Antiquing In Huntsville AL: How to Find Antique Treasures

Antiquing feels more like treasure hunting than shopping. The thrill of finding the perfect item from bygone eras is far better than the temporary dopamine hit from a trip to the department store. Every item feels rare and unique, and every piece has a story behind it. If you are looking to pick up a few new, old treasures of your own, here are our tips for antiquing in Huntsville, Alabama.

Tips for Antiquing

If you are interested in antiquing (also called “picking”) but don’t know where to start, don’t worry. There are many resources online ready to give new antiquers advice. Here are a few of our favorite tips to get you started.

Know What You Like

Knowing what you like and what you are looking for is the secret to any shopping trip. This can help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed with choices when you get to the store. Here are a few things you should do before entering the antique shop.

• Create “mood boards” to get an idea about the styles you are drawn to. You can do this by making collages with magazines or using an app like Pinterest.
• Walk around your home and see what kinds of items you might need. Could you use a lamp? A vase? Write it down!
• Start getting specific about what you are looking for. What materials or colors would work with the room? What about size? Take photos and measurements to make sure you find the right fit.
  

Do Some Research

Now that you know what you want to look for, you should educate yourself about the items you plan to buy. Background research about the style, time period, and earmarks of the items you are looking for can help you find the perfect piece. Here are some places you can start researching:

• Google: Google is a great resource. Start by taking a picture using Google Lens and see what comes up! You’d be surprised what information is a click away.
• Online Retailers: Don’t knock online retailers until you’ve tried them. A surprising amount of information can be found on eBay and Etsy. Remember to use this as a starting point, and always fact-check. 
• Ask the Dealers: If you have questions, ask the shop owner. They will usually know the history of the piece. If they don’t know, they will know where to find the answer for you.
• Hobby Sites and Social Media: Like any hobby, there is an online community for antiquers. Often referred to as “pickers”, antiquing enthusiasts are often thrilled to show off their finds.
  

Look Everywhere

Look up, look down, and all around when you enter an antique shop. Treasures are hiding in every nook and cranny! Antique shops are often filled to the brim with items of all shapes and sizes. Make sure you don’t miss any by looking from floor to ceiling.

Here are some places to look, and what to look for:

• Check inside and under furniture: there are often goodies stacked on the floor and hidden in drawers. Make sure you look everywhere for hidden gems. 
• Check the walls and ceilings: if you thought I was kidding, I wasn’t. Many stores will hang items from the rafters for extra storage space.

Check flea markets and thrift shops: in addition to antique stores, flea markets and second-hand stores are great places to find vintage and antique items.

Shop Around

Don’t be afraid to shop around. There are so many antique stores to explore, and endless antiques waiting to be found. Antiques may be more unique than the mass-produced things on the market today, but that’s the beauty of it! There will always be another beautiful, one-of-a-kind treasure. You don’t have to commit to the first one you find.

Here are some tips for savvy shopping:

• Take a break: if you aren’t sure if that piece is “the one”, take a little shopping break.
• Grab a coffee for an hour or take a week to think about it. If you still want it, get it.
• Most antique shops have slow turnover, so it will most likely still be there.
• Compare the Price: The internet is your friend. If you found a piece you like, but at a price you aren’t sure of, see if you can find it elsewhere.
• Some stores are willing to negotiate on price if you have recites. If they aren’t willing to match, then order from the other dealer. Just make sure to authenticate first!
  

Antique Shops in Huntsville



Railroad Station Antique Mall:

This family-owned antique shop covers 3 floors of the historic building they occupy in downtown Huntsville. Multiple vendors supply a variety of products at reasonable prices. Ranging from modern items to true, authenticated antiques- you are sure to find something special at Railroad Station Antique Mall. 

Firehouse Antiques and Collectibles: 

If you are looking for the biggest antique store in Huntsville, you’ve found it. Firehouse Antique and Collectibles has over 40,000 sq ft of inventory! You can find almost anything you need at this mall. Also hosting a variety of vendors with different specialties, Firehouse is a one-stop shop for collectors of all stripes. 

Packards Antiques:

Located just down the road from Firehouse is Packard’s Antiques, a smaller but just as amazing antique shop. Specializing in glassware, furniture, and primitives (pre-industrial items with wear), this shop has a lot to offer. Come see for yourself!

Flucy Lucy Antique Market:

A modern take on an antique shop, Flucy Lucy Antique Market is the cool new kid on the block. Don’t let the hip, young vibe fool you though. This place is filled with truly old, valuable pieces. Take your time to explore what this Huntsville Antique Shop has to offer.

Preservation Company:

If you are into restoration projects, this is the store for you. Preservation Company is a store that specializes in antique and vintage fixtures and refurbishing supplies. They carry everything from windows, doors, lighting, knobs, and furniture for all your restoration needs.