Antiquing or “Junking” has become a very popular pastime. For many, it is simply a fun hobby. For some it is a true appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of period pieces. Some share a keen awareness of the need to repurpose old items as a way of contributing to the sustainability of our planet. And yet for others, many old items hold a sentimental value that serve as a fond reminder of the past. No matter the reason, antiquing can be a fun adventure for the entire family! Whether you are hitting the weekend yard sales, planning a visit to Southern Accents, or attending one of the larger antique marts, we’ve compiled a check list to ensure that you are well prepared for your next antiquing adventure!
- Comfortable Shoes & Clothing – Planning an all day adventure? Comfort is key! It’s also a good idea to make sure you are prepared for any inclement weather.
- Truck – Even if you are only looking for small items, make sure if you find that “must have” larger item that you are able to take it with you.
- Cash – Some vendors do not accept checks or credit cards but even more important, many vendors are more likely to offer discounts for cash sales.
- Notebook & Pen – Before you head out, jot down measurements of spaces in your home you are looking to fill to ensure the piece you are looking at will fit. Also use the notebook to take notes on your purchased items. Write down any history or story associated with the item, where and when it was acquired and the price paid. Keeping a record of your purchases will come in handy down the road if you decide to sell or need to value your items.
- Flashlight, Magnifying Glass, Measuring Tape, Calculator – These all come in handy when looking at details or determining if an item you have your eye on will fit in your space.
If you are hitting the yard sales or planning to visit multiple antique shops in a specific area, map out your day ahead of time. Having a plan will help you make the best use of your time and ensure that you are able to visit each location on your list. The MOST important advice we can give is this: if you see something that speaks to you, buy it! Chances are, if you take a “let me think about it” approach, the item will be gone when you come back. We see this happen ALL the time. Most of our antiques are one-of-a-kind. Quite often we have customers return to purchase an item they looked at previously only to be disappointed that the item was no longer available.
Planning a visit to Cullman. Stop by our showroom and pick up a copy of our brochure, Antique Shops of Cullman. Happy antiquing!
Here’s just a few of our treasures worth digging through!