The Rummager's Handbook: Finding, Buying, Cleaning, Fixing, Using, and Selling Secondhand Treasures

by Robert W. Mcclurg

Antiquing as a fun and potentially profitable pastime has never been more popular, and this book offers hundreds of tips and ideas for finding sales and auctions, bargaining, determining value, and taking it home.

Genres: Nonfiction

Paperback

First published January 6, 1995

Reviews

[Jim Beck · Rating 3 out of 5]

Could have really shortened the title to "How To For Hoarders" but maybe that would have caused a slight decline in interest.
As it is, it got my attention hoping to pick up tips on antiques. But what was given was more like tips of the trade for those who "collect". And "fix". And in his words "decorate" the house. Nah, hanging string from the ceiling for the purpose of showing guests your new toys or using twist ties to hang stuffed animals from the windows seems much like a house with too much stuff!
At times interesting but really not my type of reading. :)

[Krista · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has good advice, however it is dated. If she wrote an updated one it would be more valuable. She also repeated what she said several times throughout the book

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book - which was a fortuitous find at a library book sale (a fact the author would likely get a kick out of). It was a fast easy read with many good tips and humorous anecdotes. This is a great book for someone who likes to collect old stuff and is running out of room or who loves bargain hunting through old stuff at flea markets, estate sales, yard sales, and thrift stores. The book includes tips on selling items / starting a sideline in reselling but it’s not the only focus of the book - it’s really an overall guide to enjoying second hand stuff - whether that is collecting, gifting, or selling those items.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes, this book is out of date. Yes, it was probably written in a couple free weekends. Yes, it's bizarre that there are no photos. But I don't care, because I am extremely on board for the book's unique combination of prim, fussy tone and rather unhinged decorating advice. Who else is telling us to add stuffed monkeys to seemingly every room? Who else is reminding us to add California Raisins to our Christmas decor?!
I can only hope to meet Robert W. McClurg one day, because I can only assume we'd instantly become best friends.

[Mary Lou · Rating 1 out of 5]

McClurg's house must be outlandishly tacky! No useful information here.

[Wendi WDM · Rating 2 out of 5]

eh not so great

[Cindy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not so much value for me, just reminders about what works when you sell.

[Renee Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not great, the writer is obviously a hoarder.

[Deb · Rating 2 out of 5]

The cleaning tips were helpful and pretty much the reason I checked this book out of the library.