How to Store Collectibles

Collections are fun, and when used in decorating, they give a special and personal touch to rooms. But serious collectors know the sheer number of treasures can get out of hand and make your home look like a second-hand store. It may be time to store a few of them. Learn how to properly store both valuable and just sentimental collectibles.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide on a few themes when collecting. Several distinct motifs look better than a mish-mash of items. This will make it easier to incorporate your collectibles into your decorating.

2. Rotate your displays of collectibles. Show off some of your pieces,while storing others. A few months later, trade them out for a different decorating look. You'll enjoy your collectibles more when they feel fresh to you.

3. Group like items for storage. Place them in waterproof containers. Avoid putting fragile items in an attic or garage that gets hot in the summer.

4. Buy archival-quality containers for extremely old or valuable collectibles. There are special containers for old maps, rare books, vintage baseball cards, gravestone rubbings and just about anything else you can collect.

5. Store your collectibles publicly if you can't bear the thought of them being out of sight. Trying placing groupings in shadow boxes to at least get them up on the wall.

6. Trade collectibles with an antiquing friend for a unique way of storing your treasures. You can trade back after 6 months.