How to Evaluate Antique Furniture
Collecting antique furniture is an extremely expensive hobby. You do not want to make a mistake and buy a piece that you thought was worth a lot more money than it actually is. When collecting, it is essential to know how to properly evaluate each piece perfectly so this does not happen.
Materials needed:
- Measuring Tapes
- Magnifying Glasses
- Flashlights
- Pocket Levels
- Screwdriver Sets
Signs of age
Measure the piece of wood furniture. If the furniture is old, the measurement will not be as it would if it was newer. The tabletop will not be perfectly round and the piece will not be the same width throughout. Wood shrinks as it ages by one eighth inch per foot.
Check the surface of the wood for small cracks and ripples that come with aging. Double check by using a flashlight and running your hand across the surface.
Look under the piece for warping and buckling of wood.
Search for wood that has been discolored from sunlight exposure. A piece of furniture that is older will show off its age with major differences in the coloring of the wood.
Look at the wood under the hardware. The wood will show more contrasts in color.
Check out the screws. Screws that were made before the year 1840 had flat heads that were not tapered.
In the corners of the furniture, look out for the signs of wear and the buildup of grime, dirt and dust.
Search under the upholstery of the frame for nail holes from previous upholstery. A piece that is older would have probably seen several changes in fabric.
Use the pocket level on a piece of a mirror or glass because they warp with age.