Choosing an antique piece for your home is a great way to add personality and history to a space.
Antiques are beautiful because they offer a glimpse of what people used and created in the past, adding both an aesthetic as well as sentimental appeal.
You can say as much about yourself by selecting your furniture pieces, or you can find one that speaks to you -that you find aesthetically appealing or that has a story.
How to Spot a Good Deal
Getting the right antique piece can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be impossible.
It all comes down to knowing the signs of a good deal. Start by asking yourself what you expect from your antique furniture.
Is it:
- Aesthetically appealing
- Has a story to tell you about a period in history
- Has sentimental meaning for you and your family
- Is old and cool, or does that mean anything to you
Each piece of furniture is unique, and no two pieces will ever have exactly the same look or feel about them.
This means that the condition of the piece is important when making your decision on whether or not it’s worth purchasing.
Top Tips for Buying Vintage Home Decor
If you’re thinking of buying an antique for your home, here are a few things to consider before you do.
Learn The Lingo
Understanding antique terminology can be a challenge – there are plenty of terms and phrases to learn, including:
- Antique – is an item up to 200 years old.
- Vintage – is anything up to 50 years old.
- Second-hand furniture – while not describing the age, this term is used to describe furniture that has previously been owned by someone else as well as possibly being used as well. Second-hand or vintage items need some restoration before they can be considered antique pieces.
Are There Any Ethical Concerns?
Make sure you buy the piece legally, ethically, and from a reputable dealer.
If you aren’t buying it from an antique dealer, make sure to do your research first – are there any problems with the piece that you cannot see?
Check for well-made joints – experts will notice if something has been reattached or painted over. Another thing to look out for is cracks in the wood, which are often found once a piece has been moved or reupholstered.
Consider the Design
This is a great way to get the most out of your money. Antique furniture is often worth more than the sum of its parts. For example, this table might sell for $200, but its construction is of such high quality that it has significant value.
Be sure to ask if you are getting a deal when buying an antique piece – have you checked into its imprint?
Do You Know Where It Came From?
Researching your antiques will help you identify them from one another.
This will help you become a better-informed buyer and avoid purchasing a knockoff item that has been mass-produced.