I have a love for the older (1980's and earlier) Longaberger baskets - especially the feature, hostess and special baskets that had limited availability. One of the most valuable resources is the The Bentley Collection Guide. I would like to share a few things that I've learned along my collecting trail;

Longaberger baskets were stained in various hues during their history. These stains age differently and give character to the basket. Some newer collectors are offended by the stain discoloration, so be sure to give accurate details and pictures when listing the earlier baskets.

The Basket Happening is an annual event sponsored by the Bentley Guide that features all retired items. It's a great opportunity to talk with other collectors and Bentley representatives. Many collectors and consultants sell their items. It's a great casual atmosphere to share and learn about the retired Longaberger products.

The Longaberger Homestead in Ohio is a wonderful thing for the basket collector to experience. Aside from great shopping.....you can observe the basket making process, have a basket repaired or meet the Longaberger siblings to have a basket signed.

My experience with the basket repair center has been quite favorable. They've taken some old abused baskets I've adopted and brought them back to original beauty. They take great care to match the stain and workmanship of the era of the basket, so the basket doesn't appear to have been repaired with new materials.

As far as a visit with Dave's brothers and sisters....it's an honor to have a basket signed by a Longaberger family member. I am, however, a bit perplexed as to why most of these Longaberger siblings dislike and rebuke the Bentley Guide. On more than one occasion I have seen a rude reaction to a collector when the Bentley Guide is mentioned. A collector's guide gives interest and sustaining life to a collectible. You'd think the family would appreciate the ongoing interest that a collector's guide could give them. So, I suggest not discussing your Bentley Guide findings with the Longaberger family.

The newest issue of The Bentley Collection Guide is promising to have a long-awaited section on the fabric accessories. This will help identify more details for your auction listing.

Happy Collecting!