Dice collection is a fascinating and rewarding hobby that appeals to a wide variety of enthusiasts, whether you are a tabletop gamer, a fan of unique designs, or someone who simply loves the artistry of dice. Dice come in many D20 shapes, sizes, colors, and materials, making them an excellent collectible for anyone looking to add something special to their collection. If you’re just starting out, the world of dice collecting can seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can build a stunning and meaningful collection that will last for years. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide you with essential tips and advice for building your dice collection from the ground up.
- Understand the Types of Dice and Their Uses
Before diving into the collection aspect, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the different types of dice. Dice come in various shapes, sizes, and quantities, each with its own unique uses. The most common dice are six-sided (d6), which are often used in board games and tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. However, dice can range from the traditional 4-sided (d4) to 20-sided (d20) and even more complex forms like the 100-sided (d100). Understanding these different dice types is crucial when deciding which ones you want to collect.
You should also consider what kind of dice collection you want to build. Some collectors focus on specific dice sets for games, while others may collect dice made from unusual materials, such as metal, stone, or wood. You can also collect dice based on their design themes—whether that’s vintage dice, limited-edition releases, or hand-crafted artisanal dice. Knowing your preferences will help you focus your collection and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the sheer variety of options.
- Start with a Budget and Plan Your Collection
When you first start collecting dice, it’s essential to set a budget. Dice can vary significantly in price, ranging from a few dollars for standard plastic dice to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for rare, limited-edition, or artisan-made dice. By determining your budget upfront, you can avoid overspending and focus on finding the pieces that will most enhance your collection.
Additionally, consider what kind of collection you want to build. Do you want to collect dice from different cultures or historical periods? Or perhaps you’d prefer a collection centered around a specific type of game or manufacturer? Setting a clear direction for your collection will help guide your purchasing decisions and prevent impulse buys that don’t align with your goals.
- Where to Buy Dice: Online stores, Conventions, and Local Shops
The next step in building your collection is figuring out where to purchase your dice. There are many different places to find dice, including online stores, gaming conventions, and local game shops. Online marketplaces like Etsy, ebay, and specialist websites dedicated to dice collections are excellent places to start your search. Many of these platforms offer a wide variety of dice, from budget-friendly sets to one-of-a-kind artisan dice.
Gaming conventions are another great place to find rare and exclusive dice, as many vendors bring limited-edition products or unique designs. In addition, conventions are fantastic for meeting other collectors and learning from their experiences. If you have a local game store, visit it regularly to browse their selection of dice, as they may carry unique or hard-to-find sets that you won’t see elsewhere.
- Take care of Your Dice Collection
Like any collectible, taking good care of your dice is crucial for maintaining their quality and appearance. Since dice are often handled during gameplay, it’s essential to store them properly to avoid wear and tear. Invest in storage options such as display cases, dice trays, or velvet pouches to keep your dice safe from damage. Some collectors even use dice vaults to ensure that their valuable dice are kept in pristine condition.
Additionally, if you own dice made from sensitive materials like wood, metal, or stone, you’ll need to take extra care to prevent scratching or chipping. For example, avoid dropping metal dice on hard surfaces, as they can damage both the dice and your tabletop. Regularly clean your dice with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils from your hands, and always store them in a dry, cool environment to prevent any material degradation.
- Join the Dice Collecting Community
One of the most enjoyable aspects of collecting dice is being part of a larger community of enthusiasts who share your passion. There are many online forums, social media groups, and Discord channels dedicated to dice collecting where you can exchange ideas, showcase your collection, and learn from other collectors. Joining these communities will help you stay updated on new releases, rare finds, and upcoming conventions.
You can also follow dice manufacturers and artisans on social media platforms like Instagram, where they often post sneak peeks of new designs or special promotions. By connecting with fellow collectors, you can share tips on where to find rare dice, get recommendations for the best dice for your collection, and even trade or sell dice to enhance your collection.
- Expand Your Collection with Unique and Rare Dice
As your collection grows, you may want to expand it with more unique and rare dice. Limited-edition dice, special collaborations between designers, or dice made from unusual materials such as glass, resin, or metal can add value and personality to your collection. Keep an eye on limited-run releases from well-known dice manufacturers, as these can become highly sought-after by collectors over time.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to explore custom dice, which are often hand-crafted by skilled artisans. Custom dice allow you to express your individuality and create a collection that is uniquely yours. These dice may be more expensive than mass-produced ones, but they often feature intricate designs, unusual colors, or even personalized engravings that make them a standout addition to any collection.
Conclusion
Building a dice collection can be a fulfilling and enjoyable hobby that combines your love of gaming, art, and craftsmanship. By understanding the different types of dice, setting a budget, carefully selecting where to purchase your dice, and taking good care of them, you can build a collection that brings you joy for years to come. The dice collecting community is full of passionate individuals who can offer guidance and inspiration, so don’t hesitate to connect with fellow collectors. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your collection, the world of dice offers endless opportunities for discovery, and each new addition is a step toward creating a truly unique and meaningful collection.