How to Collect Antique Furniture

Have you noticed the number of antique shops that appear around town? There is a reason for that. There is a lot of demand for antique products. More and more people are noticing the quality and craftsmanship of older pieces of furniture, and they are deciding to invest in these pieces.

It may be a bit overwhelming for the beginning collector to get started. There are many different styles, eras, and designs to choose from, so it is often hard to decide where to begin. Typically you should begin with what is appealing to you.

Unlike collecting figurines or stamps which are frequently hidden away upon ledges or in albums, antique furniture often takes a prominent spot in collector's residence. So, one of the soundest bits of advice on what to collect is to amass what you take to. Since these pieces will be exhibited in your home they ought be something that's not inappropriate there and that you relish having. If you do not care to have it in your home then you're unlikely to treasure it irrespective of its value as an investment.

There are several different factors that affect the cost and value of a piece of antique furniture. As with other types of antiques, the first thing to consider is the age of the piece. All other things being equal, the older an antique is, the higher the value.

The collector needs to also assess the condition of the antique. Two tables of similar age and style could command very different prices if one of them has visible scratches on it, for instance. Check closely for evidence of repairs, dents, gouges, and cracks as these factors will all affect the value of the piece.

It is also a good idea to consider the type of wood used to construct the furniture. Items made from hardwoods such as teak and mahogany typically are worth far more than ones made from softwoods such as pine or poplar. Further, hardwoods hold up better over the years and are richer in color and have a more desirable graining to collectors. Be aware of any treatments, waxes, or polishes which have been applied to the furniture as these can also decrease the value.

If you want to get started right away and learn as you go, it is probably better to start with smaller pieces of furniture. These are typically less expensive, and will give you a few pieces for your collection. As you learn more about the styles and eras you are interested in you will be able to add additional pieces and expand your collection

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