Collecting with Pride

This is a guide for all those collectors out there who are missing pride in thier collection.  The pride that comes not only from having an outstanding collection, but being able to drive others wild with jealousy.  I have had many requests from collectors I have met on how they can turn a box of jumbled comics or shelf of random videos into a work of art.  I have set up a checklist/regimen that WORKS FOR ANY COLLECTION  

• First you want to gather everything you currently have in your chosen collection, then clean and organize it all.  Make an inventory of everything in a little notebook or sheet of paper.
• Here comes the fun part!  Take another sheet of paper and start brainstorming what your goal is for your collection.  Do you want to triple the size of it?  Fill in all the gaps and missing parts?  Put them all on display in handmade cases?  No matter how off the wall or detailed, write it down.  If you collect movies, make sure you have any remakes or sequels to what you have.  Does your Disney set have only 6 of the dwarves, or a Mickey and no Minnie?  Write down all that you need, and rate it by just how badly you want or need each piece.
• Now figure out the spot where you want to put your collection and realistically take a look at what you can afford to spend ($20 a week got me to 3000 videos!).  Set up your collection in that space leaving space for the items you plan to add.  Each time you fill in an empty space, that feeling of accomplishment helps keep you motivated and excited.
• How you find your needed items is up to you, but seeing as how you are reading this on eBay, I'll assume that is your method.  Starting with the items you rated highest on your list, search eBay with any term that relates to an aspect of the item.  For example, if you need a Garfield candy dish with Odie on it, search 'Garfield' 'Odie' and 'Candy Dish' seperately.  With movies, I always search titles as well as director and main actors/actresses.  Sometimes, you will find items at a much better price because it was misspelled or placed in the wrong category!
• For each item that you receive from your list, cross it off and take a moment to see if you can think of any items to add to your wish list.  And always remember to leave positive feedback for those sellers who have helped you to reach your goal.

You should now be well on your way to making your friends and fellow collectors green with envy!  If you find this guide helpful, have any questions or suggestions, or would like to show off some before and after pictures... write to me through eBay's message system.