The History Of Pine Furniture

Antique pine furniture, particularly cupboards, sideboards, and dresser bases, holds a special place in the realm of vintage decor. The use of pine in furniture dates back centuries, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to both its accessibility and distinctive aesthetic.

Historical Significance: Pine has been a favored material for furniture construction since the Middle Ages. In Europe, where pine trees were abundant, the wood became a staple for crafting furniture due to its workability and durability. The inherent qualities of pine, such as its light color and straight grain, made it an excellent choice for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing pieces.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, pine cupboards, sideboards, and dresser bases became integral components of household furniture. In the United States and Europe, skilled craftsmen crafted these pieces using traditional joinery techniques, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time. These items served practical purposes, providing ample storage for kitchenware, linens, and other household essentials.

Distinctive Features: Antique pine furniture often exhibits a warm, honey-toned patina that develops over time, and is a result of the natural aging process of the wood, also exposure to light and the application of various finishes. The knots and grain patterns in pine can also contribute to the unique character of each piece of furniture.

Cupboards from this era were designed with functionality in mind. They typically feature paneled doors that open to reveal spacious interiors with shelves, providing ample storage space. Sideboards, often found in dining rooms, boast large flat surfaces for serving and display, along with drawers and cabinets for storing silverware and other dining essentials. Dresser bases, used in kitchens, bedrooms, or dining areas, were designed to hold dishes, linens, and other household items.

Regional Styles: Various regions developed distinct styles of antique pine furniture. For example, English pine furniture from the Georgian and Victorian eras often features simple lines, bracket feet, and brass hardware. In contrast, American pine furniture may exhibit a more rustic charm, with influences from Colonial and Shaker design, showcasing clean lines and functional simplicity.

Preserving and Restoring: Preserving the authenticity of antique pine furniture is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts. Proper care involves avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading, using mild cleaners to gently remove dirt, and maintaining stable humidity levels to prevent warping.

Restoration efforts may include repairing joints, replacing hardware, and, in some cases, refinishing to enhance the wood's natural beauty. However, the goal is often to strike a balance between preserving the original character of the piece and ensuring its continued functionality.

In contemporary interior design, antique pine furniture continues to be sought after for its timeless appeal and ability to add warmth and character to a space. Whether as a focal point in a farmhouse kitchen or as a charming addition to a rustic dining room, these pieces carry with them the rich history of craftsmanship and domestic life.

French Country Pine Furniture: In France, pine furniture took on a distinct flair, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. French Country style, often referred to as "Provincial," embraced the natural beauty of pine. Armoires with intricately carved panels, large farm tables with turned legs, and buffets with ornate detailing were common in French homes. The use of paint, often in muted tones like soft blues or creams, added a touch of provincial elegance. These pieces celebrated both functionality and artistic craftsmanship.

Scandinavian Pine Furniture: In Scandinavian countries such as Sweden and Denmark, pine furniture has a long history deeply rooted in simplicity and functionality. Swedish Gustavian furniture, dating from the late 18th century, is characterized by light colors, often painted in pale creams and soft grays. These pieces feature delicate carvings and tapered legs, reflecting the influence of neoclassical design. Danish pine furniture, on the other hand, is renowned for its minimalist and functional approach, with an emphasis on clean lines and organic forms.

American Colonial Pine Furniture: In colonial America, pine was a prevalent choice for furniture due to its abundance. Early American settlers crafted simple, sturdy pieces such as cupboards, chests, and tables. The designs were influenced by English and European styles but adapted to suit the practical needs of the New World. The Shaker style, emerging in the late 18th century, embraced the principles of simplicity, utility, and honesty in design. Shaker pine furniture often featured clean lines, tapered legs, and careful craftsmanship.

Dutch Pine Furniture: In the Netherlands, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries, pine furniture showcased a distinctive Dutch aesthetic. Large cupboards, often referred to as kasten, were prominent in Dutch homes. These pieces were characterized by heavy moldings, carved details, and paneled doors. The Dutch were also known for their expertise in marquetry, and some pine pieces featured intricate inlay work.

English Cottage Pine Furniture: In rural England, especially during the Victorian era, cottage-style pine furniture gained popularity. Characterized by its quaint charm and simple designs, English cottage furniture often featured turned legs, scalloped edges, and natural finishes that highlighted the beauty of the wood. These pieces were well-suited to the cozy interiors of country cottages and farmhouses.

Colonial Mexican Pine Furniture: In Mexico, colonial-era pine furniture, influenced by Spanish design, is known for its rustic and robust qualities. Handcrafted with wrought iron accents, these pieces often feature bold, geometric patterns and vibrant colors. Rustic armoires, known as "armarios," and sturdy dining tables are common examples of Mexican colonial pine furniture.

These diverse styles of old pine furniture reflect not only the regional characteristics of their countries of origin but also the cultural and societal influences that shaped their designs. Each style tells a unique story, capturing the essence of the time and place in which it was created. Today, the appreciation for these distinct styles continues to fuel the demand for antique pine furniture in homes around the world.

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Pine cupboards

Pine cupboards, also known as pine cabinets, are pieces of furniture that are typically made from pine wood. Pine is a softwood that is known for its warmth, rustic charm, and durability.

The use of pine cupboards can be traced back to colonial times in America, when settlers used pine to construct their homes and furniture due to the abundance of pine trees in the region. The rustic, rough-hewn appearance of pine furniture was popular among colonists and quickly became a staple of American furniture design.

Pine cupboards are typically used for storage and can be found in a variety of rooms throughout the home. In the kitchen, pine cupboards can be used for storing dishes, utensils, and food. In the living room, pine cupboards can be used for storing books, games, and other items. In the bedroom, pine cupboards can be used for storing clothes and linens. Pine cupboards can also be used in bathrooms for storing towels and other bathroom essentials.

Pine cupboards are also commonly used in rustic-style homes and cabins, where their natural wood grain and warm, earthy tones complement the overall aesthetic. They can be used in dining room as well. They are often combined with other natural materials, such as stone and brick, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Pine cupboards can be finished in a variety of ways to achieve different looks, such as a distressed finish that adds to its rustic charm, or a smooth and glossy finish for a more modern look. They also come in different styles, like traditional, french country, farmhouse style and shaker style.

Overall, pine cupboards are a versatile and durable option for adding storage and character to any room in your home. With their natural beauty and timeless appeal, pine cupboards are sure to be a cherished addition to any home for many years to come.

Antique cupboards

Antique cupboards, also known as antique cabinets, are pieces of furniture that are typically over 100 years old. They are highly sought after by collectors and history enthusiasts for their unique craftsmanship, historical significance, and aesthetic value.

Antique cupboards can be found in a wide variety of styles and designs, including medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Victorian, among others. Each style has its own unique characteristics and is reflective of the era in which it was made. For example, a medieval cupboard would typically feature dark, heavy timbers and iron hardware, while a Victorian cupboard would have more delicate details, such as ornate carvings and inlaid veneers.

The materials used in the construction of antique cupboards vary, depending on the era and style of the piece. The most common materials used include oak, pine, walnut, and mahogany. Many antique cupboards also feature intricate carving and inlay work, as well as metal hardware such as brass or iron.

Antique cupboards have a variety of uses, depending on the style and size of the piece. Some were used as storage for clothes, linens, and household items, while others were used as armoires or display cases for fine china, silverware, and other decorative items. Some of them even were used as a sideboard, dresser or bookcase in the living room or dining room.

Collecting antique cupboards can be a fulfilling hobby, as each piece has a unique history and story to tell. However, it is important to note that authenticating an antique cupboard can be difficult and requires a trained eye and in-depth knowledge of the piece.

If you're looking to add an antique cupboard to your home or collection, it's important to do your research, seek out reputable dealers, and have a good idea of what you're looking for before making a purchase. They are true representation of traditional craftsmanship and are often are one-of-a-kind piece, it's a great way to bring history into your home, create an interesting focal point and offer additional functional storage as well.

Pine wardrobes

A pine wardrobe is a type of furniture typically used for storing clothes and other personal belongings. Pine is a popular wood choice for wardrobes due to its attractive grain and warm color, as well as its relative affordability compared to other types of wood.

There are several types of pine wardrobes available on the market, including those that are freestanding and those that can be attached to a wall. Some pine wardrobes also come with additional features such as drawers and shelves for additional storage.

One of the benefits of pine wardrobes is that they are often designed to be easily dismantled. This can be useful if you need to move the wardrobe to a new location or if you want to store it when it is not in use. To dismantle a pine wardrobe, you will typically need to remove any screws or bolts that are holding the wardrobe together, and then separate the different components of the wardrobe.

It is important to follow any instructions provided by the manufacturer when dismantling a pine wardrobe, as this will help to ensure that the process is done safely and correctly. If you are unsure about how to dismantle your wardrobe, it is always a good idea to consult a professional for assistance.

The history of pine wardrobes

Pine is a type of wood that has been used for centuries to create a variety of furniture pieces, including wardrobes. The use of pine for furniture dates back to ancient civilizations, and the wood has long been prized for its attractive grain and durability.

Pine wardrobes have a long history, with examples dating back to the 17th century. During this time, wardrobes were typically large, freestanding pieces of furniture that were used to store clothes and other personal belongings. They were often made from high-quality woods such as oak and mahogany, and were decorated with intricate carvings and other embellishments.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, wardrobes became more common in homes, and pine became a popular choice for this type of furniture due to its affordability and versatility. Pine wardrobes were often simpler in design than their antique counterparts, but were still highly functional and durable.

Today, pine wardrobes are still a popular choice for homeowners due to their attractive appearance and practicality. They are available in a wide range of styles, from traditional to modern, and can be used in a variety of settings, including bedrooms, guest rooms, and even entryways.

Pine chests of drawers

Antique pine chests of drawers, also known as bureaus, have been a popular type of furniture for centuries. Made of pine, a durable and versatile wood, these chests were originally used to store and organise clothing and other household items. They often feature a series of drawers, with larger ones at the bottom and smaller ones at the top. Some antique pine chests of drawers also have a top surface that can be used as a display area or a writing desk.

Collectors and antique enthusiasts often seek out these chests for their beauty and craftsmanship, as many are handcrafted with intricate details and elegant designs. Some antique pine chests of drawers are made in a traditional style, with a simple and functional design, while others are more ornate and decorated with carvings and other decorative elements. Different styles of antique pine chests of drawers include traditional, Victorian, and Edwardian, each with its own unique characteristics and design elements.

Not only are antique pine chests of drawers beautiful pieces of furniture, they are also highly functional. They can be used to store and organise clothing and other household items, and they can serve as a decorative element in a room. Whether you are a collector or simply looking for a practical and attractive piece of furniture, an antique pine chest of drawers is a great choice.

Why are pieces of old pine furniture often different colours ?

In my experience, different types of pine have different patinas and shades. Whether it has been a quick growing or slow growing pine tree also determines whether the grain will be close or wide. (You will notice on most new pine furniture the wide grain). Also pine will darken with age.

Georgian and early Victorian English pine furniture tended to be made from very slow growing pine, so the grain was often very tight, and the wood quite hard (for a soft wood like pine). 

The English had determined that only the lower class would have a piece of furniture with the bare wood showing (just waxed or oiled), so they tended to like it painted. This lead paint will have protected the wood and also stopped the sun's rays from darkening it (Pine will darken with age if exposed to light). Therefore when we decided to start to strip and wax our old pine furniture (starting in the 1970's, and very often stripping our old pine doors also), we found the lovely old slow growing tight grained wood underneath, and we enjoyed the light colour which was enhanced when waxed with a beeswax finish.

The darkening of pine can be regularly seen on the antique furniture I deal in, especially on many old pine Marriage Chests and Pine Wardrobes. These types of furniture were often given as wedding present. An old pine box or wardrobe would be bought, then re-painted and then the initials of the married couple would be also painted on the item in thick lead paint. When we strip our furniture, the stencil of the writing can still be seen, it will be lighter in colour because the lead paint has protected the wood just a little more than the thinner paint elsewhere. 

So to sum up:

Pine is a popular wood choice for furniture due to its durability and attractive grain pattern. However, different types of pine may have different shades and patinas, depending on factors such as the speed at which the tree grew and the grain pattern of the wood. Slow-growing pine tends to have a tighter grain and may be harder than quick-growing pine, which may have a wider grain. Pine can also darken with age, especially if it is exposed to light.

In the past, pine furniture was often painted, especially in England, where it was considered a lower-class material. This paint protected the wood and prevented it from darkening over time. When antique pine furniture is stripped of its paint, the wood underneath may have a lighter color due to the protective effects of the lead paint. This can be seen on items such as marriage chests and wardrobes, which were often given as wedding presents and decorated with the initials of the married couple in thick lead paint.

Pine dressers

Pine Dressers

A pine dresser is a type of furniture that is typically made from pine wood. Pine is a popular choice for dressers because it is a lightweight and relatively inexpensive wood, yet it is still strong and durable. Pine dressers can come in a variety of styles, from traditional and antique to modern and contemporary. They can also range in size from small, compact dressers to large, spacious ones with multiple drawers and shelves. Some pine dressers are finished with a natural wood finish, while others are painted or stained in different colours. Pine dressers are a popular choice for bedroom furniture, as they provide ample storage space for clothing, linens, and other personal items. They can also be used in other rooms of the house, such as the living room or dining room, to store a variety of household items.

Pine dressers come in a variety of styles, including traditional, modern, and rustic. They can range in size from small, narrow units with a single row of drawers to large, expansive dressers with multiple rows of drawers and plenty of storage space. Some pine dressers have a natural wood finish, while others are painted or stained in different colors.

In addition to their practical use as storage furniture, pine dressers can also add a touch of style to a room. They can be used in bedrooms, closets, and other areas of the home to help keep things organized and tidy. Some people even use pine dressers in their living rooms or dining rooms as a place to store linens, dishes, or other household items.

Overall, pine dressers are a functional and attractive piece of furniture that can be used in a variety of settings to help keep your home organized and stylish.

The history of dressers

In the Middle Ages, dressers were often made of oak or other hardwoods and were used to store clothing and other personal items. They were often elaborately decorated with carvings and other ornamentation. Over time, dressers evolved to include multiple drawers, which made it easier to organize and access small items.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, dressers became more common in homes and were often made of mahogany, walnut, or other types of wood. They were often used in bedrooms to store clothing and other personal items. In the 20th century, dressers became more affordable and were made of a variety of materials, including pine, particle board, and metal. Today, dressers are an essential piece of furniture in many homes and are available in a wide range of styles, sizes, and materials.

Around the world

In different countries, dressers may have different styles and features, depending on the local culture and design traditions.

For example, in China, dressers are often made of elm or other hardwoods and have a distinctive style with intricate carvings and ornamentation. In Japan, dressers are known as tansu and are made of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and paper. Japanese tansu often have a rustic, minimalist design and may feature sliding doors or drawers.

In Europe, dressers have a long history and come in a variety of styles. In France, for example, dressers are known as commodes and may have a more ornate, formal design. In England, dressers are often made of oak or other hardwoods and have a more traditional, rustic look.

In the United States, dressers are an essential piece of furniture in many homes and come in a wide range of styles, including traditional, modern, and rustic. They are typically made of wood, although there are also versions made of metal or other materials.

Overall, dressers are a common piece of furniture in homes around the world and come in a variety of styles and materials to suit different tastes and design preferences.

Just delivered to another happy customer - A beautiful old German pine dresser

A beautiful old German pine dresser we have just sold to a customer. Nice and solid and sturdy, wax finished: with 2 glazed doors in the top section, 2 drawers (with white porcelain knobs) over 2 solid panelled doors in the base. In lovely condition for its age (circa: 1910).

Below: photographed before it was wax finished

More happy customers

A waxed old pine Danish cupboard, with a single door and a drawer at the bottom. looking great in customers kitchen.

A large pine cupboard we made for a customer to cover their fireplace

A pine dresser made to measure from new pine

"How to"......with Ken from Pinefinders. (Repairing a gap in the base of a drawer)

Here is Ken from Pinefinder's, Old Pine Furniture Warehouse, showing us how to repair a gap in the bottom of a drawer.

Over time wood contracts and may shrink causing a small gap to appear. This is a common problem but very easily fixed - watch this video to find out how.

You will need: a Hammer, a thick Chisel, a metal Hacksaw blade and small nails or pins.

Do you have any suggestions for our next “How to” video?? Do you have any questions or problems you think we may be able to help you with?? Please get in contact with us by email and we will share your comments on our next blog.

An 8' x 3' pine table made from old pine floorboards

Another happy customer. Here’s an 8’ x 3’ pine table we have just delivered to a customer in Toot Baldon, Oxfordshire. Made from old pine floorboards, and with lovely turned legs. It went in their long narrow dining room. They had been searching for ages for a suitable table but couldn’t find one, so they came to us to make one specially for them. The old pine floorboards we used to make the table came from an old mill in Daventry.

More information about our made to measure pine tables

Other made to measure pine furniture

Happy New Year to all of our customers!

From all of us here at Pinefinders, we would like to wish our customers a very happy new year! We hope 2019 brings you health and happiness!

Looking back on 2018 here at Pinefinders - the year flew by. We sourced just over 500 pieces of antique pine furniture for our customers, from France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Denmark and here in the UK.

Some key pieces that I particularly liked went to some amazing houses. I was lucky enough to go along to see these pieces of furniture delivered to their new homes. It is always nice to see this, as our customers spend a lot of time thinking over what would work perfectly in the space they have. Antique furniture isn’t just there to serve a purpose, its there to be admired. It is also an investment.

Here are some pictures of the furniture we found for you in 2018

A beautiful Italian 18th Century pine Cassone / Marriage chest. A very large (wide & deep) antique pine German wardrobe, with the original large bun feet.

Bottom left - Stunning French 19th Century pine housekeepers cupboard in immaculate condition. Old Danish bank of drawers. Antique Hungarian copper pot.

Our Hungarian Copper Pots were very popular all year round but especially in the winter. Customers were buying them to use as log stores or to put their Xmas tree in. They make excellent statement pieces outside your front door - either as a planter or a home for your bay tree.

Below, is a picture of an old English Victorian school stationary cupboard. We do source Victorian and Edwardian furniture. The old school cupboards sell very quickly.

Below the cupboard is a picture of a large old farmhouse bank of drawers sideboard, with the lovely original cup handles. It is seen here in the bare wood. It looked amazing once it was wax polished.

We had our busiest year yet with our “made to measure” furniture. So much so, that we decided to offer a wider range of furniture to our customers. We now make bespoke, benches, desks, filing cabinets, console table’s and dressers. Please have a look at our newly updated page, find out more info here.

Anyway that is all for now…… Ken or I will be back some time soon, with some more news from Pinefinders. We hope to see you again in 2019. Bye for now. Alex

Beautiful Old Pine Wardrobe Sold

Just delivered a lovely old pine wardrobe to a customer in Bolton. Thought I'd take some photos of it in place in their bedroom:

Antique copper cauldrons from Eastern Europe

Take a look at my collection of antique copper cauldrons I've recently bought from a contact in Eastern Europe. If you are interested in any of these let us know.

Ken

Large Antique Copper Planters / Pots

                  ****************************ONLY TWO REMAINING********************

CHRISTMAS TREE POTS???!!!!

We still have some pots available. Please contact us for further details.

Monday 28th November - my favourites and helpful hints

My favourites and helpful tips

Merry Christmas to our customers - from Santa Ken aka grumpy