A Beginner’s Guide to Finding Joy (and Avoiding Traps) in the Hobby
Introduction
The title might sound a bit obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people still don’t know how to start collecting in a meaningful way. Whether you’re brand new or returning to the hobby after years away, this guide will help you find your direction, avoid common pitfalls, and most importantly — have fun.
This post was inspired by an Instagram story I saw recently (though I can’t remember exactly who shared it — if it was you, let me know so I can give you proper credit!).
What Kind of Collector Are You?
You’ve probably heard this advice before: “Collect what you like.” But that’s often easier said than done. Before you dive in, take a moment to reflect:
What do you actually like? What excites you?
Let me share my personal example: I collect Benfica gold cards — numbered out of 50 (Topps) or 10 (Panini). That’s my focus. Simple, clear, and satisfying.
Pick a team, a player, a specific parallel, or a set you connect with. From there, build a plan. Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to collect everything at once — focused collecting leads to better results and more enjoyment.
💡 Tip: It’s perfectly okay to collect base cards or complete sets. Just build around what makes you happy, not what others are chasing.
Avoid Wasting Money on Hype
Let’s be real — collecting can get expensive, fast. So here are a few golden rules to protect your wallet:
- Don’t FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). If you miss a card, be patient. It will show up again.
- Check recent sales (comps) to get a fair price range. Don’t jump in blindly.
- Wait after product releases. Prices usually dip a few weeks or months after launch.
- Avoid group breaks. They might seem fun, but the odds are stacked against you. It’s gambling — plain and simple.
Remember: You don’t need luck to collect smart!
Buy Local When You Can
Supporting your local community can be both rewarding and practical. If someone nearby is selling a card you want, go for it! You’ll:
- Save money on shipping and taxes
- Build relationships within the hobby
- Possibly gain access to cards others will send your way once they know what you collect
Over time, people will start to recognise you for your specific niche — and that’s how collections grow organically.
Don’t Forget to Have Fun
At the end of the day, collecting should bring you joy. Whether it’s nostalgia, team pride, or just the thrill of the hunt — remember why you started.
Don’t let trends or pressure steal your spark. This hobby is yours.
Final Thoughts
That’s it for today’s lesson. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the noise of “the in crowd,” step back and focus on your own collecting journey. Make it personal. Make it fun.
See you in the hobby
Ohobby out!
