1. Decide What Type of Anime Collection You Want

The first step in starting your anime collection is deciding what you want to collect. Anime collections can take many forms, and it’s important to focus on the type of items that interest you the most. Here are some popular options:

• DVDs/Blu-rays: If you’re interested in owning physical copies of your favorite anime, collecting DVDs or Blu-rays is a great choice. They often come with special features like behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and artwork.


• Manga: For fans who love reading, manga collections are a popular option. Manga often provides more detailed stories than their anime adaptations, making it a great complement to your anime library.


• Figures and Statues: Anime figures, from action figures to highly detailed statues, are highly sought after by collectors. Characters from popular series like Dragon Ball Z, One Piece, and My Hero Academia are common, but you can find figures from almost any anime.


• Posters and Art Prints: If you want to decorate your space with anime-inspired art, posters and prints are a fun addition to your collection.


• Apparel and Accessories: Clothing, jewelry, and accessories featuring your favorite characters or series are a wearable way to display your love for anime.

2. Set a Budget

Collecting anime can quickly become an expensive hobby, especially when it comes to rare or limited-edition items. Before diving in, it's important to set a budget to avoid overspending. Determine how much you’re willing to spend per month or per item, and stick to it.

For beginners, it might be best to start small. Look for deals, sales, or affordable items to get your collection going. As you become more experienced and learn about the market, you can start investing in higher-value items.

3. Research and Buy from Trusted Sources

Once you’ve decided what you want to collect, it’s essential to research where to buy authentic anime merchandise. Unfortunately, copyright products are common in the anime collecting world, especially for items like figures and DVDs. To ensure you’re getting legitimate products, consider buying from trusted retailers and websites. Here are some reliable places to start:

• Official Websites: Buying directly from official websites or the anime's official store guarantees authenticity. Many anime studios, like Studio Ghibli, offer exclusive merchandise through their websites.


• Trusted Retailers: Online stores like RightStuf Anime, Crunchyroll Store, and Amazon offer a wide variety of anime products. Be sure to check reviews and seller ratings on platforms like Amazon to avoid copyright products.


• Specialty Stores: Local comic book stores, anime shops, and conventions often carry exclusive or rare items. These stores may also offer a community of collectors who can give advice and help you find special pieces.


• Secondhand Market: Websites like eBay, Mercari, and Facebook Marketplace can be great resources for finding out-of-print items or rare figures. However, be cautious and research the seller’s reputation to avoid fakes.

4. Learn About Rarity and Limited Editions

Some anime merchandise is produced in limited quantities, making certain items rare and valuable. If you’re interested in collecting rare figures, DVDs, or Blu-rays, it’s essential to learn about the rarity of items and how limited editions work. For example, limited-edition figures often come with unique accessories, alternative outfits, or even autographed boxes, which make them highly collectible.

It’s also worth noting that some anime series or movies may have out-of-print DVD or Blu-ray sets that are difficult to find. These items can become highly valuable over time. If you're serious about collecting, consider keeping an eye on auctions, conventions, and special re-releases to find rare pieces.

5. Care for Your Collection

Proper care is essential for maintaining the quality and value of your anime collection. Whether you’re collecting DVDs, figures, or posters, it’s important to store your items correctly. Here are some basic tips:

• DVDs/Blu-rays: Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or warping. Always handle discs by the edges to avoid scratches.


• Figures: Dust your figures regularly and display them in a safe, stable area. If you have high-value figures, consider using display cases to protect them from dust and damage.


• Posters/Prints: Frame your posters to prevent creases or tears. Keep them away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.


• Manga: Store manga on bookshelves, away from moisture and sunlight, to preserve the quality of the pages and covers.

6. Join the Anime Collecting Community

One of the best ways to enhance your anime collecting experience is to join a community of fellow collectors. Online forums, social media groups, and local anime clubs offer a space to share knowledge, trade items, and discuss new releases. Being part of a community can also help you discover rare items, get tips on caring for your collection, and learn more about your favorite series.

Popular online communities include:

• Reddit: Subreddits like r/AnimeFigures and r/AnimeCollecting are great places to connect with other collectors, ask questions, and show off your collection.


• MyFigureCollection.net: A website dedicated to figure collecting, where you can catalog your figures, track new releases, and interact with other collectors.

7. Start Small and Be Patient

When starting an anime collection, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of merchandise available. However, it’s important to remember that building a collection takes time. Start small, collect items that you truly love, and don’t feel pressured to buy everything at once. Over time, you’ll develop a better sense of what you want to focus on and grow your collection accordingly.

Conclusion

Starting your own anime collection can be a fun and rewarding hobby, allowing you to celebrate your favorite series and characters. By deciding what you want to collect, setting a budget, buying from trusted sources, and taking care of your items, you can build a collection that you’ll be proud to display. As you learn more about the anime collecting world, you’ll discover new items, meet fellow collectors, and enjoy the thrill of finding that perfect piece to add to your collection. Happy collecting!