Antique Restoration Guide

According to the antique collectors and dealers, for an item to be considered an antique, it must be at least 100 years old. However, just because an item is 100-plus years old does not make it valuable. There are other factors that need to be taken into account - rarity, quality, condition and origin. If you have any heirloom hidden in the attic, but are not sure if it is a valuable piece of antique, it is best to seek professional opinion. Also, do not throw the piece away just because it looks dirty and is damaged. If indeed an antique piece, there are ways to breathe new life into it by restoring it.

Antique restoration is basically getting an old piece to the closest of its original condition possible. And more than just making it looking good. Antique restoration will help make the piece usable again and if possible even add value to it. If you have any antiques skills, you can restore the piece on your own, otherwise hire a professional. Here are some tips to consider if you decide to make an antique restoration a weekend DIY project.

• Make sure you will have enough time to devote to the project. Sometimes even if you think it is a small project, it can easily turn into a long exhausting task, depending on your antique restoration skills. Of course, the more complex antique restoration project, the longer it will take you to finish it;
• Before start antique restoration, make sure you know which technique to use for a particular item. Research to learn more about the history and origin of your antique piece and its true value. Look for marks or labels that may indicate its origin. If clueless, take photos for the piece and consult with a professional restorer;
• Set your budget. You will need to decide how much money you want to spend on antique restoration. While some antiques may require just few simple fixes, others can be more complex and may require higher investment;
• Make sure safety is your priority. When restoring an old piece, always wear a mask, safety glasses, long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from harmful chemicals and always do the restoration in a well ventilated room;
• Start with a good, thorough cleaning. Sometimes a good cleaning is all an antique piece may require to look like new again;
• If necessary, repair or replace any broken parts. Since it may be hard to find an identical part, you may have to opt for a custom- made option;
• Make sure you have all the material and tools required before beginning.

If you don’t have much or any antique restoration experience, it is wise to learn more about this process and have a book on hand to easily find answers to any question you may have. Of course, the internet is a great resource of information, however not always a trustworthy one. Make sure you select reliable sources or hire a professional antique restoration services.