Posts Tagged ‘recycling’

Awareness toward reuse and recycling in the US seems to be at an all time high. I even found myself buying cloth bags at the local Stop & Shop to save paper and avoid using plastics that remain in some landfill for hundreds of years.

Thinking about this and the antique business – reuse and recycling is exactly what antiques are all about. Who in their right mind would throw away an antique anything? You just don’t. For years, people have been visiting flea markets, auctions, estate sales and shops – looking for that special find. Three things usually are true. The piece was at one time cherished by the original owner and handed down in the family. It is made well and has seen generations of service.

Except in a few rare instances when something is all original and functional, it probably needs a bit of TLC or restoration. Once restored, the piece will serve future generations who will continue to admire its beauty and enjoy the added “character” that comes with age. I’m pleased to think that Leonards was green long before it was fashionable.

Keep in mind, only restore when necessary. You don’t want to overdo repairs and devalue your latest investment. However, be mindful of the fact that most of what turns up at auction, shops and estate sales will need or has had attention. When it comes to antiques, reuse and recycling have less impact on the environment and bring value to your home.