Starting a collection might seem like a simple hobby. Shopping for collectibles, buying unique items— how hard can it be? The truth is that building a diverse and valuable inventory takes some work. Many beginners fall into bad habits that make the activity more challenging to navigate. Here are some common mistakes made when collecting for the first time and how you can avoid them.
Being Underprepared
If you want to be a serious anime figure collector, you need to prepare for the task. You need to know how to clean and care for your collectibles the right way to minimize damage and preserve their condition. You should also be able to distinguish between real and fake figures to avoid wasting money. It’s also helpful to become familiar with market trends and pricing guides, so you’re always getting the best deals.
Lacking a Budget
Starting a collecting hobby is exciting, and it’s easy to go overboard in the beginning. However, lacking a budget is a common mistake made when collecting for the first time. Investing in expensive, rare, and vintage figures is excellent if you want to build a distinct collection, but you don’t have to break your bank every time. Make sure you stick to a budget, so you have resources to repair damaged items and improve your display methods.
Improper Storage
No matter how sturdy a collectible seems, they are still vulnerable to wear and tear. Rookies often slack on proper storage and displays, which speeds up the deterioration process. Invest in some high-quality acrylic cases to safely store your priceless figures. You might also choose to keep them in their original boxes, providing extra protection and increasing their long-term value.
Not Using Resources
The best part about collecting action figures is the community. New collectors can use so many resources to find exciting items and learn all about the hobby. Don’t limit yourself to novelty stores to find your perfect collectible; check out online retailers, auction sites and houses, and even estate sales to diversify your collection. You can even attend conventions filled with fans and experts that are eager to share their valuable information.
Shumi Toys & Gifts is the best place for rookies and experts alike. We have a huge selection of Kotobukiya toys to help you launch your hobby. Shop our inventory today and explore all the incredible figures waiting for a spot in your collection!