When dealing with wood furniture that has more significant damage like loose joints, broken legs, split wood or deep gouges, the problem may or may not need a difficult fix and should be evaluated by a woodworking professional or talented amateur. There are products on the market these days that make stripping, sanding and staining furniture easier than it used to be. You could also strip and refinish furniture that's in otherwise good shape. Even a slightly abused piece can be transformed into a shabby chic find and given a new life with a change of hardware and the right accessories. If you see watermarks on solid wood or dirt buildup from neglect, a little wood soap and a mild abrasive can make a big difference. Solid wood furniture can take a beating and still be salvageable, where peeling veneers or pressed wood products with water damage are often beyond help. Check your potential purchases with a realistic eye, both for their condition and your time and desire to whip them into shape. ![]() Refinishing wood can be hard work, and reupholstering furniture isn't a picnic either. But when you're evaluating furniture, keep some things in mind. On the next page, we'll peruse a few furniture finds.įinding bargain furniture that's attractive and functional may well be the holy grail of garage sale shopping. Carrying some small bills and change with you will usually save time and trouble. Oh, and when you do pay, make sure to have cash in your pocket. Having Internet access to sites like and others, which can give you a good lead on what constitutes a fair price, will give you an advantage and peace of mind. When you're hot on the trail of a fantastic find, get the skinny on it before you buy. You should also have some rope or bungee cords on hand in case you find a big-ticket item you need to strap to your roof or hang out of your trunk. If you do find something with potential, keeping a tarp, some plastic sheeting and some painter's tape in your car will help you get your finds home with a minimum of fuss. If you want to find a nice wooden chest to fill that alcove near your staircase, knowing the maximum width you have to work with will save you from a big disappointment later. You might have to paint or reupholster your finds, but then again, you could discover the perfect match, if you have the tools to recognize it when you see it.Ĭarry a tape measure, and be sure to jot down important measurements before you leave home. ![]() Along with your wish list, keep samples of your paint colors, drapery fabric, upholstery and anything else you may want to match. ![]() Keeping a list of things to look for, from bundt pans to bamboo steamers, will help you develop a "no man left behind" strategy.ĭon't forget the designer side of things, either. You never know what you'll find, but having a wish list doesn't hurt.
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