photo by Paul Keleher
Good morning, Company Girl Coffee Drinkers! Long time, no see..It’s been a pretty busy 6 weeks around my house, but my parents have moved safely to their wonderful new home, and now life around here is somewhat back to normal (whatever that is!) So, enjoy your coffee, and I’ll see you on your blog. Happy Friday! 
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What I know about antiques could probably fill a small thimble: Rules such as “look for dove-tailed drawers” and “don’t strip old paint unless you are SURE it doesn’t give value to the piece.” Most of all, I just know what I like. I like old stuff–smooth, worn wood, aged metal, wavy glass, softly faded fabrics. Things from a different time. Things that tell stories. And I never go into antique shops that have thousand dollar price tags. I would hate to have to worry about whether something is really “that valuable” or not. I am a regular person.
Going into antique shops can be intimidating if you can’t get past the feelings of inadequacy. It is fun and liberating to admit knowing little and only buying what I like because I just like it–not because it is worth money. It is with that mind-set that I trot merrily (and blissfully unaware) into treasure shops. Most owners do not seem to be snooty about shoppers. Most owners seem genuinely happy to answer questions. In fact, if you are open to learning, most will gladly spend time sharing their knowledge with you, even–get this–if you don’t buy anything!
I used to be a reluctant antique shopper, not sure if I needed to pretend to know more than I did. And not sure how to go about that anyway. Through practice and observation, I have learned a few tips and questions that have never gotten a bad response. If your intent is honest and your demeanor is pleasant, it will all be fine. Next time you see an antique shop for regular people (not the hoity toity), just walk right in and do these things:
- Greet the owner or clerk with a smile.
- Be careful not to hit things with your pocketbook. (Many shops are packed with treasures that are displayed in precarious positions.) Try a messenger-style bag.
- If the owner isn’t too busy, ask about things you are truly interested in. For example, I saw a bunch of canes with bright hand grips in a barrel. When asked, the owner told me about carnival canes–the prizes given out at carnivals in the ’40s and ’50s. I had no idea! I did not want to buy them, but I was genuinely interested in learning what they were. Sometimes you can discover the origin of a piece in asking. Again, let the owner share his or her knowledge.
- If you really want to buy something, do not insult the owner by offering nothing. If you do not have an idea, just ask what their best price is. Usually, there is some cushion built in to the price. If not, they will let you know.
- Unless you are really educated about antiques, just look for what you like. (Even if you do know about antiques, this is a good rule to follow.)
When you leave, say thank you to the owner. This is a small courtesy that many people do not extend today. Most shop owners really appreciate good manners–even if you did not buy anything.
Most of all, just be nice. That almost always puts others at ease. Then, you can get down to the fun stuff–finding the perfect old thing for your regular house!
Here are some wonderful things we saw–and one that we purchased! More on that later…
LOVE this color
Ever play Jenga?...I was tempted...
Wish I had...Might go back for this mini-bowling set. Again, the colors!!!
Not old, but still fun
Part-antique: Old doors, cabinet built with old wood around the doors.
The grey cabinet is in my daughter’s room now. It provides much-needed clothing storage. We decided grey was not us (it was not old paint), so it is now different, and we love it! I’ll show the transformation another day…Did I mention I got a GREAT deal?
I love shopping for vintage/antiques! I have several pieces that need work on making them sturdy enough for use again. I am praying that I finish them up before the end of the year
Have a blessed weekend!
Hi, Sallie. Thanks for stopping by! Vintage might be a better word for the things I like…
Hi there! I don’t have much knowledge about antiques but I enjoyed reading what you know! I can’t really think of anything in my house that’s antique. We have mostly hand me downs or things we have bought on sale.
Have a great weekend!
Melissa
I only own one antique….a lovely little table that belong to my grandmother…and that’s the extent of my knowledge abt antiques! It’s nice to hear about something you enjoy.
I love vintage stuff, but come to think of it, I have not gone shopping for that kind of thing in a long time. I do love that worn paint look! Those are great tips for shopping…good to remember. The big purse knocking things over is one you don’t think of ahead of time.
Can’t wait to see your transformation project!
I’d love to see the transformation of the cabinet. I don’t know anything about antiques so thanks for sharing. I do love to learn.
Thanks, Rachel Anne! I appreciate your stopping by. Happy weekend!
I’m afraid you still don’t know much (from me!) Again, just buy what you like. Who cares if it’s “antique” or not? Thanks for reading!
Great suggestions, I would love to see what you have done with your finds! Hope you have a great weekend!
I haven’t been that kind of shopping for a long time. Miss it! In another season of life I will take it up again. I appreciate your tips! I’ve always been very careful with my purse…that thing can do some damage in one of those shops.
I meant to say, “have a great weekend!”
Wow – great pix! I love antiques, and even just wandering around antique shops. We have a bunch of great shops near our home. One has a Coke machine with small bottles of Coca Cola…chilled so much that they are slushy. My 18yo daughter and I go antiquing there often.
Have a great weekend!