7 Best-Selling Furniture Collecting Books Millions Love

The methods Gustav Stickley developed while advancing the American Craftsman movement offer you a unique window into early 20th-century furniture design, emphasizing honest construction and functional beauty without unnecessary ornamentation. Through detailed illustrations and descriptions from original Stickley catalogs, you learn to identify authentic Craftsman pieces, including a wide range of furniture from settees to desks, alongside related metalwork and textiles. This book serves those who want a precise visual and historical guide to collecting or appreciating Craftsman furniture, grounded in primary sources and expert curation by David M. Cathers. If you seek an authoritative reference with exact measurements and pricing from the period, this catalog delivers the clarity and depth you need.

Gustav Stickley, a pivotal figure in American Craftsman design, offers a direct window into his philosophy and work through these two catalogs from 1912 and 1915. You’ll explore detailed illustrations and descriptions of his furniture lineup, from armchairs to sideboards, complete with original captions on materials, dimensions, and pricing. This book serves as a practical guide for identifying authentic Stickley pieces and understanding the social and design currents that transformed early 20th-century American furniture. If you’re drawn to historical design movements or want to deepen your knowledge of Craftsman furniture, this volume provides solid, primary-source material essential for collectors and historians alike.

This tailored book explores the art of recognizing and collecting Craftsman furniture with a focus matching your background and goals. It reveals how to distinguish authentic pieces by examining design features, materials, and craftsmanship unique to the Craftsman era. The content is tailored to your interests, combining established knowledge with personalized insights that deepen your appreciation and expertise. By guiding you through identification techniques and historical context, the book offers a rewarding learning experience that connects you directly with the rich heritage of Craftsman furniture. It emphasizes hands-on skills and observational nuances, making the process of collection more informed and engaging.

Richard Saunders challenges the conventional wisdom that restoring wicker furniture is a daunting task reserved for specialists. Drawing on decades of hands-on experience, Saunders breaks down the art and craft of collecting and restoring wicker into accessible techniques, from identifying authentic pieces to repairing damaged strands with precision. You’ll find detailed guidance on cleaning methods, refinishing surfaces, and preserving the intricate weave patterns that define wicker’s charm. This book suits anyone passionate about vintage furniture who wants practical knowledge to bring old wicker back to life, whether you’re a collector, restorer, or hobbyist.

When Richard Saunders first realized how little practical guidance existed for preserving delicate wicker pieces, he set out to fill that gap with this detailed manual. You’ll find more than just restoration tips here—Saunders breaks down the nuances of buying vintage wicker, with entire chapters devoted to 1920s designs and advice on identifying rare finds. The inclusion of over 400 photographs, including a color insert showcasing unusual pieces, offers concrete visual examples that deepen your understanding. This book suits decorators wanting to maintain their furniture’s charm and collectors aiming to spot quality and authenticity, though casual readers might find the depth overwhelming.

Emyl Jenkins brings her professional appraisal expertise to this focused guide on early American furniture, aimed at helping you distinguish genuine antiques from reproductions. You’ll gain practical skills in identifying period-specific features and understanding the historical context that influences value, with examples that clarify how subtle details can reveal authenticity. This book suits collectors and enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge without wading through overwhelming jargon or irrelevant information. If you want a clear, approachable resource to make informed buying decisions, Jenkins’ insights offer a grounded perspective that respects both history and market realities.

This tailored book explores practical restoration techniques specifically for wicker furniture enthusiasts, combining popular knowledge with personalized insights based on your background and goals. It covers essential methods to clean, repair, and revive vintage wicker pieces, ensuring each step matches your experience level and interests. The book examines the materials, tools, and detailed processes needed to restore wicker with care, addressing challenges unique to woven furniture. By focusing on your specific objectives, it reveals how to preserve the character and durability of cherished wicker items while deepening your hands-on skills. This personalized guide makes mastering wicker restoration accessible and engaging, tailored to your precise needs.

After analyzing numerous vintage catalogs and museum collections, Ralph Kylloe offers a detailed exploration of hickory furniture's place in American rustic design. You learn to distinguish authentic pieces from reproductions and gain insights into the craftsmanship behind this folk art form, including profiles of manufacturers like The Old Hickory Furniture Company. The book's more than 100 photographs provide visual context, enhancing your appreciation of hickory's durability and aesthetic qualities. If your passion lies in traditional American furniture or regional rustic styles, this book grounds you in both history and collecting nuances.

What started as a meticulous effort by Judith and Martin Miller to catalog centuries of furniture evolved into a definitive guide spanning from the 16th to the early 20th century. You’ll find detailed descriptions alongside price listings, offering a practical lens through which to assess and understand historical furniture pieces. This book suits collectors and enthusiasts aiming to deepen their knowledge of antique furniture styles, makers, and market values, with its 639 pages providing a rich reference that balances historical context with tangible appraisal information. By exploring chapters dedicated to different eras and styles, you gain insight into both identifying and valuing pieces, making it a solid companion for serious collectors or dealers.