Antiques

Polyurethane is a sturdy synthetic varnish that dates to the 1950s. If you own an older wood antique that was refinished with polyurethane, you may wish to replace the modern varnish with an authentic…

At the turn of the 20th century, soapstone was often used in the eastern United States for countertops and sinks. Its popularity declined by the 1920s as lighter and less costly materials came into…

An antique center chimney fireplace is the focal point of many older homes. The chimney may serve several fireplaces located throughout the home as well as a built-in oven. Popular during colonial…

When you're decorating your home to look older than it is, paint glazes and techniques can give your walls the look of aging plaster walls. Paint glazes can give your modern drywall an antique look.…

Antique and vintage jewelry is beautiful and unique but sometimes needs a little TLC to be wearable. Modern beading wire is much stronger and more flexible than the fine chain or string that was used…

In many stately homes or historic buildings, the original stairs connecting the first and second floors include a leather runner that runs the whole length of the stairs, preventing the wood beneath…

The process of valuing an antique can be broken down into three stages: identifying exactly what the antique is, assessing its condition and researching its current price. However, bear in mind that…

A beautifully restored antique chair comes with a hefty price tag. One way to save money is to search flea markets and garage sales for a bargain. The trouble here is that often these pieces will be…

Washstands were traditionally used to house all the trappings necessary to take a bath, from the wash basin to soaps and towels. The washstand has evolved into the modern day bathroom vanity, but…

When restoring an antique vehicle, repainting the engine can seem like a daunting task. However, a professional paint job done by an auto shop can be expensive, so you may want to repaint the engine…

If the furniture in your house leans toward a shabby chic style, the tin accessories should match. Including bright and shiny new tin in an otherwise vintage-styled house results in a mismatched look.…

Reupholstering an antique sofa is an inexpensive way to revitalize a structurally sound, precious piece so it can be used again. Although a novice can recover any piece of furniture successfully,…

With the right materials, you can give a Masonite door an antiqued appearance. Masonite specializes in fiberglass and metal doors for the interior and exterior of homes and offices. The materials in…

Antique lace tends to be found on antique linens such as towels or tablecloths, on clothing or by itself as an intricate piece of lace work. Caring for antique lace is not too difficult, requiring…

The word sombrero is a Mexican word that means shadow — it is thought that Sombrero hats were named after this word because of the large shadows they cast on the faces of those who wear them.…

Although antiques can add charm and beauty to your home, they can be expensive. An alternative is antiquing your furniture and fixtures to match your decor. There are a number of ways to antique…

Antique fabrics such as delicate cotton are often extremely fragile and very valuable. If antique delicate cotton becomes damaged and gets a hole in it, you can darn it. Darning involves replacing the…

Antique brick has a completely different look, feel and texture than new brick. New brick often has a uniform appearance, with clean mortar showing in between each brick row. Older brick has a more…

Antiquing furniture creates a worn look that ages it and lends a warm and inviting feeling to most rooms. For bedrooms, you can create this cozy atmosphere for dressers, beds and nightstands. You can…

The lower height of some antique sofas makes them out of balance with the other chairs and furnishings in the room. With antique sofas, you can experience problems in matching the height of end tables…

The aged look of antique furniture holds charm and appeal. While your headboard may not be old, that doesn’t mean you cannot have a bed with an aged, well-used look. By antiquing a wooden…

Exterior statues are made from many different materials, including concrete, stone, marble or sandstone. Left to their own devices and the changing seasons, exterior statues will antique by…

If you have a flag you need to age for a play or as a prop decoration, consider using tea bags to give the piece an antique look. Preparing a dye bath using tea bags is a cheap way to dye any flag and…

Antique furniture gives a home a unique and classic look, but real antiques can be very expensive. If you don't want to invest in a set of antique drawers but are seeking an antique look, you can…

Producing an antique effect on new pine boards is known as distressing the wood. Often, clean pine boards look too new for a home that has a rustic or country atmosphere. Aging the pine boards is a…

Simulating wear and tear is the key to duplicating an antique finish on a furniture item or object. Over time, paint and finishes rub off the "peaks," while the paint or finish remains…

Using bead board to accent the walls in a room is typically seen as vertical paneling but can also be horizontal. Bead board was first used in the 1800s, which may add to the opinion that it has a…

The art of decoupage was at the height of fashion during the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe. Even Marie Antoinette dabbled in decoupage. For this reason, many antiques from that period are…

The age and fragility of a Georgian teapot will inevitably lead to it sustaining damage, unless it is treated very carefully. The handle is one of the most vulnerable points on a teapot, and it can…

You may luck out and get ahold of an old dresser in updated condition with a perfect finish and just the right amount of time-worn texture to it. More commonly, you'll find a rustic piece with…

Antique wood tells a story with its worn corners and scratched surfaces, but you often must pay a pretty penny for that story. Distressing new plywood to look antique will save you money and give you…

If you collect antique porcelain, learn the proper way to clean and care for your precious pieces. Authentic antique porcelain pieces are delicate artifacts that have managed to last a long time;…

Sending your prized antiques to others can be risky business. Proper packing of antiques is important to prevent breakage of priceless collectible items. Due to the large volume of packages handled…

Painted furniture adds color and interest to any room. If you have an antique dresser with worn paint or outdated color, repainting it is a way to brighten and personalize your decor. Learning to…

Antique Victorian vases are extremely valuable. If you have one, you should insure it accordingly. However, not every vase you will find is a genuine antique. Several manufacturers continue to make…

Pine can be finished to look like antique wood. The process requires a number of materials and techniques available at most paint and hardware stores to the do-it-yourselfer. Regardless of your level…

Repousse is a metalworking technique wherein the ornamental pattern is pounded into the metal from the back. This creates raised artwork on the front of the metal. Newly created copper repousse can be…

If flipping houses sounds like too much manual labor, and too large a financial investment, flipping antiques may better suit your taste. You can start with just a few items, if you wish, to limit…

Antiquing hardware is the act of altering new doorknobs, light fixtures, drawer handles and other similar objects so that they appear to have developed the patina that comes with age. You can purchase…

An antique is a piece of furniture or household decoration that's at least 100 years old. Whether you're curious about an item you own or are shopping for an antique piece worth the asking price,…

Porcelain is a type of ceramic characterized by a hard, white, translucent glaze finish. Porcelain -- often called china, or porcelain china -- is used to make pottery, dolls and many other decorative…

With a little work, anyone has the ability to turn new leather into an antique-finished piece. Acrylic leather stains are good for larger projects, such as coats or couches, because of their liquid…

Cameos are beautiful, often valuable collectibles, the majority of which are from the Victorian era. The traditional methods of hand-carving intricate images are used by a handful of highly skilled…

If you come across a violin and don't have any way of knowing where it came from, you might wonder if it is an antique. Most often, when given a violin, the giver will tell you about the violin's…

An antique is an item that is at least 100 years old. Decorating with antique furniture and accessories lends an air of sophistication to any room. You don't need real antiques to get the effect,…

If you want to repaint your furniture to give it a vintage look, you can use several paint techniques that help you furniture look distressed. The vintage look is in, and you can recreate this look…

Silver leafing can make any new-looking or nondescript piece of furniture look aged and antique. Leave it untreated, however, and it will simply look artificial and modern. Finish silver leafing using…

Your fireplace mantel is a focal point of your house throughout the year. Whether you have dozens of guests in your home circulating during a party, or you're setting up the stocking hangers in…

Hutches get outdated as home fashions change, yet they remain functional pieces of furniture. Change the look of your hutch by giving it an antique look. Antiqued wood has an old world feel that looks…

A faux antiquing treatment can give a low-priced, mass-produced frame all the charm of a antique treasure. Whether made of metal, wood or plastic, a frame does not require a lot of work to antique,…

If you’ve ever seen an old horror movie, chances are you’ve seen an antique lantern being carried by a henchman or villainous fiend. The old timey mystique of an antique lantern is…

If you are looking for a way to change the appearance of your leather goods, try an antique finish. Creating a homemade antique finish will add a touch of style to your leather belongings. A…

Your brick home or sidewalk is stunning; the bricks are brand new with a deep red hue that accentuates the newness. And that is the problem. You wanted a brick home for the appearance or the strength;…

For centuries, bronze statues and jewelry have been oxidizing, which causes bronze molecules to change color. This antique look is now prized in the world of art and fashion, and now designers want to…

Antiquing, also called distressing, refers to ways of falsifying the age of wood. Antiquing allows you to age contemporary wood to resemble lumber used centuries ago to craft furniture. Antiquing…

Parasols, which date back to ancient times, became popular in the 19th and early 20th Centuries. Ladies used them to shield themselves from the Sun and to make fashion statements. Dating parasols can…

The reverence sculptors, jewelers and other metal smiths have for copper comes largely from its malleability and its rich, lustrous, gold tone. When copper ages or has exposure to various chemicals,…

Cameos have their origins about 300 years before the birth of Christ, when they were primarily worn as a statement of faith or a particular loyalty. The style of cameo carving comes from the type of…

Antique vases are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain and glass. While some individuals have attempted to reproduce antique vases and pass them off as rare collectibles, original…

Experiment with a variety of decoupage techniques to give an antique look to your projects. Whether you choose to apply an antiqued look with crackling or add vintage imagery to old pieces of…

Antiquing is a process by which a furniture object that may not be old is painted in such a way as to appear old. Wooden lamps are favorites of craftsmen when it comes to antiquing, which also means…

Thanks to the success of TV shows like "American Pickers," people are becoming more aware of what antique dealer picking involves. However, becoming a picker takes more than just a desire to…

Antiques come in many shapes and sizes, from chandeliers to rugs, paintings, vases, furniture and architectural elements like fireplaces. They also come from different places in the world. No matter…

The first rule of selling antiques is that everyone involved is trying to make money on the deal. You are trying to obtain the best price for your antique, the dealer is trying to reduce their…

The next time you redecorate your home, try refinishing wood furniture or cabinets with an antique glaze. Applying an antique glaze to wood is an effective way of bringing a vintage look to your home…

You can craft almost any vase into a lamp using an inexpensive lamp kit, which you can find in the electrical section of big-box general and home improvement stores. When converting an antique vase,…

Antique furniture can be paired with contemporary elements to create a sophisticated look, particularly when the furniture is updated. Your budget will dictate how far your efforts go, but even if…

Antiquing a dresser can be a fun and creative way to get the appearance of an antique piece of furniture without spending the money for an actual antique. The look can be achieved with just a few…

Antique homes look expensive, prestigious and beautiful. Purchasing an old home with antique flair and buying authentic antique items to fill it can cost thousands of dollars. With antique paint…

A Bible leaf frame is meant to hold a page from a Bible. This can protect the Bible page and prevent any dust, dirt and other damage from ruining it. Often these frames are used for the pages of an…

Finding valuable pieces of art or furniture at an auction, secondhand market or garage sale is rare, but it does happen. Antiques are valued according to how rare they are, the condition they are in…

Family photographs, newspaper clippings and meaningful letters are all worth preserving, and many hope to hold onto these important documents, passing them down as heirlooms throughout time.…

Sundial compasses are two handy devices in one: a compass to find the direction and a sun dial to tell the time when facing north. It is possible to give a brass sundial compass a time-worn,…

Antique silverware consists of sterling silver; a pliable metal that can bent by hand into different shapes. Antique silverware, such as forks, spoons and knives, often have ornate designs on the…

Antique pieces are usually made by hand and crafted in a way that is seldom seen today. It is important to care for vintage jewelry carefully so that it can be passed on to other generations. You will…

Galvanized tops have a thin layer of zinc fused to the surface of the tin. This zinc provides protection against rust. Some people want to antique a top to get an aged and old look. This art project…

Clay pottery is a coveted household and garden decoration. As your clay pottery is used over the years, it develops the distinct markings of time, a look that many consider a work of art. When you…

Buying authentic antique furniture can be quite expensive. Fortunately, if you like the look of antique furniture, you can give modern furniture pieces an old-world flare using antique glaze. When…

Antiquing acrylic panels is a creative way to age a stage prop or visual art display. Acrylic panels are less expensive than glass or polycarbonate options and, according to 80/20 Inc., will withstand…

The white dress worn during a ceremonial occasion by a woman or child often becomes a part of the history of her family. Cherished wedding dresses, christening or confirmation gowns may be handed down…

Whether grandma left you her collection of hand-crocheted doilies from the 1940s, or you hit the jackpot on a recent visit to the local antique mall, you can mount antique doilies to display in your…

Antique desks may be topped with leather. This not only makes the furniture look beautiful, it provides a softer surface, making it a more work-friendly surface. Over time, the leather will begin to…

Antiquing is a technique that provides an aesthetic boost to any object at your disposal. Making a baby's crib appear aged, for example, involves several different tools and a bit of creativity.…

Buttons are easily overlooked, but vintage buttons are anything but ordinary. Antique buttons can be collected, treasured and turned into a number of other decorative items. Made of different…

Mildew typically occurs on an antique sofa when the fabric becomes damp or you have stored the furniture improperly. While mildew will not eat away at the fabric as mold will, it can permanently stain…

Popularized by shows like "American Picker" and "Pawn Kings," the role of pickers is a time-honored profession in the antiques industry. Antique stores and auction houses draw…

Making anything look older than it really is can be a tricky task and working with new aluminum is no exception to the rule. True antique aluminum has that perfect patina and all the nicks and dents…

Hidden amidst the dust and mothballs of every corner antique shop is a treasure worth bringing home. Even in today's high technology, digitally dominated world, the love for finely crafted traditional…

Antique vases are highly collectible objects of art and home decor. Depending on its country of origin, its style and the material from which it is made, an antique vase can be quite expensive and…

Transits, which were originally referred to as theodolites, are brass instruments that were originally used for surveying. These instruments need to be cleaned and oiled to keep them functioning…

An antique finish is one that shows the wear of time. A common color for an antique finish is a brown color. This brown coloring is achieved through the application of brown umber oil paint to the…

Scrimshaw is the art of carving images onto ivory, although art carved in bones, horns and teeth is also considered scrimshaw. While the carving technique is simple, creating the proper image in the…

Antiquing is way to make a plastered surface appear to have been naturally aged over time. A sophisticated finish that is popular in Venetian and Tuscan-style décor, the technique can be applied…

When children start to tentatively learn the art of violin playing, they often begin on newly fabricated instruments or older ones found hidden away in basements or attics. While these instruments are…

An antique booth is the perfect outlet for those with a penchant for all things vintage. Running a successful antique booth is feasible for novices and veteran collectors alike. The key is to garner,…

The business of acquiring and reselling antiques can have its ups-and-downs, but with planning, knowledge and attention to the market you can be successful at it. While any business takes time and…

Antiques are collectibles that are at least 100 years old and are often conversation pieces. Although antiques add visual interest and sometimes even elegance to a room, one that's full of antiques…

The neoclassical style in architecture looked to ancient Greece and Rome as a model. This style gradually emerged as an art movement in painting and architecture during the second half of the 18th…

The game of marbles goes back to ancient Egypt. Then, and for many centuries afterward, the "marbles" were made of stone or were simply pebbles or nuts. Clay marbles were introduced in the Middle…

Western Electric payphones are popular with antique phone and technology collectors. Old phones can be found at flea markets, on eBay, Craigslist and maybe a few garage sales. If you're looking…

A survey transit represents a common type of engineering system. This complex system involves moving parts in order to make the system work. Since the moving parts can fall victim to age, rust, dirt,…

Clay pottery and ceramics often benefit from applying glaze on them. Glaze is a thin layer of coating that can be added to a piece of clay pottery or ceramic. Glaze can be used for decorative…

In the 1970s, many children had bags or boxes containing many different sizes and colors of marbles with different names. The game was played on dirt or concrete. The object of the game was to flick…

In backgammon, two players move the playing pieces according to the roll of dice. A player wins by removing all of his pieces from the board. Throughout time, there have been many variations of the…

Hanging a few vintage signs around your home is a colorful and interesting way to add a bit of character to a room. Vintage signs are sometimes more than 100 years old, and they all have a story to…

If you have a passion for antiques, you may want to turn it into a career. Your focus may be narrow --- for example, antique cameras --- or broad, encompassing all objects made during a certain time…

Meerschaum is a white, porous, brittle rock that has been mined and hand-carved into intricate smoking pipes, often into shapes like mermaids or sea captains. Meerschaum is rare; it is only found in…

One of the attractions of collecting is the character and visual appeal that well-crafted antiques can lend to your home. At the same time, you don't want your collection to take over your living…

Save some tusked pachyderms by making some realistic-looking faux ivory art pieces. Ivory is an attractive material popularly used in knickknacks and jewelry, but if you use the right technique and…

The skeleton key epitomizes antiques with locking mechanisms. Whether you use them for your grandmother's wardrobe or an antique case you have in your attic, skeleton keys have the same basic shape.…

In many areas of the U.S., including Texas and other Southern states, the horns of cattle are removed and used for decorative purposes. Before these horns can be utilized, however, they should be…

Slate is a durable natural stone material that is used in many building applications including patios, roofing and flooring. The surface ranges from rough to smooth. It makes an ideal canvas to paint…

You can wrack your brains trying to guess whether a piece is pure silver or plated, and basing your judgment on the weight and appearance of the piece may lead to some inaccurate discernment.…

A cameo is a miniature carving fashioned in such a way that it stands in three-dimensional relief from the background, usually in a contrasting color. The finished piece is then mounted into a piece…

Guitars with a worn or aged finish have a vintage look. Guitar manufacturers sell new instruments with a worn or antique appearance. However, these instruments cost more that their standard factory…

Antique baby clothes are sought after by collectors, museums and interior designers for display purposes. Antique baby clothes show up in antique stores, consignment shops, on the Internet and in the…

For antique hunters, there are some very old marketplaces where they can find truly unique antique pieces. Italy, in particular, has several great markets that have been operating for a long time, and…

Meerschaum pipes are tobacco smoking pipes made from blocks of meerschaum clay, a porous clay mined primarily in Turkey. Meerschaum pipes are prized for their ability to offer a cool, dry smoke.…

Plywood is inherently weak unless you use proper joints. Craftsmen choose between four common types of joints utilizing penetration with glue. Furniture makers like the dowel or biscuit joint.…

Relieve tired feet at the end of the day while propping them up proudly on a hand-designed footstool. Decide the look of the footstool based on the overall design of the room, whether formal, country…

Cover a lampshade frame to create a lampshade that will match the decor in your home perfectly. Use the same method to revamp an old lampshade if the fabric is old and falling apart, but the frame is…

The cost for mailing a letter depends on a number of factors: how much it weighs, the size of the letter, and the letter's destination. Knowing how much the letter weighs will help you calculate how…

Rough sawn pine is used for fencing, siding, window casings and architectural trim aesthetics. It is characterized by an almost fuzzy surface that cannot be sanded, invoking the old-west with an…

Many people enjoy spending weekends or vacation time browsing antique shops for a great deal or an exquisite hand-crafted treasure. But, if you're new to the hobby, it can seem overwhelming. If you…

You may find a deal on a meerschaum pipe on the Internet through auction or classified sites; however, it will be very difficult to determine whether the opaque and stone-like smoking instrument is…

A penetrating oil is the ideal choice for long-term preservation of wood projects. Topcoats, such as lacquer, varnish or shellac, can crack, flake off and allow moisture to leak into the wood.…

Pipe collecting has been around for as long as pipes have been used to smoke tobacco. Many pipe collectors are also pipe smokers and will seek out different styles of pipes to try. Starting a pipe…

Collecting antiques involves a lot of research, travel and money. Antiques vary by condition, price and availability. It's important to follow certain steps to protect your pocketbook. Otherwise, you…

In 1878, the Japanese import company Morimura Brothers began distributing plain pieces of unpainted china, known as "blanks," to be hand decorated by skilled artisans throughout Japan. These early…

Maintaining a collection of swords to display with pride requires attention to many details. While there are many different types of swords, there is one constant: proper, timely cleaning of swords is…

Meerschaum is a soft, white mineral often used in making pipes. Meerschaum doesn't conduct heat, making it ideal for pipe designs. Since meerschaum is so easy to carve, it is the perfect material for…

Silver hallmarks are small markings stamped onto silverware to certify that a piece is sterling silver, or 92.5 percent silver. The marks also indicate where the object was made and in what year.…

The Winchester Arms Company, manufacturer of the famous Winchester rifles, expanded into producing knives in 1919. Its first plants were at the Eagle Knife Company in New Haven, Connecticut, and the…

Old keys may no longer be useful, but they still look cool. If you've amassed a box of old keys you really don't need, but don't want to throw them away, use them to make crafts. The more old keys you…

Enthusiasts around the world push the limits every day in making the most unusual miniatures. A number of people have set records entered in Guinness World Record Book for smallest miniatures. The…

Simply because an instrument is old does not mean that it has great value. This holds especially true for a violin. Many factors go into determining the worth of an antique violin, including the…

The Civil War lasted from 1861 to 1865 and, during this time, countless swords were produced for battle. Since the war ended, the market for collecting Civil War memorabilia has been large and…

You can create a faux antique console radio by building a faux plywood cabinet. The cabinet should be longer than it is wide. The top can either be fixed so it doesn't open, making the faux radio…

When you paint your walls with latex paint, the molding and flooring around your walls can often become splattered with paint inadvertently. One way to prevent this is to tape the areas you do not…

Cold cast metal, typically used for sculptural and other artistic purposes, is a type of metal that can be shaped and molded into different shapes without the use of extreme heat. This is beneficial…

Popularized in the early 19th century, dry sinks consisted of a bookshelf-like desk with a bowl centered in the middle of the desk portion. The bowl was removable, due to the lack of indoor plumbing…

HB Henroit Faiencerie is one of the oldest French companies still in operation today. It specializes in fine art country pottery made from white clay. It was founded in 1690, during the reign of Louis…

Johnson Brothers was started in 1882 when three brothers of the Meakin china line in Staffordshire, England, went out on their own. Johnson Brothers products became popular in England and the United…

Early American Pressed Glass, or EAPG, has been around since 1820 or slightly before. It is a versatile glassware that can come in many colors, textures and patterns. Collecting true EAPG can be a…

Increasing the thickness or size of a wood beam is done by connecting two level beams together. This makes the beam stronger and able to support more weight when using it as a header for a wall. To do…

Scouring local consignment shops and yard sales for forgotten treasures can be exhilarating. Finding that one gem buried beneath a stack of old coats in the corner, covered in dust, can be especially…

Painting wood finish onto ivory will give it an aged look, which will make it appear more classy and refined. In a study or other room, a stained ivory item complements wood paneling and dark-colored…

Collecting antique tools can be an interesting hobby whether you know how to use them or not. Old tools give us a glimpse into how things were made before mass manufacturing became popular. Tools that…

Plywood is a common building material produced by gluing together several layers of thin wood plies or veneers. Depending on the intended use, and grade of the plywood, the type of glue and wood used…

American women began to express their creativity through quilting around 1840, when the textile industry made fabric available to the public. The image of women sewing by the fire is debatable because…

Antique and crafts shows have become quite prevalent in many malls across the nation. With customers from all walks of life visiting the mall on a daily basis, it would be paramount to take a few…

Lamps can run the gamut from early 19th-century oil lamps to the groovy lava lamps of the 1960s. As the decorative aspect of lamps became as important as their functional aspect, more materials were…

An antique safe can be restored, using the proper methods. Antique safes are made of metal, with hinged tops that may be broken or loose. The cosmetic appearance of an antique safe might include…

Antique malls are a viable option for beginning antique dealers to sell items, without having to bear the extra expense of running a store. Experienced antique dealers can benefit from having their…

Plywood is a modified building material that is made up of several pieces of wood bonded together with strong adhesives. It comes in different grades and thicknesses and is used in a variety of…

A Civil War sword, whether a curved cavalry saber, an artillery officer's short sword or an engraved presentation sword, can be valuable links to that important time in American history. However,…

A sideboard is a piece of furniture that is used to store food and other items inside a dining room to prevent the need to travel back to the kitchen or to store the food on the table. Many modern…

Carbide or acetylene lamps add water to calcium carbide to yield acetylene gas. This flammable gas burns to give light. In the early 20th century, these lamps were popular for use in mining, as…

Wood logs are solid pieces of lumber cut from the whole or half trunks of trees and used in various woodworking applications. A common way to use wood logs is for the construction of homes from small,…

Shop towels serve their purpose well by wiping off oil and grease, but eventually they become so dirty they are no longer effective. Washing these contaminants out is not as simple as tossing the…

Western Electric, which began in 1869, manufactured telephones until the end of the Bell System in 1984. These phones are usually heavy with a handset attached by a fabric-covered cord or, in later…

Plywood can be used in a great number of ways around the average house. Many times it is a great quick stop replacement or it can be a permanent fixture. It is even useful in other ways you may have…

Some pieces of antique china are relatively straightforward to evaluate through the various factory and artist marks stamped upon their bases, but if the piece has no marks, or marks that you don't…

The term "Staffordshire china" refers to the pottery and porcelain made in what is now Stoke-on-Trent, which is turn consists of six smaller towns -- Burslem, Cobridge, Fenton, Hanley, Longton and…

Gingham features checkerboard patterns in every color from bright red to yellow to pastel blues and greens. It's soft, breathable and durable, making it perfect for lampshade material. Light filters…

Sorting buttons is an activity that can engage both adults and children. Buttons are sorted to be used for crafts, sewing and other activities. Sorting buttons is often used to teach children how to…

A polymer is a type of plastic that contains a long string of molecular structure. The different types of structures create polymers that are soft, sticky, pliable, malleable and hard. Polymer clay…

Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire consists of five towns that are collectively known as the Potteries. This is because the area is famous for the production of china and pottery. Many of the potteries…

Fiberglass cloth has an unusual texture and appearance; this large woven fabric creates a unique lampshade, especially when painted. The cloth attaches to a lampshade frame securely with hot glue.…

Each year since 1991, Hallmark Cards, Inc., a private company based in Kansas City, Mo., that is best known for its greeting cards and gifts, has chosen a classic car to be featured as one of its…

Clothing wears out, but the buttons do not. Often they are very decorative in themselves with rhinestones, embossed details or interesting colors and shapes. Buttons are worth saving and putting aside…

Plywood is a very versatile building material. It can be used for everything from sheathing the exterior walls of a house to constructing chairs and cabinets. There are two basic types of plywood: OSD…

In Victorian times, most lampshades were made out of beautiful mosaic glass, with delicate glass beads hanging from the base like fringe. Once gas-flame lamps were replaced by electricity, the…

Discovering antiques with their secrets locked away can be frustrating if you don't have the key. Whether your bought the antique from a dealer or an individual, or whether it was passed down to you…

Appliques are thin, delicate wood decorations, most often leaves or vines. They weave a decorative pattern that is exclusively for aesthetics. Usage of wood appliques dates back hundreds of years.…

Antique smoking pipes were made from a variety of materials ranging from meerschaum (a easily-carved mineral found mainly in Turkey) to wood, terra cotta and porcelain. The carvings and shapes of many…

Antique metal drills were used by hand, before the advent of electricity. The drills were sometimes adorned with precious metals or types of animal bones and ivory, which are now banned. Old drills…

Having an antique safe in your home is a real treasure. However, if you use this safe for more than just looks, you need to know how to open it. Certainly, you would normally open such a safe using a…

Antique plywood backing will not last forever. The veneer may bubble, warp or crack, and it cannot be fixed. It has to be replaced. You can replace antique backing with new plywood if you take the…

Antique confederate swords are collected by people interested in both history and the swords as historical objects. Confederate swords are crossover collectibles. They fall into the military…

Crackle paint can provide the opportunity to either simulate antique furniture you have coveted or create a look for a piece of furniture that is uniquely "you." Crackle is a faux finish that imbues…

There are many unusual antique tools to be found in collections around the world. Some are traded and sold among collectors while others are one-of-a-kind items and belong to museums. Many unusual…

Choosing a gift for an antique dealer can seem like an uphill struggle. After all, they have so many treasures already. It probably isn't a good idea to get them yet another mantel clock, but they…

If you have an old family Bible, or one you picked up from a flea market or an auction, you will want to do what you can to protect it. Though you cannot store your Bible under the same well-monitored…

Restoration of an antique sword -- that is, repairing damage, replacing parts or other services that require disassembling the sword -- should only be performed by a trained and experienced expert. It…

An antique safe, even if not in working order, can be a very attractive piece of decor. Many of these safes were given ornate designs and period details that really stand out against the bland…

A cameo is a gem, hardstone, shell or some other substance that had been carved to show a figure or scene, generally (but not always) with contrasting colors for the background and foreground. They…

Your eccentric grandpa or aunt may have had a mysterious tool shed under lock and key. Perhaps you inherited the contents. Breaking open the lock, you might discover "old fashioned" tools of all…

Holidays and special occasions are when many people display fine or standard Wedgwood plates for utilitarian use or to decorate a table. Antique Wedgwood plates are easily identifiable if you know the…

Sparking lamps are oil-fueled lamps made of glass and are treasured finds for antique collectors. Knowing the history of sparking lamps can add valuable information to your hunt for vintage…

Beams were traditionally used to support upper floors. Oak was often the wood of choice, being strong, resistant to insects and fungi and available in pieces long enough to span ceilings. Nowadays,…

Antique phones are a reminder of a bygone era. The first phones manufactured for the public were wooden wall phones, after Alexander Graham Bell's invention in 1876. Today, people search for phones in…

There are many types of antique furniture casters---brass wheel casters, porcelain wheel casters, brass rig casters and wooden wheel casters. Some also brass rig casters and porcelain wheel casters…

Bed warmers were used to warm beds in the olden days, before the days of furances and central heating. Most households, if lucky, had a fireplace to warm a home, though the fire warmed only one room.…

Miniature antique tools encompass a wide selection of woodworking, household and garden tools all made prior to World War II. The small tools were created to show a toolmaker's skill and to provide…

Today we primarily use digital devices to weigh our goods, but in the past,scales were widely used to measure everything from money to vegetables to letters. These scales have now become collectors…

If you have an abundance of round antique tins that you are loath to toss out, you should use them for decorating. Chances are your collection contains a variety of designs that do not match your…

Scouring the Earth for an exquisite antique ring can be a tedious task that tests even the most patient collector. Knowledge of the craftsmanship attached to an antique ring is probably the best…

You can make any document look antique by applying some simple aging techniques to it using common household items. It doesn't take much time and is very easy to do. You can use these documents as…

Metal cans can be give an aged look that works well in a garden or outdoor space, as well as inside your home. Antique metal cans have rust spots, look faded and have a patina from years of handline…

Theodolites are the primary tool of the surveyor. They can be used to calculate a number of different values necessary in surveying, but have engineering, architectural and rocket science applications…

The era of an antique buffet or sideboard is determined by the style. Each era left its imprint through the designs considered fashionable at the time. An owner of an antique must verify that the…

A descendant of the common stool, the footstool has evolved throughout history. Whether crudely made or elaborate in design, a wooden footstool provided a comfortable alternative for a seated person…

Antique potholders are a charming reminder of a time when people spent more time in the kitchen cooking for their families. The bright, often humorous, designs help to tell a story of the people who…

There is nothing like the beauty of real antique ivory. You can use acrylic burnt umber paint to antique ivory polymer grips on pistols or other objects for a realistic look that will fool all but the…

According to Princeton University's WordNet, an antique is best defined as anything "made in or typical of earlier times and valued for its age." Hard rules on how old an item is before it becomes a…

For more than 150 years, The Stanley Works has made quality tools including everything from tape measures to levels. Some of these pieces are now antiques as Stanley has replaced many hand tools with…

Handmade rugs are durable but time consuming. For those desiring a long-term project, they provide hours of relaxing weaving at the seat of your very own antique rug loom. When working with this…

While historians can trace some forks back to Europe in the 1300s, forks did not become ubiquitous dining accessories until the 19th century. Their inclusion in table settings prompted designers to…

In 1927, Arthur Barrows, head of the hardware department for Sears, bought the name "Craftsman" from Marion-Craftsman Tool Company, and the name became synonymous with Sears' highest quality tools.…

Antique fabrics, whether from old linens or an heirloom quilt, need to be cared for differently than you would a new version of the same item. Because antique fabrics are older, the materials may be…

Antique phones have become popular collectibles. When it comes time to sell, pricing the antique phone accurately is to your best advantage. An antique phone may be worth hundreds of dollars or maybe…

Throughout the 19th century, when etiquette called for a different type of utensil for every kind of food, "silver spoons became an avenue of artistic and individual expression," according to Antique…

Selling handmade items at crafts fairs can be a rewarding hobby. Working to perfect the products themselves and then to get the display just right can result in frustration when your price hang tags…

Collecting pocket antique and vintage knives is a popular hobby. A pocket knife is the one tool nearly everyone can use. There are many knives specific to certain trades. Pocket knives range from very…

Installing a new pair of tires on a bicycle is a fairly straightforward process. Installing older tires is a different matter. Though they install in the same way, tire rubber degrades over time and…

Although pipe smoking is not as popular as it once was, collecting pipes remains an active hobby, with meerschaum pipes among the most sought-after. Meerschaum has several nicknames including White…

Walter Scott Lenox founded the Lenox Ceramic Art Co. in 1889. The company first produced ivory china items; it later began producing crystal stemware. Although Lenox crystal stemware is still…

Antique quilts are fragile works of art that should be stored appropriately. Museums rotate their quilts in and out of storage on a regular basis to ensure the longevity of their holdings. When…

Cruets are small vessels, in decanter style, used for holding liquids. The earliest cruets were used in Biblical times. A few cruets from the medieval ages have been preserved. It was not until the…

Antique Crown Staffordshire porcelain and bone china was pottery produced at the Minerva Pottery Works in Fenton. Fenton is located in the Staffordshire district in Great Britain. Crown Staffordshire…

Primitive antiques is a broad term describing early American household items from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Primitive antiques, as opposed to Victorian or colonial antiques, evoke a…

According to the website Antique Plates Collector, the earliest form of ceramic work was found in China in the 7th century. Since then, china, or porcelain, plates have been a symbol of wealth and…

Antiques are defined as items that are at least 100 years old. A violin that is 100 years old is an antique, while violins made in the last century are either newly made or are vintage instruments.…

The Hubley Manufacturing Company began in 1894 and produced cast iron toys and household objects such as bookends and doorstops. The products were painted by hand, which has raised the value with…

Hinges have been in existence for a very long time. Early hinges were made of straps of leather or cloth. These materials broke easily and provided an inexact point of closure. Later, hinges were…

The term, "flatware", in the United States means utensils (pewter, stainless steel, sterling silver and silver-plate) used for serving food and eating, and the U.S. Government defines an antique as a…

You can find antique plates at many antique stores, online websites or auctions or through individual antique dealers and collectors. Several different manufactures, including Lenox, Royal Worchester…

While most people might look at a sled and think of a recreational winter activity, sleds originated as means for native peoples to transport goods and people through the snow in an easier fashion.…

Legend has it that Martin Luther was walking home on Christmas Eve and looked toward the forest of pines illumined by the stars. In a surge of inspiration he cut a small pine, set it up in his parlor…

Authenticating an antique can be tough, especially when new teapots are designed to look like antiques. There are ways to tell if the teapot is a real antique or if it is a newer teapot that copies…

An antique dry sink is a functional piece of furniture from 19th century America and earlier. Dry sinks were the equivalent of modern-day sinks but without the convenience of indoor plumbing. It was…

Wooden bed rails often break at the ends where the hook plates meet the posts or along the bottoms where the ledger boards support the slats that hold the mattress. If the end is damaged, inspect it…

Vaseline glass, also known as uranium glass, was manufactured circa the 1830s through the Great Depression. Uranium salts were used to produce glass with a translucent yellow-green color resembling…

When it comes to antique silverware, the pattern and maker are more important than the age. During the Victorian (1837-1901) and Edwardian (1901-1910) eras, silverware was mass-produced, making the…

Teapots are made of many different materials. Porcelain, pottery, silver, silver plate and tin are the most often used. Sizes of teapots were rounded until the mid 1700s when the pear shape became…

Famous glass companies have histories that go back a century. Prominent glass makers include Baccarat in France, and Waterford in Ireland. Cut glass pieces were made and manufactured in England,…

Collect antique fish dishes to start a collection or to add to an existing aquatic theme. Antique fish dishes are beautiful, colorful and offer a stylized view of these underwater creatures. However,…

If you are looking to change the look of your kitchen, refinish you cabinets by adding an antique glaze. You do not need to order new cabinets, you can change the look of your kitchen yourself.…

Collecting antique John Deere tractors can be a satisfying hobby for anyone interested in North America's rich agricultural history. The more you learn about the company and its vehicles, the more you…

Restoring an white antique bedroom suite requires patience. You need to take apart the bed and dressers and work on each piece separately. You can approach the task of refinishing painted antique…

Collecting antique dishes can be a lucrative business or an enjoyable hobby. Depending on your goals, it may be possible to turn your passion for antique dishes into a full time job, a part-time money…

It's heartbreaking when an heirloom piece of china breaks, chips, or gets lost, but there are resources to find a replacement. Whether you need to replace a platter that your great grandma served…

Wooden wheels off prairie schooners, old doors from western saloons and even wooden rocking chairs from the last century all have the same problem. The structure of the wood has declined to a point as…

Throughout history, fish have been an essential source of food as well as inspiration for various legends and folklore. Fish plates illustrating cultures' reverence for fish have been produced all…

Buyers of antique furniture must be on guard against cleverly disguised reproduction pieces sold at antique prices. This is especially true when shopping for antique furniture purportedly from foreign…

Pewter items are often valued their lived-in, antique look. Pewter items can also be polished to achieve a bright and shiny look, similar to silver. Although it was the lead in antique pewter that…

Copper items display a distinctive glow and, when new, they can be quite brilliant in their orange color. Copper items are often prized for their brilliance and are polished to achieve a bright and…

Collecting antique license plates has become so popular, there is an Automobile License Plate Collectors Association. Collecting license plates is a hobby that anyone (young or old) can do. It's easy…

Stoneware crockery could once be found in just about every American home. The versatility of ceramic lent itself stoneware for the kitchen. Stoneware crockery consists of light colored clays cooked at…

The player piano is a mechanical piano that produces music through a perforated musical scroll. The holes correspond to specific piano keys of the instrument. Before recorded music became widespread,…

Anyone who attended elementary school remembers his school desk. You probably spent many hours there reading, writing or daydreaming as your third grade teacher droned on in the background. However,…

Antique keys spark the imagination; each one is a mystery regarding the secrets it unlocked. Gifts using old keys can be heartwarming, romantic and personal. Taking a collection of keys and turning…

Antique rings are usually distinctive in their design but never go out of style. The ring may be a family heirloom that is treasured and is worn in memory of a special person. Upon receiving an…

Fire extinguishers have undergone changes throughout the centuries. A fire extinguisher in the 18th century consisted of a chamber containing gunpowder and a cask holding flame-retardant liquid.…

RuneScape is one of the largest free-to-play, browser-based online games available to fans of the fantasy role-playing genre. Players level up their skills through quests and actions which directly…

Antique trunks were manufactured in a myriad of sizes and styles. Small canvas covered trunks were staples of stagecoach travel in the mid 1800s. Some, like the Jenny Lind trunk, named after a famous…

Chinese mudman figurines are beautiful and fun to collect. They have been produced in China for hundreds of years. The easiest Chinese mudmen to find are from the Victorian era, when a fascination…

Antique lamps come in many shapes and sizes. Some of them hang and some sit on tables. Many antique lamps have glass shades, often painstakingly painted by hand and adorned with hanging beads or…

It is easy to assume that just like a well loved book, antique glass acquires a yellow patina over time. On the contrary, yellow was often the intended color at the time of production. Several…

Tie pins were worn from the 1900s on and kept a man's tie neatly in place. A tie pin was a sign of a distinguished gentleman--one who kept up on his appearance and attention to detail. Tie pins were…

Heavy antique glass with the characteristic bubble design was made in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, until 1935. The quality of the workmanship made antique pieces above par in comparison to…

Saddles were created in countries that had horses available, normally to aid in warfare while horse-riding. As Europeans migrated to North America, they brought along their horses, and the art of…

Collecting antiques can be rewarding in many ways, but it is often difficult to determine when an antique was made. If the piece is legibly marked and numbered, it will make authenticating and dating…

Antique ammunition and ammo boxes are a fascinating aspect of military history. Whether you enjoy the technical aspects of old cartridges, the artistic nature of their packaging or the historical…

Antique pitcher and bowl sets are both collectible and historical. An antique pitcher with matching bowl is worth more together, commanding higher prices than if sold individually. You can expect two…

If you're changing the power transformer in an electric or electronic appliance, you need to make sure that your new one matches the old one. The information you need may be printed on the transformer…

Many people have packed away an antique baby dress with the hope that a grandchild might wear it someday, only to find that, when that day comes, the garment has discolored, been attacked by moths or…

Many crafters enjoy using galvanized steel for painting, decorating and replicating tin punch. To give your piece a rustic look, try antiquing the galvanized steel before you create your work of art.…

Beer steins have been in use for centuries, more commonly in Europe than anywhere else. The term "beer steins" refers to pottery or pewter mugs with an attached lid. Lids were made mandatory in 16th…

Vanity will never go out of style, and neither will the hobby of collecting the beautiful trinkets that once adorned the dressing tables of beautiful ladies from days gone by. These trinkets include…

Even a person unfamiliar with antiques and collectible furniture has seen or even unwittingly owned dressers made in some of the more popular classic design styles. That huge dark walnut dresser in…

Decorating an antique corn planter can add a down-on-the-farm look to your decor. An antique corn planter has a small storage box for the seed corn, making it easy to create a dried arrangement in the…

The vanity table first became popular in the 18th century. Women used them as fashion aids, storing personal items like scarves, jewelry and make-up in the drawers and checking themselves out in the…

Whether you happen to be the owner of a U.S. Civil War sword or an antique Japanese katana, the methods for handling and preserving the state of the weapon are the same. With some minor supplies and…

Antique buttons are tiny pieces of history. They can be made from a variety of materials: cloth, ceramic, bone, plastic, enamel, glass, metal, leather, wood and some of the earliest were made from…

A hot item among collectors and cultural heritage preservationists alike, antique fire fighting equipment is a popular collector's item. Though traditionally built for sturdiness and reliability, the…

Many people find antique cabinets to be a beautiful and practical addition to their homes. A common problem, however, is that the keys used to open them are lost over time. This makes for a dilemma…

Antiquing fabric is one way to give it a new look. Coffee and tea are inexpensive and relatively easy ways to stain lighter-colored fabrics for a primitive look. You can also give print or colored…

Antique keys are usually quite ornate, and though they may not be used as actual keys anymore, they can be customized for use in crafts and home decor. You can use keys in a variety of ways in your…

One of the most tried-and-true techniques for painting antique cabinets was also used by the ancient Egyptians: milk paint. It's simple to use and your finished painted wood cabinets will glow with…

When you have a craft project that requires aged fabric, you will find that it is possible to get a wonderfully aged look using coffee. Using coffee as a dye will give a very delicate brown tint to…

Collecting antiques is a rewarding and exhilarating hobby for many. While some find the thrill in desks, lamps, clocks and other old furniture, others require a little more adventure: antique samurai…

Many families pass down heirloom quilts over multiple generations. In order to keep your quilt at its best for future generations, you need to take care with your quilt when display, storing or moving…

Picture frames entered the realm of fine art collectibles in the 1990s. "The antique frame has become so valuable that it can be separated from the painting it surrounds, or even the mirror, and it…

Antique meat scales provide a nice piece of history and can be a decorative addition to most home decors. Highly collectible and used in trade for centuries, there are many varieties of antique…

Collecting antique safes can be a fun and challenging past time. Safes of yesteryear can range from small lock box safes to larger rolling home safes to ornate Victorian safes. Most are made from cast…

A small glass bottle or vessel used to hold holy water or wine for religious ceremony or, in non-religious use, oil or vinegar, is called a cruet. They are highly collectible because of their beauty…

Antique china cabinets can be a beautiful addition to your home, but often the keys have been lost and the cabinet stuck in the locked position. Opening the lock may be easier than you think, as most…

The term "antique sugar pot" can describe different objects. Industrial and cooking pots are typically made of copper, and domestic storage pots can be silver, pewter, ceramic and glass. Although…

Russ Berrie antique figurines have become collectible items for many, and each figurine has a saying etched on the piece. Find the charming qualities of Russ Berrie figurines with helpful information…

Unidentified antique pieces can be distinguished by their function, such as teaspoon holders, salt dishes, toothpick holders, reamers and ash trays. Identify strange and rare glassware pieces with…

Fine china should be cared for a stored carefully to preserve its integrity, and each pieces should be wrapped individually before being placed in a storage box. Keep antique china looking its best…

Picking out your favorite antiques simply involves finding those that strike your attention for any reason. Choose favorite antique pieces, whether they are valuable or not, with helpful information…

Obsolete antiques, or those that can't be identified, are fascinating to collectors because they enjoy the research involved in trying to find out how made it. Understand the attraction of obsolete…

Labeling antiques is important to document the color, design, manufacturer and date when it was made. Label all antiques consistently after doing the proper research with helpful information from an…

Antiques can be stored as if they were being shipped in a box, so foam pads, bubble wrap and packing paper are great materials to keep antiques safe. Store antiques properly with helpful information…

Antique rings often exhibit a dark finish built up in the crevices that adds beauty to them. It can takes months or even years for the metal to oxidize and create that effect naturally, but most…

Once it starts to show signs of tarnish and wear, old metal has a certain look to it that lends an air of distinction and class. For this reason, it's often desirable to artificially antique finish…

The right jar can make all the difference in the world when it comes to making pickles. Antique pickle jars, while still useful, are often collected for their craftsmanship and beauty.

Pricing Bennington pottery can be challenging because of early variations and contemporary reproductions still being made. Dating back to America's early history, the Bennington pottery style was…

Buttons have been appreciated and collected for centuries. Collecting them is an inexpensive hobby compared with most, and they don't occupy a lot of space. According to the National Button Society,…

Determining the difference between antique marbles and new marbles isn't as easy as it may seem at first glance. During the 20th century, millions of new marbles were made to look like old marbles.…

Collecting antique beds is something that might not appeal to some, as they simply don't have enough room in their home to display the beds properly. Others like collecting the beds because such beds…

It is becoming increasingly popular to salvage antique wood from barns and old houses. This wood can be a valuable material and add interest and character to new construction. It often consists of…

Mounted deer heads are an excellent reminder of a successful hunt, but antique mounts can pose a maintenance and preservation problem. To keep deer heads and other trophies looking good requires more…

The preservation of antique farm tools, usually made of a combination of iron and wood, requires care and maintenance appropriate for each material. Additionally, the antique items should be stored or…

Antique linens are treasured heirlooms and prized collectibles. With the proper maintenance and care, antique and vintage linens can be kept in beautiful, functional condition for many years. Linens…

Restored around the world for their historic novelty, antique stoves have varied in technology and design over the last two centuries. From cast-iron, wood-burning stoves, to modern-day ceramic…

Antique oak frames are often from the Arts and Crafts era, which is from the late 19th to the early 20th century. The Arts and Crafts era was a reaction against early industrialization. Designers…

Identifying and pricing antique jewelry often requires some detective work. Perhaps the relative from whom you inherited the piece has long since passed on, and no other family members have clues to…

Antique Victorian tapestries are woven textiles, typically in wool. They can be floral, geometric or pictorial. Many antique tapestries have significant damage or wear from time, hanging weight, UV…

Tapestry repair can be a challenging prospect, even for an experienced weaver, sewer or needleworker. Tapestries are woven pieces of fabric, with the design woven directly into the textile as opposed…

From small mint containers to large lunch boxes, metal tins make convenient storage solutions for everything from memorabilia to craft supplies. Instead of using the containers "as is," transform them…

Bull horns can be used for decoration and also function as a powder horn or other container. A smooth, luxurious finish on the horn is desired regardless of what it is being used for. The method by…

Antique feather pillows are luxurious details that can be included in every home. Pillows are extremely easy to sew, even for beginners. Although many people use a sewing machine to create pillows…

Flush toilets first became common in the late 19th century. While many models of that era resemble modern examples, others are masterpieces of Victorian and early 20th century craftsmanship.…

Antique glass lamp shades date from the time of oil lamps. The glass shade protected the flame and helped the lamp to burn brighter. Over the years, as lighting materials changed, glass lamp shades…

Antique safes evolved from the earlier iron boxes around 1820. Safes were essential pieces of office equipment, designed to protect against both fire and burglary. Safes did not do a very good job…

Thanks to renewed interest in antique china, collectors are scouring shops, garage sales and their attics to see if they can find that prized piece. Before you buy what looks like an antique plate…

Tables are considered antique when they are found to be made before the early 19th century. The types of wood used in many antique tables are varied and may depend upon the country of the table's…

In a world of air conditioning, few among us need to protect our papers from the wind. Yet not so long ago, hot summer days meant open windows--and a good gust can easily upset loose papers.…

Salt dishes are a nod to a time of very social dinners brimming with elegant customs. Although the Victorian Era upheld for posterity the ornate culture and couture of fine dining of the wealthy, even…

Indigo fabrics date from the mid-1800s to the mid-1900s. They are a deep and elegant blue with patterns in white. The characteristic look of these textiles is created by using a resist on white…

Shaving mugs were commonly used from 1870 to 1920 at home and at local barber shops. Many gentlemen went to the barber shop to get a daily shave during this era. Each man was required to have his own…

Soapstone is a durable stone often used for heavy household objects, like sinks, because of its strength, heat-resistance and lasting qualities. Less porous than marble, it was chosen for frequent use…

The word lamp is derived from the Greek "lampas," meaning torch, and lamps have been lighting the way for humans for thousands of years. You're unlikely to run across one of humankind's very earliest…

If you have found an antique phone from an estate sale, auction or in the attic, you may be wondering if you can use it in your house and whether it will work. The good news is that residential phone…

Bicycles have evolved greatly since the early models. The basic use of the bike remains unchanged but advanced technology has yielded faster and more efficient designs. Antique bikes can be viewed in…

Protecting and preserving antique clothing poses a number of challenges. Storing antique clothing correctly is critical to avoid damage to the fabrics, trims and seams. While the specifics of care may…

The Flexible Flyer Sled, the iconic toy of films such as "A Christmas Story," was the brainchild of a Pennsylvania Quaker farm implements manufacturer named Samuel Leeds Allen. Allen worked with his…

Antique light fixtures can add character and personality to your home and bring their own one-of-a-kind touch to your space. Unfortunately, many are in poor repair. While proper restoration can be…

Bending antique silverware can create interesting pieces of art and jewelry. Rings made from the handles of spoons, for example, are always in high demand. Pendants, bracelets, earrings, necklaces,…

Determining whether or not dishes are antique is not as easy as you might think. First, "vintage" is not "antique." According to serious collectors, and Webster's Dictionary, an item is officially…

Vintage or antique tablecloths and other linens often have beautiful patterns and colors, but plenty of wear and tear from years of use. Recycle those treasured heirlooms in projects that bypass…

Nickel is soft metal that is used to make many household objects such as vases, door handles and sink fixtures. Antique nickel will develop a rich sheen over time that is sought-after by antique…

Antique-looking screws and bolts are often needed to make reproduction 19th century furniture or other items that look authentic. Here's a cheap and easy way to make reproduction steel antique screws…

Carbide is a naturally occurring substance that comes in crystal form. It reacts with water to create a gas, which ignites when coming into contact with oxygen. The light it creates is cleaner than…

There are a variety of antique tools and machinery to collect, such as hatchets, saws and hay tools, but be careful to research throughly before buying these antiques. Find out more about collecting…

Knives and straight razors are some of the most popular antique collectibles but their value can be diminished if they've been excessively sharpened. Find out more about collecting antique knives and…

Using The Encyclopedia of Golf Collectibles as a reference, collect a variety of golf antiques, such as shoes, clubs, balls and tees. Learn more about collecting golf antiques with expert tips from an…

Famous cowboy heroes from the 20th century, such as Hopalong Cassidy, are popular antiques to collect, especially since there were a variety of items created. Learn more about antique cowboy…

The price of antique costume jewelry is increased if the company's name is imprinted on the jewelry. Find out more about collecting antique costume jewelery with expert tips from an antique appraiser…

Schroeder's Antique Price Guide is one of the best ways to find and price antique collectibles. Learn more about using antique pricing guides with expert tips from an antique appraiser in this free…

Before buying antique fountain pens, research the price and quality of the antique by reading "Fountain Pens: Past and Present." Discover more about collecting antique fountain pens with expert tips…

There are several different brands of antique cigarette lighters, such as Carlton and Ronson, which influences the collectible's price. Learn more about collecting antique cigarette lighters with…

Casino collectibles, such as chips, dice and cards, can be priced by using antique reference guides. Find out more about antique casino collectibles with expert tips from an antique appraiser in this…

To research antiques, make sure to identify the age and condition before settling on a price. Find out how to research antiques with expert tips from an antique appraiser in this free video about…

Simple kitchen items, such as silverware, rolling pins and molds, are popular antique collectibles that can be found at almost any antique store. Find out more about antique kitchen collectibles with…

The Peanuts comic strip has many antique collectibles, and the most popular character to collect is Snoopy. Learn more about antique Peanuts collectibles with expert tips from an antique appraiser in…

To reduce clutter in the house, sell antiques by advertising collectibles in magazines and newspapers. Learn about the importance of using advertising to sell antiques with tips from an antique…

To care for ephemera collectibles, keep paper away from water and avoid tearing the material. Discover how to care for ephemera collectibles with expert tips from an antique store owner in this free…

Fortune magazine is a famous ephemera collectible because it contains celebrities, advertisements and news stories. Discover more about collecting Fortune magazine ephemera with expert tips from an…

Home improvement ephemera from the 1950s is one of the most popular collectibles because of the change in women's roles. Discover more about collecting home improvement ephemera with expert tips from…

Because People magazine is still produced, People is not the best piece of ephemera to collect. Learn more about collecting People magazines as ephemera collectibles with expert tips from an antique…

Ephemera automobile collectibles range from bills of sale to brochures and handbooks. Learn more about ephemera automobile collectibles with expert tips from an antique store owner in this free video…

Tickets from events are popular ephemera collectibles because many individuals want to remember special times in their lives. Learn about collecting ticket ephemera with expert tips from an antique…

There are many ephemera cowboy collectibles that relate to old western movies, such as movie stills and trading cards. Learn about ephemera cowboy collectibles with expert tips from an antique store…

Antique dealers must know how to do touch-ups to make pieces a little bit better. Discover the essentials of antique dealers, such as scratch covers and steel wool, with tips from a certified estate…

Auctions can be fun, but also overwhelming when trying to understand the auctioneer. Understand what auctioneers are saying by ignoring the filler words with tips from a certified estate specialist in…

Auctioneering is a very old, yet very rewarding profession. Become an auctioneer by contacting the state government for licensing with information from a certified estate specialist in this free video…

Successful antique dealers should be willing to rotate merchandise that has become stale. Be a successful antiques dealer by keeping merchandise new and fresh with tips from a certified estate…

An antique mall is advantageous because it provides space, labor, electricity and advertising. Rent space at an antique mall and simply provide the merchandise with tips from a certified estate…

A good way to start with an antique business is in an antique mall. Start an antique business with tips on buying and selling antiques from a certified estate specialist in this free video on antiques…

Antiques Roadshow is one of the most watched TV shows ever on antiques and collectibles. Get on Antiques Roadshow by bringing extra special antique items with tips from a certified estate specialist…

Antique writing desks can be made of oak, mahogany or walnut, and are generally smaller desks with a single drawer. Find an antique writing desk that will match current furniture, and fit into the…

Antique settees are great for small apartments or formal rooms and can be reupholstered or have the springs removed to update the look of the furniture. Learn how antique settees are similar to the…

When buying an antique china cabinet, take measurements of where the furniture will go, bring pictures of your existing table and look around at different shops to find something that will fit with…

Lace has served to decorate linens and clothing for a very long time. While most lace is machine made today, there are a number of antique lace types, each with their own characteristics. Most of the…

The introduction of cell phones opened the possibility that all land line, hardwired telephones will soon be obsolete. Traditionally, antiques are 100 or more years old, and collectibles include…

Do you need some antique crutches for a living history event, movie, or play? You can make them yourself, whether you need them for a wounded Civil War soldier or Tiny Tim in "A Christmas…

You can make your walls look any way you want, just by the way you apply the paint finishes. A very popular style of painting makes new walls and surfaces look antique or aged. There are many…

You can listen to original jazz, Dixieland or Big Band 78 rpm records the way they sounded in the 1920s and 1930s by playing them on an antique Victrola. These instructions are for an antique…

Antique linen and lace can yellow over time, either in spots or throughout the entire piece of fabric. Harsh cleansers may be too strong for the vintage materials or may discolor the item even more.…

The term antique is generally used to describe something that is more than 100 years old, while collectibles are items that are 30 to 50 years old. For the average collector, these terms have become…

There's nothing like taking a trip into the past to make us all appreciative of what we have today. Few of us realize how lucky we are to have modern technology. This is especially true when we visit…

People around the world admire and collect Japanese antiques for their traditional craftsmanship and one-of-a-kind detail. Used mostly as decorative pieces, these relics help reveal the rich and…

Antique quilts have gained popularity and risen in price over the years, and many examples are now considered finely crafted, valuable works of textile art. Carefully constructed from fabric scraps…

While most people are familiar with the collectable Department 56 Snowbabies, it is not commonly known that these precious ornaments are styled after an antique German-made craze that began over a100…

Antiqued paper is appropriate for a project with a vintage look. Making new paper look old is a relatively easy with a process called tea staining. The process works for any paper, from copy paper to…

Collecting antiques is a rewarding hobby because each purchase of an antique is a piece of history. People can easily find an antique piece or two by attending estate sales, auctions and the…

Antique swords hold a fascination for collectors that is difficult to convey to non-enthusiasts. As windows into the past, swords have appeal on numerous levels. Their construction gives evidence of…

Antique billiard cues are well crafted. It is hard to tell them apart from modern ones unless you know what you are seeking. They are made from the finest woods and are meticulously crafted so that…

Antique pine dressers have a rustic look and feel. Pine is an oily wood, and that makes it change color over time. One sign of age in pine dressers is a distressed look. Pine is soft and having a…

There are several things to consider when determining if a very old stock certificate is valuable. You will need to determine which company the stock was issued for and, since over time companies go…

Antique settees can be formal or casual. They were considered quite a breakthrough in furniture fashion in their day and remain popular today. Settees started as large chairs and evolved into styles…

We all have a few pieces of Grandmother's china, or maybe just some plates we've had forever yet don't know who--or where--they came from. Find out if those odd pieces are worth something and pare…

Antique copper pots are in demand, in part because people are choosing natural products more often, including cookware. Copper pots last longer than other types of cookware, and they also look…

Antique china cabinets were made by the best furniture designers in both Europe and America. They were considered to be an important innovation in their time, so important that they rapidly became…

Antique porcelain encompasses a wide range of styles and manufacturers. It takes an expert to determine the real value of a piece, but the collector can learn the basics and know enough to help her…

Antique folding knives are one of the most interesting things you can collect. Each one tells a story, especially the ones with a message. You can run across everything from a small single-blade pen…

Antique female figurines are popular collectibles. They come from virtually every country in the world, and some are very reasonable, making it possible for more people to become collectors. Pick one…

Collecting antique backgammon sets is not for everyone, but for someone who loves the game, it is a different story. Backgammon is more than a game. It is a passion. For them, collecting antique…

Fine American antiques, with the exception of the Colonial style, were made in the same way as in Europe but with American materials. The woods and finishings available to the American craftsmen were…

Antique pewter has a deep color and long history, which attracts homeowners, collectors and builders alike. One of the best ways that antique pewter is utilized today is through hardware such as…

As smoking is becoming less popular, ashtrays are becoming harder to find. Those that do exist are ugly, hidden and more a mark of shame than anything else. That was not always the case. Ashtrays were…

Many collectors are collectors because they find joy in the "hunt." For them, it is a challenge to find a specific 78 rpm record; an old, well-worn, treadle sewing machine; or a brilliant, hand-blown…

Throughout history, coal mining has evolved from harsh underground mining to safer, above-ground operations. While modern coal mining is done in large, open-pit style with complex machinery, historic…

Some people throw things away because they are old. Others spend thousands of dollars to acquire old things. Knowing what makes something an antique is useful information: you won't get rid of…

You'd think it would be hard to find an antique postal scale, but they're actually quite common. Some websites have large collections for sale; others have just one or two, and they can be beauties.…

An antique cookie jar is an item that sparks up nostalgia and authenticity in those who collect them. With a large array of styles and features, an antique cookie jar is something that an antique…

Antique marbles are classic children’s toys. They glisten in the sun and hold many colors. They are festive and pretty. Marbles can bring back the child in adults, too. They may not be as…

Determining the price or value of an antique means more than just looking up an item in a price guide and slapping a sticker on it. In fact, that is just the beginning of the evaluation process. There…

Collecting antiques of any sort is more than just shopping, it can be a full-blown hobby. Shopping for antiques, researching antiques, and arranging them in your home can fill many hours and bring…

Vignetting is the effect of a photograph's edges fading out into black at the corners. This was common in early cameras, where the image projected by the lens does not evenly cover the rectangular…

Chinese antiques can add a touch of the exotic to your current decor. Many Chinese antiques hold simple lines that can merge easily in almost any decor. Chinese antiques may include altar tables,…

With a love of antiques or just a great deal of stuff to get rid of, an antique business is a great way to turn your stuff into someone else's treasure. Once upon a time, an antique business meant…

Despite a struggling economy, there’s a constant demand for valuable antiques. The United States is a young country compared with other nations, and what merits being termed an “American…

Collecting issues of Mad Magazine, including tricks, tips and things to look for in this free video series on collecting antiques brought to you by an antiques store owner.

Collecting cartoons, including tricks, tips and things to look for in this free video series on collecting antiques brought to you by an antiques store owner.

Collecting old newspapers, tricks, tips and things to look for in this free video series on collecting antiques brought to you by an antiques store owner.

Locating an antique store in your area is a good way to find someone who can appraise any items whose value you're unsure of. Learn more in this free video series.

Antique Knife Collecting can be a rewarding and challenging hobby. Antique knives do not have to be expensive (sometimes purchased for as little as $1.00 at a garage sale) or they can cost thousands…

Learn how to connect jumprings to make handcrafted jewelry in this free video clip.

For many people, antiques hold great value as a remembrance of family members who have passed away. Some people feel that there holdings have monetary value and should investigate the worth of these…

Collecting antique jugs; learn about everything you need to know in this free diy collectors video from an antiques dealer collection expert.

Turkey candy container antiques; examples and more in this free video on holiday antique collecting and appraisal from an antiques expert.

George Washington candy container antiques; examples and more in this free video on holiday antique collecting and appraisal from an antiques expert.

See an example of George Washington candy container antiques in this free video on holiday antique collecting and appraisal.

Halloween antiques; examples and more in this free video on holiday antique collecting and appraisal from an antiques expert.

Easter antiques; examples and more in this free video on holiday antique collecting and appraisal from an antiques expert.

Watch an overview of tips on collecting all kinds of antiques from Japan with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn how to collect Japanese sake sets with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn how to collect Precious Moments souvenirs with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn how to collect chotchke souvenirs with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn how to avoid Japanese knockoffs with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn how to collect imported Avon products with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn about collecting antiques from 1960s Japan with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn about antiques from post war occupied Japan with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn how to collect imported mushroom antiques with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Learn about collecting Nippon antiques from Japan with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Watch an introduction to collecting imported antiques with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Get a detailed guide to collecting antiques from Japan with expert antiquing tips from a thrift store owner in this free antique collectors video clip.

Collecting antiques can be a lot of fun. Not only do you get the joy of displaying your items, but finding them can be a bit of a treasure hunt as well. To have the most successful experience…

Proper storage of antique collectibles is very important. Without proper storage, you're opening your collectibles up to damage by water, mold, temperature extremes and insects. Luckily, it's easy to…

Just because the cliche, "They don't make 'em like that anymore" is common, doesn't make it any less true. There's a level of quality and curiosity in antiques that you just can't find in modern…

The Art Deco period, alive in the 1920s and 30s, combined geometric designs and hard lines with circles and curves to create a look that would later spawn the modern and contemporary designs we know…

If you love unusual antiques and beautiful antique furnishings, Architectural Salvage in Louisville, Kentucky, is the place to go! Located on East Broadway near downtown, Architectural Salvage has…

Serious collectors respect the value of original Appalachian tools, instruments, pottery, baskets, quilts and guns. East Tennessee's John Rice Irwin knows it's not the monetary value of each item but…

Many collectors of antique toys also collect antique mechanical banks. These treasures of the past with their whimsical animation are in high demand. The simple actions they perform, such as a mother…

Preserving precious memories of bygone days, antique photos not only document the past in pictures, they represent an emotional link to our ancestry. Unfortunately, most photographs more than…

Antiques are a treasure to find and they are beautiful to see and behold. If collecting antiques is a hobby that you have or if collecting antiques are an interest you would like to get involved in,…

Antique piggy banks have earned a special place in the hearts of many collectors who are often attracted to a bank that brings back a childhood memory. Once you buy one, it is very likely to become…

Religious relics, crosses, medals and many other pieces associated with world religions are highly sought after by people that collect antique religious items. These collectors feel comforted by…

Ephemera is the plural form of the Greek word ephemeron, which means something that lasts a short time. In the world of collectibles, the word refers to documents and other papers that were intended…

Antique paper items need proper handling and storage to keep them in good condition. Protecting your collection of heirlooms from the elements slows down it's decay. Such items as books, maps,…

Collecting antique Bibles is becoming more popular as people realize their investment potential. They are good investments because of their historical value and fragility. The term "antique" usually…

Collectors find as much fun and excitement in the search as they do in the actual collection. Most collectors have a specialty that adds to the intrigue of the hunt. Umbrella stand collectors have a…

You can date antique porcelain collectibles if you can decipher the clues, such as the markings of a piece. You just have to know what to look for and where to find it.

If you love antiques and old metal, you should collect antique copper. Whether you decide to collect only one type of antique copper, or you want to have a general antique copper collection of varied…

People love to go antiquing. The thrill of the hunt increases as you turn up treasures you've longed for or find new "old things." Deep in the heart of Texas, the Hill Country is a magnet for tourism…

If you are a collector of antiques, then you understand the importance of authenticity. A fake antique can damage your credibility and cost you a large amount of money. If you plan to start an antique…

There are many different types of antiques that you can collect. Some people find that antique typewriters are a valuable and fun item to collect. The first typewriter was introduced over 125 years…

Antiques are a wonderful collectable that connect people with our past and perhaps their family's history. However, since antiques are by nature old, they require special care to keep them from being…

Antique bird cages can be a beautiful addition to any home. Birds have been kept as house pets since the early days of modern civilization. Often symbols of status, their cages were celebrated in the…

If you're lucky enough to come across an antique musket, you need to learn how to care for it properly. They can rust without proper care, resulting in damage and loss of value. Follow these steps so…

Antique mesh purses are handmade, elaborate and delicate works of art. Collecting them is a rewarding hobby that involves searching for these treasures. To be a true antique, the mesh purse must be…

Antique flags are literally pieces of history as well as powerful symbols. It is no wonder that when people scale gigantic mountain peaks, land on the moon or capture ships in war, that one of the…

Collections help make life worth living for some people. Several collectors have massive assortments of angels, matchbooks, seashells, teddy bears and countless other items. One great item to…

Gun enthusiasts and history buffs enjoy collecting antique muskets. There is something satisfying about holding a piece of history in your hands and thinking about all the people throughout the years…

Unless you're an antique enthusiast, you probably haven't heard of Bouckville, New York. Nestled in Madison County in the middle of upstate New York, Bouckville hosts an annual antique festival known…

While shopping, it can be very difficult to distinguish between an antique, a copy of an antique and modern merchandise modeled after antiques. There are several different ways, such as looking for…

When many people think about antique jewelry, they think of brooches that their grandmothers used to wear--but antique jewelry encompasses a wide variety of historical periods. Antique jewelry can…

Buying, owning and collecting antiques can be an exciting, fulfilling hobby. The road to becoming an antique enthusiast is one that could last you the rest of your life. Learning about the history of…

Antique jewelry exists in very different styles according to the time period in which it was made. Edwardian jewelry (1901 to 1915) is very light and feminine, while the 1920s style favored a bigger,…

Collecting, selling or otherwise dealing with antiques can be a very engaging hobby and a fulfilling profession. In any case, you must be sure that you are dealing with the genuine article, rather…

Antique pottery comes in three main forms. Earthenware, stoneware and porcelain. Each type has its own individual characteristics and some antique pieces are highly prized especially if the…

The term 'arrowhead' is commonly used to refer to the pointed spears attached to the end of arrows by peoples native to the North American continent. For decades, arrowheads have been popular in the…

This wildly popular PBS program started in 1990 and has been largely responsible for the growing awareness of antiques. If the Roadshow comes to your town, don't miss a chance for a free…

This easy technique can add a quality of depth to painted bisque projects.