The Unsurpassable Beauty Of An Antique Rocking Chair

Let’s face it, even with the great tools and gear available nowadays, it is very tough to achieve the amazing beauty and workmanship of antique rocking chairs in today’s models. The hand woven seats and back, that is a trademark of antique rockers, is not only a thing of beauty but also provide you with the most comfortable seating ever.

Modern rocking chairs which are made from good quality wood that is treated to achieve a unique aged look are very popular today. Incidentally, this very look that people are trying to create with the modern rocking chair can be had naturally in antique ones.

Most old-fashioned rockers feature very big arm rests that give you increased comfort. The seat and back too are typically larger than seen in today’s rocking chairs, thus making the overall experience of sitting in an antique chair absolutely something to be coveted.

Tips For Buying An Antique Rocking Chair

If you come across a vintage rocking chair that you simply must have, here are some things you should check:

• Ensure that the rocker of the rocking chair is in good condition. If the rocker itself is damaged, then regardless of how great a condition the rest of the chair is in, you should avoid buying such an antique. The rocker is the main part of the chair and this is what provides the soothing rocking motion. Thus, if it is spoilt, the main purpose of the chair will be defeated.
• Make sure that the main frame of the antique style rocker is strong and solid. If the frame is in a good condition, then the chair is a good buy even if there are any cracks in the wood or the joints are undone. Cracks can be covered and joints can be glued again, thus restoring the antique chair to its former glory.
• Don’t be put off by a ruined finish when buying an antique rockingchair. You can easily give the rocker a new finish and make it seem as good as new. All you have to do is remove the old finish by applying a thick coat of finish remover to the chair. Once the finish has softened with the remover, you can scuff it away with a blunt putty knife. Use stripping pads and fresh water to clear away any remaining traces of finish. After this, you just have to color the chair with your choice of dye based wood stains, apply a last coat or two of wood finish, and your antique rocker will be gleaming anew.

If you cannot get your hands on a real vintage rocking chair, you could opt for a reproduction rocker.