collections

I wrote previously about my penchant for stationary (all kept neatly in a GIANT leopard print hatbox). Other than my obsession for shoes (I just sold 8 pairs! I’m so proud of myself!) I really don’t collect anything else except Degenhart glass. They are very small quirky things and come in many shapes and colors. I don’t strive to own every piece made but if it’s cheap, I’ll grab it, since they do have intrinsic value. They’re fun to start collecting because they’ve never been too expensive but they’re not easy to find. When the company sold the molds to Boyd, the “D” in the heart was removed so, it becomes a hunt at antique shows, flipping the pieces over and hoping for a heart (although Boyd also has value and a lot more designs). I just like a few colors and shapes and only have two displayed. The rest have been picked up over the years at antique shows, an extension of the collection given to me by my mother. They’re carefully wrapped up in an old popcorn tin.

From the Kovels website:

“Degenhart is the name used by collectors for the products of the Crystal Art Glass Company of Cambridge, Ohio. John and Elizabeth Degenhart started the glassworks in 1947. Quality paperweights and other glass objects were made. John died in 1964 and his wife took over management and production ideas. Over 145 colors of glass were made. In 1978, after the death of Mrs. Degenhart, the molds were sold.“

owls

Collections of things frighten me because it’s so easy to become obsessed, want everything ever made, and then what are you going to do with it all? I think most of the women I know can agree that there’s nothing sexy about a guy who has a wall in his home plastered with action figures still in the packaging. You know what I’m talking about! A man could equally get unnerved if he found a giant collection of cat figurines in his date’s home.

My family has been collecting antiques for generations so, I am familiar with crap overload. Things displayed can manage to look creepy, things need to be cared for properly, and everything needs to be dusted. Sometimes you feel like the walls are closing in on you. That’s why I really appreciated this article of collectible display ideas found on Flickr. Some clever little ideas there!

Collections of funtional things are usually the easiest way to go. The items become a part of your day to day life. Jadite glass is a good example. It’s easy to spot, goes with just about everything, is soothing and simple and not only is it very useful, but there are also many whimsical things made of this glass. This buying guide from eBay is really helpful if you are interested in more than just the color. (Learning a bit about the history of your collection not only can prevent you from getting ripped off but also makes for interesting conversation.)

Another idea for a functional collection could be ammassing a set of mismatched plates like chintz patterns or simple blue and white motifs. Working towards a goal, like a large set of coordinated dishes helps give purpose to the collection. A goal of hosting the most fabulous dinner party or setting the tables for a wedding reception could inspire years worth of collecting and everything can be used up until the big day and beyond!

Thanks to our weak economy, people are currently purging their belongings to make some extra money. It may be devaluing to a lot of things but it’s also an excellent time to pick up some good deals that will go up in value again soon enough. Value isn’t always the most important thing though. I remember seeing a project where someone covered cast iron animal figures with brightly colored enamel. This destroyed the collectible value of the animals but the personal and decorative value made them all the more desireable. Who wouldn’t want a grass green squirrel?

I also once saw a collection of ornately carved picture frames that had been similarly covered in glossy red paint, had mirrors cut to fit and were artfully arranged over a fireplace. The classic shapes in a bold color were exceptionally striking, modern, and worth the effort of slowly gathering and modifying the frames.

Back to the history of things… learning about the history of your favorite things can open up a world of collectibles. Do you like to dance? How about framed photographs of classic dance entertainers! Do you love classical music? Check out this tiny (1″) plane for smoothing a violin!

What’s your heritage? Russian nesting dolls. Native American, Mexican, or Tibetan silver jewelry. Geisha girl porcelain from Japan. What’s your profession? Civil war medical supplies. Fountain pens. Old typewriters… even Selectrics!

An art movement that moves you! Deco or Nouveau?

Erte/Mucha

What do you collect and how do you keep it under control?

Be Sociable, Share!

• 

You may also enjoy:

Tagged as: art, decor, design, diy, jewelry, photography, shopping, vintage