Why do people buy second-hand furniture? Or unfinished furniture?
Perhaps it's a matter of budget. Or maybe it is actually the spirit of adventure spurring them on. Whatever the reason, a few consumer pointers might be helpful.Auctions and estate sales are good places to scout for treasures. Don't rule out garage sales as they can be another source of gainful surprises. And continue the treasure hunt through consignment shops, flea markets and newspaper ads.
When shopping for tables or chairs, check for sturdiness. If the piece was made well initially, it should still be in pretty good condition, even if a bit rough around the edges.
Be sure the legs are attached strongly enough to the seat or table top so that it doesn't wobble when firmly pressed. If there are cross braces on the legs, the strength will be greater.
If the furniture has drawers, pull a drawer out and look at the construction. Are the corners dovetailed? Are there dust boards or some type of panels between one row of drawers and the one below it? If the answer is yes to both questions, you can assume the furniture was well made.
New but unfinished furniture has great possibilities also. In searching for the best quality for the available dollars, the type of wood the piece is made of will help determine its value. Lower priced pieces are usually made of clear, soft white pine. There is very little graining in this wood, so let the paint color make the statement instead of the wood. Medium quality pieces will be made of a knotty pine. Staining or washing this wood has design advantages. Higher quality furniture will be made of maple, birch or aspen wood. All these have interesting graining which should be allowed to show through when applying in the finishing paint or stain.
Finally, luxury pieces (we're talking bigger bucks here) are made of cherry and oak solids and looks great however it is finished.
So with daring and adventure, make a statement that is uniquely yours.