The Iconic Pyrex Design Boomers Grew Up With In The Kitchen

Although Pyrex glassware is a sturdy staple in countless kitchens, its current aesthetics leave much to be desired for those who adore retro designs. That's why Pyrex collectors love getting their hands on vintage dishes that showcase the artwork the brand used to be known for. Among the vintage Pyrex dishes we believe should return to store shelves, Butterprint is one that would likely have a triumphant resurgence among the baby boomers who grew up with it in their kitchens. It debuted in 1957 and was manufactured until 1968, and it's considered an iconic classic because of how it played a role in ushering in new kitchenware.

The white-on-turquoise Butterprint pattern (which also shows up in turquoise-on-white) is likewise referred to as Amish print because it features art of a couple dressed in traditional Amish clothing. They hold yard tools while surrounded by plants and wheat stalks to signify their wholesome living-off-the-land style. Butterprint was featured on Pyrex's nested Cinderella bowls, and it had the honor of being one of the first patterns printed on Pyrex opal ware.

Pyrex also released Butterprint pieces in orange (named Pumpkin Butterprint) and pink, making these variations much rarer. Pumpkin Butterprint was only offered from 1965 to 1966 through the S&H catalog, while the pink print is a 1960 rarity. Antique stores that sell any of the colors ask for a pretty penny, with prices reaching over $1,000 for the more coveted colors. Though the turquoise colorway is easy to find from antique resellers or online through Etsy and eBay, it often goes for hundreds of dollars, and complete sets are harder to come by.

Butterprint Pyrex may be harder to track down now, but boomers remember youthful days when this kitchenware was accessible right in their kitchen cabinets. Their mothers and grandmothers may have bought these dishes for mixing cake batter, baking casseroles, or using other ingredients common to this era's kitchens to serve up dishes like tapioca pudding. One Facebook user said of the Butterprint pattern, "My Grandma had the turquoise mugs and Cinderella stacking bowls. She bought them when they came out, she was from Lancaster PA and said they reminded her of home." Another reminisced, "My mother had those bowls in the 1960s, but sadly I had to recreate the set myself!"

Because Pumpkin Butterprint was only available through the S&H catalog in exchange for green stamps, it was difficult for some families to access even in the 1960s. Another Facebook user said of the orange version, "We didnt have much for green stamps in our area so probably wont find in the wild." However, dedicated collectors can still find ultra-rare pieces when they put in the work, so don't let the scarcity discourage you. If you decide to hunt for a Butterprint piece to relive the old days or stumble across one at the thrift store, make sure to authenticate your Pyrex so you know you're getting the most value for your money.