee pots , bud vases and serving pieces are all collectible.
Some collectors focus their search for a single pattern.
Others enjoy mixing and matching the colorful designs. Still others will only collect tea cups in as many patterns as possible. C lub members recommend reading about chintz and becoming knowledgeable about the china before making big purchases. There are imitations and damaged chintz on the market. C hintz is one of the hottest collectibles, says Fehrenbacher.