The Westport Library Resource Guides: Antique Collecting: For Beginners

A Beginners Guide to Antique Collecting

Collecting Antiques: A Practical Guide for Beginners

Collecting antiques doesn't have to feel intimidating, and it doesn't have to be expensive. If you're a beginner, considering a new hobby, or want to add a bit of history to your home with the perfect antique collection, these tips can help you get started.

From coins to clocks to comic books, there are thousands of different types of antiques to collect. The key to choosing the right collectible for you is knowing what you love. You may want a collection of antique silver if you enjoy entertaining for holidays, or you may simply want to fill your home with a variety of pieces of antique furniture. Before you begin researching items or perusing the wares in an antique shop, take some time think explore what you might enjoy. You can start by asking yourself these questions; What do you plan to do with your antique collection? Will you be using these items in your home? Is there an era you especially enjoy? For instance, do you like items from the Victorian period? Are you fascinated by specific types of times, such as sewing-related antiques or hand tools? What kinds of things catch your eye as you walk through a flea market or shop? What do those things have in common?

In most cases, for an item to be considered "antique," it must be at least 100 years old. Something younger than that may still be collectible and valuable, but it is "vintage." Understanding this distinction is very important if you're going to be buying or selling antiques because the age of an item can be a major factor in determining its value. Continue reading from LovetoKnow