Start a Collection for 25 Bucks!

One or two candlesticks might not be all that impressive, but grouping 8 to 10 together not only makes a beautiful collection, but a WOW decorative statement on a table, fireplace or dresser. Shop flea markets and garage sales for single candlesticks. Look for a common thread, all clear glass, all colored glass, perhaps brass or silver pieces. For the most impact, keep them all the same material, but mixing the styles and sizes.

While helping a friend find candlesticks for a wedding, I gathered this set of glass and crystal candlesticks. This assortment of 12 pieces, which includes Westmoreland and Fenton, was put together for less than $45. The most expensive piece was the Dolphin candlestick from Westmoreland -- a whopping $6.95.

Space is not a problem when collecting these adorable little boxes. Saccharin became a popular sugar substitute during the shortages in the two world wars and folks wanted a way to keep those tiny tablets handy and on the kitchen table. Saccharin pill holders started becoming a fixture. When looking for these pill holders, it's fun and surprising to see the many different options. Animals, figures, and decorative boxes.

Although new ones can still be found, usually in silver and crystal, but look for the vintage figural boxes. Saccharin boxes can be found for under $25., often much less.

For the automobile buff, antique and vintage advertising is a terrific way to start a collection. Enameled and porcelain signs, hood ornaments, diecast cars are good choices, and at times bargains can be found. But a more affordable collection would be ads from magazines. Specialize in a favorite automobile maker and often you will be able to find loads of advertising for under $20. The advertisement shown here is from TIAS and is offered for $9.99.

The most expensive part of this collection would be the framing, IF you choose to frame the advertising pieces for display.

Yes, smoking is frowned upon in most segments of society, but that doesn't stop collectors. In fact the harder it is find something, the more coveted it becomes. Although vintage and antique tobacciana can be costly, you can stay under our $25. guideline by looking for retro ashtrays from the 1950s, lighters, advertising, cigar boxes, tins and bands.

Depending on the rarity, prices on these items can range up to hundreds of dollars, but bargains can still be found for just a few bucks. Similar ashtrays to the one shown here are plentiful and can be found for well under the $25. price.

Just about every guy I know loves tools and a lot of women do too. Old tools seem to tell a story, especially those that are well-used. Old tools are often the first things to go at garage sale and with good reason. They are collectible and also useful. My favorite hammer is an old one with a well-worn wooden handle, so much neater than the new ones sold today.

Then there are also tools that no one can figure out, such is the case of the one shown here. But it was cheap! Seriously, collecting tools that are still useful is a great way to build a collection that isn't too pricey.