Heading to an antique shop? Exciting! Before you step through that creaky door into a world of vintage treasures, arm yourself with these 15 essential tips. Learn to spot hidden gems, sidestep overpriced items, and explore the aisles like a pro. Let’s turn your antique shopping trip into a successful treasure hunt!
What’s The Deal With “Antique”?
“Antique” doesn’t just sound fancy; it typically refers to items that are over 100 years old. However, be cautious! Sometimes, items labeled as “antique” may not be that old. They could be vintage or even a clever reproduction. Understanding the true definition helps you avoid overpaying.
Skip The Cart For Now
When you enter an antique shop or estate sale, don’t grab a cart right away. First, take a walk around and see what’s available. If you start filling your cart too soon, you might end up with items that initially seem appealing but don’t actually suit you. So, take your time and pick wisely.
Timing Can Be Everything
When you’re looking for antiques, timing is very important. It’s like fishing: choose the right moment to catch the best stuff. It’s better to arrive early to see everything first or come towards the end of the day when sellers might be ready to offer you a better deal.
Explore Every Corner
Don’t just look at the main stuff. Antique shops and estate sales often hide treasures in surprising spots. Look in attics, basements, and under tables. You might find an old lamp or a fantastic piece of furniture that isn’t on display but could be perfect for you.
Look For Square Nails
Square or rectangular nails indicate that the item may date back to the 1800s when nails were crafted by hand. These nails differ from the round ones that are commonly used today, which became popular in the 1900s. Therefore, if you come across square nails, the item could be quite old.
Look For Real Wear And Tear
When examining old furniture, pay close attention to the signs of wear and tear. Real aging is evident in areas that have seen a lot of use, such as chair corners or couch seats. If everything appears too uniform, it could be an indication that the item is not a genuine vintage piece.
What To Know About Old Beds
Suppose you spot a bed, remember to measure it and your mattress before buying, especially if the bed was made before the 1940s. Beds from that era may not be the same size as modern beds. So, you might need to get creative to make it work, but that’s part of the fun of owning something antique!
Every Item Has A Story
Purchasing antiques can be enjoyable because it allows you to discover their stories. You can ask the seller about the item’s origins or history. Learning that your new lamp or chair once belonged to someone’s great-grandmother can make it feel particularly special!
Use A Magnet To Check The Metal
A magnet can help you figure out if a metal item is real or fake. If the magnet sticks, you’ve probably found real metal, like brass. If it doesn’t stick, the product might just look like metal, but it isn’t. So, it’s a quick way to check what you’re buying.
Trust Your Gut Feelings
Sometimes, you just get a strong feeling when you see something you like. When a piece makes you feel excited or happy, trust that feeling. After all, it can help you locate special items that others might miss. Go with your instincts!
Negotiate With A Smile
These products might be expensive, but bargaining can be easy. Just be friendly and smile. Dealers will be more willing to work with you if you’re nice. A little charm and a good attitude can help you get a better price. Being polite makes it easier for everyone.
Open The Drawers For Clues
Check inside the drawers to see how the furniture was built. Look for dovetail joints. These are special, interlocking pieces that make the drawer strong. Older items usually have more detailed dovetail joints, which can help you determine how old the furniture is.
Check For Real Details
Be on the lookout for special marks, old labels, or names on antiques. These can help you determine whether an item is genuinely old or just a new fake and whether you are about to be scammed. Antique items often feature unique signs or stamps that indicate their age.
Plan For Big Finds
Before buying a large item, like a big wardrobe, think about how you’ll get it home. Make sure you have a way to move it so you don’t end up with a great find but no way to transport it. Being ready helps a lot.
Stay Updated On Trends
Knowing what’s popular in antiques is helpful. It allows you to choose items that are in style and could potentially be more valuable. Staying updated helps you to discover new trends before others do, enabling you to find outstanding items that others might overlook.
