Lane Furniture Record Cabinet

Vintage furniture carries stories from the past. Among collectors, Lane Furniture is renowned for building quality American home furnishings that stand the test of time. If you love music and mid-century style, Lane’s record cabinets are filled with retro charm and craftsmanship. However, sourcing an authentic cabinet requires some digging. This buying guide uncovers tips for identifying Lane’s vinyl vaults, evaluating their worth, and restoring them to their former glory. Let’s spin some vintage tunes and rediscover why these iconic cabinets never go out of style.

What Makes Lane Furniture Record Cabinets So Special?

Based in Altavista, Virginia, Lane Furniture gained fame after World War II for producing affordable and durable American home furnishings. Their catalog offerings included a variety of entertainment units like bars, TV consoles – and record cabinets to store those cherished vinyl collections.

Lane’s cabinets featured details like sliding tambour doors, cedar interiors, and rich walnut or mahogany veneers. Stylistic touches gave a mid-century modern or retro flair, like tapered legs, curved details, and glossy finishes. Storage-savvy features include interior shelves, dividers, and storage nooks. Lane took pride in crafting quality cabinets made to last a lifetime.

For music lovers, Lane record cabinets provide easy access to albums with style. Their handcrafted details easily blend in with surrounding decor. For collectors, Lane cabinets are prized treasures that display a sought-after brand. Whatever your interest, Lane’s vinyl vaults offer timeless appeal.

How to Identify an Authentic Lane Furniture Record Cabinet

With the popularity of mid-century modern style, buying Lane Furniture can be tricky. Reproductions and lookalikes abound. To help spot an authentic cabinet, look for these hallmarks:

Examine the interior label – Lane used metal tags or stickers printed with “Lane” and a location like “Altavista, VA.” Early versions say “Lane Company, Inc.” while newer labels read “Lane Furniture Industries, Inc.”

Check for a serial number – This 5 or 6 digit number verifies production date and is stamped on the back or bottom. Numbers starting with 1 or 2 indicate 1960s while 5 or 6 signal 1970s.

Look for the Lane logos – Stylized “Lane” lettering appears on metal drawer glides or back panels. Lane experimented with circular, diagonal and straight logos.

Inspect joints and finishes – Lane used high-quality dovetail joints and either walnut or mahogany veneers with a signature glossy or distressed finish called “Fruitwood.”

See sliding tambour doors – Many Lane cabinets feature tambour doors, made of small wooden strips that slide horizontally to protect records.

Feel sturdy cabinet weight – Quality materials like hardwoods and plywood make Lane cabinets heavier than reproductions. Weighing construction helps determine authenticity.

Following these clues helps verify if that cool vintage cabinet is truly a Lane original or just an imposter. Examining these details takes some sleuthing skills, but prevents paying top dollar for a fake.

Where to Buy Lane Furniture Record Cabinets: Smart Shopping Strategies

Once you learn how to spot authentic Lane Furniture, next comes the fun part – the hunt! Finding Lane cabinets takes patience and savvy shopping skills. Here are smart tips for locating lanes legendary cabinets:

Search classified ads – Scour classifieds sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace using keywords like “Lane Furniture record player cabinet”. Private sellers sometimes offer quality Lanes at lower prices.

Visit thrift and consignment stores – Search well-merchandised shops in affluent areas. Educate store employees on brands like Lane to help spot pieces while stocking.

Follow online auctions – Sites like eBay provide access to Lane cabinets across regions. Check seller ratings, examine photos closely, and ask detailed questions before bidding.

Make estate sale rounds – Arrive early, bring a truck, and be prepared to carry out furniture to get the best Lane finds. Knowing cabinet models helps identify them quickly.

Talk to collectors – Join online collector forums, follow Lane hashtags on social media, and network with enthusiasts to get leads on where coveted pieces hide.

Watch for warehouse sales – Stores like Danish Modern LA have exclusive access to high-end Lane trade stock and hold annual sales. Get on their mailing lists for news of upcoming events.

With persistence and savvy, you can source quality vintage Lane cabinets. Cast a wide net by mixing online and offline hunting strategies to increase your chances of finding these prized pieces.

Determining Fair Pricing for Authentic Lane Furniture Record Cabinets

Once you spot a promising cabinet, it’s tempting to hand over your cash right away. But determining fair pricing is critical so you don’t overpay in the heat of the moment. Here are tips for assessing a Lane cabinet’s true value:

Evaluate condition – Examine for damage like scratches or water stains that lower value. Assess repairs needed to calculate costs.

Consider hardware – Original hardware in working order adds value versus replacements or poor repairs. Make sure sliding doors still glide smoothly.

Check completeness – Music lovers want full cabinets they can use. Missing shelves, doors or hardware reduces worth and functionality.

Confirm model – Compare to catalogs to identify popular styles like the “Rhapsody II” versus more common models. Unique or rare versions merit higher pricing.

Research prices – Study similar Lane cabinets sold recently on 1stDibs, Chairish and other resale sites. Follow eBay auctions to note top dollar amounts.

Assess rarity – Unique wood finishes, early production years or limited models boost value for serious Lane collectors.

Negotiate respectfully– Explain how you arrived at a fair offer based on careful evaluation. Aim for a win-win price satisfying both buyer and seller.

With knowledge and research, you can strike a good bargain. Paying market value for a quality Lane cabinet brings enjoyment for years to come.

Restore a Lane Record Cabinet to its Retro Glory

That long-coveted Lane cabinet now sits in your home, but looks a bit tired. With some elbow grease, you can revitalize a vintage Lane piece to its former appeal. Follow these steps for a satisfying restoration:

Clean surfaces – Remove dust with a soft cloth. For grime, use mild soap and water, then dry completely. Avoid Murphy’s Oil Soap, which can damage finishes.

Touch up scratches – Lightly sand flaws and touch up with a Lane-colored marker, wax filler stick, or touch-up paint pen. Refresh finish with restoring polish.

Replace hardware – Source period-correct handles, knobs or sliding tracks from eBay or specialty sites like House of Antique Hardware. Carefully install new hardware.

Repair loose joints – Reinforce joints or replace damaged veneers with wood glue. Use filler sticks on small holes; sand smooth after drying.

Re-stain or refinish – For major staining or damage, completely strip and sand cabinet. Re-stain with Lane’s Fruitwood finish or give a fresh look with paint.

Add new elements – Install soft-close mechanisms on sliding doors for smoother gliding. Add puck lights inside to spotlight albums.

Style with decor – Showcase cabinet with accent lighting, artful objects on top or a mid-century lounge chair beside it for a curated look.

With some time and care, that worn Lane cabinet comes back to life. Preserve its vintage appeal while adding modern touches to reimagine the piece in your home.

Unique Features That Make Lane Cabinets Special

Beyond Lane’s trademark quality, their cabinets showcase special features that enhance style, function, and flair. Understanding these unique traits helps identify Lane originals:

• Tambour Doors – Intricately sliding wood strips made accessing records a breeze while hiding contents. Lane’s tambours were hand-crafted from either mahogany or walnut.
• Leg Styles – Lane experimented with tapered, curved, or angular legs in different periods, leaving unique leg shapes as clues to a cabinet’s era.
• Cedar Interiors – Lane lined many cabinets with aromatic cedar, naturally repelling moths and mildew to protect precious records.
• Elevated Record Players – Some Lane cabinets were designed with a lift-top compartment housing a record player that rose up when opened.
• Storage Nooks – Lane maximized storage with extra interior spaces for album sleeves, 45s and even wine bottles in some models.
• Vibrant Finishes – From rich mahogany to glossy whites, Lane’s colorful finishes stood out. Their distressed “Fruitwood” finish gave a signature retro look.
• Adjustable Shelving – Many cabinets came equipped with adjustable shelves, dividers and slots to customize storage solutions for expanding collections.

Lane’s innovative and thoughtful touches make their record consoles highly functional yet stylish. Understanding these unique traits helps music lovers select the perfect cabinet to fulfill their needs.

Styling a Lane Cabinet for a Modern Look

While Lane’s retro cabinets look gorgeous on their own, they also pair beautifully with modern decor. Blend mid-century appeal with contemporary furnishings and accessories to create a timeless look:

• Place your Lane cabinet on an eye-catching rug to define the space. Choose a bold pattern or bright colors to accentuate the wood tones.
• Flank the cabinet with sleek Italian upholstered lounge chairs for a mix of new and old. Add in a sculptural floor lamp for drama.
• Adorn the top with decorative objects like modern vases, a colorful tabletop clock or rustic based lamps for an eclectic feel.
• Swap out solid doors for new smoked acrylic tambour doors to open up the space and highlight records.
• Install low-profile LED cabinet lighting to spotlight albums behind doors or in open shelving. Choose adjustable temperature strips.
• Accent the cabinet in a neutral room with painterly artwork above in similar warm, vintage-inspired colors.
• Fill the open cabinet with a combination of vinyl records and decorative books. Group objects in threes for visual harmony.
• Suspend S-shaped hooks above for hanging planters, guitars or other fun accessories.

Mixing Lane’s timeless style with modern updates creates a fresh, inviting look. Their handsome cabinets add warmth and nostalgia to any room.

Why Lane Furniture Record Cabinets are Collectible Classics

For mid-century furniture collectors, Lane cabinets are prized finds thanks to their iconic style, quality construction, and vintage appeal:

• Brand Reputation – Serious collectors value Lane Furniture pieces for their classic American craftsmanship and story.
• Rarity – Some Lane cabinet models were only produced for a short time or in limited quantities, making them harder to source.
• Era-Specific Details – Details like tapered legs, atomic star pulls, or swivel top compartments indicate specific fashionable eras that collectors target.
• Uniquely American – Many collectors value Lane’s Virginia-made cabinets over similar Scandinavian styles from the period.
• Material Quality – Lane used premium woods, durable veneers, and real tambour doors that appeal to collectors seeking authenticity.
• Vintage Nostalgia – Collectors, especially Baby Boomers, feel sentimental toward mid-century Lane designs reminiscent of childhoods and early albums.
• Design Influence – Lane’s stylish cabinets with smart storage influenced later cabinet designs coveted by collectors.
• Provenance – Collectors favor pieces with interesting backstories, like celebrity ownership or special appearances.

For all these reasons, Lane’s well-crafted record cabinets are darling classics that give collectors unique slices of mid-century style worth cherishing.

Key Dimensions for Lane Record Cabinets

Lane made many cabinet designs over the decades, ranging from compact console units to expansive wall systems. Knowing popular cabinet dimensions helps gauge what size will fit your space and storage needs:

• Rhapsody I – A classic model at 36″W x 35.5″H x 18″D with space for approximately 120-150 albums
• Rhapsody II – A wider version of their popular Rhapsody line at 48″W x 36″H x 18″D storing around 200 albums
• Basic Console – Entry level cabinet at 40″W x 30″H x 16″D with capacity for 100-120 records
• Bachelor’s Chest – Narrower vertical form at 28″W x 44″H x 18″D; Stores 100-120 albums
• Wall System – Large storage unit wider than 60″ with different interior configurations storing 300+ albums
• Compact Console – Smaller unit designed for tight spaces under 32″W x under 30″H with capacity for just 50-75 albums
• Sideboard Cabinet – A long, low credenza style over 50″W x under 30″H suitable for dining rooms

Whether space is limited or you seek album storage, understanding the sizing options helps match Lane’s designs to your needs and decor.

Keeping Lane Cabinets Looking Like New

Preserve your cabinet’s vintage charm by properly caring for these musical time capsules. Follow these tips to keep Lane pieces performing and looking their best:

• Dust regularly with a soft lint-free cloth to prevent buildup and surface abrasions over time.
• Use coasters under drinks and placemats when using cabinet tops as accent tables to avoid water marks.
• Condition wood surfaces annually with a light coat of polish to nourish finishes and enhance luster. Avoid oil-based products that can yellow over time.
• Tighten loose joinery or hardware promptly to avoid further deterioration or breakdowns.
• Install felt pads under accessories to prevent scratches. Use rear feet tabs on heavy objects to distribute weight.
• Open doors carefully without force. Lubricate sliding tracks occasionally with beeswax to keep movements smooth.
• Avoid placing cabinets in direct sunlight or near heat sources that can damage wood and finishes.
• Keep cabinets away from damp basements or leaks. Immediately wipe up spills to prevent water damage.

With some simple care and precaution, a Lane cabinet will deliver decades more of reliable performance and vintage appeal.

Sourcing Replacement Parts to Keep Lane Cabinets Grooving

Over years of use, some replacement parts may be needed to keep a Lane cabinet in top condition. Here are sources for common Lane components:

• Sliding Tambour Doors – Contact Rockaway Recycling or eBay sellers specializing in replacement tambour doors made to original specifications.
• Hardware – Shop House of Antique Hardware, Especially for You Hardware, or Vintage Hardware & Lighting for period door pulls and knobs.
• Legs and Leg Tips – Try glycollegtips.com for screw-on replacement legs in the tapered mid-century style of Lane originals.
• Hinges – Forward and reverse options abound at HardwareTree, as well as cupboard catches and supports for lift-top lids.
• Drawer Glides – Order replacements matching Lane’s friction glide mechanisms from Shop All Glides or Quality Drawer.
• Cabinet Locks – Replacements.com has a range of plate locks and footed key locks fitting old Lane cabinets.
• Turntable Mounts – Klingspor’s Woodworking Shop carries convenient turntable mounts to install modern record players inside.

Finding new parts extends a Lane cabinet’s lifespan. With a little detective work, you can source components to keep these music gear gems spinning for generations.

Pre-Assembly Tips for Lane Record Cabinet Kits

For those handy with tools, Lane’s cabinets are also available as ready-to-finish kits. Before starting assembly, keep these tips in mind:

• Carefully unpack and take inventory of all hardware and cabinet parts to confirm all pieces are included before beginning.
• Read instructions thoroughly; check the required tool list and woodworking skill levels involved before starting.
• Choose a large, clean workspace with room to spread out parts. Have clamps, a power drill, wood glue, rags, and sawdust bins handy.
• Use painter’s tape to label component packets. Tape small hardware to parts they attach to for easy identification later.
• Test sample stains on cabinet scraps first before applying to the full piece to ensure you achieve the right color tone desired.
• Pre-drill all holes to avoid splitting wood when driving in screws and to properly guide screw placements.
• Glue up panels and let dry completely before final assembly for strongest results. Follow clamp times recommended.
• Work slowly and patiently. Furniture glue and finishes require careful steps over hours or days, not shortcutting.

With smart preparation and pacing, assembling your own Lane cabinet kit properly positions all the parts for a rewarding do-it-yourself project resulting in a stunning showpiece.

Choosing Your Cabinet’s Finish for Maximum Appeal

The finishing touch makes or breaks a Lane cabinet’s overall look. Lane offered a spectrum of appealing finish options to match any decor:

Fruitwood – A multi-step hand-stained and hand-rubbed process that distressed wood for an antique appearance. This signature Lane finish has a cult following.

Natural – A clear lacquer coating that reveals the raw wood tones and grain beneath, from natural birch to rich mahogany.

Golden Oak – A honey-colored staining giving an inviting traditional feel. Dovetailed joints stand out against this lighter finish.

Walnut – A slightly reddish, deep brown stain that accentuates grain. Its warmth provides a classic, sophisticated look.

Ebony – For dramatic contrast, ebony stain gives an almost black intensity. Eye-catching on details like tambour doors against lighter wood bodies.

White or Ivory – A bright, glossy painted finish lending a coastal, beachy or vintage Hollywood vibe.

Custom – Many Lane cabinets can be hand-painted in any color for a true custom look. Distressed techniques can mimic Lane’s signature charm.

The finish choice impacts the entire room’s mood. Consider surrounding furnishings and decor style when selecting an ideal finish that gives your Lane cabinet maximum impact.

Arranging Records Within Lane Cabinets

Once you unpack those dusty crates of vinyl, how do you neatly arrange them inside your prized Lane cabinet? Here are handy tips:

• Catalog your collection first by genre, artist or year. This helps plan ideal shelf arrangements.
• Place delicate 78rpm records in protective sleeves on lower shelves to prevent damage.
• Arrange albums vertically, tightly packed to prevent warping. Leave some space above tall cover art.
• Slot dividers between genres or decades. Some Lane cabinets came with original wood dividers.
• Display prized albums, like original pressings, in front. Save common titles for lower, upper shelves.
• Keep shelves around two-thirds full. Too crowded risks warping records while too loose allows falling.
• Angle albums slightly forward for easier viewing of spines while still vertically stored.
• Dust shelves and albums first with anti-static brush/cloth before placing records inside to avoid scratching.
• Add cushioning felt pads on lower cabinets or under heavy objects like turntables to absorb vibration.

With some forethought, you can neatly display your vinyl treasures inside a Lane cabinet for quick access and viewing pleasure.

The Evolution of Lane Furniture Record Cabinets Through the Decades

Lane Furniture’s cabinet designs reflected changing tastes across their near century of production. Tracing the origins and evolution of their record cabinets provides a glimpse into 20th century style trends:

• 1930s – Lane debuts simple radio cabinets with decorative carving and compact sizes fitting smaller, Depression-era homes.
• 1940s – War shortages shift focus to building cabinets purely from domestic woods like walnut without metal flair.
• 1950s – Bold angles, atomic starbursts, and vibrant blonde finishes mirror Mid-century Modern and Hollywood glam styles on Lane cabinets.
• 1960s – Sleek tambour doors emerge along with multi-component wall systems and Danish-inspired styles.
• 1970s – Eclectic globally-influenced designs; Produced innovative Cabinet-O-Matic swiveling stereo console.
• 1980s – Shift from vinyl to new media impacts cabinet designs; TV/VCR combo cabinets grow in popularity.
• 1990s – Lane acquires Virginia heritage brand Virginia House. Increased overseas competition leads Lane to diversify offerings.

Like a visual history book, Lane’s innovative record cabinets document America’s changing technology, music tastes, and interior design trends.

Transporting Lane Cabinets with Care

Lane cabinets deserve special care when moving due to their size, weight and delicate details. Follow these precautions when transporting treasured Lane pieces:

• Remove doors, drawers, and detachable hardware to lighten weight and prevent shifting during transit. Label parts for reattachment.
• Wrap cabinet in thick moving blankets or quilts; secure with tape. Use foam pads on corners or legs.
• Carry cabinets vertically with 2+ people. Avoid dragging pieces which can damage bases and joints.
• Use dollies with soft, wide straps to bear weight across cabinet backs when rolling is unavoidable.
• For pickup transport, carefully slide cabinet into truck beds or cargo vans. Pad truck beds first to avoid scratches.
• Secure cabinet tightly in vehicle with straps or rope to prevent sliding during braking.
• After arriving, unpack cabinet gently. Reattach parts removed using existing hardware holes.
• Touch up any minor finish scratches or scuffs that may have occurred using matching wood markers and touch-up products.

With careful handling and padding, cherished Lane cabinets ride safely to their new homes. Patience prevents lasting damage during moves.

Keeping Lane Cabinets Looking Timeless for Generations

Beyond day-to-day care, certain steps help preserve Lane cabinets over decades and lifetimes:

• Maintain climate control year-round. Consistent, moderate temperature and humidity prevents finish cracking and warp.
• Keep cabinets out of direct sunlight which can fade and dry out wood over time. Use uv-filtering curtains or shades.
• Dust with a gentleman’s brush weekly. Microfiber cloths also attract dust without abrading surfaces.
• Wax finishes every 1-2 years with products like Howard’s Feed-N-Wax to nourish wood.
• Place furniture pads under cabinets to avoid floor scratches and damage from dampness.
• Inspect joints, glides and hinges every few years; tighten or replace parts promptly as needed.
• Clean spills immediately to prevent water marks; avoid placing plants directly on cabinets.
• Consider professional refinishing every decade to protect appeal. Research qualified local specialists.
• Pass down cherished Lane pieces to heirs. Share your cabinet’s story to continue its legacy.

With dedicated care across generations, Lane record consoles become family heirlooms passing both beautiful craftsmanship and memories forward.

Spotting Fakes: How to Identify Genuine Lane Furniture

With plenty of Lane reproductions circulating, distinguishing authentic cabinets is essential for collectors and shoppers. Look for these telling signs of fakes:

• Misspelled or inconsistently placed labels – especially modern adhesive types versus original metal tags
• Poor dovetail joinery – authentic Lane joints fit tightly with hand-cut precision
• Low weight – light materials like particle board versus Lane’s solid woods
• Plastic drawer glides – Lane used either wood or sturdy cold-rolled steel mechanisms
• Flimsy tambour doors – quality roll-up doors move smoothly without jamming
• Uneven or thin veneers – Lane used quality thick layers properly matched at seams
• Generic hardware – branded pulls stamped “Lane” signal authenticity
• Lack of heft – handles and knobs feel lightweight, turn poorly
• Mismatched wood colors – Lane veneer tones matched throughout pieces
• Cheap finish – thin or sprayed versus quality hand-rubbed polish
• No wear marks – entirely smooth surfaces without expected signs of normal use over the decades

Carefully inspecting these details signals if a cabinet genuinely contains Lane’s esteemed traits versus shortcut reproductions. Go slowly; let your senses discern cherished authenticity.

Diverse Lane Cabinet Designs Across the Decades

While famous for quintessential mid-century details, Lane’s prolific cabinet designers spawned diverse styles over the decades. Beyond their iconic retro pieces, Lane also produced:

• ** Provincial styles** with an ornate hand-carved look popular in the 1940s and 1950s colonial revival period. Characterized by details like bun feet, scalloped trim and reproduce handles.
• Eclectic global-inspired looks in the 1970s borrowing elements from Asian, Mediterranean, and French/Italian influences. Upticks in international travel expanded design inspiration.
• Sleek lacquered case goods from the 1980s mimicking high-end Japanese and Italian minimalism in glossy black, white and red.
• Demilune cabinets with a half-moon curved front maximizing space in tighter quarters while providing style. Lane demilune models featured gracious shapes heightened by their trademark finishes.
• Multi-function media cabinets in the 1990s housing the newest audio-visual equipment and rolling TV/VCR combos.
• Collaborative designer collections like Virginia House by Lane, partnering with known designers to expand offerings and capture emerging trends.

Beyond mid-century motifs, Lane’s extensive design catalog included something for every taste. Their commitment to quality construction shone through each unique style.

Final Thoughts on Building Your Lane Cabinet Collection

Like flipping through a crate of favorite records, Lane’s vintage cabinets bring back special memories and inspire collection. As you seek out these finsy mid-century furnishings, remember:

• Search smartly but don’t hurry – Patience pays off to find authentic Lane pieces at fair prices.
• Study details closely and ask plenty of questions to ensure you spot original charm.
• Seek cabinets with stories and provenance when possible – they build value.
• Restore Lane’s finishing touches to play up qualities that make them special.
• Mix Lane with modern for a fresh twist or lean into retro styling for vintage appeal.
• Handle Lane cabinets with care and make them family keepsakes. Well-loved Lanes only look better with age.

Now grab those headphones, cue up the vinyl, and settle into your favorite Lane record cabinet time capsule. Here’s to memories made listening to timeless tunes stored in style.