How I Started Collecting and What I Learned Along the Way 🦖✨
A Journey Sparked by Inspiration
It all begins with a tiny spark—a moment that connects you to something much bigger. For me, my passion for prehistoric animals started in childhood when I first saw a dinosaur figure. Little did I know that this small object would ignite a passion that would change my life and lead me to a world filled with learning, challenges, and personal fulfillment.
My Story: From Nature to Display Shelves
From a young age, my connection to the natural world was deep and meaningful. My parents, lovers of the great outdoors, often took me to the countryside, where I experienced some of the most memorable moments of my childhood. I recall playing with chickens, riding horses, and watching cows peacefully pass by on the street. Those moments were not just entertaining; they planted in me an innate fascination with animals and their environment.
As I grew, that connection evolved into a genuine passion. I spent hours in front of the TV, captivated by documentaries on Discovery Channel and NatGeo, amazed by the diversity and complexity of the animal kingdom. Even in entertainment, my preference for animals was clear. Shows like Rocko’s Modern Life and The Angry Beavers captured my attention far more than series featuring human characters. Without realizing it, I was building a unique affinity for the animal world, both real and animated.
A defining moment occurred when a friend of my parents gifted me my first dinosaur figure. It was a simple, with two heads and a faded black color, clearly worn by time. Despite its condition, it was a gift that left a lasting impression. I can still remember the moment I received it; that small object became a symbol of my growing interest in prehistoric animals.
This connection stayed with me and influenced my professional choice. When I entered university, I decided to study Veterinary Medicine, motivated primarily by my interest in understanding the biology and functionality of animals in their fullest expression. Beyond medical practice, I wanted to explore their structures, behaviors, and interactions with their environment. This decision was a crucial milestone in my life, broadening my perspective and deepening my appreciation for the natural world.
The Leap into Collecting: An Unexpected Encounter
My entry into collecting was entirely serendipitous—a spark that ignited something much greater. During a conversation with my partner, we discussed ideas for something we could do together, something that would bring us joy and fulfillment. A few days later, while scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon a story from a friend showcasing a wall full of animal figures. That moment was eye-opening.
The very next day, while shopping for a birthday gift for my nephew, I came across a collection of Mattel dinosaur figures in a store. I couldn’t resist. I left the store with a bag full of figures, overwhelmed with an almost childlike excitement. It was an impulsive purchase that later made me reflect, but in that moment, I felt pure joy at discovering something that genuinely captivated me.
Soon, I began researching more about figure collecting and immersed myself in communities dedicated to this passion. I met people with years of experience who shared their knowledge and recommendations on brands and pieces. It was then that I realized collecting wasn’t merely about accumulating things but a practice that required focus, precision, and purpose.
I decided to change my approach and focus on figures that best represented each species, prioritizing quality and scientific accuracy over quantity. I sold my Mattel figures and started acquiring pieces from brands like PNSO and Haolonggood, renowned for their incredible level of detail.
Another significant step was discovering the world of 3D printing. This opened up a range of possibilities: obtaining unique, detailed replicas of animals I had always admired, such as the imposing Smilodon and the enigmatic Thylacosmilus. These pieces not only enriched my collection but also deepened my connection to the history and science behind these prehistoric creatures.
This journey, filled with discoveries and decisions, has taught me far more than I expected at the outset. From that first two-headed dinosaur figure to the detailed replicas that now occupy a special place in my collection, every step has been an enriching experience.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
- Patience is Key 🕰️
You can’t have it all at once. Each piece has its own story and adds unique value to your collection. - Research Before You Buy 🔍
Learning about brands, prices, and authenticity turns every purchase into a richer experience. - Be Financially Disciplined 💰
Setting a budget and prioritizing quality over quantity are essential to keeping collecting a healthy passion. - Share Your Collection 📸
I once heard a perspective that stuck with me: «A collection that isn’t shared doesn’t truly exist.» Sharing your collection inspires others and strengthens the sense of community. - Always Keep Learning 🚀
Collecting has led me to explore areas like photography, design, and even botany, enriching my life beyond the shelves.
The Dark Side of Collecting
Like any hobby, collecting has its risks:
- Impulse Buying: Spending more than you can afford due to fleeting excitement.
- Speculation: Inflating prices or buying solely for profit.
- Imbalance: If collecting starts to affect other areas of your life, it’s time to reassess.
Collecting should be a passion, not a burden. Maintaining balance is the key to fully enjoying this hobby.
More Than a Hobby, a Way of Life
Collecting figures has taught me patience, discipline, and the value of every little detail. Today, I don’t just have a collection—I have a reflection of my interests, lessons, and dreams.
Each figure tells a story and represents a step in this journey. From that first two-headed figure to detailed 3D replicas, this journey has been an invaluable gift.
If you’re thinking of starting your own collection, go for it! Take your time, enjoy every step, and connect with what excites you. Because in the end, collecting isn’t just about acquiring objects—it’s about building a bridge to our own stories and dreams.
