Part 1 - Why Be a Depression Glass Collector?
Hi,
The first step to collecting Depression Glass is realizing why you are interested in doing so!
Family History
Many people have been given Depression Glass by another family member, or discovered an intriguing piece sealed away in an attic or trunk. This can be an exciting entry point to learning more about your family’s past, and how your ancestors lived.
In this case, you may combine your Depression Glass interest with interests in history and genealogy. And you will probably want to keep the glass you are starting with, either to display it as personal historical art, or to use it as a daily practical reminder of your family’s heritage.
A typical beginning as a collector would be looking for missing pieces to complete the set that your family started decades ago!
Interest in Art, Science, History
Are you attracted by the intrinsic beauty and interest of Depression Glass? It represents a fascinating crossover of changing industrial technology and materials with graceful yet mass-produced art. You may want to peruse various catalogs and visit dealers and shows to find which Depression glass patterns are most pleasing and interesting, to decide what you would like to own.
Even if you’re more into science, engineering, and manufacturing, you may still be interested in collecting Depression Glass! The new technologies of the day, like the etch-mold process, revolutionized the glass business and the companies that embraced it, and there is a tangible immediacy to actually holding a product that you don’t get from just reading about it.
Becoming a Dealer
If you are primarily attracted to the idea of getting involved with buying and selling Depression Glass, then you will certainly need to spend a lot of time to familiarize yourself with the local and online markets.
Although it may seem attractive to fantasize about finding rare Depression glass pieces for a dollar at garage sales, which you later sell for $1000, it is important to have realistic expectations. It is also important to recognize that the most successful dealers are those who have a deep and genuine interest in their wares, because they will joyfully acquire the necessary knowledge for Depression glass identification and form bonds of friendship with other dealers and collectors based on a shared interest.
If you are hoping to simply make a little income buying and selling glass online (for instance, at an auction site like eBay) then there is much less risk involved than if you dream of opening your own store, of course. Begin small, get a feel for the field, learn Depression glass values, and grow slowly but steadily. Don’t invest more money than you can afford to lose.
If you acquire significant amounts of glass, you will need to consider storage space and should also consider insurance issues.
You’ll need to learn about tax law and commerce laws. Find a good accountant you like and take their advice!
Gifts
Buying pieces as gifts for friends and family members is another motive for acquiring glass. If you know someone who is trying to complete a set, presenting them with the missing piece could be a wonderful gift – but be sure you know exactly what they’re looking for!
An appropriate piece can also be a great gift for someone who’s not particularly interested in Depression Glass. For instance, if someone loves parrots, perhaps they would be delighted to receive a gift of glass from the Parrot pattern. And who knows – you might spark a new interest in Depression Glass for them, maybe even an interest in Elegant Depression glass, which is also beautiful!
Another example is that many people enjoy collecting teacups or mugs. It might be a fun gift for them to receive one in a Depression Glass pattern.
Whatever your reasons for collecting Depression Glass, you probably don't need me to tell you it is a wonderful hobby (and profession for some) packed with intrigue, nostalgia and beauty.
So enjoy yourself and keep your eye out for that next 'bargain'!
Next time we will discuss what to collect.
Although it may sound like a simple decision, there are so many patterns and colors to choose from that many people get stuck in the 'What should I purchase?' mindset and find it difficult to get started.
I've got a few suggestions and hints to get you started.
Have Fun and Keep Collecting
Murray
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