Rediscover your Pyrex collection

Meet Meaghan, a Pyrex enthusiast who has been collecting the vintage kitchenware for the past 10 years.

The once common brand is becoming highly sought after in the retro design world.

Meaghan from Instagram’s pretty.in.pyrex is displaying her collection of kitchenalia from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s for the first time in the Nonne Exhibition at Bonegilla Migrant Experience.

Bonegilla Migrant Experience has reopened with new business hours - Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 10am to 4pm.

Physical distancing measures are in place while visiting the site.

Kitchenalia – A collection of Pyrex and vintage collectibles is on display in the Bonegilla Migrant Experience Mess Hall, where families once came together to share their daily meals.

You can follow Meaghan’s growing collection on Instagram.

The collection focuses on her love of the colourful Pyrex designs, both the original American made designs and various Australian, New Zealand and English patterns.

“I’ve always considered myself a ‘collector’ with an interest in retro style - including collecting vinyl records even longer,” she said.

“I have a particular interest in mid-century modern design, and at the time when I started collecting, Pyrex was a more affordable option to bring that aesthetic into my home.

“With the range of patterns and styles available it is also a fun thing to hunt down as there are so many variations out there.”

Meaghan hunts for pieces to add to her collection at op-shops, garage sales and markets.

“I’ve also been incredibly lucky to be gifted pieces when people learn that I collect and want to share the Pyrex they’ve had hidden away in cupboards unused,” she said.

“The online market for Pyrex is quite competitive nowadays, so I’m happy to build my collection slowly and wait for a special piece to catch my eye.

“I’m always on the lookout, particularly for patterns I haven’t got yet or to complete sets I already have."

Meaghan's ‘Gooseberry Cinderella mixing bowls’ are her favourite find, and probably the most sought after pattern in her collection.

“The pink and white design is a little harder to come across in Australia, so finding a complete set at a reasonable price was a pleasant surprise," she said.

“I only have one other piece in this pattern, so would love to come across some more.”

Another of her rare finds is a promotional mug featuring characters from the Hanna-Barbera cartoon Inch High, Private Eye.

Meaghan’s popular Instagram page came about as she wanted a place to share pictures of her special finds and connect with other like-minded collectors.

“Although rather niche, there is a fairly strong online community of Pyrex collectors that spans the globe,” she said.

“I also enjoying seeing what other people have found and adding more pieces to my wish list.”

Meaghan is encouraging people to search their own cupboards (and memories) to rediscover Pyrex patterns.

She says - use them, love them and admire them - just don’t put them in the dishwasher.

The exhibition will be on display during Bonegilla Migrant Experience's operating hours - Saturday, Sunday and Monday between 10am and 4pm.