"Ask at any good quality hardware store for clear vinyl tubing for, say, air conditioning draining. A popular size is 5/8" outside dimension (OD) by 3/8" insidedimension (ID). Cut a short length (1" or so) of the next smaller size, for example 3/8"OD by 1/4" ID, and with spittle insert it like a plug into the ends of the larger size tube, which has been precut into a suitable ring size for the pot you wish to support, and draw the ends together. The next smaller combination (3/8"OD x 1/4"ID) works well when held together by the next smaller size, 1/4"OD x.170 ID. (Note: With the 1/4" tubing you are better off using the heavier frosted white vinyl tubing). Now you have a nice clear ring with the ends firmly plugged together.
Display the pot with the seam turned to the back. If the final ring is too large, cut it to suit. Experiment with sizes for both aesthetics and safety. Very thick tubing does not bend easily, and the very thin sometimes does not hold a curve. Avoid inexpensive tubing like that offered by Home Depot that doesn't have the heft to keep a smooth curve."
Note: To protect a pot against earthquake, weight it with a "bean bag" of sand or lead shot. For further protection, secure the supporting ring to the shelf with Museum Wax, Museum Putty or clear Museum Gel (but don't put any of these on the pot itself because they will stain). |