Shopping for vintage and antique decor is something that fills the soul. Finding that unique piece that gives your room just the perfect touch is very rewarding. However there are things that you need to watch out for when shopping for vintage decor. Antique and vintage funiture and decor have been preloved and used by previous owners. Items are old, and in some cases not in their prime. Here are a few things I watch out for before I make the purchase. Here is the full version of my guide.
Use your senses!!
SIGHT: Look beyond the surface
Look carefully at the item. Check for chips, cracks and color variances. Where was the item made? Is the paint chippy? If so, it may contain lead paint. “Alligatoring” paint may be lead. This refers to paint layers that are cracked and wrinkled resembling the skin of an aligator.
A piece of glass that is chipped may not be the thing you want to buy. Chipped glass is not something you would want to accidently cut yourself on.
SMELL: The musty red flag
Does the item smell? Do not be afraid to take a sniff! Wood objects, especially wooden boxes tend to hold onto smells. Musty smelling wood is something I would leave behind, it is hard to eradicate the smell. Watch out for old suitcases, totes and make up cases. The materials soak up cosmetic smells and can be to much of an effort to get rid of. Jars, tins or other containers with lids should also be checked.
TOUCH: Feel for flaws
Touch will find things your other senses have overlooked. Pick up the item, close your eyes and run your hands over all surfaces and feel the rims of glasses, cups and mugs. Look over the bottom of baskets, vases and candle holders. Furniture with drawers and doors have hinges that may be rusty or broken, so make sure to open all drawers and doors.
HEARING: Listen to the piece
Do you notice and rattling when you pick up the item, if so a rattle inside a ceramic piece could mean an internal break.
Is the piece mechanical? If it has a cord or a wind-up key, listen to it. Ask the vendor to plug it in. Listen for grinding gears or a hum that sounds “off,” which could indicate a fire hazard in old wiring.
Ultimately, buying vintage is about the connection you feel to an object’s history. By shopping with your head as much as your heart, you’ll ensure that your new treasures bring nothing but beauty and joy into your home for years to come.
shop for vintage decor on etsy
Getting out to those antique stores and garage sales may not in your schedule, so browse my Etsy shop for some fun pieces that can be shipped right to your door.
