Are You a Collector?

By Susan (tparty)

I'm not ashamed to admit it . . . I'm a collector. When we have guests over at our house for the first time, they usually comment on my vast array of vintage items. And although they seem to appreciate my collections, they are also quick to add that they aren't collectors.

I use my collection of vintage picnic tins for storage in my studio.

What can I say? With my love of all things vintage, it seems natural to me to collect. And "the more, the merrier" is my motto. However, I do have my limits. I'm careful not to let my collections overpower a room. I also don't want to infringe on my family's comfort or make them want to put me on one of those hoarder TV shows. So I keep my collections controlled and tidy.

Instant collection of seven Wonder Books in a yellow plastic daisy bin by tparty

It is said that having three of something forms a collection. Therefore, wouldn't that make us all collectors of one sort or another? For instance, some of us love handbags and have a different one for every mood. Others are crazy about shoes. And most of us have clothing for just about every occasion

Instant collection of six Edgeworth tobacco tins by marybethhale

Don't we all have at lease three pairs of socks? How about hats? Everyday dishes? Silverware? Books by a favorite author? Earrings? Golf clubs? I could go on and on — my point being that even though you may not know it, you, too, are a collector.

Instant collection of Ohio Art tin litho shovels by nerdnest

If you're like me, you like to amass items brimming with vintage goodness. And Etsy has become a great place to search for these treasures as it is packed with so many wonderful collectibles.

Instant collection of antique Noritake lusterware salt sellers by Niftic

For those who want to jump start a collection, several Etsy Vintage Team sellers offer "instant collections." Items that once may have taken months or even years to come across can now be found easily — sans the legwork! 

If you are a collector-in-waiting, simply type in "instant collection" when searching Etsy and you will be well on your way to starting a terrific collection. Just remember that once you have that group of three or more items, don't spread them around your house. They will have a lot more impact when displayed together.

So . . . what do you collect?