Does the idea of collecting something intrigue you? Are you always admiring the knick knacks that are on display at your neighbors homes and wonder if you could do the same? It is possible that you might want to begin a collection of your own and need to figure out how to do it. Collecting Frogs – a Fun Hobby for All Ages was an article that got me started in collecting but what you collect is up to you, and what follow are some tips that every new collector should know or follow.
Collect with your heart, but be smart. Research items before you start buying. Do not pick something because someone else likes it. Do not buy to make money, unless you really know your stuff. A collection is what you want it to be, and it could be anything from fine art paintings to collectible frogs, but the one thing collectors all have in common is their passion. Not every collectible requires a large investment from the person, there are many things that can be had that are not very pricey.
Decide what appeals to your fancy. A person can make a collection out of most things. In the end the important part of a collection is the stories that accompany them. There are no wrong things to collect. The items you choose are not about how much they cost and they can be as inexpensive as you want.
There are two ways to buy, either locally or online at websites like www.myfrogcollection.com, and although it is easy to jump in and start buying at an auction site online, but first check the stuff out locally and in person so you can learn about the feel and look of an item in person first. Visit antique malls and flea markets in your area. Learn more about the characteristics of a piece and problems to look for that might not be evident when purchasing online. Make note of the local prices, many times it might be more affordable to buy locally and not pay the extra costs for shipping. By seeing how much a retailer charges for something, you will understand whether you are saving money by shopping on the internet.
Buy a reference book. Even if the book is older it can still teach a person about why something is more valuable than something similar or give you other needed clues in your search. Finding the right book should help you understand part of the story about a collection.
Maintain a journal about where you purchased something and how much it cost. Most importantly, start keeping an inventory immediately. Do it on the computer or just buy a notebook. Documentation can be useful later on and should contain the price you paid and when you got it at the very least.
I love my collections and share them at every opportunity. I also enjoy researching the background of the more unusual pieces, looking for old patents of when an item might be made or the history of a now defunct company.
I also have learned that it is necessary for me to get rid of some of the collectible s I have gotten at times to make room for new ones. Not all of them appreciate them as much as I do. Even though they may not love it like I do, I still let them know the memories associated with the collectible. And hopefully, they enjoy the story too and continue to retell it.
