The Valuable Wood Furniture Brand You Might Be Able To Snag From The Thrift Store

If you love thrifting, you're probably always on the hunt for that next hidden gem. The thrill of strolling through antique shops and flea markets comes from the chance of finding something valuable, unique, and full of history and character. One brand that should definitely be on your radar is Thomasville. This high-end maker of solid wood furniture is known for its tables, dressers, and cabinets. But you can find all types of furniture from this company, including bedroom sets, mirrors, and bedside tables. These are treasured antique items that are still popular today. 

Thomasville furniture is a hit among collectors, but with a little bit of luck and the right information, you might just beat them to it. These pieces stand out because of their designs and because of the incredible quality of the craftsmanship. Depending on the piece and its condition, they can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. If you find a piece that's cheaper because it's a bit damaged, you might be able to fix it up and turn it into a good investment.

But first, what exactly is Thomasville furniture? It's used to refer to all furniture made by the company Thomasville, a company founded in the early 1900s in North Carolina. It's known for its classic and elegant hardwood pieces. These typically have lines and detailing, like curved legs, scalloped edges, and crown moldings. The company still exists today — you can even find Thomasville couches at Costco – but the real treasures are its vintage pieces.

How to identify Thomasville wood furniture

So, how can you tell if you've actually stumbled upon an authentic piece of Thomasville furniture? First, take a good look at its style. Thomasville pieces are usually traditional and classical-looking, often inspired by European furniture styles. They often combine elements of Chippendale and French Provincial designs. They're elegant, but fairly heavyweight. Common details include decorative trims, curved lines, and crown moldings. They typically come in deep and rich wood tones, but some might have been painted over or lacquered. So don't let a colorful update steer you away.

Next, check for a label or stamp. This could be built right into the piece, like inside a drawer, on the back, or underneath it, or it could be a simple paper tag stapled on it. What you're looking for, more than the label, is a serial number. These can be your way to referencing Thomasville catalogs, which can help you identify a real gem. Whether you're shopping in person or online, a seller should be able to provide this. If not, proceed with caution or consult an expert before spending big money.

It also helps to know how to identify fake vs. real solid wood in vintage furniture. Thomasville pieces are typically rich woods, like mahogany, walnut, and sometimes cherry. Look for a natural wood grain that has varied textures and colors, because authentic wood has imperfections and irregularities. And remember, vintage Thomasville pieces have had a long life, so they may show signs of wear. If that's the case, don't worry. Solid wood can be refinished easily, which can give your thrifted wooden gems a fresh new life.

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