Christmas Ornament Collecting: Your Guide to Decking the Halls of Your Collection

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Thinking about starting a Christmas ornament collection but not sure where to begin?

Let’s jump into the world of Christmas ornament collecting together and see why this fun hobby is something worth pursuing. Plus, we’ll see where you can pick up some collectible ornaments and learn how to collect with other Christmas collectors. Lets do this…

Why Collect Christmas Ornaments?

You might be wondering, “Why should I collect Christmas ornaments?” Well, there are tons of great reasons.

For starters, it’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories. Each ornament can represent a special moment, place, or person in your life.

Every time you hang them on your tree, you’ll be reminded of those precious memories. Collecting ornaments is also a great way to express your personality and interests.

Whether you’re into sports, animals, or vintage designs, there’s an ornament out there for you. Plus, it’s a hobby that you can enjoy year after year, adding to your collection as you go.

Getting Started: Choosing Your Collection Theme

One of the first things you’ll want to do is decide on a theme for your collection. This can help guide your purchases and give your collection a cohesive feel. Here are some popular themes to consider:

Vintage Ornaments

If you love all things retro, vintage ornaments might be right up your alley. These can include glass ornaments from the 1950s and 60s, or even earlier if you’re lucky enough to find them.

Character Ornaments

Are you a big fan of Disney, Peanuts, or other popular characters? Many companies make ornaments featuring beloved characters from movies, TV shows, and books.

Travel Ornaments

If you love to travel, collecting ornaments from different places you visit can be a great way to remember your trips. Many tourist spots sell location-specific ornaments.

Handmade Ornaments

For those who appreciate craftsmanship, handmade ornaments can be a beautiful addition to your collection. These might include hand-blown glass ornaments or intricately carved wooden ones.

Color-Themed Ornaments

Some collectors choose to focus on ornaments of a particular color or color scheme. This can create a stunning visual effect when displayed together.

Remember, these are just suggestions. Your collection theme should reflect what you love and what brings you joy during the Christmas season.

Understanding Different Types of Christmas Ornaments

Now that you’ve got an idea of potential themes, let’s talk about the different types of ornaments you might encounter in your collecting journey.

Glass Ornaments

Glass ornaments are classic and come in countless designs. They can be delicate, so handle with care!

Plastic Ornaments

These are often more durable than glass and can be a good choice if you have pets or young children.

Metal Ornaments

Metal ornaments can range from simple shapes to intricate designs. They’re often quite durable.

Wooden Ornaments

Wooden ornaments can have a rustic charm and are often hand-carved or painted.

Fabric Ornaments

These can include quilted, knitted, or felt ornaments. They’re usually lightweight and unbreakable.

Ceramic Ornaments

Ceramic ornaments can be quite detailed and often feature intricate paintings or designs.

Where to Find Collectible Christmas Ornaments

Now that you know what you’re looking for, where can you find these treasures? Here are some great places to start your search:

1. Antique Shops: Great for vintage ornaments.
2. Craft Fairs: Perfect for handmade and unique ornaments.
3. Online Marketplaces: Sites like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon have a wide variety of ornaments.
4. Department Stores: Many release special edition ornaments each year.
5. Specialty Christmas Shops: These often carry a wide range of ornaments year-round
6. Thrift Stores: You might find some hidden gems here!
7. Tourist Gift Shops: Ideal for location-specific ornaments.

Don’t forget to check out local artisans and small businesses in your area too. They often create unique, one-of-a-kind ornaments that you won’t find anywhere else.

How to Care for Your Ornament Collection

Taking good care of your ornaments is crucial to ensure they last for many Christmases to come. Here are some tips to keep your collection in top shape:

1. Clean Gently: Use a soft, dry cloth to dust your ornaments. For tougher dirt, use a slightly damp cloth, but be sure to dry immediately.
2. Store Properly: Invest in ornament storage boxes with individual compartments. This prevents ornaments from bumping into each other and getting damaged.
3. Keep Cool and Dry: Store your ornaments in a cool, dry place. Avoid attics or basements where temperature and humidity can fluctuate.
4. Handle with Care: Always hold glass ornaments by the body, not the hook or cap.
5. Replace Hooks: If hooks become rusty or bent, replace them to prevent damage to the ornament.
6. Document Your Collection: Keep a record of each ornament, including when and where you got it. This can be helpful for insurance purposes and adds to the sentimental value.

Building Your Collection on a Budget

Collecting Christmas ornaments doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips for building your collection without spending a fortune:

1. Shop Post-Holiday Sales: Many stores offer deep discounts on Christmas items after December 25th.
2. Set a Budget: Decide how much you want to spend each year and stick to it.
3. Join Loyalty Programs: Some ornament makers offer loyalty programs with discounts or early access to new releases.
4. Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for sales and promotions throughout the year.
5. Trade with Other Collectors: Join online communities where collectors trade ornaments.
6. DIY: Try making some ornaments yourself. It’s fun and can save you money!

Displaying Your Ornament Collection

Half the fun of collecting ornaments is showing them off! Here are some creative ways to display your collection:

1. Themed Trees: If you have enough ornaments, consider setting up multiple trees with different themes.
2. Ornament Stands: These allow you to display special ornaments year-round.
3. Window Displays: Hang ornaments in your windows for a festive look.
4. Wreath Decorations: Incorporate ornaments into your wreaths for a unique touch.
5. Centerpieces: Create table centerpieces using ornaments and other holiday decor.
6. Garlands: String ornaments together to create beautiful garlands.

Remember, the key is to have fun and let your personality shine through in your displays!

The Value of Christmas Ornaments

While many people collect ornaments purely for enjoyment, some ornaments can be quite valuable. Here’s a quick guide to understanding ornament value:

Factor	Description	Impact on Value
Age	Older ornaments are often more valuable	High
Rarity	Limited edition or discontinued ornaments can be worth more	High
Condition	Ornaments in excellent condition are more valuable	High
Brand	Some brands, like Christopher Radko, are highly collectible	Medium
Size	Larger ornaments are often more valuable	Low
Material	Hand-blown glass ornaments are typically more valuable than plastic	Medium

Remember, the true value of your collection is in the joy it brings you, not its monetary worth.

How to Connect With Other Christmas Collectors

Connecting with other collectors can make your hobby even more enjoyable. Here are some ways to meet fellow Christmas enthusiasts:

1. Facebook Groups: Join groups like Christmas decorations buy/sell or Christmas Gifts & Decorations for Sale These groups are great for sharing photos of your collection and getting advice from other collectors.
2. Reddit Communities: Check out subreddits like r/ChristmasDecorating or r/Christmas. These communities are active year-round and offer a place to discuss all things related to Christmas collecting.
3. Local Collector Clubs: Look for clubs in your area that focus on Christmas collectibles.
4. Ornament Swap Events: Some communities host ornament swap events where you can trade with other collectors.
5. Online Forums: Websites like Houzz and The Spruce have active forums for Christmas enthusiasts.

Remember, these communities are not just for showing off your collection. They’re great places to learn, share tips, and make new friends who share your passion!

The Joy of Gifting Ornaments

One of the best things about collecting ornaments is sharing the joy with others. Gifting ornaments can be a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer and maybe even inspire others to start their own collections. Here are some ideas:

1. Annual Gift Tradition: Start a tradition of giving a special ornament to family members or friends each year.
2. Personalized Ornaments: Give ornaments that reflect the recipient’s interests or important life events.
3. Handmade Gifts: If you make your own ornaments, these can be especially meaningful gifts.
4. Ornament Exchange: Host an ornament exchange party with friends or family.

Remember, the best gifts come from the heart. An ornament that holds special meaning can become a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Conclusion: The Beauty of Christmas Ornament Collecting

As we wrap up this guide to collecting Christmas ornaments, I hope you’re feeling inspired to start or expand your own collection.

There’s something truly special about ornament collecting that sets it apart from other hobbies. Unlike many collectibles that sit on a shelf year-round, Christmas ornaments have their moment to shine each year.

They transform your home, bringing light, colour, and cherished memories to your celebrations. Each ornament tells a story – of a place you’ve been, a milestone you’ve reached, or a person you love. What’s more, ornament collecting is a hobby that can grow with you.

Your collection can evolve as your tastes change, and you can pass down special pieces to future generations, creating a lasting legacy of holiday cheer.

So whether you’re drawn to sparkly vintage glass balls, quirky character ornaments, or elegant hand-crafted pieces, remember that there’s no right or wrong way to collect.

The most important thing is that your collection brings you joy and adds a little extra magic to your holiday season. Happy collecting, and may your Christmas tree always shine bright with memories!