Tips When Purchasing Used Wood Furniture

You have fallen in love with a piece of used furniture, but reluctant to purchase it.  How can you tell that its good quality and worth purchasing?  Over the years, I have learned to look for 3 things when considering such a purchase: 

 1)       Does the furniture appear to be well constructed and in good condition?  Well constructed furniture is physically heavy and sturdy to the touch.  Always take the time to determine a manufacturers’ name if possible.   Famous makers often have their names appear on the back or underside of the furniture or on the inside, side of a top drawer. 

2)       Are doors and drawers properly aligned?  Moving pieces should open and close properly and smoothly.  Wood furniture expands and constricts over time especially when kept in areas where there are temperature changes.  If drawers don’t pull out easily and seem to stick, they might need

3)       How is the overall finish of the piece?  Check for imperfections in the finish by wiping your hand across surfaces and feeling for rough patches.  Small scratches can be easily  removed but replacing wood detail and address  surface issues can be costly. 

Learn more great ideas for making the most of your home at www.ArtAndTex.com or shop our consignment studio at www.Backroom AtWestClay.com