Starting Your Collection

By Tina Howard and Paul Howard

Most collections start very simply, with the acquisition of a single piece or small set (in the case of dinnerware), whether by purchase, gift, or inheritance. It may be love at first sight, or our fondness for the item may grow the longer we live with it. Either way, a love affair it is, and once smitten, we never look back!

Whatever your reasons are, when you decide to start collecting, you will begin making decisions about your purchases, and may want to learn more about your particular type of pottery. A good place to start is right here on eBay!

As you read the listings, you will find that the sellers often share much information about history, manufacturer, designer, and so on. Sellers are often happy to visit with you by email as well.

Researching the final prices for items will help you learn about value (be sure to check the final price on the item page itself).

Also, the Pottery Chat Board is a great place to ask questions - you will be surprised at the knowledge available through this board. Later, you can pass along what you have learned to other potential collectors!

The preceding material was written by Tina Howard and Paul Howard. These are the opinions of the authors, not the opinions of eBay, and therefore eBay does not validate the accuracy of or endorse these opinions.