Antiques

Sue Jan asked:


The first thing to consider is the originality and history of the antique you intend to buy. As rare antiques come at higher prices, you would not want to be fooled by fake replicas. Many antique sellers often put up retouched items for sale. But antiques look best when they are not refurbished though you should not buy items with defects. It is the originality that makes an antique item precious.

Before buying you must do proper research on the antique item. The internet is the best place to do research on antique items as it can provide valuable information regarding global antique prices and the history of antique items. You should also be careful about antique reproductions. If you are new and have not done proper research, it will be difficult to tell the difference between a reproduction from the original. Antique pieces should show some wear and tear and these small details are something to look out for. If the item looks flawless than it probably is not an authentic antique.

The best places to buy antiques are at antique auctions. Buying from a reputable auction house or an antique store will ensure that the antique collectible is genuine, as it should also come with certificates of originality. To get that coveted item you should visit the antique auctions regularly. Garage sales are also a good place to buy as you may often get rare antiques at a very cheap price, but do make sure that it is original. Though the internet is a useful source of information, this is not the case when buying antiques online. A first hand look at the antique product is not possible on the internet and the website photos often hide the defects and deficiencies.

Proper care and maintenance should be taken to preserve antique items for ages. When buying an item, gather information about proper antique storage and antique preservation methods. Items should be kept in moderately humid and cool places. Direct sunlight should be avoided. The antiques should be handled carefully. Excessive cleaning sometimes ruins the originality of the antique.

First-time buyers can also buy general antique guides for research and guidance on starting their antique collection. Guides on specific antique items are also available.



LINCOLN

David Fishman asked:


If you are deciding to become an antique dealer keep in mind that you will be meeting many different type of people, each of these people you meet have a different role in antique dealings. Many people are now finding antiques as a great way of making their rooms look that little bit more special. When it comes to antiques many people have their own agenda, many people prefer clocks, porcelain, furniture or jewelry.

Next look to make sure that you can afford to purchase items in your chosen item, you may be fascinated say by rare art, but unfortunately it may be unaffordable. Purchasing antiques usually involves money; lots of money, gathering the proper information can help with the purchase process and avoid being fooled or making mistakes. Knowing the how to speak “antique” or knowing the proper terminology and doing the proper research will help in determining what to look for and what to buy, it will also help in knowing how much the items are worth so you don’t overpay for the item.

In today’s world antiques have become big business for many people, finding that piece that was created many years ago and selling it for 3 to 4 times its value is a great way to make money. If you compare the same items today with those that were created years ago it is amazing how the older items are made incredibly well plus they fetch more money on the market.

To find old pieces of furniture you need to look in the following places, outhouses, attics or cellars, many people stored their valuable items in these places. Furniture began to bear designs such as pagodas and birds, originally only seen on items of porcelain. Antique furniture that has been covered with a finish that is long lasting will look better plus fetch a higher price. But, over time and with polishing, oak darkens into a rich brown color. Until the middle of the 17th Century, furniture was fairly simple, made of oak with peg joints.

Place your collection on display or will then be kept in a safe place. For some who have inherited a lovely collection of heirlooms, yet do not have any idea of how to look after them or even keeping up with the collection they already have as well as they should.

It’s the fluctuations in relative humidity caused by central heating that results in real damage. Consider installing a humidifier on your furnace to raise the humidity levels in winter and run a dehumidifier during the summer months. With wood antiques, you want the humidity to be as stable as possible. To take care of the antique furniture you will need to wax the pieces with bees wax, do not store the furniture in damp, bright rooms, and make sure the furniture is not in a place that the temperatures fluctuate because this may damage the wood.

There are many benefits when selling on an online Antique mall. You want to sell your antiques or collectibles online be careful and research the proper way to do this. One of the most popular places where people from all over the country display and have their antiques appraised is at the Antiques Roadshow.



EMMETT

Jesse Akre asked:


Antique end tables are popular because they have been able to withstand the test of time with their classic designs.

While some antique end tables come and go with whims of fashion, others become classics in style and home design. Few would argue that a 70s end table finished in burnt orange or avocado is less desirable than antique end tables from almost every other period. Some might even say that a 70s table is not an antique, it’s simply an eyesore. Yet rich walnut tables from this era have made a comeback.

When shopping for antique end tables it is important to keep in mind your current décor and any design goals you have about changing that decor. You also need to answer this question. Do you really want antique end tables or are you willing to settle for reproduction antique end tables?

Good antique end tables will set you back quite a bit of money, because of their antique status. Many people are searching the market, as well as auctions houses and estate sales for real antique end tables that they can bring into their home.

If the history of a piece is important too, then you may want to stick with the real thing. Generally you will get what you pay for, if you know antiques and know what you are looking for in antique end tables. But if you just like the style of sleek cabriole legs or sweet piecrust pedestals than reproduction pieces will be easier on your pocketbook. And it is easy to find many styles of antique or antique reproduction tables when you shop online. If you prefer to deal with local dealers, you should also make sure the dealer you are working with is reputable. If you can, do a few internet searches to see if there are any complaints against the person you are considering buying antique end tables from.

Once you find the antique end tables you think need to come home with you, you should look the piece over carefully and completely. There likely have been repairs made over the years. That would be natural for antique end tables that have been used generation after generation. Even the strongest pieces of furniture will have some problems over time. You need to make sure the repairs done on the pieces have been done well. You also want to make sure any repairs have not damaged these antique end tables or their value.

For those who do their homework and take a little extra time before they buy, beautiful antique end tables can be a piece of history in their home. Or have a little fun refinishing and painting an antique table to suit their taste.

Or you can go with reproduction antique end tables have the look of antiques without the higher price tag. Many of these items have been artificially distressed to look as if they have been passed down for several generations, but because they have not they are more reasonably priced. They are also made with modern lifestyles in mind as they are usually available in many colors and finishes to easily add a classic touch with modern flair to your home.



DANA

Sarika Kabra asked:


The antique Amish made furniture can never be “antique” in the real sense of the term. Time may make it old but as an old wine, Amish furniture betters with age. Good antique furniture that is coated with lasting finish will make for a better looking and durable article.

Antiques show your sense of appreciating the traditional values and if blended with modern makeover, it shows a person’s balanced approach to lifestyle. More than a style statement, a home with antique furniture reflects a balanced mindset of its residents.

Normally, antique furniture does not require much maintenance due to its unique architecture and content. Made with solid wood, and if handled with due care, the antiques will only demand periodic touching up so as to maintain their grace and elegance. To beautify and protect the wood, the antique furniture was, historically, finished with labor intensive but durable processes. A good finish on solid wooden furniture would last for a considerably longer duration of time making the antique furniture maintenance-friendly and long lasting.

The basic steps involved in finishing are the first coat, the build coat and the top coat. All these steps, and necessarily in this order, are common to all furniture finishing. The first coat seals and evens out differences in porosity and density. The build or body coats are the part of a finish that provide moisture resistance, durability and longevity to the coating. The top coat gives the desired aesthetic sheen, but the total look and character of the finish comes from the work put into the Base & Build coats.

Wax finish on wood is the most simple and effective mode of prolonging the life of your old furniture. A simple wax finishing gives the wood a soft and satiny look. This is the most preferred mode of finishing the wooden furniture. A major advantage of wax finish is its easy restorability. And the disadvantage is that it can stain easily, even by water.

Oil finishing is also a popular process and has been in use since time immemorial. Oil finishing is easy to apply with simple brushes. The oil seeps into the wood to give it a nice sheen. You may have to use lots of coats to get the desired sheen but its simple application makes oil one of the preferred finishing tools.

Another useful finishing mode is the traditional lacquer finish. Lacquer finish has all the qualities of a preferred finishing technique but sometimes, hazardous chemicals and solvents are used in the classical lacquer. This makes lacquer finishing a little unpopular these days. The modern artisans have developed water and alcohol based lacquer to provide safe and smooth finish to your favorite antique furniture.

Varnish finishing is rarely used on the antique furniture these days due to special skills required to attain perfection.

Plenty of options are available for the right finish for your precious antique furniture. The factors that must be taken into consideration before opting for either are the cost, durability and grace. Consult the experts in this regard since every antique furniture piece requires individual attention and no generalizations can be made as to what is the best finishing option for antique furniture. Antique Amish handcrafted furniture always remains in demand. Modern furniture is good, but it is the antique furniture that commands the greatest respect. And if you have antique furniture at home, nothing compares!



MORRIS

Niall Roche asked:


The bathroom is usually seen as the most practical room in the house as well as being a room for people to escape from modern life in. This means that your bathroom has to be functional so that you can keep yourself clean but also give you a sense of serenity when you need it; in the case of winding down after a hard day and just needing some “me” time. Some people don’t always like the clinical look of modern bathrooms and for those of you who don’t you can always go for the antique effect in your bathroom.

You don’t have to do a total overhaul to get that antique look in your bathroom. You don’t have to be an antique expert either when it comes to down to it. A total novice can create an antique bathroom without too much effort. With a little imagination, you can easily turn your bathroom into a space of old-fashioned quaintness.

Keep in mind that anything considered to be an antique is usually more than 100 years old. However, not all collectible items are considered antiques. Also, not all antiques are collectible items - it’s just how things work out. If you have ever watched the Antique Road Show on TV, you’ll have seen a lot of people with items that have been in their families for over 100 years but are pretty much worthless.

It’s possible to get your hands on antiques without paying insane prices too. You can go down the route of looking for genuine antique items which can and will cost quite a bit of money. But you can also get replica antique items that look the part without costing the earth. A lot of hardware stores (online and offline) have items like soap dishes, door handles, mirrors, vanities and shelves that can create the antique look you’re wanting to create at home. Even adding a few items like these to your bathroom can start the antiquing process. Some places even sell these items in matching sets.

You can also turn your modern bathroom into an antique one by purchasing antique mirrors. How much you are willing to spend depends on your budget and just how badly you want to create that perfect look in your bathroom. You can shop for antique mirrors online or in high-end stores. Sometimes a great antique mirror is all that you need to transform your bathroom.

Another aspect of creating an antique bathroom is what paint you’re going to use. Look at pictures of the décor using the Victorian era or other similar areas and you’ll have an idea of what colors were used. You could also consider some faux painting techniques to artificially age or weather your bathroom décor to give it a more authentic antique feel to it. Getting your paint scheme right is critical to your antique bathroom looking just right.

If these ideas for antique bathrooms are not enough, consider the fact that many companies are making fixtures that have an antique look in order to satisfy this customer trend. You can buy new antique pieces without worrying about the problems that you might have with authentic antiques or the cost involved with genuine antiques. The cost of maintaining antiques makes using modern replicas more practical and cost-effective.



WOODROW

Isabel Rodrigues asked:


Antique glass, whether in the form of a bottle or ornament, tabletop, or window, requires care and cleaning just like other types of glass surfaces. While cleaning regular glass surfaces makes them sparkle and shine, keeping your antique glass surfaces clean is even more important due to the age of the glass. Besides, every proud owner of antiques wants to bring out the best in the object in order to show it off to all who see it.

The Basic Cleaning

Basic cleaning can be done on antique glass with a clean cloth to get rid of dust and refresh the antique glass on a regular basis. This is an easy preventative step you can take to keep your antique glass clean and shiny. In addition, it makes a more extensive cleaning more effective when the shine of the antique glass is maintained.

Bringing Out the Shine

For a more thorough cleaning of antique glass, you can try using soap and water, along with a clean cloth or squeegee tool to wipe. These tools can help you wipe away any dust and dirt particles that may be preventing your antique glass surfaces from looking their best.

For a more thorough cleaning still, use a glass cleaner along with the clean cloth or squeegee tool to get rid of stains and any stubborn dirt, which you can’t get rid of, by using soap and water.

It is important to avoid using paper towels when cleaning antique glass. In general, paper towels are not the best choice because they can leave behind paper particles and make the glass look “fuzzy.” With antique glass, this can become an even greater problem. In addition, using a rough material to wipe down the antique glass can cause the surface to be scratched. Therefore, it is best to use a cloth made specifically for glass cleaning or a gentle squeegee.

Taking it Easy

If you prefer a gentler, gel-based cleaner, this can also be used to get your antique glass surface clean. This also may be gentler on the glass as opposed to a regular spray solution. In addition, gel-based cleaners can get into nooks and crannies needing to be cleaned, while preventing streaks from occurring.

Keeping it Clear

If your antique glass has any problems with fogging up or not being visible and clear, you can try using an anti-fog agent to keep your antique glass surface from fogging.

Taking Preventative Measures

If your antique glass surface is something small or ornamental, you may want to place it on a soft surface, such as a towel, when using these cleaners. This helps you avoid damaging the glass while you are cleaning both sides.

By using one or several methods described above, you can keep your antique glass surfaces - big or small - clean and sparkling to add a lovely accent to your home. What more could you ask for?

Author Vincent Platania represents the Fuller Brush Company.

Fuller Brush has been in business since 1906, and offers safe, environmentally friendly products for keeping your home and your body clean.

Visit http://www.fuller-brush-products.com



MICAH

Jb Anthony asked:


Crucial for any interior designer or any common homeowner is creating the focal point in a room. One just wants to create an impact with people walking in and immediately admiring your sense of taste and style. One enduring focal point in any home is the fireplace mantel. Somehow no matter how modern the age becomes there is simply something admirable about a good old fireplace mantel.

There are many types, kinds and designs of mantels. Fireplace mantel material alone can be very confusing. Your fireplace mantel can be made of stone or wood, both of which each have a host of many kinds to choose from. You can also choose to have a fireplace mantel that is imitation wood or stone for a cheaper buy. For others however, there is always the option of getting an antique fireplace mantel.

Not everyone wants to have an antique fireplace mantel, but many are already considering the option. The fact is there are just as many varied design choices for a antique fireplace mantels. You can have the ornate marble or wooden scroll and all the works on your fireplace mantel. You can also have more subdued Edwardian designs or the simple combination of wood and stone in Gothic designs. Just as with any modern design, you can have your pick with your antique fireplace mantel. If there are just as many options and design types, then why would some people choose and antique fireplace mantel over modern ones?

Among the top reasons for getting an antique fireplace mantel is the sense of classic style, elegance and history one gets from an antique piece. No matter how simple your antique fireplace mantel looks, a lot of people simply recognize the beauty of an antique when they see one. Owners of mansions and old colonial houses or even average houses with spacious living rooms would do well to have and antique mantel.

Contrary to popular belief, an antique fireplace mantel may also come cheap if you know where to look. You can choose to buy your antique mantel from companies who really specialize in the restoration of such antique pieces or you can purchase from a salvage store. In any case, most stores that sell antique mantels will help you with the stripping and the restoration. Try scouring the net or your local salvage shops for bargains and you’ll find a good, cheaper deal.

There are two big considerations though when you purchase an antique fireplace mantel. The first one has something to do with style. You have to be certain of course that your fireplace mantel fits the general design and style of your home. Otherwise your antique mantel will be overkill and will seem preposterous. Then again, you are the mater of your home and you can do with it as you please.

The other major consideration however for buying an antique mantel cannot be ignored because it involves safety. Since your piece is an antique, it naturally does not fit modern house specifications. The purpose for modern safety, fire and building codes and regulations is to ensure your safety and the preservation of your home. Aside from making sure that your mantel is the right size for your firebox, you also have to be certain that your mantel can comply with modern safety standards.



BROOKS

John Grant asked:


Many people love collecting antiques. This is a passion that many people know too well. This is the same passion that people collecting antique clocks share as well. They would go out of their way just to find the best items. With the advent of the Internet, many of these people have discovered the convenience of buying collectible antique clocks online.

Most of the antique clocks made from the 15th century to the mid 17th century can be found in museums. Only a small number of these clocks are privately owned. Fortunately, with the Internet, many people have now better chances of gaining access to these clocks online.

There are more clocks made from the 1800s to the 1900s. These clocks were made in mass quantities so you will find them easily online.

Buying collectible antique clocks online differ from buying them in the conventional manner. You will find clocks that are worth well over $60,000. You will find models that are priced over $100,000. It is wise to get hold of a clock appraisal before you actually purchase a certain item.

Collecting and buying collectible antique clocks online is not that easy. If you are new to antique clock collection, you will be surprised to know that there are a lot of things that you need to do or to research before making a purchase. This is especially true these days because there is a widespread proliferation of reproductions, knock offs and fakes. If you are not an experienced collector, you could end up confused or worse, scammed.

Before venturing into buying collectible antique clocks online, you need to term the terms used by antique sellers and enthusiasts. Knowing the language and antique collection jargons will help you make your decisions.

There are also several things that you need to take into consideration before you purchase any item online. First of all, you need to know the history of a particular piece. This is where buying collectible antique clocks online can be a bit challenging. Most of antique items come with an expensive price tag so you cannot afford to be careless when you are making your purchases. Do not buy antique clocks that are defective. Make sure that it is carefully preserved and well-taken care of to ensure that you are paying for good value.

It is very important, therefore, that you do your research before you buy any item. The Internet is a good reference. You will find valuable information about antique pieces. You will also know the history of certain items. The need for research before buying collectible antique clocks online has always been emphasized by experienced collectors.

Of course, you also have to make sure that your online seller is trustworthy and reputable. You cannot be careless with your money. Do a background check of the online seller before you purchase anything. There are online auctions that you can check and join. You will often find great items from these online auction houses.

With the advent of the Internet, buying antique items has never been easier. As long as you are careful with your purchase, there is no reason why you should not consider buying collectible antique clocks online.



KEN

David Faulkner asked:


Anyone who has a minimal interest in antique furniture will know that there are many types of furniture to choose from. If you are seriously considering investing in antiques as a source of profit then you really should do your research. A specific kind of antique that you should look into is antique Paine furniture.

Antique Paine furniture was made by the Paine company and has a number of unique characteristics that make it a beautiful addition to any home. It was made in Boston in the late 1800s and is highly sought after today.

Antique Paine furniture is more valuable than a lot of other antique furniture types purely because it is in demand. Paine himself was a master craftsman and made the most beautiful furniture. It is steadfast, reliable and still serviceable over a hundred years on. Although your initial outlay can be quite large, you would be comforted to know that it actually becomes more and more valuable as the years go on so a piece in good condition can actually double in price within the space of a few years.

Antique Paine furniture can be obtained for any given room in a house. The family business made patio, dining room, bedroom and living room furniture amongst other items and so it is viable that you could fill your home with antique Paine furniture. It would certainly be a different and expensive theme, but a theme nevertheless!

It is worth taking time over the antique Paine furniture pieces that you will eventually choose because they will prove to be focal points of your home. They automatically attract attention because of their gorgeous color and fantastic design. You should exercise patience if you on a limited budget because there may be several items that take your eye when you can only afford one or two.

Antique Paine furniture is extremely valuable so it may be worth assessing the value independently from the store that you plan to make a purchase from, just to double check that the value is actually as advertised. You should also check for any imperfections, as just one would significantly lower its value. A given price should reflect the condition and age of each individual antique Paine furniture piece so beware of any problems before handing over cash.

Buying any antique furniture is an investment today, whether you mean it to be or not. Antique Paine furniture is one of the types of antique that is worth ever penny. Beautiful and powerful, it can fit into any home and enhance it significantly with few problems. Have patience, buy the right piece and make the most out of it!

The type of wood a piece is made of, its basic design and even the way it is connected together may have an impact on whether or not it is called antique furniture or not. However, the individuality of an item often has an impact on that and if your piece is one of a king then the likelihood is that you have antique furniture on your hands! This is extremely valuable and will be a worthwhile investment in the years to come!



DANIAL

Mr.Andrew Caxton asked:


Antiques can really make a house look impressive and sophisticated if you know what you are doing. However, there is a chance that you can get it wrong so you do need to research beforehand so that you know you are getting it right and that your home will benefit.

Have you ever thought about using antiques to brighten up your home? Some people consider antiques to be a little dated and they would never think of having them in their own home; however they can add a sophisticated touch without looking too imposing.

How to Make Antiques Work for You

Antiques are generally associated with old houses. However more and more people are starting to use them in their modern homes as they find that they can really brighten up the living space. You can purchase antiques from a number of different places and it is even possible to find them at your local flea market. So what classes as an antique?

Well generally an antique is old. It may sound obvious but people do still wonder just how old something has to be before it is considered an antique. The best way to find out how old something is is to take it to a valuer. They will be able to tell you what period it is from which will tell you its age. They should also tell you how valuable it is and antiques are usually fairly valuable!

So once you start to realize what an antique is, it is then that you will be able to find various different things for your home that will add that little antique look.

The various antiques you can pick up include ones which are in perfect condition, but sometimes people prefer something which shows its age. Perhaps something with a slight missing detail to it will suit your home more? Perhaps you are looking for a antique wardrobe or an antique chest of drawers? It seems to be common these days to have an antique chair or unit to go in the living room too. You can pick these various items up from an antique auction and generally the dark wooden antiques are the ones which most people prefer.

One of the main things to keep in mind is that antiques do have the ability to look good in a modern setting, but they also have the potential to look ugly. You should never buy something just because of its antique status. If you do this you run the risk of putting an antique in your home which brings down the tone of the room. People will walk in and instantly be drawn to the ugly, antique in the corner. So, ensure that it looks good and that it will fit in with the rest of the interior design.

Overall with antiques it is easy to get it wrong but if you spend time researching you have the ability to make your home look fantastic. Spend time looking around and going to antiques fairs if you can as well as auctions. Know what is in and what isn’t and also get a feel for what would go well within your home. Antiques can look good but you do have to know what you are doing.



SANTIAGO