How to Arrange Collections

February 2025

I began my collecting days back in college when, during my summer breaks, my mother would drag me along to Saturday morning yard sales. My first purchase was a piece of green glass - a 4-part divided relish tray. As I grew up in western Pennsylvania, I assumed the item likely originated in the area, so when I began to search for who the maker was, I looked at glass makers that lined the Ohio River beginning in the mid-1800s. I learned my first “find” (which cost me about $2 at a local yard sale) was a piece of Fostoria glass. You never know what will turn up at yard sales. I collect items that “catch my attention” or “tickle my fancy.” Once you have started collecting, finding a spot in your home and then arranging your pieces can sometimes be a bit more challenging. Sure, many folks purchase a Curio Cabinet to house collections (I have 2 in my home), but sometimes collection pieces are too large for curio cabinet shelves. Thus, my family’s growing Globe collection rests on the top of one of our bookcases. Shadow boxes that can be hung on the wall are a great idea to house jewelry pieces, like my Lizard Pin collection. I have a friend who collects the famous Pyrex from the 1940s and 1950s which, after many years, she landed an old Hoiser Cabinet which she refurbished and which now houses her casserole collection in her kitchen. I have another friend who showcases her collection of miniature clocks in the cubbies of her grandfather’s antique roll-top desk. Guest room dresser tops are another great showcase place for your collection … Happy collecting and arranging!

My First Collected Piece

This was my first purchase way back in 1978. It is Fostoria Glass' Mayfair 4-Part Relish Tray in Green. I still have this piece and use it during the Christmas holiday for our family’s holiday dinners and parties.

Our Globe Collection

I had a couple of globes from my teaching days. When I retired, they came home with me from my classroom. These are a favorite of my husband’s, so we have added to the collection.

My Lizard Pin Collection

When we moved from PA to AZ, I became fascinated with the little Geckos in our yard - hence, my lizard jewelry collection began. This is a favorite of one of my grandsons.

My Antique Pitcher Collection

I inherited a few antique creamers and pitchers from my grandmothers. I don’t actively hunt for them, but when I spot one I like, it gets added to my collection housed on the top shelf of one of my curio cabinets.