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Thinking of moving antique furniture but not sure what the safest way of doing so is? Don’t worry, the experts at Village Vintage are on hand to help! Unlike modern pieces, antiques are often more fragile and valuable, requiring special care and attention. So, whether you’re relocating to a new home or simply rearranging your space, following these tips can help ensure your cherished items arrive safely and in pristine condition.

 

  1. Plan Ahead

If you’re able to do so, planning is crucial when moving antique furniture. Begin by assessing the size and weight of each piece to determine the best method for transport. Consider the following steps:

 

  1. Disassemble When Possible

If your antique furniture can be safely disassembled, it’s worth considering. Removing legs, drawers, and other detachable parts can make the pieces easier to handle and less likely to incur damage. Remember to:

 

  1. Protect Fragile Items

Antique furniture often features delicate elements like glass, mirrors, or intricate carvings. To protect these fragile components:

 

  1. Use Proper Lifting Techniques

Improper lifting techniques can damage both the items and your back. Follow these guidelines for safe lifting when moving antique furniture:

 

  1. Don’t Rush

 

  1. Pack Securely

When packing antique furniture for transport, it’s essential to ensure each piece is well-protected and stable:

 

  1. Consider Professional Help

While DIY moving can save money, hiring professional movers who specialise in moving antique furniture might be worth the investment. Professional movers have the expertise and equipment to handle delicate items safely. When choosing a moving company:

 

  1. Climate Control

Antique furniture is often sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. To protect your pieces:

 

  1. Unpacking and Reassembly

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, take your time unpacking and reassembling your antique furniture:

 

Get in Touch

So, if you’re moving antique furniture, you now have all the information you need to know! If you’re thinking of investing in some beautiful antique and vintage items for your home or business, Village Vintage would love to help! We are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.

This week, our Essex antique dealers delve deeper into creating interiors that are rich in character and unique in style! Incorporating antique furniture into modern spaces is a design trend that is the perfect way to do so, combining the charm and elegance of the past with the functionality of the present. Here are our top points to consider if you’re thinking of a fusion between antique and contemporary elements in your home.

 

Understanding the Aesthetic Appeal

For many, antique furniture brings a sense of history and craftsmanship that is often missing in mass-produced modern pieces. Each antique item tells a story, be it through intricate carvings, unique patinas, or the materials used. When placed in a modern setting, these pieces can become beautiful focal points that add depth and interest to an otherwise minimalist environment.

 

The Art of Balance

Our Essex antique dealers believe that the key to successfully incorporating antique and vintage furniture into modern spaces lies in balance. Too many antiques can overwhelm a room, and potentially make it feel cluttered and dated. However, with the purely ‘scandi’ and minimalist look slowly beginning to filter out, focal pieces are making a comeback. Here are some tips to strike the perfect balance:

Start with a Neutral Base: Modern interiors often feature neutral colour palettes and clean lines. Use this to your advantage and start with a simple, understated backdrop. White, beige, grey or even terracotta colour walls, along with contemporary furnishings create a canvas where antiques can shine without overwhelming the space.

 

Choose Statement Pieces: Select a few standout antique pieces that will serve as focal points. This could be a Victorian armchair, an antique table lamp, a vintage wall mirror, or an Art Deco coffee table. These items should contrast with your modern décor, drawing the eye and creating visual interest.

 

Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different styles and eras. A mid-century modern sofa can look stunning next to a 19th-century credenza. The juxtaposition of styles can create a dynamic and layered look.

 

Mind the Scale: Ensure that the scale of your antique pieces work in harmony with your modern furniture. A delicate antique side table might get lost next to a large, contemporary sectional, for example.

 

Practical Tips for Integration

Got the pieces that you’re ready to integrate? Here are some practical ways to seamlessly transition antique furniture into your modern home:

Reupholster and Refurbish: Antique furniture can come with fabrics and finishes that don’t always match modern aesthetics. Reupholstering an antique chair in a contemporary fabric or refinishing a wooden table can breathe new life into these pieces, while helping them blend better with the majority of your décor.

 

Incorporate Modern Accents: Pair your antiques with modern accents to bridge the gap between old and new. For example, try placing a sleek, minimalist lamp on an ornate antique desk.

 

Use Antiques as Anchors: Let your antique pieces anchor your space. A large antique dining table can set the tone for your dining room, or a vintage bed frame in the bedroom can help to push aesthetic direction. If you’re buying the antique before you decorate the rest of a room, use it to allow you a clearer view of modern theming that will suit the focal item.

 

Create Vignettes: Arrange antiques in small groups or vignettes to create visual interest and homely focal points. A vintage mirror above a modern console table or a collection of antique vases on a sleek shelf can make a striking statement.

 

Benefits of Blending Antique and Modern Furniture

Here are some of the many benefits of merging these two types of furniture, according to our Essex antique dealers:

Sustainability: Incorporating antique furniture into your home or business is an eco-friendly choice. By reusing and repurposing old pieces, you reduce waste and the demand for new resources, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

 

Uniqueness: Antique pieces are often one-of-a-kind, ensuring that your home won’t look like a carbon copy of every other modern interior. These items add a layer of individuality and personality to your space.

 

Quality and Craftsmanship: Many antique pieces are crafted with a level of detail and quality that is hard to find in modern furniture. Investing in antiques can mean acquiring furniture that is not only beautiful but also built to last.

 

Get in Touch

Here at Village Vintage Essex antique dealers, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage and antique pieces for the home and beyond, we’d love to help!

Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you. Don't forget to join our community on Facebook.

Art Deco furniture is one of our favourite categories here at Village Vintage. Hailing from Paris in the 1910’s and filtering into Europe and the United States throughout the 1920’s and 1930’s, these vintage pieces are bursting with character and charm, perfect to bring a little alternative style into your home or business!

This week, we delve into Art Deco, its key features and the beautiful pieces our Essex antique dealer has available to purchase.

 

What is Art Deco?

Short for the French phrase ‘Arts Décoratifs’, Art Deco emerged in the 20th century and was the predominant decorative art style around the WW1 era. Appearing in visual arts, architecture furniture and other product design, it is characterised by strong colours and geometric shapes. The ‘Art Deco’ style truly reflects the rapid industrialisation of the era. It's often associated with luxury, glamour, and exuberance!

 

Styles and Characteristics

The Art Deco movement continues to captivate with its sophistication, bringing a touch of vintage glamour to any space. If you’re newcomer to this iconic style, knowing the characteristics to look out for will help you on your journey to finding the right pieces. Distinctive features include:

Geometric Patterns: Geometric motifs are a hallmark of Art Deco furniture design. Look for pieces with inlaid wood patterns, angular metal accents, or carved details that emphasize symmetry and repetition. Other design patterns can include zigzags, chevrons, sunbursts and floral patterns.

 

Luxurious Materials: Furniture from this era showcases luxurious materials. Use of exotic woods like ebony, mahogany, and zebrawood are frequently used in Art Deco style. Incorporation of materials like chrome, glass, mirrors, lacquer, ivory, mother-of-pearl and shagreen (stingray skin) are also common here. This adds a sense of uniqueness and refinement to each piece.

 

Bold Colours: Deep saturated colours like black, gold, silver, ruby reds, emerald green and cobalt blues are often paired with glossy black or metallic finishes. These vibrant hues and reflective surfaces create dramatic statement pieces. There is often a high contrast between colours to enhance any geometric patterns.

 

Streamlined and Sleek: You’ll find that Art Deco furniture pieces often have a streamlined shape, with clean lines. Key features for pieces like sideboards, armchairs, and coffee tables include polished surfaces with smooth, curved edges or sharp, angular profiles. This creates a striking visual impact.

 

Art Deco Furniture at Village Vintage 

At Village Vintage, we’re passionate about Art Deco style and its culture. We have collected some beautiful pieces from Europe that we know our customers will love!

 

French Amber Finger Bowls x5

A set of five amber glass finger bowls. Each 13cm diameter and in very good condition! Beautiful accessories for any kitchen or dining room table.

Vintage French Silver Gilt Cocktail Jug

A stunning French Art Deco vintage cocktail making and pouring jug, in a classically designed heavy crystal base, with a rare integral handle. The Silver Gilt mount is exquisitely decorated around the mounting collar. The spout is perforated to collect any unwanted residue upon pouring your cocktail! This piece is in original and unmarked condition and measures 25cm in height and 19cm wide.

Vintage Marble Lade Covered Dish

A covered dish made from solid marble with and Art Deco detail on the front. Stylish and dainty, this is perfect to hold little trinkets or jewellery.

Vintage French Styled Wooden Wind Up Wall Clocks

A stunning classic vintage 1950 wall clock, in excellent condition. A very rare find with a contrasting crackled varnished face and rich waxed Pitch Pine frame, with twenty-four hour numbers on the face.

Pair of French Amboyna Two Tier Bedside Tables

A pair of decadent Amboyna veneer finish bedside tables in very good condition. Elegant shaped tops, with under tiers joined by three curvaceous legs. Versatile and useful for any room, these are an understated yet striking design.

French Cast Iron Bistro Table

A French Art Deco bistro table, with round glass top set over a striking red coloured ground. With a polished metal edge, set upon a three-facet column, which itself is set on an Art Deco stepped tripod base. The makers cast stamp can be seen on the column. This is a real statement piece and could be used as a lamp table or an indoor or outdoor drinks table. 71 cm in height and 48cm in width, this is very good condition with the base being painted over sometime during the 1920’s/30’s.

Art Deco Coffee Table

This stunning and rare piece is a genuine late Art Deco period round pedestal coffee/centre table from the renowned designer Reiners Mobler, of Mjolby, Sweden. Inlaid with vibrant flame mahogany veneers radially, with a contrasting centre medallion of satin Birch. This design and style is typical of this high-end designer.

The heavy tabletop sits upon a concave tripod centre column with stylised split turning Ebonised Corinthian columns. The table is stamped on the top support plate with an ‘R’ and ‘MJOLBY’. It's surrounded by three crowns inside a triangle and ‘1942’ on the underside of the top edge. 58cm in height and 110cm in diameter, this Art Deco coffee table is in good condition for its age. It comes complete with a bespoke protective 8mm plate glass top.

 

Viewings 

All items are available to view with our team at our secure storage facility, Monday-Friday by appointment only. Collection in person or UK and international shipping can be arranged for ultimate convenience.

 

Get in Touch

If you’re interested in any of our vintage Art Deco furniture, the team at Village Vintage would love to help! We are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.

Is there a difference between antique and vintage pieces? Here at Village Vintage, it’s a question we’re often asked. Although commonly believed to mean the same, there are differences between the terminology, though they’re used interchangeably. In this week’s blog post, we take a closer look and clarify the significance between the two to help you make better informed decisions when purchasing or collecting your items.

 

Definition and Age

The primary difference between antique and vintage lies in their age. Generally, an item is considered antique if it is at least 100 years old. This definition is widely accepted in the collectibles market and by most antique dealers. Antiques are often seen as items that have significant historical value, reflecting the craftsmanship, materials, and design aesthetics of the period in which they were made.

On the other hand, vintage items are typically those that are at least 20 years old, but not yet 100 years old. For instance, a vase from the 1980s can be described as vintage, whilst a vase from the 1890s would be considered antique.

The term vintage is often associated with a particular era or decade; ‘Mid C’ refers to mid-century (encompassing 1950/60/70's). This is the most common term referred to in association with the ‘best’ vintage period.

 

Historical and Cultural Significance

Antiques often carry a greater historical and cultural significance due to their age. They can provide insight into the social customs and artistic trends of their time. For example, an antique piece of furniture from the Victorian era can reveal much about the materials used and the stylistic preferences of that period.

Vintage items, while not as old, can still offer valuable cultural insights. They often reflect the popular styles and trends of a more recent past, capturing the essence of the time they represent. As an example, vintage fashion can showcase the evolving tastes and societal norms of the mid-20th century, such as the shift from the conservative styles of the 1940s to the bold and experimental fashions of the 1970s.

 

Condition and Quality

The condition and quality of an item can also distinguish the difference between antique and vintage pieces. Antiques, due to their age, are often rarer and may require more care to maintain their condition. They are typically valued for their originality and specifics like the patina that has developed over time, which can add to their historical authenticity and charm.

Vintage items, being newer, are often more readily available and may not require as much maintenance. However, their condition can still significantly impact their value. Pristine vintage items, especially those that are representative of their era, are highly sought after by collectors.

 

Market Value

The market value of antiques and vintage items can vary widely based on factors such as rarity, condition, and demand. Rare and well-preserved antiques often reach higher prices due to their age and historical significance.

Vintage items can also be valuable, particularly if they are iconic of their time or have become fashionable again; which we have certainly seen more recently. For example, vintage collections from well-known designers can be highly desirable and fetch high prices. Naturally, the value of vintage items can also be influenced by current trends and the nostalgia factor. This can drive demand for items from particular decades.

In light of this, you may have heard of the term ‘retro’ within the vintage community. It’s commonly used in place of the term ‘vintage’, however there is a slightly different meaning to them. Retro is actually a shortening of the French word, retrograde. This is where newer pieces imitate or nod to the styles of the recent past. So, if an item is listed as retro, it most likely won’t be an authentic vintage piece.

Get in Touch

Now we’ve clarified the difference between antique and vintage pieces, you can better appreciate the unique qualities and value of each type of item! Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do. We are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage pieces and antique furniture, we’d love to help!

Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.

Cleaning antique furniture is a steadfast way to keep your décor looking spic and span, what’s more, you’ll actually be assisting in its preservation! As experts in vintage and antique furniture, our Essex antique dealers are well-versed when it comes to the upkeep of your products. This week, we take a closer look at the benefits of using the correct cleaning techniques and some preservation tips for different materials.

 

The Benefits

Amongst the hustle and bustle of life, often, the last thing we want to be doing is making time for the cleaning. However, when it comes to your antique items, taking just a few moments to clean and care for them can significantly benefit their appearance and longevity. Our advice would be not to wait for them to get covered in dust, but to be proactive in your approach and schedule ten minutes out of your week to give them the care they deserve. Remember, antiques are an investment, so it will always fare you well to keep them in the best condition possible.

Some of the key advantages of efficient cleaning include:

 

Preservation of Material

Cleaning antique furniture regularly helps in preserving the material of the furniture. Whether it's wood or fabric, dust and dirt can accumulate and lead to deterioration over time. Did you know that dust particles can actually act like sandpaper, causing scratches on wooden surfaces over time? By keeping your antique furniture clean, you help to prolong its lifespan by removing potentially harmful debris, treating the surface with the appropriate products and preventing wear and tear.

 

Prevention of Damage

Proper cleaning can prevent damage from pests, such as termites or woodworm, which are attracted to dirty and neglected furniture. Alongside cleaning, don’t forget to take a quick look for signs of damage caused by critters every couple of months.

 

Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal

Cleaning restores the original lustre and beauty of antique furniture. Removing grime, stains, and build-up can bring out the wood’s natural grain, patina, and craftsmanship details that can easily be hidden. Clean furniture also contributes to a healthier and fresher living environment. Not only does this look tidier, but it eliminates dust and allergens that could affect the indoor air quality.

 

Maintaining Value

Antique furniture often holds its significant monetary and sentimental value. Well-maintained pieces are more likely to retain or even increase their value over time. Collectors and buyers are more interested in pieces that have been properly cared for, so if you’re thinking of selling-on one day, a quick clean on a frequent basis will benefit you further down the line.

 

How To Clean Antique Furniture

When it comes to cleaning antique furniture, some items will need specialist attention. Here are our tips for some of the most common vintage materials.

 

Wood

Cleaning antique wood requires careful handling, so you can begin by gently dusting the surface with a soft cloth or using the vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dirt and dust. A polished finish can also be achieved by using the cloth to buff the wooden surface – if polish solution is being used, be sure to test it on a small inconspicuous area of the wood to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish. Leave to air dry after cleaning. Our advice would be to avoid using water and soap when cleaning antique wood pieces. For details and crevices, use cotton swabs to remove dust and dirt. Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or excessive moisture, as these can damage the wood’s finish and structure.

Always handle antique wood with care and avoid placing it in direct sunlight or in areas with high humidity.

 

Silverware

If your antique silverware is tarnished, there are a few ways you can make them sparkle again!

 

 

 

 

Glassware

With glassware, such as wine glasses, gently hand wash in warm soapy water and dry with kitchen towel. Don’t put them in the dishwasher, as this exposes them to extreme temperatures which could result in breakage.

To clean mirrors and brighten cloudiness, simply apply a little distilled white vinegar or alcohol on a cotton pad or microfibre cloth and gently wipe over. Don’t spray anything directly on the mirror as this can create tarnish marks. Leave to airdry.

 

Fabric

Cleaning antique furniture can also include fabric items. Vintage upholstered surfaces should be vacuumed gently using the brush attachment to collect any dust and dirt. For stain removal, gently use a mild cleaning product and tepid water on a soft fabric, foam, or spongy material. Apply pressure in circular motions to lift dirt without damaging fabric fibres.

A mild detergent mixed with warm water is often the best choice for delicate antique upholstery. However, it’s best to test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric. Make sure you wipe again thoroughly using a clean cloth dipped in water so that no residue remains behind. Let the fabric air dry and avoid heated environments.

 

Get in Touch

We hope these tips on cleaning antique furniture come in handy! Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage pieces and antique furniture, we’d love to help! Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.

When it comes to sustainability, choosing vintage and antique furniture over newer pieces is a much greener alternative. At Village Vintage, we’re passionate about the positive impact our industry has on the world around us and with World Environment Day this week, we thought we’d take the opportunity to discuss just how antique and vintage pieces encourage us to be eco-friendly, whilst offering a few tips on what you can do to give your furniture a new lease of life at home!

 

An Eco-Friendly Approach to Décor

When we think of sustainability, antique furniture isn’t necessarily what instantly comes to mind. Antique and vintage items usually come with the reputation of being luxury items – this is true, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. Not only do look beautiful, but they’re much better for the environment. Whether you’re looking to decorate your home, your business, hotel or anything else in between, antique pieces are built for longevity and significantly impact waste reduction, amongst other benefits.

 

Built to Last

The craftmanship behind antique furniture is second to none. These items are built to last, providing quality and durability for the owner. Unlike many mass-produced modern pieces, vintage products were built with longevity in mind, using high-quality materials and techniques. Investing in such well-made furniture reduces the need for frequent replacements, which is common with lower-quality modern alternatives. It also ensures that fewer resources are consumed over time, promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Long-term, it’ll likely be more cost-effective too.

 

Waste Reduction

Modern furniture manufacturing often leads to a considerable amount of waste, from the cutting of materials to the disposal of unsold products. By opting for vintage and antique pieces, we extend the life cycle of existing furniture, preventing them from ending up in landfills. This reuse of furniture minimises the need for new resources and overall waste.

 

Encouraging Upcycling

Antique furniture pieces inspire creativity and innovation when it comes to home decor. Upcycling involves repurposing or reviving a piece of furniture to create a product of higher quality and sometimes, higher value than the original. Furniture upcycling and giving pieces a second life is a great way to add character to personal spaces while encouraging eco-friendly principles.

On this note, furniture restoration is something that we are passionate about here at Village Vintage. Restoring antique furniture is a wonderful way to prolong the life of furniture, as well as refreshing the item. We professionally restore pieces that we purchase, where needed with great care and accuracy.

 

Decreasing Resource Consumption

The production of new furniture demands substantial natural resources, including wood, metal, and various synthetics. This consumption contributes to deforestation, mining, and other practices deemed environmentally harmful. Vintage and antique furniture, on the other hand, have already been produced decades or even centuries ago. By circulating these items, we decrease the demand for new raw materials, conserving natural resources and reducing the strain on our environment.

 

Lowering Carbon Footprint

Manufacturing new furniture involves a series of energy-intensive processes, from harvesting raw materials to production and transportation. This entire chain contributes to a significant carbon footprint. The carbon footprint associated with antique furniture, however, is substantially lower as they do not require new manufacturing processes. Furthermore, we offer in-person collection of items purchased at our Essex based storage unit.

 

Supporting Local Economies and Artisans

Purchasing vintage and antique furniture will always involve buying from local sellers, specialist antique shops, family run companies or auctions. This practice supports local businesses and artisans who specialise in restoring and selling these quality pieces. By choosing to buy locally, you contribute to the local economy and encourage sustainable practices within our communities.

 

This would certainly be the case at Village Vintage – we are a father and son family business who are passionate about our vintage collections and our bespoke customer service.

 

Preserving History and Culture

Each piece of vintage or antique furniture carries a story, a piece of history, and cultural significance. By incorporating these items into our living spaces today, we preserve the craftsmanship and artistry of the past. This appreciation for history and culture offers a deeper understanding of our heritage and can help to encourage a more mindful and sustainable approach to consumption.

 

Get in Touch

Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage pieces and antique furniture, we’d love to help! Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you.

Are you looking for a reputable Essex antique dealer? Then you’ve come to the right place! Welcome to Village Vintage , a family run, father and son business who are passionate about our vintage collections and of course, our wonderful customers. In this week’s blog post, we thought we’d introduce ourselves, discuss exactly what it is we do, why we’re passionate about the antiques and vintage industry and how we could assist in finding your next unique piece for your home.

 

What Do We Do?

Here at Village Vintage, we specialise in sourcing, unusual vintage/antique furnishings and decorative items for around the home. We cater to all styles and budgets, and guarantee that our products have that unique difference that you are looking for! If you’re looking to make an impact in your home, Village Vintage is there to help you achieve this. If it’s not in stock, we’ll do our best to source something for you.

As Essex antique dealers with years of experience under our belt, not only are we extremely skilled and respected in our field, but we have built trusting relationships with credible suppliers across Europe. This ensures that our customers get the premium quality, one of a kind home furnishings they’re looking for.

 

Bespoke Customer Service  

When it comes to customer service, we are dedicated to delivering the best and always strive to go above and beyond in all that we do. We have a very in-depth knowledge of the marketplace and trends and try to focus on design led pieces with well-known names as well as the more unusual, quality items that we may come across.

We sell individual pieces to the public and also supply high end hotels and other hospitality venues who are always searching for quality, one off pieces. Our team are very proud that our field of work is so environmentally friendly, and with our in-house expert restoration, we make sure that pieces carry on being loved and admired for years to come.

At Village Vintage, we predominantly trade online, however, we know just how important it is for you to get a feel for the item you’re interested in. There’s nothing quite like seeing an antique in all its grandeur for yourself! Located on the Essex and Suffolk border, we offer viewings with our team at our secure storage facility, Monday- Friday by appointment only. This way, you’re able to physically see the item, talk to our professional team and ask any questions you may have.

Furthermore, our customers are welcome to collect items in person, or we can organise both UK and international delivery. We want your purchasing experience to be as seamless as possible for you, so we give you the option for ultimate convenience.

 

Reputation

In our industry, trust and credibility is everything. Our Essex antique dealer are leading the way with our upfront and sincere approach. For every quality piece, we guarantee assurance that the items we distribute are genuine, providing accurate provenance and verification whenever possible. We want you to shop with confidence; for many, vintage and antique items are often investments, so purchasing from a trusted reputable source is absolutely key.

Village Vintage adhere to ethical standards, which includes fair pricing, honest disclosure, and responsible sourcing. We also have our clear, no quibble 14 day return policy and guarantees, providing additional peace of mind for buyers. We understand that a good reputation fosters customer loyalty and long-term business relationships - we want you to leave us feeling informed and above all, satisfied with your purchase!

 

Our Antique Categories

We have hundreds of beautiful pieces available on our website, with new items consistently added to our collection. Should you have any queries, our team would be happy to help! Some of our most popular categories include:

 

Restoration

Did you know that our Essex antique dealer specialises in antique restoration? Restoring antique furniture is a wonderful way to prolong the life of furniture, as well as refreshing the item. It’s one thing having an eye for vintage items, but restoring antiques takes our expertise to a whole new level. This intricate skill truly sets our business apart. At Village Vintage, we restore antique and vintage pieces that we purchase, only if needed, with great care and precision.

 

Sustainability

Village Vintage Essex antique dealer are extremely passionate about the sustainable offerings of our field and pride ourselves on our environmentally friendly commitment to only supply pre-loved, quality items.

Today, it’s increasingly difficult to find quality items that can withstand the test of time with minimal upkeep. With pressure on designers, manufacturers and suppliers to minimise costs, quality is often sacrificed, which certainly rings true in the modern furnishings industry. Cheaper materials are now being used to craft products, which means the customer will need replacements much sooner.

Choosing vintage and antique pieces over newer options not only supports sustainability efforts but also ensures high-quality furnishings that last longer than the alternative.

 

Get in Touch

Here at Village Vintage, we love what we do and are passionate about delivering the best results for our valued customers. If you’re looking for unique vintage and antique pieces for the home, we’d love to help! Simply get in touch with us by filling out our contact form and one of our friendly team will get back to you. Don't forget to join our community on Facebook.

Unfortunately, the antique furniture that we all love and cherish in our homes and offices is more often than not unprotected. The antique furniture of today has different needs than the antique furniture of yesterday. The antique furniture we buy today will last much longer if we follow some simple rules for preservation. This blog post will introduce you to the basic principles of antique perseveration so that your vintage pieces can be protected for generations to come.

1) Cleaning Antique Wooden Surfaces

Antique wooden surfaces require specific care to keep them protected and looking new. A soft brush such as a small paintbrush can be used to gently dust antique wooden furniture with a very lightly dampened, clean cloth; avoid using water or soap when cleaning antique wood pieces. A slightly brighter finish can be achieved by using a very soft, dry cloth to buff antique wooden surfaces such as antique dining tables or antique dressers.

2) Repairing Antiques

Any antique that needs repairs should have them done using antique-style joinery and antique finish materials, which shouldn't be difficult since most antique furniture is made from solid woods such as oak, maple, cherry, or walnut. You can use modern materials to make repairs or refinish your antique; woodworkers commonly use modern adhesives, varnishes, and stains when working on antique furniture. You can touch up scratches or worn spots with an antique stain or finish pencil to give the piece an antique look.

3) Protecting The Finish

Use a high-quality paste wax polish when protecting antique furniture for storage; wax prevents dust and other particles from settling on the antique's surface and also provides a protective coating. Make sure to get antique furniture wax explicitly made for antique furniture; it'll be easier to apply, won't leave streaks or buildup, and will offer better protection than most modern polishes. Other antique-appropriate cleaners include one part distilled water and one part isopropyl alcohol.

4) Protecting Antique Fabric

Antique fabrics should be cleaned and allowed to dry completely before any work is done on the antique piece; never use water or solvents on antique fabrics. Clean antique upholstered surfaces using a vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment to pick up dust and dirt, then carefully clean antique upholstery with an antique-appropriate cleaner. Antique slipcovers are fragile, so they should be stored separately from antique furniture when not in use.

5) Protecting Antique Doors & Drawers

Antique wooden doors and drawers should be oiled with antique-style door and drawer oil, not modern wood oils. Apply the antique-appropriate cleaner to a soft cloth, then wipe the antique doors or antique drawers down with that cloth. The knob or pull-on antique doors should have an antique-style sealer applied to them at least once a year to keep them from looking worn.

6) Protecting Antique Hardware

Antique hardware such as antique door or drawer pulls often need to be polished periodically; antique-style oil will protect the metal without leaving a residue on your antique furniture like some modern lubricants might. Antique hardware should also be kept clean; if antique pull sticks, apply the antique-appropriate cleaner to a soft cloth, then gently wipe the antique pull clean.

7) Storing Antique Furniture

Antique furniture should always be stored in a dry place, preferably one where there's no humidity or moisture present; this can cause antique furniture to warp and become damaged. Before placing antique furniture away for storage, make sure it's thoroughly dried out first; if antique furniture has been sitting in a damp or humid area, antique furniture can develop mould that needs to be removed before it's placed into storage.

Tips For Restoring Antique Furniture

When you think of antique furniture, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a beautiful antique rocking chair or antique colonial dresser. But antique furniture isn't limited to these types of pieces and antique furniture can be found in many areas of your home. Chances are, you have antique dining room chairs or antique bedroom chests in your home that need some restoration! If you're interested in restoring antique furniture with minimal investment and time spent, read on! We'll explore how to restore antique furniture using only household items.  Now, let's get started with the steps for restoring your antique furniture piece at home!

Restoring antique furniture can be a wonderful way to breathe new life into old pieces. Some of the benefits include:

When you think of antique furniture, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a beautiful antique rocking chair or antique colonial dresser. But antique furniture isn't limited to these types of pieces and antique furniture can be found in many areas of your home. Chances are, you have antique dining room chairs or antique bedroom chests in your home that need some restoration! If you're interested in restoring antique furniture with minimal investment and time spent, read on! We'll explore how to restore antique furniture using only household items.  Now, let's get started with the steps for restoring your antique furniture piece at home!

Step 1: Use an Antique Furniture Cleaning Formula to Remove Dirt and Grime

The easiest step for antique furniture restoration is antique furniture cleaning. This step can be done with a store-bought antique furniture cleaner and a soft cloth. Make sure to read the instructions on the antique furniture cleaner before applying it.

Step 2: Remove Stains with a Baking Soda Paste

An antique dresser often has stains of different colours that have accumulated over time. The majority of these stains will come off with wiping the surface down with water, but there are some stubborn stains that need a little help from baking soda paste in order to get them out! To make this paste, mix 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water until it becomes an even consistency. Then use a soft cloth to apply the paste to the stained area and leave it for at least 10 minutes before wiping away any excess.

Step 3: Remove Hairspray or Other Spray Products from Antique Furniture Pieces

Hairspray, hairspray buildup, or other aerosol products can accumulate in antique furniture pieces and cause unwanted damage.

Hairspray buildup or other aerosol products can accumulate in antique furniture pieces and cause unwanted damage.  If you're interested in restoring antique furniture with minimal investment and time spent, read on! We'll explore how to restore antique furniture using only household items.  Now, let's get started with the steps for restoring your antique furniture piece at home!

Step 4: Use Quick Drying Glue or Epoxy for Splits

For antique furniture that has splits, you'll want to use quick-drying glue or epoxy. Apply it to the cracked area and clamp it together.  You can also try using antique furniture clamps over the period of a few hours for an antique chair's joints or antique table's stretchers.

Step 5: Sand Away any Rough Edges with Fine Grit Sandpaper

Sandpaper is a useful tool for antique furniture restoration.  It can be used to sand away any rough edges and create a smoother surface.

This process can help antique furniture pieces last longer than they would without the use of sandpaper, but it also helps antique furniture look more beautiful and elegant when you're done! You should start by removing any loose parts like drawers or handles, then using fine grit sandpaper on all the surfaces of your antique piece with gentle circular motions. After that, make sure to wipe off all dust before reassembling your antique piece.

Restoring antique furniture is a process that can be done in your own home with minimal investment and time spent. By following the five easy steps outlined above, you'll have antique furniture restored to its original beauty without having to call an antique restoration professional!

Ceramics are always a popular type of antique, but it can be hard to know where to start if you want to begin collecting them or if you're looking for something that is not too expensive. From individual items (like pottery) and full collections, this article has some great advice on how best to identify the ceramics in your collection.

How do you identify vintage ceramics?

As with other types of antiques, ceramics come with marks that help you identify them. However, the range of ceramic and pottery out there is incredibly varied, which means that these markings cover a huge selection as to what they mean for identifying who made them - if anything at all! The Victoria & Albert Museum has created an A-Z guide on how to best determine where your next piece might be from or by whom it was crafted; take their advice before making any purchases so you can get something truly worth collecting!

Ceramics can be identified by a number of factors, including marks. You will need to know the origin and time period as well in order to identify your pieces correctly. The way you identify ceramics is important because it decides what kind of information about its history that you'll have access to - like where they were made or when they started being used.

Ceramics come in many different varieties and are made from a wide range of materials. Some ceramics, such as earthenware, may be coarse or stoneware but others can be delicate porcelain. The weight and translucence of the ceramic item will give you an indication if it is likely to have been made by hand or on a wheel. For example, older pottery would typically indicate that it was created by hand while pieces being cut from wheels tend to be much newer with cleaner lines. If you want to know what type of glaze was used, take a look at the decoration and style. Some potters have styles that are easy to identify while others can be more difficult. You should also check if it has sharp edges or is colorful with lots of detail - all will make identification easier!

How to date ceramics

If you’re looking for a more definitive answer, having your ceramics looked at and valued by an expert is the best option. They will know exactly what to look for in order to identify tell-tale signs that indicate who made it, where it was produced and when its most likely from. If you're an antique collector or seller, this information can be very helpful. An expert is able to provide a rough estimate for the value of your piece and help assess whether it's part of a set or not. This is important information that can help you when building your collection or if you decide to sell your antique ceramic. The value of any given piece depends on a number of factors, so it’s vital not only for collectors but also those who want to liquidate their pieces as well. There are many different types and styles which may affect the price; some will be worth more than others because they have historical significance due to where they were made, what year they were produced in, etc.

Take a look at the following to get an idea of how much vintage ceramics could be worth:

Getting your ceramics appraised is a smart idea if you want to sell them or insure them. This will offer you an estimate of their worth as well as more information about their origins. An appraisal can also provide you with more information about other works by the same creator that you might wish to add to your collection, perhaps increasing the value of your ceramics in the long run.

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