Spotting One Of These Four Rare CorningWare Patterns Would Be The Holy Grail Of Thrift Finds

Finding vintage CorningWare while shopping at thrift stores or estate sales can be a thrilling discovery. Some patterns sell for big bucks online, while others may simply complete a set or add to a display collection. But if you ever find an electric percolator from the "Say It with Flowers" line, you are one lucky shopper.

There are plenty of discontinued CorningWare patterns that collectors still hunt for, since products from the 1970s were sometimes recalled or exclusive to one store, like JC Penney. The seasonal-themed "Say It with Flowers" electric kitchen appliance was recalled by CorningWare (then called Corning Glass Works) due to an adhesive issue that would cause the handle to separate from the pot, resulting in the potential for burns. Released around the same period as similar floral-themed patterns like "Floral Bouquet" and "Chelsea," the "Say It with Flowers" series was created in 1971 and swept up in a recall starting in 1976. 

The electric percolators came in four different patterns, one for each season. Titled "French Spring," "Tropic Summer," "American Autumn," and "Nordic Winter," the four coffee pots sport flowers for spring, summer, and winter, and a basket of veggies and wheat for fall. All distinctly unique CorningWare designs, and all worth keeping an eye out for when thrifting so you can achieve the rare feat of assembling the complete set.

The four patterns are your first clue to identifying a rare valuable CorningWare piece. Not to be confused with CorningWare's signature Blue Cornflower pattern that is seen on dish ware today or the numerous fall combos like the Spice o' Life pattern. The patterns on these particular percolators reflect their unique '70s groovy style. Unlike the solid coloring and sparse lines of Blue Cornflower and Corningware's more abstract designs, these patterns are full, bright, colorful, and detailed with lifelike essence.

The model number on the "Say It with Flowers" percolators is the same on each design in the series. Look for model number P-80-EP (identifying it as an Electromatic percolator) on the bottom or on any listing. The official size noted as a 10-cup model. The material of these floral beauties is glass and ceramic, with a metal top band and handle attached.

If you find a "Say It with Flowers" pattern in the wild, remember that there was a recall for a reason. Unless professionally restored, we do not recommend using the percolator without first addressing the recall problem. For most collectors, this is a treasure that sits on display rather than an every day coffee pot. In fact, the pattern is so hard to find that, as of this writing, there are none available for sale on eBay (though you may be able to find an "American Autumn" pattern plate, which often sell for over $100).