Fun or folly? Here’s how I collect transferware.
Starting or building your collection of transferware should always be fun … and never stressful. When people ask me how I began, I tell them that I’m a big fan of jumping in to the deep end. My personal motto is “everything in moderation, including moderation.” But I’ve made plenty of mistakes, so let me help you avoid some of them.
Organic Growth
An easy and lower stress way to build your collection is to simply visit thrift stores to pick up pieces that can be lovely, and low cost. Participating in on-line auctions can expand your collection, and pricing can be reasonable, but don’t forget to add in shipping … these days, that can be more than the cost of your initial purchase! Ask in advance for an estimate if you can.
Targeted Growth
Set up eBay and Etsy to send you alerts when a favorite piece or maker is listed. That gets you first buyer opportunity if it’s something you really want. Again, pay attention to how shipping is described and consider whether that additional cost makes the piece worthwhile for you.
Assess and Re-Assess
My own collecting has changed direction quite a bit in the short time I’ve been into transferware. I started with all things purple, went to all things with horses on them, moved to only dark cobalt blue, veered into anything with shells, and am now focusing on those pieces that are unusual, rare, or previously unknown. A recent purchase was a platter by a person who only made 2 designs. That is like catnip to me!
The point is … think about the direction you want to go, and frequently hit pause to see if you’re still headed in a direction that makes you happy. Is it time for a change? Do you want a different look? Anything you’ve purchased can be sold again. I have done this so many times I can’t tell you … and while I may lose a few dollars here or there, lately transferware has become more desirable and the prices are staying either consistent or going up.
Consider Condition
Take it from me … I’ve purchased things I knew were damaged, and I’ve purchased things that became damaged in shipping. Some of these pieces I’ve used to learn how to put things back together again (a not-bad talent, I have to say). But it becomes more difficult to sell a piece that has been damaged. Not impossible, but it’s much less profitable. If you want something with a small chip or a ding that can’t really be seen, that’s probably okay. If it’s got a big crack, you’ll probably have it forever or sell if at a lower price than you might expect.