Antique shopping can be an incredibly rewarding hobby for those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and the thrill of the hunt. With so many options to consider, it helps to have a strategy before you start searching. Here are some tips to make your antique shopping trips guided by love, not just impulse.
Define Your Interests
First, get clear on what types of antiques you’re most passionate about. Are you drawn to:
- Furniture – desks, cabinets, tables, chairs
- Decor – mirrors, lamps, vases, art
- Kitchenware – cutlery, pots, china
- Textiles – quilts, tapestries, rugs
- Toys – dolls, trains, stuffed animals
- Tools – clocks, scales, scientific instruments
Making a list of your interests helps you stay focused during buying trips. It also helps antique dealers understand what you’re looking for.
Learn About Quality Construction
Studying antique constructionmethods and materials helps you recognize quality pieces. Some things to look for include:
- Solid wood – Avoid particle board or plywood. Check for indications of rot.
- Dovetail joints – Found in older wooden drawers and cabinets. Sign of meticulous craftsmanship.
- Cast iron – Heavier than hollow tin. Rusty cast iron can be restored.
- Hand-blown glass – Look for pontil marks on the base from where glass was attached to blowpipe.
- Expert repairs – Some restoration adds value if done properly over time.
Understanding construction gives you an advantage in assessing condition and durability.
Research Typical Pricing
It pays to research typical pricing for the types of antiques you like. Pricing resources include:
- Auction archives – View final sale prices for comparable items.
- Antique guides – Provide typical pricing ranges for different categories.
- Dealer websites – Compare prices across multiple vendors.
This gives you a good sense of value, so you don’t overpay. Remember, condition greatly impacts pricing as well.
Hunt for Hidden Gems
Finding underpriced treasures takes some effort but brings immense satisfaction. Places to look include:
- Estate sales – First days often have best selection and pricing.
- Rural auctions – Less competition than urban areas.
- Thrift stores – Check high shelves, under tables, behind other items.
- Barn sales – Owners moving may undervalue items.
- Live online auctions – Can find deals in real time.
A good eye and flexible schedule increases chances of uncovering gems.
Trust Your Instincts
When you find a potential purchase, listen to your heart. Key questions to ask:
- Do you absolutely love it? Not just like it.
- Does it speak to you in some way? Feel a connection.
- Can you envision using/displaying it? If not, pass.
- Is it over-restored or refinished? Could decrease value.
Trusting your instincts over impulse buys creates a collection with meaning.
Start Your Research Early
Give yourself time to research before you buy. Steps include:
- Searching online databases to identify markings, history, makers.
- Consulting guides to judge fair pricing based on condition.
- Looking for comparable sold items in archives.
- Determining if repairs/restoration are needed.
- Discovering ideal display methods.
Doing your homework in advance prevents regrets later.
Set a Reasonable Budget
It’s easy to get carried away at auctions and antique malls. Decide your budget for each trip and stick to it. Remember to factor in:
- Your maximum bid limit for specific items.
- Premiums added to final hammer prices.
- Sales tax if applicable.
- Shipping costs for online purchases.
- Restoration fees if needed.
Careful budgeting allows you to build your collection over time.
Bring Along a Friend
Antiquing with a knowledgeable friend makes the hunt more fun. Benefits include:
- A second set of eyes to spot hidden finds.
- Someone to help verify signatures, markings, dating.
- A chance to discuss which items call to you.
- Another opinion on which pieces are best.
- Helping each other avoid impulse buys.
Enjoying the search together creates lasting memories.
Trust Reputable Sellers
Developing relationships with reputable antique dealers is invaluable:
- They remember your interests and call about new arrivals.
- You can trust their assessment of condition and restoration needs.
- They offer flexible payment plans or layaway options.
- They’ll search for specific items you want.
- They share helpful background details on pieces.
Their expertise informs and simplifies your shopping.
When starting an antique collection, passion and intuition are your best guides. Do your homework, set a budget, and enjoy memorable hunting trips with fellow enthusiasts. Most importantly, let your heart connect with special pieces that seem destined for you. The quest itself is a priceless gift.
Frequently Asked Questions About Antique Shopping
What are some tips for getting the best deals on antiques?
Some tips for finding antique bargains include going to estate sales on the last day, bidding late in live auctions, checking high and low for hidden gems in thrift stores, negotiating prices for multiples or unrestored items, shopping off-season when dealers want to clear inventory, and building relationships with sellers so they contact you about undersold items. Knowing typical price ranges helps you recognize good deals too.
How do I know if an antique is really old or valuable?
There are a few ways to identify if an antique is old and valuable. Look for solid wood construction, dovetail joinery, markings/signatures by well-known makers, indications of age like patina and wear, provenance records, serial numbers you can research, high-quality materials, and craftsmanship. Consulting antique guides and seeking a professional appraisal can confirm if you have a highly valuable piece.
What are some things to inspect when buying antique furniture?
When buying antique furniture, carefully inspect it for condition issues, repairs, or modifications that could affect value. Check for woodworm holes, cracks, dents, consistent aging, fraying or stains on upholstery, stability on legs/bases, and signs the piece has been refinished, stripped, or altered from its original state. Look inside drawers and under chair seats too. Probe the seller for full disclosure about any restoration.
How can I make sure an antique is authentic before I buy it?
To verify authenticity before purchasing an antique, research any identifying markings, labels or numbers to confirm the stated origin. Review the seller’s provenance documentation. Verify any claims about the item’s age or history. Examine the materials and construction methods to detect any inconsistencies for the stated time period. Get a professional appraisal if you have any concerns about authenticity. Reputable sellers will allow returns if an item’s authenticity is questionable.
What are some things to look for when antiquing that can increase an item’s value?
When evaluating antiques, traits that can increase value include pieces being in their original condition, crafted from high-quality materials, showing evidence of hand-craftsmanship, made by renowned makers, featuring scarce designs, retaining original finishes, and/or possessing provenance records of previous ownership history. Even signed works by unknown artists can gain value over time if the artist later becomes popular and influential.
Conclusion
Antique shopping guided by knowledge, research, and passion is a most rewarding pursuit. Patience truly is a virtue when seeking that perfect treasure reflecting your tastes and sensibilities. Establishing relationships with reputable sellers and fellow antique lovers enhances the adventure. The thrill of the hunt keeps devotees returning to favorite shops and haunts in hopes of uncovering gold. Allowing your instincts and affections to lead the way results in acquiring antiques that enrich your life for years to come. Whether furnishing an entire home or adding character through select accent pieces, let your heart connect with antiques that speak to you.
