The Ins & Outs Of Shopping
Priya and Heather Mohan, owners of Greystone Fine Furniture, pride themselves in offering only high quality items in their vintage furniture store. In order to fill their store with those great pieces though, they first have to find them. How do they choose all those gorgeous items they showcase so perfectly? They know what to look for. The Greystone Girls share some of their shopping tips…
Look for quality material. No item should ever look cheap or inexpensive. If it looks that way, despite what someone is telling you, it most likely is.
Choose solid wood as opposed to veneer. Solid wood can be sanded and fixed if there is need for repair – with veneer it is much more difficult to do so.
When purchasing something made of cloth, hold it up to the light. You shouldn’t be able to see through it. You should never be able to see the warp and the weft in fabric.
Buying a large piece of furniture? Go simple. Look for clean lines. Great quality can handle simplicity. Go fussy with your accents – pillows, ornate mirrors.
Look for dovetailing – a strong joint technique that makes it near impossible for the joint to pull apart. This joint is also one of the most attractive and can even enhance the look of a piece.
If purchasing something that has drawers, a dresser or desk, always open them and look inside. The piece should have consistent good quality, even in places that are not regularly seen.
You are out shopping and spot a piece of furniture that you just love. But, maybe… you don’t really need it. Think of 3 places where it could potentially go in your home. If you can think of 3, you will most likely find good use for it and should consider making the purchase.
Lastly, always think of the resale value when buying an item. Think of your purchases, especially larger items, as investments. You should always be able to get back half of what you paid for it.
Heather and Priya Mohan, owners of Greystone Fine Furniture know how to shop - so much so they make a living at it. For more advice, and to buy great quality furniture, visit Greystone Fine Furniture. Located at 514 Guelph Line (just north of New Street) Burlington, ON. 416-414-0472