Before you purchase an antique table, it is crucial to have a budget in mind. Once you have a budget, you will be able to make a more informed decision. It is also important to examine the legs and hardware to check for original inscriptions. There are many ways to make a good selection without spending too much. Here are some ways to do this:
Buying an antique table
Buying an antique table may seem like an intimidating task, but it can be quite easy if you know where to look. There are many sources to look in, including classifieds and thrift shops, social media, and even lawn signs. Register with auctioneers and online auction sites, as well as visiting antique dealers. Buying an antique table can be a great investment, but be sure to do your research before you make the purchase.
First and foremost, a good antique table must pass a like and enjoyment test. After all, you should have a table that you can take pride in. Other considerations to consider when buying an antique table include condition, proportion, design, and surface. Finally, you should consider the provenance and rarity. If you find an antique table that meets all five of these criteria, you can expect it to boost its monetary value.
Check the hardware. If possible, choose one with the original hardware. This will signify quality workmanship and increase the value of the antique table. If it does not have original hardware, consider purchasing a table with replacement pieces. While replacement pieces are sometimes necessary, the more original pieces you can find, the higher its value. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask questions and get an expert opinion. If you are not sure, read online reviews or contact the Better Business Bureau to get advice.
Know the style. Antique tables come in many styles. There are butler tables, butterfly tables, console and pier tables, and more. Knowing the style of the antique you want to buy will help you determine its true value and whether it is worth the money you’ll spend on it. A few more styles to consider are the trestle table, butterfly, or gate-leg. Regardless of the style you choose, be sure to get the exact age and condition of the antique table you’re planning to purchase.
Checking for original hardware
Authenticity of an antique table can be determined by examining the original hardware. Checking for original hardware is an indication of quality craftsmanship. Whether a piece is in original or replacement condition, original hardware increases the value of the antique. Some pieces have replacement hardware, which you can replace or combine with other pieces to increase its value. However, if the hardware is original, the value of an antique will increase dramatically.
To determine whether hardware was used by the original owner, look at the attachment style. Antiques often have rounded handmade nuts, while mass-produced hardware often features squared nuts with symmetrical threads. Inspecting the hardware may reveal details such as shadows from earlier pulls or casting and milling. Older pieces generally feature rounded posts that accommodate rounded nuts. Reproduction hardware is squared and accommodates squared nuts.
Early 19th-century hardware was made of brass. Brass became a popular source of furniture pulls during the William and Mary era. Round drop pulls were cast with a flat back, and cabinetmakers mounted them on thin brass backplates. Bail handles were cast in a similar style, but with rounded heads and connected to the face of a drawer with cotter pins. The bail ears were usually plugged, and the bails had rounded heads.
If the table has a drop leaf, it should have a proper mechanism for raising and lowering the leaves. Checking for original hardware is crucial, as refinishing affects the overall value of an antique table. If the hardware is replaced, try to replace it with similar antique hardware. Otherwise, check for wood splitting or loose legs. These can decrease the stability of the antique table. The patinaed original finish is an important feature of authentic antique pieces.
Examining legs
An antique table’s legs and feet can provide a wealth of information, from its style to its age and authenticity. You can even determine where the table was made, what period it was made in, and what the seller paid for it. The following are some tips for inspecting the legs and feet of an antique table. Using these tips, you can identify the true value of your purchase and maximize its potential. The first step is to determine the style of the table.
If you suspect that an antique table isn’t stable, examine the legs. Look for cracks in the structure and looseness. To determine if the legs are attached properly, simply grasp them and move them from side to side. If they aren’t, either reattach them or sand them down so they match the rest of the table. If you notice any of these issues, the table may need some TLC before you’re ready to buy it.
Checking for original inscriptions
When it comes to authenticating an antique table, identifying its original inscriptions can be tricky, especially if it’s an early piece. For instance, the inscription on an American antique table may be dated or inscribed with the craftsman’s last name and first initial, but it can also be entirely unreadable if the piece was made by a large family of craftsmen. Besides, a documented antique table will likely have higher prices than one without any documentation.
Refinishing an antique table
While there are many methods for refinishing an antique table, you might be wondering how to make sure your table is safe and beautiful. Before you begin, first, you need to clean the surface of the table. Use a damp microfiber or soft cloth to wipe the surface clean. Once this is done, dry it thoroughly. Depending on the style of the table, you may also wish to paint it or oil it to bring out the natural beauty of the wood.
You can use chemical strippers to remove the old finish. Just follow the instructions for these products and always work in a well-ventilated room. Once the old finish is removed, you can scrape away the debris with a putty knife or scraper. Once you’ve scraped off the surface, you can sand the table using 80 to 120-grit sandpaper. You can also apply a layer of varnish over the surface.
First, prepare the surface by wiping off the old finish using a soft cloth and steel wool of 00 grade. Next, apply a coat of the medium, using a tool suitable for the medium. You can use high-quality paintbrushes for oil paints, milk paints, and glazes. For creams and waxes, use an oval brush specifically designed for waxing. A soft cloth is also ideal for applying paste wax.
Refinishing an antique table may require more than just polishing. It will also require sanding, hammering, and painting. A little extra care can make the finished product last for many generations and will be used for many years. A little bit of effort can go a long way in making this piece more beautiful and valuable to you and your family. If you follow these tips, you can make your furniture last for generations.
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