How to Collect Miniatures

People all over the world collect different types of miniatures, depending upon their interests and hobbies. Miniature collectors often collect only one type of miniature such as animals, tea sets or historical figures.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide if there is a specific type of miniature that you want to collect. Some collectors limit their collection based on type, artist, era or material that the miniatures are made from.

2. Scour local flea markets and thrift stores trying to find the perfect miniature to add to your collection

3. Spend weekends going to garage and yard sales searching for a tiny treasure.

4. Visit local antique shops hoping to find that special miniature from years gone by.

5. Browse online auction sites looking for miniatures to bid on that you would like to add to your collection

6. Join a miniatures collector club to share your love for miniatures, such as experienceproject.com.

7. Display miniature figurines on a small mirror to show off their detail.

Tips & Warnings

• Miniatures refer to anything that is smaller then a real life size version and are measured in scale size. For example, a doll house of regular size is 1:12 scale but there are miniature dollhouses that are 1:144 scale. The entire doll house would fit in the palm of your hand. There are even furnishings, people and food that fit into the 1:144 scale dollhouse.
• Miniatures are made out of glass, wood, ceramic or metal.
• Depending on when they were made, miniatures can be antiques. However, minatues can also be vintage or modern.
• If your miniature comes in special packaging or a certificate, keep them stored away safely.
• Miniatures are made out of glass, wood, ceramic or metal.
• Be aware that if you get your miniatures online, the photographs may not show the tiny defects such as tiny cracks or chips.
• Do not display your collection in a bright sunny area if it is made of material that will fade.

Resources

• Join a miniature collector group