Antique collecting may seem easy at the onset but when you actually do the job, you will realize that it is not as simple as it seems. In fact, antique collecting is one of the hardest hobbies to master. This is especially true if you don't have any background in history or aren't detail-oriented.
Learning the art of antique collecting is not so difficult but neither is it easy. It is doable when you have the will to do it and are eager learn.
Here are some ways to make sure that you learn the skill for antique collecting.
Research.
Nothing beats being armed with information. Read up on antique collecting and read whatever you can about the subject. If you can find a book on the basics of antique collecting, all the better.
Reading does not mean however that you have to confine your research on books. You can use the millions of articles on the internet to broaden your knowledge. You can visit sites that are dedicated to antique collecting. These are made by people who practice the hobby. For sure, they will have plenty of experiences to share with you.
Practice The Craft
Reading and researching is not enough if you cannot apply it in real life. This is why it is important that you find the time to go to antique shops and scout for antiques. This is one way to also ensure that you get familiar with the field. This is especially true if you have a particular item or era that you are interested in.
Practice what you read. Test the concepts in real life and determine if they are applicable in real life situations. That way, you have not just learned from books but real life as well.
Ask The Experts.
One way to be really good in the field and to develop your own skills and techniques is to ask other people who have gone the same path as you. You can do this by reading up on books in the field and then writing or emailing the author for some questions. You can also log on to websites that are dedicated to the field. Here you will find people that are experts in the field or at least have the experience to answer your question or to teach you a thing or two in antique collecting.
Jumat, 24 Februari 2012
Handling Antique Textiles When Collecting
If your knowledge about collecting antiques is limited to furniture, Chinese jars, and things from your grandfathers treasure chest, then it's good to know that there's one more thing that you will have to add to your list: antique textiles.
Yes, textiles can be antiques. Well, basically anything that gets old can be considered antiques. If you're not too sensitive about it, you can call your own grandfather an antique, but I don't recommend that you do. Anyways, antique textiles can be somewhat challenging when it comes to handling, storage and such. Textiles are more delicate to handle relative to other kinds of collections. Nevertheless, the following are some basic techniques and tips in handling textile antiques.
These tips will go a long way especially if you don't have any expert knowledge and experience in handling such valuable materials.
First things first, just like all other antiques you will need to handle old textiles carefully. Keep whatever you find clean as much as possible. Take note, however, that this doesn't mean that you're going to wash the textile immediately. Just remove visible dust and other foreign articles off the textile for now.
If you really need to wash vintage clothing, you will have to make sure that the textile is laundry washable and colorfast. Also, make sure that you wash the textile in cold water and by hand. Do not put starch or bluing while you wash the cloth. Do not iron the textile as well.
If you can't remove the dirt or if the textile is too fragile to be washed, an option would be to use a vacuum to clean the surface. However, avoid direct contact with the fabric. Use some sort of covering like a fiberglass screen to come between the textile and the vacuum.
Once dried or cleaned, you should store antique textiles in cool, dark and especially dry places. Ideally, you should monitor the humidity as well. It is not ideal to store textiles in places where humidity changes drastically. Specialized drawers for storing textiles would be the most ideal place to store the cloths.
Storing antique textiles in attics or in your garage is textile suicide. Not only will it cause considerable damage to the cloth but most likely the damage will be permanent.
Also, tissue papers and wrapping papers do not go well with textiles so don't use them to wrap the vintage cloth. Wood as well is not the best thing to come in contact with vintage textiles. These are but a few of the tricks and tips that you would need to know. There are a lot of other important things that you will need to study if you want to be an expert in antique textile collecting.
Yes, textiles can be antiques. Well, basically anything that gets old can be considered antiques. If you're not too sensitive about it, you can call your own grandfather an antique, but I don't recommend that you do. Anyways, antique textiles can be somewhat challenging when it comes to handling, storage and such. Textiles are more delicate to handle relative to other kinds of collections. Nevertheless, the following are some basic techniques and tips in handling textile antiques.
These tips will go a long way especially if you don't have any expert knowledge and experience in handling such valuable materials.
First things first, just like all other antiques you will need to handle old textiles carefully. Keep whatever you find clean as much as possible. Take note, however, that this doesn't mean that you're going to wash the textile immediately. Just remove visible dust and other foreign articles off the textile for now.
If you really need to wash vintage clothing, you will have to make sure that the textile is laundry washable and colorfast. Also, make sure that you wash the textile in cold water and by hand. Do not put starch or bluing while you wash the cloth. Do not iron the textile as well.
If you can't remove the dirt or if the textile is too fragile to be washed, an option would be to use a vacuum to clean the surface. However, avoid direct contact with the fabric. Use some sort of covering like a fiberglass screen to come between the textile and the vacuum.
Once dried or cleaned, you should store antique textiles in cool, dark and especially dry places. Ideally, you should monitor the humidity as well. It is not ideal to store textiles in places where humidity changes drastically. Specialized drawers for storing textiles would be the most ideal place to store the cloths.
Storing antique textiles in attics or in your garage is textile suicide. Not only will it cause considerable damage to the cloth but most likely the damage will be permanent.
Also, tissue papers and wrapping papers do not go well with textiles so don't use them to wrap the vintage cloth. Wood as well is not the best thing to come in contact with vintage textiles. These are but a few of the tricks and tips that you would need to know. There are a lot of other important things that you will need to study if you want to be an expert in antique textile collecting.
Handling Antique Papers In Antique Collecting
Paper in itself is a pretty difficult thing to handle and store. Add a couple of decades to it, raise the overall value and you get something doubly difficult. Antique books, maps, prints, and even documents need proper handling and storage in order to minimize decay and make them last. The following are some basic techniques of handling antique papers and antique collecting.
As much as possible minimize handling the papers with your bare hands. Come to think of it, never handle antique papers with your bare hands. The human skin secretes oils that can be damaging to sensitive antique items, especially paper. For one, the oil leaves marks on the surface and two the chemical reaction of the oil with the paper might be unpredictable. When handling antique papers, its best that you use cotton gloves.
If you have seen an old newspaper, you know how brittle the pages are because of age. Real antique papers will be more brittle and thus more difficult to transport or move around. It is ideal to place something like a supporting cardboard or another tough paper underneath the antique to keep it properly supported.
Harsh light can cause damage to antiques including papers so make sure the antique won't be exposed to the sun or any harsh lights. Smoke and air pollutants can cause considerable damage as well.
Taking these things into consideration, the ideal place that we could store such antique papers and documents would be in a cool dry room. If you're rich and have the money, you can custom build a storage compartment for the sake of storing the papers. If you're not that rich, you might want to settle for the basement or the attic.
Aside from harsh light and damaging smoke, humidity is another element that you need to be aware of. Having low humidity levels will keep the paper clean from the brown discolorations that we often call foxing. Another great benefit of keeping humidity low is the fact that it prevents mold growth on the paper.
Other things that you need to avoid include using metal clips as binding for the antique papers, eating in front of the paper, drinking is also a no-no. Just imagine spilling a can of soda over the antique paper, so avoiding these things is the best course of action.
These are just some of the things that you have to remember when handling antique papers so imagine how many more things you will need to study if you get involved in antique collecting. But save those worries for another day.
As much as possible minimize handling the papers with your bare hands. Come to think of it, never handle antique papers with your bare hands. The human skin secretes oils that can be damaging to sensitive antique items, especially paper. For one, the oil leaves marks on the surface and two the chemical reaction of the oil with the paper might be unpredictable. When handling antique papers, its best that you use cotton gloves.
If you have seen an old newspaper, you know how brittle the pages are because of age. Real antique papers will be more brittle and thus more difficult to transport or move around. It is ideal to place something like a supporting cardboard or another tough paper underneath the antique to keep it properly supported.
Harsh light can cause damage to antiques including papers so make sure the antique won't be exposed to the sun or any harsh lights. Smoke and air pollutants can cause considerable damage as well.
Taking these things into consideration, the ideal place that we could store such antique papers and documents would be in a cool dry room. If you're rich and have the money, you can custom build a storage compartment for the sake of storing the papers. If you're not that rich, you might want to settle for the basement or the attic.
Aside from harsh light and damaging smoke, humidity is another element that you need to be aware of. Having low humidity levels will keep the paper clean from the brown discolorations that we often call foxing. Another great benefit of keeping humidity low is the fact that it prevents mold growth on the paper.
Other things that you need to avoid include using metal clips as binding for the antique papers, eating in front of the paper, drinking is also a no-no. Just imagine spilling a can of soda over the antique paper, so avoiding these things is the best course of action.
These are just some of the things that you have to remember when handling antique papers so imagine how many more things you will need to study if you get involved in antique collecting. But save those worries for another day.
Getting A Good Deal For Your Antique Collection
Once you know the ins and outs of antique collecting, you can set off looking for these items. You can visit antique stores, conventions, flea markets, garage sales, souvenir shops and a host of other events.
When you are out shopping, only go for pieces that are in mint condition because it will be hard to sell them later if there are any defects or flaws. Its resale value will continue to go down and the chances of you getting a return on your investment will be much smaller.
You should inspect the item carefully but if you still want to purchase it, don't be afraid to ask for a discount or for a lower price.
If you are dealing with this person for the first time, do a background check and start off with inexpensive items.
Aside from buying an item from a seller, you can also inquire if they are willing to trade what they have for something you possess. Naturally, they will also inspect the item. They may close the deal right there or ask you to add a few dollars so before you agree, make sure you know the current value of your item.
When you are looking for a good deal online, always ask about the return policy. Most online dealers will gladly give your money back but you will have to pay for the cost of insurance and shipping. If this item was paid for using your credit card and they refuse to accept the return, tell the bank that you refuse to pay the credit card charge.
The web can also work to your advantage when you decide to post your antique collection. You can create your own website or have someone do it for you. The other option would be to become a member of a website.
Chances are you will be posting it in an auction site. In both cases, don't forget to take a few pictures of the item from various angles so that in time, potential buyers will get in touch and it's up to you if their offer is reasonable or not.
Good deals for antique collecting can be made with the proper training and know how. By doing your homework, you will be able to enjoy this hobby and possibly make a profit.
When you are out shopping, only go for pieces that are in mint condition because it will be hard to sell them later if there are any defects or flaws. Its resale value will continue to go down and the chances of you getting a return on your investment will be much smaller.
You should inspect the item carefully but if you still want to purchase it, don't be afraid to ask for a discount or for a lower price.
If you are dealing with this person for the first time, do a background check and start off with inexpensive items.
Aside from buying an item from a seller, you can also inquire if they are willing to trade what they have for something you possess. Naturally, they will also inspect the item. They may close the deal right there or ask you to add a few dollars so before you agree, make sure you know the current value of your item.
When you are looking for a good deal online, always ask about the return policy. Most online dealers will gladly give your money back but you will have to pay for the cost of insurance and shipping. If this item was paid for using your credit card and they refuse to accept the return, tell the bank that you refuse to pay the credit card charge.
The web can also work to your advantage when you decide to post your antique collection. You can create your own website or have someone do it for you. The other option would be to become a member of a website.
Chances are you will be posting it in an auction site. In both cases, don't forget to take a few pictures of the item from various angles so that in time, potential buyers will get in touch and it's up to you if their offer is reasonable or not.
Good deals for antique collecting can be made with the proper training and know how. By doing your homework, you will be able to enjoy this hobby and possibly make a profit.
Getting Started In Antique Collecting
Antique collecting may seem easy but it's not. When you think about it, it can be a difficult hobby. Antique collecting does not mean that all you need to do is to just look for things that are old and buy them. That's not the essence of the industry. What antique collecting is all about and perhaps what makes it so exciting is the fact that looking for an antique with real value takes talent and a lot of luck.
You see not all old things are antiques and not all antiques are actually valuable. There are some antiques that are valuable because they are nice to look at and that they can be used at home but the real value is not really there.
In fact, some of the antiques that are really expensive are not even pretty. Some are damaged while others cannot even be displayed.
With all this, antique collecting seems so difficult to do. It is but the great thing about it is that it can be learned. You can learn how to collect antiques through research and practice.
Researching and studying the art of antique collecting is actually easy to do especially if you have the will to do it. There are a lot of books out there that you can buy in bookstores or borrow from the libraries. These books will teach you the rudiments of antique collecting.
With the world wide web so easily accessible, people can now get a lot of information about any topic imaginable. For sure, there are a lot of stuff written about antique collecting. Search on yahoo and Google search engines and you will find a lot of websites that are dedicated to the hobby of antique collecting. Here you will find forums that will help you in your research. You can post questions and the moderator or other members of the site will answer your questions.
Another way to get started with antique collecting is to make sure that you look for antiques! Researching is well and good but you won't go anywhere if you don't get out and start practicing what you have been reading in books.
Go to antique shops and see for yourself what their products are. Ask the proprietor about their antiques. Try to guess the value of each antique that you see. That way, you will be able to hone your skills in the business.
You see not all old things are antiques and not all antiques are actually valuable. There are some antiques that are valuable because they are nice to look at and that they can be used at home but the real value is not really there.
In fact, some of the antiques that are really expensive are not even pretty. Some are damaged while others cannot even be displayed.
With all this, antique collecting seems so difficult to do. It is but the great thing about it is that it can be learned. You can learn how to collect antiques through research and practice.
Researching and studying the art of antique collecting is actually easy to do especially if you have the will to do it. There are a lot of books out there that you can buy in bookstores or borrow from the libraries. These books will teach you the rudiments of antique collecting.
With the world wide web so easily accessible, people can now get a lot of information about any topic imaginable. For sure, there are a lot of stuff written about antique collecting. Search on yahoo and Google search engines and you will find a lot of websites that are dedicated to the hobby of antique collecting. Here you will find forums that will help you in your research. You can post questions and the moderator or other members of the site will answer your questions.
Another way to get started with antique collecting is to make sure that you look for antiques! Researching is well and good but you won't go anywhere if you don't get out and start practicing what you have been reading in books.
Go to antique shops and see for yourself what their products are. Ask the proprietor about their antiques. Try to guess the value of each antique that you see. That way, you will be able to hone your skills in the business.
Finding Money In Old Cars In Antique Collecting
Any car older than 25 years can be considered an antique. However, one always makes a distinction between the classic cars. This title is often used on vehicles that were made before World War II. Well, whatever the title or distinction, you can find money in old cars.
Collecting and restoring old cars is a popular hobby. There are various reasons why people chose to collect them. For starters, it is for utter personal enjoyment and satisfaction. Having one or a couple of classic cars can earn a man quite a reputation and a social status that allows them to rub elbows with the rich, the powerful, and the famous. And also, collecting cars is now considered as an investment. As the vehicles grow older, their value increases and the prospect of selling them for a higher price is always a possibility that is often considered by even the most adamant collector.
Historically, the 1980's were the strongest years for trading antique cars. However, due to a world wide economy slow down years after the antique car market slowed down. But still, there were buyers and sellers and a considerable income to be had if you played your cards right.
When starting out with antique car trading, it doesn't mean you have to purchase a valuable antique vehicle at once. If you have the money to spend, then why not! But if you're not as rich as some, you can start with the little things: the parts and accessories.
People with antique automobiles will look for spare parts and accessories when restoring their cars. And such parts are not always readily available in car shops. Some are no longer manufactured and have to be custom made while others are impossible to find. This is a level where you can begin. If you work hard, market yourself well, and save up then you can buy a classic of your own.
One thing that you will need to take advantage of though, is the internet. Because of this cost effective advertising medium, you can find new parts to buy and advertise what parts you have for the antique car collecting world. You can also get the proper value for an old car or automobile parts.
Now, finding money in old cars when collecting antiques is not a walk in the park. You need to work hard. Looking for classic cars or having the rarest spare parts and accessories might take you places and meet a lot of new people.
Collecting and restoring old cars is a popular hobby. There are various reasons why people chose to collect them. For starters, it is for utter personal enjoyment and satisfaction. Having one or a couple of classic cars can earn a man quite a reputation and a social status that allows them to rub elbows with the rich, the powerful, and the famous. And also, collecting cars is now considered as an investment. As the vehicles grow older, their value increases and the prospect of selling them for a higher price is always a possibility that is often considered by even the most adamant collector.
Historically, the 1980's were the strongest years for trading antique cars. However, due to a world wide economy slow down years after the antique car market slowed down. But still, there were buyers and sellers and a considerable income to be had if you played your cards right.
When starting out with antique car trading, it doesn't mean you have to purchase a valuable antique vehicle at once. If you have the money to spend, then why not! But if you're not as rich as some, you can start with the little things: the parts and accessories.
People with antique automobiles will look for spare parts and accessories when restoring their cars. And such parts are not always readily available in car shops. Some are no longer manufactured and have to be custom made while others are impossible to find. This is a level where you can begin. If you work hard, market yourself well, and save up then you can buy a classic of your own.
One thing that you will need to take advantage of though, is the internet. Because of this cost effective advertising medium, you can find new parts to buy and advertise what parts you have for the antique car collecting world. You can also get the proper value for an old car or automobile parts.
Now, finding money in old cars when collecting antiques is not a walk in the park. You need to work hard. Looking for classic cars or having the rarest spare parts and accessories might take you places and meet a lot of new people.
Factors That Determine Antique Value
Antique collecting requires the skill of judging the value of a certain item. There are factors that most collectors and expert appraisers consider when trying to determine value for an antique piece. Here are some of the most important:
Condition
One of the key factors considered when determining the value of an antique is its condition. An antique in fairly good condition despite its age will surely acquire some added value. There are also collectors that prize mint condition antiques and consider them above everything else. An item that is in its best condition means that it may still exist for a very long time considering continued care and maintenance. As an investment, the condition of any antique is always given first consideration.
Current Market Influences
Current markets for certain antique pieces may also influence its value. Prices for various antiques and prized collectibles can vary widely and may change just as quickly depending on the current demand for it. Their value may drop down to lower levels especially if the boom has passed. Some antique values may remain high due to low supply. It is also important for collectors to watch the market trends of your preferred collecting categories in order to always stay on top of things.
Salvage Value
There are also cases in antique collecting wherein mint condition is not solely considered for an items value. There are some antique collectibles that are also prized highly even though they might have attained some level of damage. It does not always mean that just because an antique collectible is broken or damaged it is totally worthless.
Some collectors also consider damaged antiques salvage value. There are many collectors that look for damaged items that they can repair or even use for parts to repair other similar pieces. Depending on the extent and the nature of the damage on a certain antique and its relative usefulness, it may still be considerably valuable. It is always wise for a collector to check around first before banishing any item to the dumpster.
Antique collecting takes skill. And the skill of determining and assessing a certain items value is always in high regard. As you begin to amass your own collection, you should also try to gain knowledge in antique collecting so that you slowly begin to learn how to look for prized treasures that you know have more value to them than meets the eye.
Condition
One of the key factors considered when determining the value of an antique is its condition. An antique in fairly good condition despite its age will surely acquire some added value. There are also collectors that prize mint condition antiques and consider them above everything else. An item that is in its best condition means that it may still exist for a very long time considering continued care and maintenance. As an investment, the condition of any antique is always given first consideration.
Current Market Influences
Current markets for certain antique pieces may also influence its value. Prices for various antiques and prized collectibles can vary widely and may change just as quickly depending on the current demand for it. Their value may drop down to lower levels especially if the boom has passed. Some antique values may remain high due to low supply. It is also important for collectors to watch the market trends of your preferred collecting categories in order to always stay on top of things.
Salvage Value
There are also cases in antique collecting wherein mint condition is not solely considered for an items value. There are some antique collectibles that are also prized highly even though they might have attained some level of damage. It does not always mean that just because an antique collectible is broken or damaged it is totally worthless.
Some collectors also consider damaged antiques salvage value. There are many collectors that look for damaged items that they can repair or even use for parts to repair other similar pieces. Depending on the extent and the nature of the damage on a certain antique and its relative usefulness, it may still be considerably valuable. It is always wise for a collector to check around first before banishing any item to the dumpster.
Antique collecting takes skill. And the skill of determining and assessing a certain items value is always in high regard. As you begin to amass your own collection, you should also try to gain knowledge in antique collecting so that you slowly begin to learn how to look for prized treasures that you know have more value to them than meets the eye.
Don't To Be Fooled In Antique Collecting
How can you tell? That is essentially the question that we need to answer. Today, ironic as it sounds, the latest hi-tech machines are able to create different kinds of products and make them look old. It is quite unfortunate that a number of people take advantage of collectors and professionals alike, trying to sell fake items as the real deal. But the sadder part of this story is, even some of the expert antique dealers get fooled.
Experience is probably one of the best weapons against fakes. Experienced antique dealers often develop a sort of sixth sense with regards to identifying the real thing and the fake ones. But, of course, being an experienced dealer doesn't mean you have to rely solely on intuition. Your knowledge about the antiques gives you an edge over fakers.
If you're still a newbie in this trade then I have three words of advice for you: research, research, research. You need to know everything about antiques and I mean everything. From historical information to the most trivial facts, you never know when a bit of information can help you identify the authenticity of the item. You can go to libraries, to flea markets, or the web. There are a lot of places where you can dig up information.
If you still haven't developed that sixth sense of yours, then make use of what you have. You have five of them. Observe closely every surface, corner and side of the item. Look for the obvious signs and the not so obvious ones to see if the item is a fake.
For example, how the pieces of furniture are assembled will give you an idea of when it was made. Antique ceramics often have a rough bottom as opposed to newer ones. You should also feel the surface. Attempts to make the items older will always be noticeable so be sure to check on those. Look at areas which exhibit normal wear and tear.
Another thing that might be a give away is the price. Although antiques often don't have a fixed price and it is common to undervalue or overvalue an antique piece. Still, be wary of a seller that gives you a big discount immediately after you've rejected the first offer. The fact that he's in a rush to sell the thing might be a sign that there's something wrong with the item so don't be fooled.
Experience is probably one of the best weapons against fakes. Experienced antique dealers often develop a sort of sixth sense with regards to identifying the real thing and the fake ones. But, of course, being an experienced dealer doesn't mean you have to rely solely on intuition. Your knowledge about the antiques gives you an edge over fakers.
If you're still a newbie in this trade then I have three words of advice for you: research, research, research. You need to know everything about antiques and I mean everything. From historical information to the most trivial facts, you never know when a bit of information can help you identify the authenticity of the item. You can go to libraries, to flea markets, or the web. There are a lot of places where you can dig up information.
If you still haven't developed that sixth sense of yours, then make use of what you have. You have five of them. Observe closely every surface, corner and side of the item. Look for the obvious signs and the not so obvious ones to see if the item is a fake.
For example, how the pieces of furniture are assembled will give you an idea of when it was made. Antique ceramics often have a rough bottom as opposed to newer ones. You should also feel the surface. Attempts to make the items older will always be noticeable so be sure to check on those. Look at areas which exhibit normal wear and tear.
Another thing that might be a give away is the price. Although antiques often don't have a fixed price and it is common to undervalue or overvalue an antique piece. Still, be wary of a seller that gives you a big discount immediately after you've rejected the first offer. The fact that he's in a rush to sell the thing might be a sign that there's something wrong with the item so don't be fooled.
Collecting Antique Wooden Furniture
When it comes to antique collecting, one of the most preferred items are wooden pieces of furniture. This is because these pieces can increase their value tremendously especially when taken care of properly.
If you are into collecting wooden furniture for your antique collection, make sure to familiarize yourself first with the basic information that you need to know. This information includes the basic terminologies in antique trades, types of woods used for antiques, identifying the age of the wooden piece, and the proper way of cleaning it to maintain its value.
If you are planning to collect antique wooden furniture, it is best to visit the family's storeroom first before shopping for antique pieces online. Family storerooms such as the garage, basement, or attic can reveal hidden treasures that you can include in your antique collection. Aside from family storerooms, you can also visit your neighbor's garage sales, other household stores, and nearby household auctions and look for pieces that can satisfy your desire for wooden antique furniture.
If you really want valuable and authentic pieces of antique furniture, you can visit various antique stores. But, you better prepare yourself to pay a higher sum of money because most of these are authenticated by a certain organization that specializes in antiques. Although antique stores are reputable places where you can find antique furniture pieces, you should be very careful because many of these stores also offer replicas and reproduced items. If you are well-versed in antique furniture, it is best to ask the help of an expert to guide you in buying the real ones.
Tips In Choosing Antique Wooden Furniture
Today, there are so many types and styles of antique wooden furniture available on the market. Each piece has its distinct features depending on the era it was made or inspired. The most common selections of antique wooden furniture are those inspired from American and English styles since they are more functional compared to others.
If you are just starting with your antique wooden collection, here are some tips that can help you choose the pieces that are truly worth your time and your money:
1. Determine the age. The age of the wooden furniture is very important in determining its authenticity. Make sure that the wooden furniture is at least 50 years old or more to ensure it's an antique piece.
2. Check the furniture's joinery. This is one of the easiest ways to know if the piece is an antique or not. (TIP: If the furniture wasn't cut or made during 1860s, then it is an antique.)
3. Look for dovetails. Collecting antique wooden furniture is a meticulous task. To make identifying what's real or not easier, look for the dovetails. Experts say that dovetails that aren't even are those joined using bare hands while dovetails that are exact and even are cut using a machine. If the dovetails are handmade, rest assured that the piece is an antique because these dovetails were made years before the machine used for cutting was invented.
If you are into collecting wooden furniture for your antique collection, make sure to familiarize yourself first with the basic information that you need to know. This information includes the basic terminologies in antique trades, types of woods used for antiques, identifying the age of the wooden piece, and the proper way of cleaning it to maintain its value.
If you are planning to collect antique wooden furniture, it is best to visit the family's storeroom first before shopping for antique pieces online. Family storerooms such as the garage, basement, or attic can reveal hidden treasures that you can include in your antique collection. Aside from family storerooms, you can also visit your neighbor's garage sales, other household stores, and nearby household auctions and look for pieces that can satisfy your desire for wooden antique furniture.
If you really want valuable and authentic pieces of antique furniture, you can visit various antique stores. But, you better prepare yourself to pay a higher sum of money because most of these are authenticated by a certain organization that specializes in antiques. Although antique stores are reputable places where you can find antique furniture pieces, you should be very careful because many of these stores also offer replicas and reproduced items. If you are well-versed in antique furniture, it is best to ask the help of an expert to guide you in buying the real ones.
Tips In Choosing Antique Wooden Furniture
Today, there are so many types and styles of antique wooden furniture available on the market. Each piece has its distinct features depending on the era it was made or inspired. The most common selections of antique wooden furniture are those inspired from American and English styles since they are more functional compared to others.
If you are just starting with your antique wooden collection, here are some tips that can help you choose the pieces that are truly worth your time and your money:
1. Determine the age. The age of the wooden furniture is very important in determining its authenticity. Make sure that the wooden furniture is at least 50 years old or more to ensure it's an antique piece.
2. Check the furniture's joinery. This is one of the easiest ways to know if the piece is an antique or not. (TIP: If the furniture wasn't cut or made during 1860s, then it is an antique.)
3. Look for dovetails. Collecting antique wooden furniture is a meticulous task. To make identifying what's real or not easier, look for the dovetails. Experts say that dovetails that aren't even are those joined using bare hands while dovetails that are exact and even are cut using a machine. If the dovetails are handmade, rest assured that the piece is an antique because these dovetails were made years before the machine used for cutting was invented.
Collecting Antique Quilts
After realizing the value of antiques because of their increasing value in the long run, more and more people are now into collecting antique quilts. Just like with furniture, collecting antique quilts can be a very good business venture for anybody who loves to keep and sell cloth items. This is because many people love quilts because these are valuable pieces that are authentic and original. Aside from the uniqueness of the materials used, one thing that can add up to the value of antique quilts is the originality of the design and patterns used in creating them.
If you are interested in collecting antique quilts, the best place to look for them are old antique shops since they specialize in determining which pieces are antique. It is also ideal to buy from these stores because most of them issue certification that proves the authenticity of the item being sold.
But, if you are new in collecting antique quilts, it is best to educate yourself first to avoid buying fake items. In some stores especially those that advertise online items are marketed as antiques even when they are not. So, you better be careful in buying quilts that are advertised to be older than they really are.
How To Determine If The Quilt Is Authentic Or Not
For people who are into antiques and buy an antique quilt whether for its value or its uniqueness it is a must to ensure that you are getting your moneys worth. Since antiques can be expensive, make sure that you just don't buy an antique quilt because the seller said it was one.
The first thing that you can do is check the authenticity of the quilt by conducting a background research about the dealer or seller. To know if the dealer or seller is licensed, check his or her name or the company name on the list of the ASA or ISA. These two agencies can be accessed online so you can easily know if the seller truly has the credentials. Once you have checked the name, the next step is to confirm the certification status the dealer or seller has. (REMINDER: Today, there are so many appraisers that used to be licensed but were dispelled from the agency because of illegal things and promoting illegal claims. To avoid conducting any business with these people, make sure that the dealer or seller has a clean and reputable status in the antique industry.)
In collecting antique quilts, it is also best to seek the assistance of a professional textile expert to ensure the age and the authenticity of the antique quit before finally purchasing it.
If you are interested in collecting antique quilts, the best place to look for them are old antique shops since they specialize in determining which pieces are antique. It is also ideal to buy from these stores because most of them issue certification that proves the authenticity of the item being sold.
But, if you are new in collecting antique quilts, it is best to educate yourself first to avoid buying fake items. In some stores especially those that advertise online items are marketed as antiques even when they are not. So, you better be careful in buying quilts that are advertised to be older than they really are.
How To Determine If The Quilt Is Authentic Or Not
For people who are into antiques and buy an antique quilt whether for its value or its uniqueness it is a must to ensure that you are getting your moneys worth. Since antiques can be expensive, make sure that you just don't buy an antique quilt because the seller said it was one.
The first thing that you can do is check the authenticity of the quilt by conducting a background research about the dealer or seller. To know if the dealer or seller is licensed, check his or her name or the company name on the list of the ASA or ISA. These two agencies can be accessed online so you can easily know if the seller truly has the credentials. Once you have checked the name, the next step is to confirm the certification status the dealer or seller has. (REMINDER: Today, there are so many appraisers that used to be licensed but were dispelled from the agency because of illegal things and promoting illegal claims. To avoid conducting any business with these people, make sure that the dealer or seller has a clean and reputable status in the antique industry.)
In collecting antique quilts, it is also best to seek the assistance of a professional textile expert to ensure the age and the authenticity of the antique quit before finally purchasing it.
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