When trying to assess how old furniture is, the most important things to consider are the construction style, any signature markings or brands on the items, and the type of material that was used to make it.
When it comes to construction style, certain elements can help narrow down the age of furniture. These elements include the type of joinery used (dovetailed joints, dowel-jointed corners, or traditional frame and panel construction), the type of hardware used, and the type and placement of ornamentation such as carvings or inlays.
Cabinet and furniture makers have often used signature labels, brandings, and other markings. These can help establish the age and potentially even the maker of the furniture, since each maker had a different way of branding heirloom pieces.
Finally, looking at the material that was used to make the furniture can be very telling about its age. Older furniture was typically made with only one type of wood, such as walnut or cherry, and was often made from solid wood (as opposed to more modern furniture, which is most often made from particleboard).
Additionally, the type of wood and type of finish can indicate the age.
In general, the more information you can gather about a piece of furniture, the easier it will be to determine its age.
How do you date an old chest of drawers?
Dating an old chest of drawers can be done by assessing the materials, construction techniques, historical techniques, style, and hardware used in its construction. Assessing the materials used in the construction can give you an idea of the age of the piece.
Common wood used can include oak, walnut, pine, and mahogany. Historical techniques such as hand-chopping and hand-planed character marks are also indicative of age. Examining the construction techniques used, such as dovetailing, screws, and nails, can help identify the age of the chest as well.
The style of the drawers can also provide insight into its age: more ornate pieces typically suggest an earlier date, whereas simple, modern styles can hint at a newer age. Lastly, hardware such as locks and handles can also give clues to the age of the chest.
Typically, older chests have smaller locks and simple wooden handles, compared to newer pieces, which have more elaborate handles and locks. By examining all of these elements, it is possible to get a better understanding of the age and history of the chest of drawers.
How do you date furniture with screws?
Identifying the age of furniture by its screws can be difficult unless you know the specific type of screw used in the piece. Typically, it is possible to date furniture made after 1860 when screws began to become more widely used for joinery rather than nails.
To date the screws, you can compare the shape of the screw head to antique catalogues, reference books, and other resources.
Early mechanics screws had square heads and countersunk heads, while later screws had round heads, particularly during the Victorian era. Antique screws can also be identified by their thread count; those with earlier threads were often courser, while later-dated screws had finer threads.
Other clues that can help date furniture with screws include the type of screwdriver slot used (Phillips screwdrivers were invented in 1933) and the length of the screw.
In general, if a piece has been altered or restored over the years, the screws will not be indicative of the age of the overall piece. For this reason, other methods are usually a better resource for dating furniture.
For example, looking at the type of joinery or materials used can help provide a more accurate date range.
How can you tell if a dresser is antique?
When determining if a dresser is antique, there are several factors to consider such as the materials used, age, design, and condition.
Materials – Antique furniture is typically made of solid wood rather than pressed wood. Inspecting the underside of the dresser and the back of the drawers can often provide clues about the construction and the materials used.
Examine the dresser for signs of wear and tear that result from age and use. Check for scratches and nicks, since these often indicate a piece has been moved around.
Age – Determine the approximate age of the dresser by looking for a makers mark or stamp. This may appear as a label, stamp, or even a name carved into the dresser. The makers mark can provide information on who manufactured the dresser and the approximate manufacture date.
Design – Antique dressers are often ornate and have elaborate details. Look for beading, carving, and intricate inlay designs. If a piece has a more basic design, it may be a more modern piece.
Condition – Examine the dresser for signs of wear that are typical of an antique. Age, humidity, and use will cause the wood to age and warp or split over time. Look for areas where the wood may have dried out or become brittle.
Also inspect the hardware such as drawer pulls, latches, and handles. These can provide clues as to the age since antique hardware is often ornate and made of brass, bronze, or iron.
Overall, evaluate the dresser from all angles before making a final determination as to whether or not it is an antique.
What is difference between antique and vintage?
The terms antique and vintage often refer to items that are old, but there is a difference when using these terms to refer to an item. An antique is an item that is at least 100 years old and is usually prized for its rarity and its artistry.
Vintage refers more often to items that are anywhere from 20-99 years old, usually produced in limited quantities with high craftsmanship. The common characteristic between both antique and vintage items is that they are usually valuable and highly sought-after.
The differences between antiques and vintage items may lie within the condition, rarity, and uniqueness of each item. Generally, antiques are seen as being of higher quality due to the craftsmanship and quality experienced in the past.
Vintage items represent quality of production at a relatively younger age, and may vary in condition and uniqueness due to their age.
Is there an app to identify antiques?
Yes, there are several apps that can help identify antiques. For example, the iAntique app allows users to access a database of more than 25,000 antiques and provides detailed information about each piece.
This includes descriptions, photos, and estimated values. Additionally, the Antiques App for iPhone lets users take photos of items and upload them to the app for identification. Other apps such as the Antique Helper and Antique ID can help users find antiques and get appraisals of the items.
All of these apps can be helpful for antique dealers and collectors who want to accurately identify and value antiques.
How do I know if my antique furniture is valuable?
Determining whether your antique furniture is valuable can be challenging, as there are a variety of factors that can contribute to its worth. The best way to go about valuing the furniture is to first determine its age, condition, and its origin.
Age is an important factor, as antique furniture from the 1700s and 1800s typically commands more of a value than furniture from the mid 20th century. Additionally, the condition of the furniture is important to take into account as well.
Even if it has been in the family for a long time, it could have been worn down by years of use. Lastly, its origins can greatly influence the value. If a piece of furniture has an interesting or noteworthy history or is signed by a notable artisan, it could significantly increase its worth.
To better determine its value, consider consulting a qualified appraiser. An appraiser will be able to give you a much more accurate estimate of the piece’s worth. Additionally, if the furniture has a maker’s mark, consider looking up that information to see if there is any historical context or pricing associated with it.
Ultimately, it can take time and research to determine whether your antique furniture is indeed valuable. If you have any doubt, be sure to check with an appraiser who can provide you with a solid estimate of how much the furniture is actually worth.
How do I know how much my furniture is worth?
Figuring out how much your furniture is worth can be a bit tricky, but there are a few methods you can use to get a good idea of its value.
The first option is to consult a professional appraiser. An appraiser will be able to assess the value of your furniture based on its age and condition, as well as your local market. An appraisal will provide you with a more accurate estimate of the worth of your furniture, but it can also be expensive.
Another option is to check online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist to find out what similar items are selling for. This gives you a good idea of the current market value of your furniture, however it’s important to bear in mind that these values are only an indication and don’t provide a definite answer.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to inspect your furniture thoroughly before making a decision. Factors like age, condition, and manufacturer will all affect the worth of your furniture. You may also want to consider getting it professionally cleaned to make sure it looks its best.
What is the most common type of drawer pull?
The most common type of drawer pull is a bar pull or handle. Bar pulls, which are characterized by a long metal bar with two or four evenly-spaced ends that can be grasped to open and close the drawer, are a popular choice because they are simple, classic, and effective.
They can be found in a variety of styles, materials, and finishes, so they can be customized to complement any setting. Additionally, bar pulls are one of the most affordable drawer pull options, making them an ideal choice for those who are budget-conscious.
Other popular types of drawer pulls include knobs, cup pulls, bale pulls, and drop handle pulls.
What drawer pulls are popular?
One of the most popular drawer pull designs is the streamlined bar pull. The bar pull offers a sleek, modern look and is usually crafted from stainless steel or other metal alloys. These classic drawer pulls are available in a variety of finishes and make an ideal choice for any style of cabinetry, from contemporary to traditional.
Another popular option is the finger cabinet pull. This design provides an arch-shaped grip, giving it a contemporary look that easily complements any decor style. The finger cabinet pull is usually made of brass, chrome or nickel and is a stylish way to add a bit of personality to a cabinet or drawer.
Other popular drawer pull designs include recessed handles, knobs, and cup pulls. Recessed handles are perfect for a classic look, while cup pulls are great for a more elegant, contemporary vibe. Knobs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so they can easily be used to add a touch of style and sophistication to any kitchen or bathroom.
How do I choose drawer pulls?
Choosing drawer pulls can be a very exciting and personal experience. Materials, and finishes to choose from.
First, it is helpful to consider the overall aesthetic of the room where the drawer pulls will be installed. This decision can help narrow down options and pinpoint certain types of finishes, shapes, and sizes that will best coordinate with the existing look and feel of the room or space.
It can also aid in determining whether more traditional or trendy drawer pulls fit better with the decor.
It is also important to select drawer pulls that are the proper size and measurement for the drawers. Before purchasing, take careful measurements of the drawers and note the center-to-center distance to ensure the pulls have the same measurement.
The material of the drawer pulls is another factor to consider. Common materials for drawer pulls include metal, wood, and ceramic, and depending on the finish, can all add style and texture to the room.
Choose different materials for a unique contrast, or opt for matching materials for a consistent look.
Cost and budget may also be something to consider when selecting drawer pulls. Many manufacturers offer a variety of options that come in a variety of price points.
As drawer pulls are a great way to update a room with a minimum amount of effort and cost, choosing the right drawer pulls can add a lot of style and personality to any room.
What are the different finishes for cabinet pulls?
Cabinet pulls are a great way to accessorize cabinets and drawers, as they can come in a variety of finishes to match any decor. Some of the most commonly found finishes for cabinet pulls include:
*Polished Chrome: Shiny, attractive finish, which adds a modern look to kitchen and bath cabinets and fixtures.
*Brushed Nickel: Duller, more muted finish that has the effect of “darkening” the cabinets and enhancing their look.
*Oil Rubbed Bronze: This finish is a mix of copper and Cast Iron, and is great for a more rustic look.
*Stainless Steel: Stainless Steel cabinet pulls are great for adding strength and a modern, industrial feel.
*Antique Brass: Adds a traditional, elegant look to your kitchen or bath cabinets.
*Painted Walnut: Perfect for achieving a warm, woodsy look.
*Black: Adds a modern, industrial look to your cabinets and drawers.
*Brass: Classic, timeless look for any home design.
No matter which finish you choose for your cabinet pulls, they are sure to give your cabinets the perfect look to complete your home’s design.
What hardware finish is timeless?
The timeless hardware finish is usually a smooth, matte silver or black finish. This type of finish should be chosen when you want the hardware to blend in with the overall look of the room without drawing too much attention to itself.
A silver or chrome finish has a sleek look that can make a room look modern with a subtle hint of glamor. A black finish can provide a subtle contrast to lighter colored finishes and is the perfect choice when you want hardware to have a contemporary look.
Both of these finishes will not date over time and can be paired with a variety of styles of pulls, knobs, and handles to give your space a unique look.
What is the most popular hardware finish?
The most popular hardware finish is a brushed nickel. This finish is immensely popular because of its versatility and timeless look. It works with a range of design styles, whether you’re going for a traditional, classic look, or something more modern and minimal.
It’s not as shiny as some other finishes and because of that, it won’t easily show marks or fingerprints. On the other hand, it still looks sleek and sophisticated. It’s also quite affordable compared with other finishes such as chrome and brass; and is surprisingly hardwearing, meaning it’s a great value for money option.
Brushed nickel also coordinates well with other fixtures around the home and is especially popular for use in bathrooms, kitchens and interior doors.
What is the finish for door handles?
Door handles typically come in a variety of finishes, from the classic polished brass to modern brushed nickel. It all depends on the look you’re trying to achieve and the budget you have. It’s typically best to choose a finish that will enhance your decor, whether its traditional, contemporary, or anywhere in-between.
Many finishes are available such as stainless steel, oil rubbed bronze, pewter, and pewter with clear accents. Chrome is also very popular and looks great in both modern and classic homes. In addition, there is the option of a combination finish, which means that you can mix and match different finishes on the same door knob to create a unique custom look.
Will black door knobs go out of style?
That is a difficult question to answer definitively because trends change over time. Many trends today are recycled from trends in the past, so it is hard to say what will go out of fashion. However, black door knobs have been popular for a long period of time and it does not seem likely that they will go out of style in the near future.
Although black is a classic color, people often like to mix it up with other colors and finishes, so switching out finishes for door knobs is quite common. Some of the other current popular trends for door knobs include matte black, antique bronze, and chrome finishes.
Ultimately, trends will come and go, but black door knobs have stood the test of time and are still popular today.