Antique Dining Room Sets for Sale

Finding antique dining room sets for sale isn't as easy as it may sound. Since the items are antique and one of a kind there are often pieces missing or problems with the size.

Set your vintage table with antique silverware patterns.

Antique dining sets can be an elegant touch to a formal dining room or bring home country charm to a more casual environment. The patina of aged wood that has been polished and used for generations can be breathtakingly beautiful.

Most antique and vintage dining room sets will have at least a table and six to eight chairs. Often the set will also include a sideboard or other similar storage. Other things that are common in these sets are:

• Two chairs with arms, often called captain's chairs
• Leaves for extending the table
• Hutch
• Upholstered chairs

The type of wood used in the set and the style of the design are generally dictated by the era in which the set was made. Some common woods include:

• Burled walnut
• Bird's eye maple
• Mahogany

Pine was most often used for kitchen tables and other less formal areas of the home. The wood is often intricately carved, especially if it is from the Victorian era. Later dining sets were less detailed, and from the 1920s to about the mid 1940s the Duncan Phyffe revival sets became popular with their more streamlined look.

If you have shopped and found the perfect antique dining room set for sale, there are still some things that you want to look for. Don't be afraid to check the set carefully because it could save you some money and heartbreak in the long run.

• Look at the top of the table. Are there cracks in the wood? Is it overly dry or warped?
• Test the joints of the chairs. Make sure that the chairs are still sturdy.
• Look at the underside of the table and chairs. Are there any markings that might indicate that it is an antique reproduction?
• While you are looking at the underside of the furniture check for signs that it has been repaired. Are the repairs done well? Do they seem to be secure enough to hold up?

Depending on where you find your antique dining room set for sale you may need to clean it.

1. Wash it gently with a dilute solution of mild dish soap and water.
2. Rinse carefully and dry thoroughly.
3. If it is mildewed you should wipe it down with a solution of a tablespoon of bleach mixed with a quart of warm water. Dry thoroughly, but do not rinse.
4. Any sticky residue that may be left can be removed with paint thinner. Always test the finish in an inconspicuous place before using.

If at all possible you should buy your vintage dining room set locally. This gives you the opportunity to take a good look at it and make sure it is in good, usable condition. Looking at it before you buy will help ensure that it is exactly as it has been represented to you and buying locally will save you a lot of money in shipping.

There are a number of ways to acquire an antique dining set:

• Antique shops are usually good sources for these sets. They will often be priced higher than if you bought from other venues but the condition is usually very good.
• Thrift shops sometimes will have an antique set. You will save a lot of money if you can find your set at the local thrift store.
• Garage sales can also be good sources for dining room sets.
• Your local Craigslist may reveal exactly what you are looking for.
• Online antique stores and malls like Ruby Lane can be a good place to browse.
• Of course, eBay will always have something interesting. You will just need to be sure to ask questions.

Antique dining sets are a wonderful investment and a cherished heirloom for future generation. By choosing carefully and taking good care of your set it will be around for generations to come.

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