When you arrive:
Be prepared to bargain -- "But be respectful," says Kim.
Look past the obvious -- Items that are prominently displayed tend to be the most expensive.
Pick up and feel everything you can -- The wear of an item can be an indication of how old it is. "If you're looking at a wooden chair that's supposed to be 100 years old," says Kim, "and there's no wear on the rungs, it's either refinished, a reproduction or was never used -- that's rare." Older wooden items often have subtle uneven hand-planed surfaces. They feel "wavy" when you pass your hand over them. When it comes to vintage cabinets, the backs usually are a darker-colour called "air burn," according to Kim.
Inspect closely -- At most flea markets, you're buying "as-is." Plug in electrical items, pull up extra table leaves, open and close hutch doors...make sure everything is in working order before you leave.
Ask for what you want -- Just because the seller doesn't have a 1950's crystal chandelier out on her display table, doesn't mean she won't have one in her truck.
Read more in Shopping and Great Stuff
You might also enjoy:
Newsletter
Twitter
Facebook
Youtube
RSS