Beginner's Guide to Antiques tag:beginnersguide.com,2007:/antiques//249 2007-08-07T10:19:13Z Antiques Movable Type 3.35 Why Should I Invest In Gold Coins? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32850 2006-10-09T18:06:43Z 2006-10-09T18:07:29Z The condition of a coin is commonly summarized by a grade. Because the value of collectible coins often varies dramatically with grade and overly generous grading is not uncommon, reasonable grading proficiency is an important skill for collectors. Grading is... John The condition of a coin is commonly summarized by a grade. Because the value of collectible coins often varies dramatically with grade and overly generous grading is not uncommon, reasonable grading proficiency is an important skill for collectors. Grading is a skill that can only be developed over time through referrals to grading guides, consultation with experienced collectors and dealers, and lots of practice.

Published standards set objective criteria for grading, yet some amount of subjectivity is inevitable, even expert graders will often assign slightly different grades to the same coin. While you can often ask an experienced grader for an opinion, being able to make your own reasonable assessment of grade is your best protection.

Coins with no wear at all are referred to as uncirculated or in mint state (MS). Grades from MS-60 to MS-70 in one-point increments are used for mint state coins. Criteria include luster; the number, size and location of contact marks; the number, size and location of any hairlines, and the quality of the strike and overall eye appeal.

Terms such as brilliant uncirculated (BU), choice BU, gem BU, select BU and premium BU are still used in lieu of numerical grades by some dealers, auctioneers and others. Correlations between these terms and the numeric MS grades are difficult at best, because of inconsistent usage and in some cases over grading.

Market values for many uncirculated coins vary dramatically from one grade to the next. Remember that whether a coin is described with a numerical or an adjectival grade, it's only someone's opinion. Until you are comfortable with your ability to grade uncirculated coins, make liberal use of other opinions, such as those available with slabbed coins or from experienced collectors and dealers you trust, or concentrate on circulated coins.


Resources:

WWW.SHOWCASEANTIQUES.COM
WWW.ANTIQUEVINTAGEWATCHES.COM
WWW.SOCTTANTIQUEMARKET.COM

]]> Northern U.S. Antiquing tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32851 2006-10-09T18:07:28Z 2006-10-09T18:18:35Z On the last Sunday of every month, April through September, Western Michigan offers the finest antique show in the Northern United States. The Allegan Antique Market features 400 quality dealers in every field of antiques and collectibles. Located at the... John On the last Sunday of every month, April through September, Western Michigan offers the finest antique show in the Northern United States. The Allegan Antique Market features 400 quality dealers in every field of antiques and collectibles. Located at the fairgrounds, this charming market offers several shaded rest and picnic areas to relax and enjoy some of the excellent food and beverages available, such as polish sausages, meatball sandwiches and caramel apples. For more information, visit www.alleganantiques.com.

The Springfield Antique Show and Flea Market has been a favorite source for thousands of collectors and dealers for over twenty-five years. It's located at the Clark County Fairgrounds in Springfield, Ohio. Whether you're looking for fine period furniture or funky fifty's rattan, bakelite, jewelry or diamonds, fine art or folk art, you're sure to find it in Springfield. The Springfield Antique Show and Flea Market is held three times a year, in May, July and September.

Lace up your tennis shoes and come prepared for a day of walking as you peruse the 2,500 dealers who'll be set up in a dozen buildings and outdoors across the entire fairgrounds. The extravaganzas are among the largest markets in the country and draw shoppers from all over the world. But, the great shopping isn't the only reason to visit Springfield. There is also a great group of vendors and restaurants serving up the most delicious food you'll find at an antiquing event. Admission is $3 a day. For more information, visit www.jenkinsshows.com/springfield.html.

]]> Southern U.S. Antiquing tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32852 2006-10-09T18:18:37Z 2006-10-09T18:20:04Z If you've got Christmas shopping to do, this is the place to do it. At the Canton First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas, shoppers can peruse through displays from over 3000 vendors. You'll find both new and used items,... John If you've got Christmas shopping to do, this is the place to do it. At the Canton First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas, shoppers can peruse through displays from over 3000 vendors. You'll find both new and used items, antiques and collectibles, rustic furniture, contemporary furniture, iron works, jewelry, baby items, knick knacks, pet items, toys, electronics, sewing material, silk flowers, windmills, fountains, candles, and even hairpieces. Although the Canton First Monday Trade Days used to be held on the first Monday of every month, they are now held Thursday through Sunday preceding the first Monday of the month. Its a tradition that dates back to the 1850's when a circuit judge used to come to town on the first Monday of each month. For more information about Canton First Monday Trade Days, visit, www.firstmondaycanton.com.

The Heart of Country Antique Show is held in Nashville, Tennessee every spring and fall. This event is one of America's Favorite Antique shows and features vendors from all over the world. There are also themed booths, like the "Cowgirl Hall of Fame", which features a showcase of fine and fun memorabilia selected especially for the Heart of America Antique show. There's also an "Under $200 Booth" which is filled with treasures that won't empty your pocketbook. For more information, visit www.heartofcountry.com.

The historic Lakewood Antiques Market is held the second weekend of every month in Atlanta, Georgia. This Southeastern market of vintage chic and bric-a-brac has over 1,500 dealers selling, moderately priced old furniture and architectural antiques from all over the country. Some refer to the Lakewood Antiques Market as "America's biggest treasure hunt". There are seven exhibit halls and three courtyards filled with all kinds of merchandise, including old furniture, lighting fixtures, vintage decorative accessories, architectural accents such as shutters and mantels, and garden furniture. For more information, visit www.lakewoodantiques.com
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]]> Western U.S. Antiquing tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32853 2006-10-09T18:19:56Z 2006-10-09T18:20:58Z Antique shoppers in California know where to find a great buy--at the Antique and Collectible Outdoor Market held at the Long Beach Veterans Stadium on the third Sunday of each month. This year marks its 23rd anniversary. The Outdoor Market... John Antique shoppers in California know where to find a great buy--at the Antique and Collectible Outdoor Market held at the Long Beach Veterans Stadium on the third Sunday of each month. This year marks its 23rd anniversary. The Outdoor Market houses over 800 dealers on 20 acres to bring you antiques and collectibles at bargain prices. Named one of the Top Ten Flea Markets in the United States, this venue offers more than half a million antiques. Admissios is $5.00 and the show hours are from 6:30 am to 3:00 pm. Serious shoppers can pay $10.00 for admission and get in at 5:30 a.m. Visit www.longbeachantiquemarket.com for a discount on admission, directions, and more.

The Pasadena Rose Bowl Flea Market is held on Sundays at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. It advertises itself as the "world's most unusual flea market" and the "shopping place of the stars". Every month, there are over 2,200 vendors and over 20,000 buyers. It is one of the most famous markets in the world and has been around for over 38 years. Regular admission starts at 9:00 am for the general public and is $7.00 a person. For more information, visit www.rgcshows.com.

]]> Eastern U.S. Antiquing tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32854 2006-10-09T18:20:58Z 2006-10-09T18:22:21Z The Farmington Antiques Weekend is an annual event held in Farmington Connecticut. It typically takes place during the second weekend in June, as well as over Labor Day weekend. This year is the twenty-third anniversary of the show. The market... John The Farmington Antiques Weekend is an annual event held in Farmington Connecticut. It typically takes place during the second weekend in June, as well as over Labor Day weekend. This year is the twenty-third anniversary of the show. The market is held on the Farmington Polo Grounds and attracts more than 600 quality antique dealers from across the United States and Europe. The exhibit takes place outdoors under tents in booths. Whether you're looking for garden ornaments, architectural items, fine or rustic furniture, oil paintings, silver, jewelry, nautical items, or fun vintage table linens, there is a good chance you'll find it in Farmington. There is a shipper located near the office who can have your treasures delivered wherever you want, locally or internationally. There are also plenty of places to stop for a bite since breakfast and lunch items available at the many concession stands. For additional information, visit www.farmington-antiques.com or call 860-677-7862.

The Rhinebeck Antiques Fair has been held every year for 30 years. Located in New York's Hudson Valley, this antique fair is one of the best in the country. The Rhinebeck Antique Fair promises exceptional antiques dealers, a pristine venue, and the best show management team in the business. Shows are held in summer, spring, and fall, and admission ranges between $7 and $9. Each show is held entirely inside, rain or shine, and offers free parking, an extensive food court, and on-sire delivery services. For more information, visit www.rhinebeckantiquesfair.com.

]]> Midwestern U.S. Antiquing tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32855 2006-10-09T18:22:17Z 2006-10-09T18:23:11Z Since 1973, Saint Louis has hosted the Annual Gypsy Caravan. Sponsored by the Saint Louis Symphony Volunteer Association, the Gypsy Caravan is one of the largest antique, craft, and flea markets in the Midwest. For the last three years, the... John Since 1973, Saint Louis has hosted the Annual Gypsy Caravan. Sponsored by the Saint Louis Symphony Volunteer Association, the Gypsy Caravan is one of the largest antique, craft, and flea markets in the Midwest. For the last three years, the Gypsy Caravan has been held in Downtown St. Louis in the area just north of historic Union Station. Vendors come from a number of states to offer everything from jewelry to jelly jars, trinkets to treasures, and birdhouses to bureaus. Delicious food and beverages are all around to refresh you as you explore. All proceeds from the Gypsy Caravan go to support the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra and the Symphony's education and community programs. For more information, visit www.gypsycaravan.stl.org.

The Valley Junction Antique Jamboree is held on Sundays in June, August and September in Valley Junction, Iowa. Over 120 Midwestern antique dealers gather to offer a wide variety of furniture, glassware, primitives, stoneware, jewelry, toys, quilts, and more. Admission is free. For more information, log on to www.valleyjunction.com/specialevents.html.

The Kane County Flea Market is held every month usually on the first weekend of the month. They are open Saturdays from 12pm-5pm and Sundays from 7am-4pm. Admission is $5, parking is free, and food is served all day. You're sure to find some great deals on antiques and collectibles.

References
www.farmington-antiques.com
www.gypsycaravan.stl.org
www.firstmondaycanton.com
www.alleganantiques.com
www.longbeachantiquemarket.com
www.valleyjunction.com/specialevents.html
www.rhinebeckantiquesfair.com
www.rgcshows.com
www.lakewoodantiques.com
www.jenkinsshows.com/springfield.html

]]> An Introduction to the Antique Business tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32856 2006-10-09T18:23:17Z 2006-10-09T18:25:42Z There are approximately 36,000 antique dealers in the U.S. alone, and many of those are operating from home. An antique business is a low-risk business with a high return, and you can do most of your work on the weekends... John There are approximately 36,000 antique dealers in the U.S. alone, and many of those are operating from home. An antique business is a low-risk business with a high return, and you can do most of your work on the weekends while you build up your capital. Before you begin, you need to understand the difference between an antique and a collectible. An antique is commonly defined as anything that is over 100 years old. However, most dealers choose merchandise not just by its age, but also by its design, workmanship, and rarity. Some examples of these types of items are: art nouveau furniture, pottery, glass, jewelry from the turn of the century through the 1940's, and Tiffany silver produced in this century. Collectibles, on the other hand, are often things that were a part of everyday life in a bygone era and are now fondly remembered. They are often items that represent the pop culture of a certain time frame. Some example of a collectible would include: coins, Star Trek memorabilia made in the 70's, children's toys, lunch boxes, old movie memorabilia, and comic books.

]]> How to Start an Antique Business tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32857 2006-10-09T18:25:39Z 2006-10-09T18:26:31Z The first thing you need to do after you decide to start an antique business is to begin collecting inventory. If you have already been collecting antiques, your start-up costs will be lower than if you are starting from scratch.... John The first thing you need to do after you decide to start an antique business is to begin collecting inventory. If you have already been collecting antiques, your start-up costs will be lower than if you are starting from scratch. There are two ways to build your inventory. First, you can check garage sales, estate sales, and flea markets for interesting items. You can also browse online for possible treasures. Second, you can sell antique items on consignment agreement with other collectors, where you do the selling in exchange for antiques in their collection. Once you have built up your inventory, the next step is to start studying. There are hundred of books on antiques and collectibles. You can find broad surveys of the entire field, as well as specialized examinations of certain categories. Some dealers focus on certain items, such as antique dolls, or Victorian furniture. Whatever you specialize in, know it well. Strive to continually improve your knowledge and skills in appraising value and quality of pieces. You can learn a lot by visiting antique malls and talking to dealers. There are also several guidebooks, such as "Antiques Price Guide" and "Garage Sale and Flea Market Annual". Your local library is also an excellent place to do research.

Once you have collected some inventory and learned all you can about the items your selling, its time to start setting up your business. First, you need to make use you have everything licensed properly. You'll need to go through all of the typical steps for starting a business: getting a tax id number, checking licensing and zoning requirements, opening a business bank account, and getting business insurance. Once you've figured all that out, you need to specify a location. If you are opening an online business, you'll need to take the necessary steps to start up a web page or to list your items on existing pages. If you are starting a storefront, you need to decide on a location, whether it is in your home, in a mall, or in a kiosk. Finally, you'll need to learn to tailor your prices to the market your in. Buy your merchandise at bargain prices, about half the actual value, so that you can mark it up enough to make a profit. Estate auctions are a great place to pick up hundred of items selling at a quick pace. You'll also need to develop a system of recoding and keeping track of your inventory. Enter each item you buy into a logbook. If you know any history about the item, jot that down as well.

]]> Selling Antiques Online tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32858 2006-10-09T18:26:30Z 2006-10-09T18:27:10Z Unless you're really new to the Internet, you probably realize that the best way to reach a large number of people about items your selling is to advertise online. This is especially true for antique sellers. With eBay and Yahoo... John Unless you're really new to the Internet, you probably realize that the best way to reach a large number of people about items your selling is to advertise online. This is especially true for antique sellers. With eBay and Yahoo auction, not to mention all of the specialty sites, there are plenty of places to buy and sell antiques without ever leaving your house. Even if you've done your share of online shopping, there is still a lot to know before starting an online antique business. The first thing to watch out for is credit card fraud. Approach every customer with a basis of trust, but watch out for red flags that may signal something isn't right. For instance, say you have a customer that purchases several large items with a credit card. Make sure that you verify the shipping and billing addresses because even if you are working with a reputable company like PayPal, you are still be subject to charge backs if the customer's card is rejected.

Its also important to do some research on the market before you start selling. Not everything sells as well online as it would in an antique shop. Doing research is the best way to determine how to market your merchandise. It's also important to make sure you describe every flaw that item has. Doing this will keep you from having to deal with angry customers who want refunds. Its essential to invest in a quality digital camera, so that you will have good photos of your merchandise to display online. Photos should be at least 300 pixels. Buyers tend to shy away from items with bad photographs.

]]> Tips for Selling Antiques on eBay tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32859 2006-10-09T18:27:12Z 2006-10-09T18:27:58Z First, it's important that you research your item before listing it. Collector's love when unknowing sellers list their items without researching it because they can snatch up the item at a bargain price and then sell it again with a... John First, it's important that you research your item before listing it. Collector's love when unknowing sellers list their items without researching it because they can snatch up the item at a bargain price and then sell it again with a higher price and a better description. Use your books on antiques and collectibles, check out websites, and consult with other collectors before listing your item. Second, always think twice before ending an auction early. If your item isn't bringing in the bids you were hoping for, don't panic. Many people wait until the last minute to bid, a practice called "sniping". Your bid price could double, or even triple in the last few seconds of your auction. Some people also send in bids via e-mail asking you to end the auction early. Not only is this against eBay's rules to avoid paying ending fees, you could also be cheating yourself out of a higher price that may come at the end of the auction. Third, when you are titling your item, choose words that pertain to the specifics of the item, such as the size, marker, color, or age. Avoid extraneous words like "wow", "must see", "huge", or "look". Since most searches are done on titles rather than on descriptions, this will allow more people to see your item. Fourth, keep your shipping and handling charges reasonable. Some people will avoid auctions with high shipping and handling charges altogether. Consider charging just what it will cost to mail the item, and then build your cost for labor and packaging into the base price of your item. Some people will also avoid auctions where the shipping and handling charges are not expressly stated. Be sure that you list the charges for shipping up front. It is not fair to charge high shipping costs after the item has already been purchased, and it will hurt your loyalty as a seller. Last, but not least, keep in touch with your best bidders. If you specialize in a certain item, such as glassware, it may be a good idea to set up some sort of email list to keep in touch with past bidders. Once you've got a list of people to contact, send updates weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, and be sure to include links to the items you have for sale.


References
http://antiques.about.com/od/sellingantiques/a/aa110204.htm
http://antiques.about.com/library/weekly/aa060702.htm
http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol35/antique.htm

]]> How Do I Care For Antique Pottery And Porcelain? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32957 2006-10-11T06:13:11Z 2006-10-11T06:14:43Z Ceramics is a general term that can cover different types of objects made from heated clay. The two main categories are pottery and porcelain. Whatever type you have, it will need the same care and attention. Avoid damaging your antique... John Ceramics is a general term that can cover different types of objects made from heated clay. The two main categories are pottery and porcelain. Whatever type you have, it will need the same care and attention.

Avoid damaging your antique plates, by leaning how to clean them correctly. Use an aerosol of compressed air to remove surface dust. Wash the plate with a soft brush in warm water with a little, gentle dish washing liquid. Rinse with clean water of the same temperature. Put the plates aside to dry naturally, don't rub them dry. Never use abrasive products, such as bathroom cleaners, dishwasher powders or bleach, on ceramics.

Don't heat up cracked plates in the over. This can extend the crack, split the object altogether or open up old repairs. There are many kinds of adhesives and their use in repair of valued ceramics requires training and understanding of chemistry. If you do use adhesive at home to repair a ceramic you will probably find it seeps out. Commercial glues can easily yellow and can be difficult to remove.

Hydrogen peroxide and sterilizing preparations are sometimes recommended for cleaning ceramics but don't use them. Their ingredients can react and cause damage, including staining. Sandpaper and scalpels should not be used.

Soaking old ceramics can have hidden dangers. Old repairs could become loose, and porous pieces will absorb water that could cause future damage. If a ceramic piece has been repaired, don't use it for serving food. It could be a health hazard.

]]> How Do I Care For Antique Firearms? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32958 2006-10-11T06:14:26Z 2006-10-11T06:15:25Z Patina on arms and armor is the modification of the original surface finishes through age and wear. Cleaning off discolored varnish or attempting to remove corrosion may drastically alter the condition of the item and significantly affect its value, both... John Patina on arms and armor is the modification of the original surface finishes through age and wear. Cleaning off discolored varnish or attempting to remove corrosion may drastically alter the condition of the item and significantly affect its value, both historically and monetarily.

Many items have a chemically induced patination applied, which has changed its color, causing bluing or browning. The preservation of this chemical patination, even if it has been subsequently damaged by corrosion, is often critical in determining the condition of the piece.

Safety is the first consideration, always assume that any firearm may be loaded until you have checked for yourself. Never point a weapon at another person. Gunpowder, nitrocellulose propellants, primer material and other explosives, which can be present in larger ordnance, such as grenades and artillery shells, can deteriorate with age, becoming unstable and extremely dangerous.

Make sure you have a clear, clean, safe area on which to place the object before you pick it up. Remember when sheathing and unsheathing bladed weapons not to drag the blade against the side of the sheath as you may damage the blade or the sheath. Weapons may be sharp in unexpected areas. Handles may be loose and a blade falling out could cause a serious injury.

Examine the object carefully to ascertain its condition, making sure it's safe to handle. Always support the object adequately. Hands may leave an oily acidic residue that can cause permanent etching, corrosion and stains. When handling items, wear clean cotton or plastic gloves or wipe the surface clean with a soft lint-free cloth afterwards, taking care not to catch the cloth on small projections.

There are two main categories of firearm: active and passive. Firearms, which may be used occasionally, require a different regimen of care from items, which are not used. Passive firearms can be treated and coated by a professional conservator to protect them from their environment.

For any firearm, dust can be corrosive and abrasive, therefore it must be removed. However, wiping dust off the surface with a cloth can cause scratches. Remove dust with a clean, dry, soft brush, holding a vacuum nozzle nearby to remove the dust. Take care to protect tassels, braid and other textiles. Be careful not to drive the dust into crevices or porous areas. Never use abrasive materials such as sand paper, metal polishes or toothpaste to clean surfaces. Even the finest abrasives will affect the surface. If an item needs cleaning to remove tarnish or corrosion, consult a conservator who specializes in treating these items.

]]> How Do I Care For Antique Furniture? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32959 2006-10-11T06:15:15Z 2006-10-11T06:15:50Z Looking after your antiques, ensuring they're displayed, stored and handled correctly is essential to preserving them for future generations. Furniture needs informed care and it's important to remember that furniture isn't just wood; the beauty of wooden furniture is often... John Looking after your antiques, ensuring they're displayed, stored and handled correctly is essential to preserving them for future generations. Furniture needs informed care and it's important to remember that furniture isn't just wood; the beauty of wooden furniture is often how the wood is aged as well as the other materials used.

The best way to protect the finish of your piece is to use a good quality beeswax polish. This should be done once a year, or twice a year for heavy use. The wax should be applied sparingly with a soft cloth and the piece polished with another lint-free cloth. A good shine comes from rubbing rather than lots of layers of wax. Don't use silicone-based sprays for cleaning as they leave a film that is very hard to remove. Oil-based polishes attract dirt and some might darken the wood. Avoid feather dusters as they can scratch the surface. You should clean intricate areas with a soft brush. Be careful not to catch or pull any decoration that could bend or come off.

Repairing furniture is a difficult and highly specialized area. We recommend you contact a qualified furniture conservator before considering any DIY repairs. There are a number of surface finishes including: wax, varnish, lacquer, shellac, paint and modern synthetic finishes. Even bare wood will develop a patina of its own over decades. These finishes are a sign of the age of a piece and should be preserved.

If you find a scratch, first examine how deep it is. If it's only a surface scratch and has not gone through to the actual wood, you can attempt to color-in the area. A scratch that has gone through to the wood can allow moisture in - this type of damage needs professional attention. Before attempting any repairs, make sure you know what the surface finish of your piece is. If it's varnish, shellac or wax you could try the following steps: Make sure the surface is dust free.

Use a basic watercolor set and a sable brush. Do some test colors to find one that looks as if it will match. Try it on the underside of the piece. The color when wet will be the color when waxed.

Avoid getting paint on the finish. Have a cloth ready to wipe off any stray spots of paints. When fully dry, polish with beeswax polish and a lint-free cloth.

]]> How Do I Care For Antique Jewelry? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32960 2006-10-11T06:15:42Z 2006-10-11T06:16:10Z Jewelry can be made from many materials and with many techniques. Because of this, cleaning jewelry should be approached cautiously. Start with gentle, simple brushing with a soft, clean, small paintbrush. Precious stones can become dirty and a slightly more... John Jewelry can be made from many materials and with many techniques. Because of this, cleaning jewelry should be approached cautiously. Start with gentle, simple brushing with a soft, clean, small paintbrush.

Precious stones can become dirty and a slightly more aggressive cleaning may be needed. It is important first to check that settings are secure. Some pieces can be set with glue and these should not be cleaned with any liquid as it might loosen the setting.

One of the chief causes of 'dirty' stones is hard water. This leaves a chalky residue. If you live in an area of hard water, clean with distilled water and a small amount of diluted washing-up liquid. Use a small, soft and clean paintbrush. Dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
Make sure you do your cleaning in an area where you could easily recover any piece that becomes detached.

]]> How Do I Care For Antique Rugs? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/antiques//249.32961 2006-10-11T06:16:02Z 2007-08-07T10:19:13Z Like other textiles, exposing rugs to rapid changes in temperature and humidity is not good. Open fires and treasured floor coverings don't mix. Direct sunlight may result in fading, so if your rug or carpet is in a sunny area,... John Like other textiles, exposing rugs to rapid changes in temperature and humidity is not good. Open fires and treasured floor coverings don't mix. Direct sunlight may result in fading, so if your rug or carpet is in a sunny area, close the curtains at times of bright sunlight. Narrow diameter shoe heels, smaller than a two pence coin) no matter how high or low, cause a great deal of damage both to floors and carpets.

Take care when moving rugs and carpets. There's less chance of damaging the pile if you roll them up with the pile facing outwards.
Adhesive shouldn't be used with textiles. Glued patches do not help the stability of a piece and while underlays may be very useful, they shouldn't have adhesive on them. Don't use nails or staples to secure rugs or carpets either.

Pets can inadvertently do a great deal of damage. Claws cause damage to the pile and urine stains are difficult to remove, as well as attracting insects. Check during the spring and summer for signs of insect infestation. If a piece has signs of clothes' moths or carpet beetles, isolate it from other textiles and contact a textile conservator immediately.


Resources:

WWW.MARKETANTIQUE.COM
WWW.ANTIQUEANDESTATE.COM
WWW.ED-THELEN.ORG

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