Tara Donne for Country Living

If you go thrifting often, you know what it feels like to spot a wishlist find at a flea market or antique show . Suddenly, it’s there in front of you: the console that’s the perfect size for your entryway , or the teacup set that completes your heirloom china collection. But bliss can turn to disappointment fast when a closer look reveals that your “treasure” might be more trouble than it’s worth.

So how do you know when that well-loved patina crosses the line from totally charming to not exactly worth your time? “Part of what I love so much about antiquing is letting your mind run wild with the potential in a piece,” says Genevieve Lavelle , a New York-based designer who frequently uses antiques in her projects. “That said, there are definitely a f

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