Starting a collection takes commitment, dedication, and above all else… hard work. It takes years to build a truly impressive collection, but if you’ve ever been interested in doing so, the time to start is now. You’re never too old to get passionate about something and the art of collecting is the perfect way to showcase those passions. Plus, depending on what you collect, it may not be as expensive as you’d think, but could lead to a prosperous future.
We all know someone who has a collection. Maybe it’s your grandfather’s coin collection, your mother’s figurines, or your brother’s comic books. Regardless of who in our family is favorable to collecting, most often what they collect is something ordinary or, at the very least, common. Action figures, antiques, or anime are all cliché and aren’t oftentimes very inspiring. There are a few very unique collections that are worth mentioning. We believe that the more unique a collection is, the more inspiration you can draw from it to build your own. In this article, we’ll talk a little bit about some of our favorite unique collections in the hopes that you’ll find your own inspiration.
The Art of Collecting
Before we dive too deep into our favorite unique collections, it’s worth talking a little bit about what makes the act of collecting such an art. Throughout our lifetimes, we collect things without even realizing it. Art, moments, furniture, information, clothes, and even friends are collected in one sense or another.
The things that move us are worth keeping in our lives, which is why the art of collecting itself is fueled by passion. A collectible is different for each person and if you feel passionate about something, don’t hesitate to take action. Regardless of if that means learning a new dance, breaking out of your shell, or starting a collection, taking action is the first step towards pursuing our passions.
Unique Collections
With that being said, a lot of collections may seem boring or drab when you start to consider how many people are already collecting them. Coins seem too cliché and maybe glass figurines or dolls give you a little bit of a creep. Luckily, there are a number of unique collections you can start. Regardless if it’s one of the few listed below, or something that you come up with all on your own, all that matters is that you find inspiration in the items and you enjoy the process of building your collection.
Vintage Video Games
The idea of collecting action figures is anything but new, but have you ever considered collecting vintage video games? If you grew up before the Internet, think back to your early childhood. Sega, Nintendo 64, and the original Playstation all had some pretty impressive games considering the technology available. Collecting vintage video games and consoles is not only unique; it also makes for a pretty fun weekend get together reminiscing with your friends.
Sewing Machines
We all know someone who collects buttons. It usually started out as a pile of mismatched buttons saved from old shirts… just in case we needed to mend a coat or blouse. Eventually the piles outgrew the clothes and transformed into a true collection. However, have you ever heard of someone who collects sewing machines? Sewing machines have evolved tremendously over time and if you have a passion for sewing, they serve two purposes. Finding machines from past decades that actually work and can be used is a win-win and provides an interesting look into life 100 years ago.
Similarly, collecting antique radios or record players is another way to grow a unique, yet functional, collection. The problem arises when your collection gets too big for your home. Luckily, you can easily rent a climate controlled storage unit like the ones at The Lock Up Self Storage to keep your collection safe and secure.
Dice
Sometimes a collection starts without even realizing it, such as with a unique collection of dice throughout the ages. Every home is equipped with board games, at least in some respect, but collecting dice goes above and beyond a love for entertainment. There are so many unique sets of dice created around the world made from different material, in different color, and varying sizes. Collecting dice is anything but boring, especially when you get a chance to see your collection grow.
Books
Book collectors often try to find first editions of their favorite novels to store away in their library, but what about taking a different approach to collecting literature? With travel becoming more accessible, people are starting to change the way they collect. In fact, one of the most unique ways of collecting books that we’ve seen is when individuals collect the same book from different countries around the world—each one in a local language. Imagine having a bookcase filled with The Catcher in the Rye or Harry Potter in 100 different languages. While you might not be able to read each of them, the beauty arises from the passion of the collection.
Some other unique collections include:
- Cutting Boards
- Coffee Mugs
- License Plates
- Depression Glass
- Typewriters
- Equestrian Ribbons
- Old Photographs
- Travel Tags
- Cameras
- Coasters
- Dirt, Sand, or Earth
- Keys
- Playing Cards
How to Start A Collection
Once you’ve found something that’s worth collecting to you, it’s time to get started. Jumping in headfirst and starting your collection off with numerous supplies can be expensive, but everyone has to start somewhere. To get your collection going on the right foot, consider these steps.
- Make a Plan
Take some time to think about what you want to collect before making any purchases. 
Consider your passions, interests, or lifestyle habits. Are any of these collectable? If so, go with it! After you’ve chosen what you want to collect, try narrowing it down so that you’re not trying to collect anything too vague. For example, rather than simply collecting “books,” collect specific types of books, first editions, or one book in many languages.
- Research
The next step is to do some research. Check online and see how realistic, expensive, or accessible your desired collector’s items are. It’s best to understand what you can afford before starting your collection. Otherwise you may realize you’re taking away from your monthly food budget a little to late. If you’re collecting things for investment purposes, try and talk to someone who is knowledgeable in the subject matter so you can understand what to expect. Collecting for investment is handled differently than collecting for enjoyment and you’ll need to dedicate substantially more time for research prior to getting starting.
- Shop Online
Now comes the fun. It’s time to start growing your collection. Thanks to the accessibility of the Internet, you can start by doing your initial shopping online. Check on Ebay, Amazon, or even Craigslist to get started and find reasonably priced options. Always compare prices between sites to get the best deal before finalizing a purchase.
- Shop In Person
Don’t forget to get out of the house and do some shopping in person. This lets you to see and handle your items before going through with the final purchase. Depending on your collection, check antique stores, resale shops, garage sales, or even video game stores. Go wherever you think you’ll find the next addition to your collection. The search is half of the fun!
- Organize
Any good collector knows the important of organization. Figure out how you will organize, 
display, or store your collection so that it stays in pristine condition. Some people enjoy displaying their collection for everyone to see, while others do not and would rather ensure its safety and security. The choice is yours, but if you decide to store your collection, make sure you do it safely.
How to Safely Store Your Collection
As long as you’re passionate, it doesn’t matter what you’re collecting. It does, however, matter how you store your items. A lot of collections include old or antique items that need a certain level of care to withstand the test of time. If your collection is made up of larger, more bulky items, it may irritate your family members or partner. That’s why we recommend renting out a self storage unit like the ones available at The Lock Up Self Storage.
At The Lock Up Self Storage, all of our self storage units are climate controlled, affordable, and secure so you can sit back and relax knowing your collection is in good hands. In fact, our property is equipped with perimeter alarms, gated access, individual access codes, and CCTV. Plus, you can access your unit at any time, day or night. With our flexible leasing options, you can upgrade the size of your storage unit as your collection continues to grow. Visit us at www.thelockup.com today to browse the available units in your area today.
