Melmac is a type of plastic tableware made from melamine resin, which is durable and easily molded into different shapes. It was popular in the mid-20th century, and was used for cookware, serving bowls, plates, cups, and glasses. Melmac was also commonly used in school cafeterias. Its durability made it ideal for casual family dinners and backyard cookouts. Although it declined in popularity by the late 1970s, it has started to gain some distinction as a decorative feature in kitchens designed around a 1950s or 1960s theme.
Melmac is the name of plastic tableware created with the use of melamine. First developed in the 1940s, melamine resin is easily molded into a number of different shapes and is extremely durable. During the mid-20th century, melmac dinnerware could be found in nearly every home in the United States, thanks to the low cost and easy care of the dishes.
In construction, melmac is used for virtually any type of cookware; serving bowls were common, as were plates, cups, and glasses. Any type of color pigment can be added to the melamine during the molding process. As a result, dinnerware was created in a number of colors and patterns. During the 1950s solid but somewhat muted colors such as sea foam or pea green were popular. The 1960s saw the creation of many interesting color schemes, including some that reflected the psychedelic look so popular in fashion during the latter part of the decade.
Along with home use, melmac was often used in school cafeterias. Utilizing a round or rectangular design, melmac trays were often divided into sections which allowed each appetizer, vegetable, and dessert to be easily placed into position throughout the line. Many models even included a slot that was ideal for placing half a liter of milk or a cup of coffee.
One of the main attributes of melmac is durability. The lightweight plastic structure holds up very well, even if the surface of the dishes tends to scratch relatively easily. The dishes can be washed by hand or placed in the dishwasher just as easily. Unlike porcelain, ceramic or glass, Melmac does not break if dropped. Families with children have found it ideal for casual family dinners and backyard cookouts.
By the late 1970s, melmac had declined in popularity as other forms of dinnerware began to appear. However, the sturdiness of the tableware meant that many pieces manufactured decades ago still survive. Collectors can find the plates at many online auction sites. Yard and estate sales are great sources of low-cost melmac. While it is no longer in common use in many domestic situations, it has started to gain some distinction as a decorative feature, especially in kitchens designed around a 1950s or 1960s theme.
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