Collecting antique furniture can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but there are a few things you should know before you start. Here are 10 tips to help you get started.
1. Do your research
Before you start collecting, it’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about antique furniture. This will help you identify genuine pieces and avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous sellers.
2. Know what you’re looking for
When you’re starting out, it’s helpful to have a focus. This could be a certain style of furniture, period, or material. Narrowing your focus will make it easier to find the pieces you’re looking for and build a cohesive collection.
3. Inspect each piece carefully
When you’re considering an antique furniture purchase, take the time to inspect the piece carefully. Look for signs of wear and tear, as well as any repairs or damage. This information will help you determine the value of the piece and whether it’s worth adding to your collection.
4. Be prepared to haggle
Haggling is a normal part of buying antique furniture, so don’t be afraid to try your hand at it. If you’re not comfortable haggling, then bring along someone who is. Remember, the goal is to get the best price possible for the piece.
5. Know the value of your pieces
It’s important to have a good understanding of the value of your antique furniture pieces. This will help you make smart buying decisions and avoid overpaying for a piece. There are a few ways to determine the value of a piece, including consulting an appraiser or searching for similar items online.
6. Buy from reputable dealers
When you’re buying antique furniture, it’s important to buy from reputable dealers. This will help ensure that you’re getting authentic pieces and avoid being taken advantage of. Do some research on potential dealers before making a purchase.
7. Keep an eye out for fakes
Unfortunately, there are a lot of fake antique furniture pieces on the market. These pieces are often made to look like authentic antiques, but they’re actually new pieces that have been distressed or have fake age marks. If you’re unsure about a piece, then have it appraised by a professional.
8. Store your pieces properly
Proper storage is essential for preserving the condition of your antique furniture. When storing pieces, use a cool, dry location and avoid direct sunlight. You should also clean and dust your pieces regularly to keep them looking their best.
9. Get insurance for your collection
It’s a good idea to insure your antique furniture collection in case of damage or theft. This will help you recoup the cost of any lost or damaged pieces.
10. Enjoy your collection!
Collecting antique furniture can be a fun and rewarding hobby. So, take your time, do your research, and enjoy adding new pieces to your collection.