Collecting things has always been a trait of humanity. Long before recorded history, people were collecting items they found beautiful as well as functional. Whether it was shells, obsidian tools, or jewelry, prehistoric man (and woman!) liked to keep things around that they enjoyed looking at. Nothing has changed in modern times. Our modern treasure troves of sporting collectibles, World War 2 collectibles, vintage crockery, toys, posters, stamps, or a myriad speak to our continued pleasure at surrounding ourselves with objects that strike our fancy.
The problem we generally face is how to display these valued objects most effectively. Your obsession with ceramic frogs may be harmless, but when people walk into your home to face shelf after shelf of crammed-together frogs, piled almost on top of each other on every available flat surface, you must forgive them for getting the initial impression that you’re just a little crazy, even if they’re relieved to know what present to get you for every birthday or celebration. To present an ordered and interesting display of your collections also allows comfortable dialogue to arise about your hobby.
As most successful professional home decorators will tell you, exquisite presentation is achieved through careful editing. Just because you have 257 or more ceramic frogs in your possession does not mean you are required to display all of them at the same time. Collections become truly interesting when they are presented as selective groups. In smaller groups instead of piles, your collection goes from creepily overwhelming to tastefully elegant. Try hanging only five vintage posters on one wall and storing the rest, exchanging and replacing posters as the desire strikes in order to keep the collection always looking fresh. A grouping of glass candlesticks gains importance when a few beautifully crafted examples are displayed on a tabletop.
Here are a few things to remember in order to keep your collection looking fresh, important, and valuable:
1. Odd numbers are more pleasing to the eye when you have multiples of one type of object. Symmetry has its place – especially with larger pieces of furniture – but when you are displaying parts of a collection, try working with odd numbers. Just make sure you aren’t using more than 11 pieces, depending on the size.
2. Small items are very attractive when presented at different levels. On a tabletop or shelf, try using blocks or other non-descript items to raise some of your collectibles above others.
3. Select groups according to color, style, shape, or size.
4. Exchange items in your displayed collection as frequently as you desire, but resist the urge to bring out the entirety of your collection if it’s large.
5. Spacing your collection around your home minimizes the importance of it. The odd ceramic frog in each room has far less impact than three or five carefully chosen examples in one grouping.
6. Editing your collection overall will get rid of less valuable, broken, chipped, or inauthentic pieces.
There is a great deal of satisfaction in amassing colorful sporting collectibles, memorable World War 2 collectibles, or delicate vintage crockery. Just be sure to reflect the satisfaction you feel in your collection efforts by displaying them artfully and with great taste.