How to Buy Shaker Furniture

Shaker furniture is that made by the Shakers during the early part of the century. It is simple, quality, hand-crafted pieces that have become quite valuable with today's collectors. Use these steps to learn a little more about Shaker furniture and where to buy pieces of your own.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Understand a little about Shaker furniture to better identify the real thing. Shaker furniture was designed to honor God, but apply the values of equality, modesty, confession and faith to every day items. They are hand-crafted, often without any hardware or nails. You can read more at Furniture Styles.

2. Check with your local furniture maker or store. Many of the large furniture companies carry Shaker furniture. There are also many furniture makers using the Shaker style, like Redway.

3. Attend estate sales and auctions to find authentic Shaker furniture. These are not only great places to find authentic pieces, but also to have a chance to chat with the appraiser and the owner to get the true value and history of the item.

4. Browse online selling communities. This is a good place to find anything, but keep in mind without seeing the item in person you have no way of knowing its authenticity or true condition. You also have to consider shipping costs.

Tips & Warnings

• Use Amish furniture as an additional search term when looking for Shaker furniture.

Resources

• Redway Furniture Maker
• Furniture Styles
• Amish Furniture Gallery