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The Dos and Don’ts of Shopping for Antique Furniture

Antique furniture holds timeless charm, history, and craftsmanship that modern pieces often lack. Whether you're an experienced collector or just starting out, buying antiques can be a bit challenging. Knowing what to do—and what to avoid—can help you make smart purchases and prevent costly mistakes.

In this guide, we’ll break down the dos and don’ts of shopping for antique furniture, ensuring that you invest in authentic, high-quality pieces that suit your style and budget.

Table of Contents

1.      The Dos of Shopping for Antique Furniture

o   Do Your Research

o   Do Inspect for Authenticity

o   Do Consider the Condition and Repairs

o   Do Ask About Provenance

o   Do Negotiate Smartly

o   Do Measure Before Buying

o   Do Trust Reputable Dealers

2.      The Don’ts of Shopping for Antique Furniture

o   Don’t Buy Without Research

o   Don’t Overlook Damage and Repairs

o   Don’t Ignore Reproductions and Fakes

o   Don’t Forget About Restoration Costs

o   Don’t Rush Your Purchase

o   Don’t Hesitate to Walk Away

3.      Pro Tips for a Successful Antique Shopping Experience

4.      FAQs on Antique Furniture Shopping

The Dos of Shopping for Antique Furniture

1. Do Your Research

Before stepping into an antique shop or browsing online, take time to research:

·        Different kinds of furniture styles, like Victorian, Art Deco, and Mid-Century Modern.

·        Materials used in different eras.

·        Market prices for similar pieces.

Understanding what you’re looking for will prevent you from overpaying or buying a low-quality piece.

2. Do Inspect for Authenticity

Antique furniture should be at least 100 years old to be considered a true antique. Look for:

·        Wood Type: Older furniture is often made of solid wood, not plywood.

·        Joinery: Dovetail joints (especially hand-cut ones) are a sign of authenticity.

·        Patina: Natural wear and uneven coloration suggest age, while perfect finishes may indicate reproduction.

·        Tool Marks: Hand-carved details and non-uniform construction suggest older craftsmanship.

3. Do Consider the Condition and Repairs

While some wear is normal, extensive damage can affect value and usability. Look for:

·        Stability (no wobbling or cracks in the structure).

·        Original hardware (handles, knobs, and hinges).

·        Signs of over-sanding or refinishing, which may reduce value.

4. Do Ask About Provenance

Provenance (the history of the item) can increase the value of an antique. Ask the seller for:

·        Documentation (receipts, appraisals, or historical records).

·        Previous ownership details, especially if owned by a notable person.

5. Do Negotiate Smartly

Antique dealers expect negotiations. Tips for successful bargaining:

·        Do your homework on fair pricing.

·        Start with a reasonable offer that isn't too low.

·        Ask about bundled discounts if buying multiple items.

·        Be polite—dealers appreciate respectful buyers.

6. Do Measure Before Buying

Nothing is worse than finding the perfect piece but realizing it won’t fit in your home. Bring:

·        A measuring tape.

·        Room dimensions and doorway sizes.

·        A photo of your space to visualize placement.

7. Do Trust Reputable Dealers

Buy from established dealers, auction houses, or reputable online platforms. Look for:

·        Positive reviews and testimonials.

·        Transparency in pricing and descriptions.

·        Return policies in case of issues.

The Don’ts of Shopping for Antique Furniture

1. Don’t Buy Without Research

Walking into an antique shop unprepared can lead to impulse buys and potential scams. Always research styles, pricing, and authentication methods before purchasing.

2. Don’t Overlook Damage and Repairs

Some damage is acceptable, but major structural issues may not be worth the investment. Avoid:

·        Weak joints or cracks that compromise durability.

·        Woodworm infestations (small holes in the wood).

·        Poorly executed restorations that devalue the piece.

3. Don’t Ignore Reproductions and Fakes

Reproductions can look authentic but lack historical value. Red flags include:

·        Too-perfect symmetry (handcrafted antiques have slight imperfections).

·        Machine-made screws and nails (older furniture used hand-forged nails).

·        Modern paint or finishes that cover up flaws.

4. Don’t Forget About Restoration Costs

Restoring an antique can be expensive, especially if:

·        It requires specialized craftsmanship.

·        Replacement parts are rare.

·        The cost outweighs the item’s value.

Factor in restoration expenses before committing.

5. Don’t Rush Your Purchase

Good antiques hold their value over time. If something doesn't feel right, take a step back and:

Compare prices from multiple sources.

·        Double-check authenticity.

·        Sleep on it before making a decision.

6. Don’t Hesitate to Walk Away

If something sounds too good to be true, it likely isn't. Trust your instincts, and don’t feel pressured into buying something that doesn’t meet your expectations.

Pro Tips for a Successful Antique Shopping Experience

✔ Visit estate sales and auctions for unique finds at better prices.

✔Look beyond the surface—a scratched table may be restorable, but a broken frame might not be worth it.

✔ Check for signs of original craftsmanship, like handmade nails or tool marks.

✔ Keep an open mind—a piece with minor flaws may still be a great investment.

✔ Bring a flashlight to inspect under tables, chairs, and drawers for hidden details.

FAQs on Antique Furniture Shopping

Q: How can I tell if furniture is truly antique?

Look for signs of age like hand-cut joints, solid wood construction, and natural patina. Avoid anything that looks too perfect or has machine-made elements.

Q: Are antique furniture pieces worth investing in?

Yes, quality antiques appreciate in value over time, especially well-maintained or rare pieces.

Q: Where is the best place to buy antique furniture?

Reputable antique shops, estate sales, auctions, and online platforms like 1stDibs and Chairish are great places to start.

Q: Should I restore an antique piece myself?

If it’s a minor fix, yes. But for valuable or delicate antiques, hire a professional to preserve their integrity.

Final Thoughts

Shopping for antique furniture is a rewarding experience when done right. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll be able to find beautiful, authentic pieces that enhance your home and hold their value for years to come.

Ready to start your antique hunt? Keep these tips in mind, and happy shopping!

Do you have a favorite antique shopping story? Share it in the comments!