How to Start an Autograph Collection

"May I have your autograph?" These words are music to the ears of some celebrities. For others they are a signal to turn tail and run. Collecting autographs can be a fun and profitable hobby. The key is in knowing how to get the signatures you want without alienating the signer. Because this takes time, patience and diplomacy, autograph collecting is not for everyone. Is it for you? Where should you start? Now is your chance to find out.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3-inch x 5-inch cards and pens
• Stationery and mailing supplies

Get the Facts

1. Consider whose autographs you would value most for your collection, for example, movie or TV stars, sports or political figures. Think about who you admire and why.

2. Look at autograph sales sites like World of Autograph" to get an idea of what is available and valuable and what appeals to you (see Resources below).

Start Your Autograph Collection

4. Keep track of events in your area which might feature celebrity guests including mall openings or special celebrations; fund raisers for hospitals, environmental causes or political candidates; plays or concerts at a local theater or auditorium. Often, time is set aside for question and answer sessions and autographs.

5. Speak clearly and politely when asking for an autograph. Take up as little of the person's time as possible. Accept a refusal graciously.

6. Get autographs by mail. Autograph Collectors Magazine can provide you with addresses and other contact information (see Resources below).

7. Be sure you have all your materials ready, including envelopes, stamps, stationery and 3-inch x 5-inch cards.

8. Start with a polite and complimentary cover letter when you request an autograph. Keep it simple.

9. Enclose a 3-inch x 5-inch or a print-out of the person's picture, as well as a self-addressed stamped envelope. Make sure you use enough postage. For detailed instructions on how to start obtaining celebrity autographs by mail, go to Autograph Collecting by Ernie (see Resources below).

10. Use file folders or a scrapbook to keep your collection organized.

Tips & Warnings

• While those who live in cities overrun with famous people, like New York or Los Angeles, may do well getting autographs face-to-face, signatures obtained through the mail are easier to get and just as valid.
• Ask for the autograph on either a photo of the person or a 3-inch x 5-inch card, rather than directly onto the page of an autograph book. You can assemble your collection into a book later, if you wish.
• Sites that advertise access to contact information for current celebrities often like to make it appear as though the service is free, but it isn't. Most charge a monthly fee, though sites that specialize in older stars do not.
• There are some collectors who stoop to chasing, hounding and interrupting those from whom they want signatures. Don't be one of them. It's bad manners and will do nothing for your chances of getting autographs in the future.
• Watch out for forgeries. Collector's magazines like Autograph Collector's Magazine can tell you how to spot them.

Resources

• Autograph Collecting by Ernie for comprehensive information
• Autograph Collector's Magazine
• World of Autographs to buy autographs