Where do I start shopping?

When I started my own collection I made a list of the antique shops in my area and visited when there was a little extra money in the coffers. The nice thing about seeing an item and being able to touch and feel is that you are relying on your own senses to determine condition. Since I collect antique porcelain, this is especially important. Flaws can hide right under your nose. I invested in a small magnifying glass and inspect each item carefully with my eyes using the glass. Then, I let my hands inspect for slight dings and chips that my eyes may have missed. If it was love at first sight, taking my time inspecting by feeling the piece is very important. Sometimes our eyes only see what they want to see.

Buying on-line is the next step when you have exhausted time and gas looking in your own backyard. eBay was a good place for me to start shopping (and eventually selling). There are thousands upon thousands of hidden treasures on eBay. But searching can be time consuming and frustrating. Using keywords for what you are searching for on eBay is extremely important. Tea Pot, cake plate, hand painted, etc., etc. Start by being specific and if you are not getting results, then broaden your search by category. Porcelain and Glass is a great place to start if this is what you are looking for. There is also an Antique category as well as Collectibles category. Don't forget, eBay is not just an auction site. There are oodles of established antique stores right on the site. If you don't want to wait to bid and are just interested in finding something to buy now, check www.stores.ebay.com.

Like my store, there are wonderful sellers just waiting to help in your quest of "the item" you are looking for. Some, like me, are collectors themselves that have an affinity with their customers which you won't find too many places. If you are nervous about shopping eBay, do your homework first. Check the seller's feedback so see what other customers have experienced. Look at their listings. Do they give accurate descriptions? Are there numerous pictures showing the piece? Do they mention condition? Ask a question on one of their items. How quickly do they respond? Are they helpful and did they answer your question(s)? Take your time getting the feel for this type of shopping.

We'll explore live auctions and estate sales in our next post. Thanks for stopping by.

My Best,
Vicki Smith-Drysdale

Visit my store at www.stores.ebay.com/Victorias-Curio. A place for Fine Antiques and Collectibles.