Garden Gnome Collecting Guide: From Classic to Novelty Gnomes
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Garden gnomes have been around for centuries, adding a personal charm and personality to outdoor spaces.
But did you know that garden gnomes are also a collectible item? For many people, collecting these little statues becomes more than just a hobby—it’s an adventure.
Whether you’ve just started noticing gnomes popping up in gardens around your neighbourhood or have always thought they were cool, this guide will help you figure out what to collect, where to find gnomes, and how to connect with other collectors.
Why Collect Garden Gnomes?
Collecting garden gnomes is a lot of fun, and it gives you a chance to express your creativity and personal style.
Gnomes come in all kinds of designs, sizes, and themes. Some collectors go for vintage gnomes, while others look for quirky or modern designs. The options are almost endless, which is part of what makes collecting gnomes so appealing.
Whether you have a single gnome or a hundred of them, each one adds character to your collection.
If you’re someone who loves finding unique things or if you want a collection that stands out from the more typical collectibles, gnomes might be the perfect fit for you.
Types of Garden Gnomes to Collect
When it comes to collecting garden gnomes, there are several different types you can choose from. Each category has its own appeal, and knowing the differences can help you focus your collection.
1. Classic Garden Gnomes
These are the gnomes most people think of first—small, bearded men wearing pointy hats and simple clothes. Classic gnomes often depict traditional poses like fishing, sleeping, or standing with a lantern. If you want a collection that gives off the nostalgic, original gnome vibe, this is a great place to start.
2. Vintage Garden Gnomes
Vintage garden gnomes, especially ones made in the mid-1900s, are highly sought after by collectors. These gnomes often have a weathered, old-world charm, and their history adds value. If you’re someone who loves antiques or items with a story, looking for older gnomes from Europe, like those made by the German company Heissner, might be your focus.
3. Novelty Gnomes
Novelty garden gnomes take a humorous or unique spin on the traditional design. From gnomes that are dressed like superheroes to ones that represent different professions (like firefighters or doctors), novelty gnomes are perfect if you want your collection to have a fun and quirky edge.
4. Animal-Themed Gnomes
Another popular type of gnome features animals. These gnomes may be riding a snail, sitting with a bird, or cuddling with a pet dog. Animal-themed gnomes are especially fun for nature lovers or anyone who enjoys a whimsical twist on the standard garden gnome design.
5. Fairy Tale Gnomes
For a more magical feel, fairy tale gnomes can bring a sense of fantasy to your collection. These gnomes often look like characters from folklore and are depicted in enchanted settings, like sitting under a mushroom or near a fairy house. If you want your collection to feel otherworldly and unique, fairy tale gnomes are a great pick.
How to Start Your Garden Gnome Collection
Starting a collection can feel overwhelming, especially with so many types of gnomes to choose from. But don’t worry—I’ve been there, and here are a few tips I wish someone had told me when I first started collecting garden gnomes.
1. Start Small and Simple
You don’t need to buy a bunch of gnomes all at once. In fact, it’s better to start small and simple. Find one or two gnomes that really stand out to you. Over time, your collection will grow naturally.
2. Pick a Theme
Some collectors find it easier to focus their collection by picking a theme. You could collect only classic gnomes, animal-themed gnomes, or even gnomes from a specific country or era. This way, your collection will have a sense of cohesion, which makes it more enjoyable to display and talk about.
3. Look for Quality Over Quantity
It’s easy to get caught up in wanting as many gnomes as possible, but it’s better to focus on quality. Look for gnomes made from durable materials like resin or ceramic. These will hold up well over time, especially if you’re displaying them outside.
Where to Find Collectible Garden Gnomes
Finding the right garden gnomes for your collection can take a little bit of searching, but that’s half the fun! Here are a few of the best places to look for collectible gnomes:
1. Local Garden Centers and Stores
If you want to see gnomes up close before buying them, start with your local garden center. These stores often carry a variety of gnome designs, and you may find something unique that you won’t see online. Plus, you’ll be supporting local businesses!
2. Online Marketplaces
Sites like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon have a wide selection of garden gnomes, from vintage pieces to novelty designs. Shopping online is great because you can find gnomes from all over the world. Just be sure to check the reviews and seller ratings to make sure you’re getting a high-quality item.
If I had to single out my favourite place to buy gnomes it would be Etsy. It’s not the first place that springs to most collectors minds, but trust me, you’ll find some awesome collectibles there – including garden gnomes – that you won’t find anywhere else. Click the link below to see what’s on offer there today!
3. Flea Markets and Antique Stores
If you’re on the hunt for vintage garden gnomes, flea markets and antique stores are a treasure trove. You might have to do some digging, but finding a unique or rare gnome makes the search worthwhile.
4. Specialty Gnome Shops
Believe it or not, there are shops and websites that specialise in gnomes. These specialty stores are a great resource for finding rare or hard-to-find pieces. One popular online store is Gnomelands.com which offers a huge selection of collectible gnomes.
How to Display Your Garden Gnome Collection
Once you’ve started collecting, you’ll want to show off your gnomes in a way that makes them shine. Here are a few ideas for displaying your garden gnome collection.
1. Create a Gnome Garden
One of the most popular ways to display gnomes is by creating a dedicated “gnome garden” in your yard. This could be a small patch of space with plants, flowers, and other decorative elements where your gnomes can be the stars of the show.
2. Indoor Displays
If you don’t have outdoor space or want to keep your collection safe from the elements, displaying gnomes indoors is just as fun. You could create a shelf dedicated to your gnome collection, or even place gnomes around the house to add personality to different rooms.
3. Themed Displays
If your collection has a specific theme, like animal gnomes or fairy tale gnomes, you can organize your display to highlight that. For example, you could place all your animal-themed gnomes in one corner of your garden or create a fairy tale scene with plants and other decorations.
Caring for Your Garden Gnomes
To keep your garden gnomes looking their best, you’ll want to take care of them, especially if they’re outside. Here are a few tips to help protect your collection.
1. Clean Them Regularly
Outdoor gnomes can get dirty, so be sure to clean them regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the paint.
2. Bring Them Inside During Harsh Weather
If you live in an area with cold winters or heavy rain and you like to protect your most prized gnomes, it’s a good idea to bring them inside when the weather gets rough. This will help prevent cracks and fading.
3. Use UV Protectant Spray
If your gnomes are exposed to the sun, you can use a UV protectant spray to help preserve their colours. This is especially important for gnomes made of painted resin, as the sun can cause them to fade over time.
How to Connect with Other Garden Gnome Collectors
One of the best parts of collecting garden gnomes is sharing your passion with others who appreciate them just as much. Luckily, there are several places where you can connect with fellow collectors.
1. Facebook Groups
There are a number of Facebook groups dedicated to garden gnome collectors. Two large and popular groups are Gnomes, and Gnomes Lovers where members share photos, tips, and advice on finding new gnomes. They’re friendly communities, and you’ll quickly find yourself making new friends who share your hobby.
2. Reddit Communities
Reddit is another great place to connect with collectors. Check out the r/GardenGnomes subreddit, where members post about their collections, discuss new releases, and help each other track down rare gnomes. It’s a fun and casual space for anyone interested in garden gnomes.
Garden Gnome Collecting for Beginners: A Table of Dos and Don’ts
If you’re just getting started, it’s helpful to have a quick guide to keep in mind. Below is a simple table to get you going.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Start with a small collection | Don’t buy too many gnomes at once |
| Focus on quality over quantity | Don’t buy cheap, easily breakable gnomes |
| Look for gnomes that match your style | Don’t feel like you have to follow trends |
| Check online and local stores for variety | Don’t limit yourself to one type of store |
| Take care of your gnomes | Don’t leave them outside in harsh weather |
Conclusion
Collecting garden gnomes is a fun, unique hobby that offers endless possibilities for creativity and personal expression.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been collecting for years, there’s always something new to discover.
It’s a great way to add character to your outdoor (or indoor) spaces while collecting something outside the mainstream. So, why not start building your gnome collection today? You might be surprised at how rewarding it is to create your own gnome-filled world.
