BOTTOM LINE – WHY DO YOU COLLECT? -

What motivates you to collect what you collect? Some people collect because of nostalgia, some as a way to make a décor statement, some collect in a more calculated way, as an investment. Does your collection trigger emotional responses or are you waiting for the day that you can turn it into cold cash? Understanding this will also help you to understand what triggers the decision to reach for your wallet and to fill that space on those custom shelves with another item. An investor cannot let his sentimental side play in to a decision to purchase while a collector of nostalgia will not really consider resale values if they really want it.

WHEELING AND DEALING -

While it can be a bit wearing for dealers to hear from every customer “Is this the best you can do?” they are aware that it is part of the business. Don’t sell your deal short by not making an inquiry about price, especially if you are buying more than one item or are a regular. The golden rule should apply here as well as common sense. Treat the dealer like you would want to be treated. Learn the rules of shopping etiquette and buyer bewares before shopping.

BUY THE BEST AND LEAVE THE REST -

Beginner mistakes can cost you time, money and valuable shelf space. Examine each purchase well and unless you are certain that there is no other one like it and it’s so rare that damage is not an issue, leave it! We have been in the machine age for 150 years and chances are good that they made one right behind that one and in this internet world things are easier to acquire. Patience, dear collector…patience. On the other hand, don’t be so fearful of mistakes that you miss out on great finds.

EDUCATION PAYS FOR ITSELF-

Whatever you feel is worth collecting should be worth educating yourself on. There are websites, books, clubs and magazines on any subject. Auctions, flea markets and antique malls make great hands-on experience playgrounds. Price guides are great tools but do not rely on them for up to the minute or even regional prices. Instead use them as references.

HAVE FUN WITH IT -

If your collection is something worth spending time and money on then why not enjoy it every day? Investing in a great and very sturdy hardwood bookcase, shelving unit or curio customized for your collection by Amish craftsman will insure that you can.

 

1. There is something universally awesome about shelves. No matter what you place on them, from precious porcelain figurines to old books, with simple organization and a few proper display tricks, you can make them look like museum pieces. A shelf or shelving unit, when properly arranged, makes everything look well placed and intentional. While shelves can be constructed from glass, plastic, particle board or metal the most durable is solid wood shelves. The Amish design and build the most desirable and strongest shelving options available on the market. Made from Native hardwoods like cherry, maple, oak and hickory and stained to match any décor they are available in a wide range of custom sizes.

2. They resolve organizational and display issues in every room in the house. In the library they catalogue books. In the bathroom they house towels within reach. In the dining room shelves display fine china and serving pieces. In the bedroom they add storage. By the front door they hold keys, mail and shoes. In the kitchen they create a pantry. In the laundry room they hold supplies. In the office they can showcase awards or hold your files.

3. Shelves do not need to be deep in order to be useful. A good standard for shelves is 15 inches in depth. They can fit into the most wasted of spaces and create a useful space. Under windows, under stairs, under eaves or in awkward corners a shelf can be stood or hung. By learning to group by sizes, colors and even textures you can make visually appealing collections from items that would have normally been struggling to find a storage place.

4. They add architectural detail to a room without the added cost of construction. Even a plain shelf can have a piece of trim tacked on by anyone with a few small nails and a hammer to create a decorative piece of furniture. Best of all if you rent or if you redecorate they are not permanent and can be moved to the next space.

5. Shelves can serve dual purposes. Low shelves placed under a window, topped with a thin pad, can serve as seating. A small shelf placed by a bed can hold favorite books, magazines, night creams and more while serving as a nightstand. Small dining rooms can utilize shelves in place of sideboards, making china displays fashionable as well as functional. Remember that a shelf is only as strong as what it is constructed from. That is another reason to consider the construction quality of Amish built shelves an shelf units.