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The character of vintage furniture is something new pieces will seldom match. And, whether you’re styling up your first place or freshening up your existing collection, knowing how to spot good quality vintage furniture is key. When you are looking for vintage furniture, Melbourne lovers are going mad for why not make sure your finds are worth the investment?
Check the Craftsmanship
Authentic vintage was made to last. Seek cues of artistry and craft:
- Choose solid wood: Do not select particle board or laminate. Real vintage furniture should be substantial and heavy and feel solid.
- Joinery: The presence of dovetail or mortise-and-tenon joints point to hand-crafted furniture; the presence of nails/staples points to mass production.
- Smooth drawers and hinges: Drawers should glide when pulled out, while hinges should be nice and firm instead of wobbling.
- Smooth hinges and drawer surfaces: Swipe over edges and corners with your hand. Quality vintage furniture has a feel even where you have no visibility of it.
Inspect the Finish and Materials
Then again, eventually time is the best friend of good materials and they age beautifully. For example, when you are browsing the furniture shops Melbourne collectors go to, keep an eye out for:
- Natural patina: Light signs of wear, patina, or cracks in the finish make for interesting additions.
- Original finishes: If you can, inquire about the restoration history.
- Good upholstery: Wool, linen, or leather fabrics wear much better than synthetics.
Some scratches or dings are okay – that’s history. But a cracked one is not good if it is worn out, deeply cracked, or rotten!
Verify the Provenance
Do your research when considering a piece. Several trusted sources for vintage furniture in Melbourne provide some proof or history of the item, such as Asia & Beyond. This not only guarantees authenticity but can also drive up its value.
If possible, ask the seller:
- How old the piece is?
- Where it was sourced?
- If any significant repairs or replacements were made?
An honest seller will respond to your queries with gusto as they are well aware of their offerings.
Shop Smart and Compare
Well, here are some tips for shopping at furniture shops in Melbourne when you are on the way exploring few of these places;
- Get an idea of market prices by visiting multiple shops.
- Have measurements ready to make sure the piece fits your space.
- Slow down − the best treasures never come quickly.
- If the flaw is minor, negotiate politely.
Final Thoughts
It is not only style that determines the vintage furniture Melbourne residents will love investing in, but craftsmanship, history, and sustainability are all tremendous contributing factors as well. After some prying and research, you can find the classic items that will last and convey a history. If the collection is an original, each piece oozes a legacy of art a very few new pieces reproduce. Selecting second-hand features also is reducing waste and encourages a way of life. But best of all, each find brings character and charm to your home − something a factory-made design will never do.
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