Filling the void in your heart with various lumps of plastic

Following on from my advice on ebaying like a pro a couple of weeks ago, I thought it might be time to share my wisdom with you in regards to collecting. After all, what else are you using ebay for if not for tracking down obscure, elusive items? Enjoy, why don’t you?

The thrill of the chase: We all know one of the best things about collecting is the chase, whether it’s watching that ebay auction like a hawk, or going trawling through the local carboot sale for those Star Wars figurines. However, the chase is as addictive as any drug. Facts. At first you’re just having a casual nosey online for your chosen item, before long you’re on auction sites in your work hours with your finger hovering over the mouse to bid because GOD FORBID anyone gets those coasters before you do. Just watch yourself, is what I’m saying.

Displaying your prized items: There are a few things to consider here. If you live alone, you can display your Snoopy plush toy army wherever you please, but if you live with others they may be upset if they have to shift several stuffed dogs before they can make a cup of tea in the morning. Also, how much room do you have? If you have a room going spare, feel free to dedicate it to your belongings. However, if there’s less space available it’s probably best not to let it take over the living room. Nothing says ‘OH HI I’M A CRAZY’ than a room full of Snoopys looming down on you.

Additional items: So you thought that collecting meant that you’d just be spending money on your chosen items? Ah, you must be new here. When you get those items, how will you display them? Scattered all over your desk like a noob? Oh, no. You need to invest in furniture. Shelves, display cabinets, risers, the lot. IKEA is going to be your new best friend.

Thinning the herd: Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you will just buy too much. You’ll have no room for your new collectible ALF dinner plates, and so something will have to go. Be ruthless. Do you love it? Will you pass it down to your first born in your will? Would you save it in a house fire before your first born? If not, get rid. It’s not worth the valuable shelf space.

Budgeting: You’re going to have to manage your money. Sooner or later you’ll find a whole bunch of things you want at once when you can only afford one or two of them. Can you live without it, or will it fill the empty void in your heart that accumulating various lumps of plastic goes some way towards healing? One day, you will have to let something go. It will be hard. It will be painful. However, don’t let anyone see you crying over the He Man figure that got away. It’s a bit worrying.