I purchased the Midnight Black Butter Bell in early June, 2006, and it worked fantastically well...until the weather got warmer. After a few 100+ degree days where the temperature inside the house was between 75-80 degrees, the butter would fall in a clump from the inverted bell into the water in the holding jar.I ended up putting the whole thing in the refrigerator anyway...which kind of defeats the purpose.I thought it might be the brand of butter I was using, but after trying different brands, I still experienced the same problem.However, I look forward to using the Butter Bell when the weather cools down a bit.
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Butter Bell CrockProduct Description: A practical and beautiful solution for storing and serving butter, the Butter Bell Crock keeps butter soft, delicious, and spreadable for up to 30 days without refrigeration. Modeled after the original French design, the butter crock is made from durable glazed stoneware or dolomite clays. Available in a wide array of colors, the crock can match existing dinnerware or stand on its own to add a touch of color to the table. It goes from the kitchen to the tabletop with no fuss. Butter's delicate flavor and freshness are protected by an airtight seal of water at the base of the crock, safely keeping butter fresh and spreadable without refrigeration, odors, or spoilage. It also keeps butter at the perfect "spreading" consistency by reflecting outside heat while insulating and cooling the butter. To use, firmly pack one stick of softened butter into the bell-shaped lid, pour cold water into the base of the crock, and place the lid upside down back into the base of the crock. Store the crock away from heat or sunlight, and change the water in the base every two to three days. Cleaning is easy since the crock is dishwasher safe.
From the Manufacturer Look how easy it is to use the Butter Bell crock.
1. Pour approximately 1/3 cup very cold water into the base of the crock.
2. Pack ½ cup (1 stick) softened butter into the bell-shaped lid.
3. Replace lid into the bottom of the crock. Water creates an airtight seal. The secret to fresh, creamy butter is the airtight seal.
The unique design keeps butter at the perfect "spreading" consistency by reflecting outside heat while insulating and cooling the butter. Flavor and freshness are protected by an airtight seal of water at the base of the crock.
Proper maintenance: Water should be changed out every three days. Replace existing water in the base with fresh, cold water. The crock should be stored away from heat or sunlight.
Holds up to one full stick (1/2 cup) of butter. Softened butter is packed firmly into the bell-shaped lid. Cold water is poured into the base of the crock. The lid is placed upside down back into the base of the crock. Soft, spreadable butter may be enjoyed and served right from the crock.
Frequently Asked Questions: Why does my butter keep falling into the water or turning moldy? Though there are many reasons for this, usually once you get the hang of using your Butter Bell, these problems are easily solved. Here are some helpful hints and suggestions to try out:
• Do not allow the butter to become too soft before packing it into the bell shaped lid. The butter should be firm enough so that is not slipping off the knife before packing the lid. When the butter is slightly firmer it packs into the lid better - just use a little "elbow grease".
• When packing the butter into the bell shaped lid, make sure you press the butter firmly into the lid, removing all air pockets. Air pockets within the butter create a suction affect when the lid is removed from the water, pulling the butter out of the lid.
• When using your Butter Bell, do not let the "Bell" sit out of the crock base for extended periods of time.
• After each use, check the remaining butter in lid to ensure there aren't any air pockets. Use your knife to redistribute the remaining butter within the lid for better adherence tension.
• Make sure that the Butter Bell is stored away from sunlight and heat. For instance, do not store on a counter near a stove/oven or in a window sill.
• Use the coldest water possible when adding water in the base of the crock. Perhaps add a few small, smashed ice cubes if you live in a very warm climate. Make sure you're changing the water every 3 days. This step ensures fresher butter for longer periods of time.
• Wash thoroughly between uses.
Is the Butter Bell dishwasher safe? Yes, the Butter Bell is dishwasher safe.
Where is the Butter Bell made and is it safe? The Butter Bell crocks are made in China, by a top manufacturer of ceramic products. The crocks are made from the highest quality materials and are completely safe, meeting FDA food safety regulatory standards. Each production run of product is tested thoroughly for lead and cadmium levels. Documentation accompanies each shipment, which is submitted to US Customs and the FDA for clearance approval.
Why does my Butter Bell have fine black lines in it? These fine black lines are called "crazing." This is a normal wear and tear for ceramic products, and happens to plates, dishes, and mugs as well. It will not harm the butter. It is a result of scraping the knife along the sides the bell to get the butter out, as well as dishwashing in very hot water.
Can I use margarine (or other spreads) in the Butter Bell? The Butter Bell works best when real butter is used. Margarine does not have a spreadability problem. Also, margarines are "oilier" and will not stay in the lid very easily. It is not recommended to store other processed spreads in the Butter Bell. Processed spreads (i.e. - cream cheese) need refrigeration to stay fresh for extended periods of time. You can use the Butter Bell for special spreads if you do not plan to store it in the Butter Bell. For example, the Butter Bell might make a great serving piece at an evening dinner party for a special dip or spread that you create.
Can I use whipped butter in the Butter Bell? Whipped butter is less dense than regular butter. It contains tiny air pockets (hence the fluffiness) which causes the butter to fall into the water. It is not recommended. As well, Ghee or Clarified butters are not recommended for use in the Butter Bell.
Can I store herbal butters in the Butter Bell? Herbal butters are fine to serve and store in your Butter Bell, however they will not stay fresh as long as pure butter. Butters that contain fresh herbs will stay fresh approximately 5 to 7 days in the Butter Bell. This can vary somewhat so use your best judgment before use.
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While the Royal Albert/Country Roses flatware and serveware does not match my silverware, it's a stand-alone type pattern. I like to set out a buffet for family holiday dinners, and I will have the table set with my silverware, but on the buffet table, I like to put out the side and main dishes, as well as the desserts. I have ordered all the Royal Albert serving pieces just to use on the buffet table, and they stand alone as beautiful serving pieces. They don't need to match the silverware on the dining room table, they are so striking unto themselves. 
