How to Start Your First Figure Collection as a Beginner

To begin a figure collection, choose what you want to collect. Set a spending limit for yourself and buy only from sellers you trust. Plan where you will display your figures. Anyone can start a figure collection, even if you are new or unsure. Many people enjoy figure collection because it reflects who they are and helps them feel in control.

Figure collection helps you express yourself.
Figure collection lets you create a space that is unique.
Figure collection brings you joy and personal meaning.

There’s no need to rush. Take your time and enjoy every part of your figure collection journey. The best way to start is to follow what you love and connect with others who share your passion. Remember, every beginner’s guide says to collect what makes you happy.

Key Takeaways

Pick a theme or series you really like. This helps you stay interested in your collection. Set a budget before you buy anything. This stops you from spending too much money. Buy figures only from sellers you trust. This keeps you safe from fake items and saves your money. Plan where you will put your figures. This keeps them safe and makes them look nice. Keep a list of your figures and talk to other collectors. This helps you learn more and enjoy your hobby.

Choose Your Figure Collection

Find Your Theme or Series

Starting a figure collection is fun and new. You might not know where to begin. Pick a theme or series you really like. This keeps you interested and helps you stay on track. You can choose a favorite character, movie, or even a whole group. Many beginners like figures from superheroes, anime, or old movies.

Here are some themes and series that many new collectors like:

Superheroes (Marvel, DC)
Star Wars
Anime (Dragon Ball Z, Naruto)
Video Games (Fortnite, Overwatch)
Classic Movies (Jurassic Park, Terminator)
Television Shows (Stranger Things, The Walking Dead)

Some people start with Funko Pop! figures, Hot Wheels cars, or LEGO sets. These are easy to find and do not cost a lot. If you want to collect anime figures, you can pick one show or character. This makes collecting easier and more fun.

Tip: Begin with just one or two themes for your first collection. This helps you not get confused or spend too much money.

Types of Figures to Collect

Once you have a theme, you can look at different types of figures. There are many choices, and each type is different in style and price. Some figures are big and have lots of details. Others are small and simple to put on a shelf. If you are new to anime figures, try beginner-friendly ones.

Here are some types of figures that are good for beginners:

Nendoroids: Small, cute, and you can move them. Many people like these for anime collections.
Pop Up Parade Figures: Not expensive and easy to show off.
Prize Figures: Cheaper than most, but still look nice.
Small Plushies: Soft, cute, and simple to collect.
Acrylic Stand Figures: Flat, bright, and good if you have little room.
Funko Figures: Vinyl mini-figures with many themes, like anime and movies.

If you want to see the differences, check this table:

Figure Type	Size/Style	Price Range	Best For
Nendoroids	Small, poseable, chibi	Low to Medium	Anime figure collection
Pop Up Parade	Medium, simple poses	Low	Beginners
Prize Figures	Medium, fixed pose	Low	Collecting anime figures
Acrylic Stand	Flat, small, colorful	Very Low	Limited space
Funko Pop!	Small, vinyl, stylized	Low	Any figure collection
Hot Wheels	Tiny, die-cast cars	Very Low	Car fans
LEGO Sets	Buildable, themed	Varies	Creative collectors

You may wonder, “Which action figures should I get?” The answer is to pick what you like best. If you love anime, try Nendoroids or prize figures. If you like superheroes, Marvel Legends are a good pick. Try not to buy too many kinds at once. A focused collection grows faster and feels more special.

Note: Many collectors say collecting anime figures helps you meet new friends. You can join online groups and share your favorite figures.

A good guide will always say to collect what makes you happy. Your collection should show what you like and who you are. If you do not know where to start, just pick one figure you really like. That first step is the most important.

Set Your Budget

Setting a budget is one of the smartest things you can do before you make your first purchases. When you set a budget, you know exactly how much you can spend. This helps you avoid spending too much and keeps your figure collection fun instead of stressful.

Price Expectations

Figures come in many price ranges. Some small figures cost less than $20, while detailed or rare ones can go over $100. If you want to collect anime figures, you might see Nendoroids or prize figures for $30 to $60. Special editions or large figures can cost much more. Always check prices before you buy. This way, you can plan your first purchases and avoid surprises.

Tip: Start with lower-priced figures until you learn more about the hobby. You can always add more expensive pieces later.

Tips to Stay on Budget

You can use different ways to set a budget and stick to it. Here are some tips that many collectors find helpful:

Look for sales and bundles. Stores often have discounts, especially during holidays or special events.
Try secondhand shops or online marketplaces. Many collectors sell figures in great condition for less money.
Use the envelope budget method. Put a set amount of money aside just for your figure collection. When it’s gone, wait until next month to buy more.
Track your spending. Write down what you spend on figures each month. This helps you see where your money goes.
Review your budget often. If you get more money or your interests change, adjust your budget.

Here’s a table with some popular budgeting strategies:

Budgeting Strategy	How It Works	Why It Helps Collectors
50/20/30 Budget	Spend 30% of your money on wants like figures	Keeps your spending clear and balanced
Pay Yourself First	Save money before buying figures	Makes sure you don’t skip savings
Zero-Based Budget	Plan every dollar, including for figures	Stops you from overspending
Envelope Budget	Use cash or apps to limit spending	Helps you stick to your figure budget

Tip: If you set a budget and follow it, you will enjoy collecting more and worry less about money.

Buy and Collect Action Figures

It is fun to start your action figure collection. You need to know where to shop. You also need to avoid fake figures. Many collectors have trouble with counterfeits. Always buy from trusted places. Learn how to check if a figure is real. Let’s see how you can collect action figures safely.

Trusted Shops and Online Sources

Buy from stores that collectors trust. These shops sell real figures. They have good service and fair prices. Here are some good places to buy anime figures and action figures:

Store Name	Key Features and Offerings
Big Bad Toy Store	Famous with collectors; sells many brands and series; grades packages; flat shipping; helpful support
TFSource	Focuses on action figures; has many brands; made for collectors
Entertainment Earth	Sells licensed collectibles and action figures; has new and special items; great customer service

You can also shop at comic stores, conventions, and toy shows. These places let you see the figures before you buy. Many collectors use MyFigureCollection. This website helps you track your collection. You can read reviews and get tips from other fans. Joining online groups helps you learn about new figures and spot fakes.

Tip: Ask other collectors for shop ideas. The action figure community likes to help new people.

New vs. Secondhand

You can buy new or secondhand action figures. Each choice has good points.

New figures from Hasbro, Hot Toys, Mattel, NECA, and McFarlane Toys look great and are strong. You get the newest designs in perfect shape.
New figures have clear prices. You can use price guides to check if the price is fair.
Secondhand figures can save you money. You might find rare or old figures not sold in stores.
When buying secondhand, check for damage or missing parts. Ask the seller for clear photos and details.

Many collectors buy both new and secondhand figures. This helps you find good deals and grow your collection faster.

Authenticity Checks

Fake figures are a big problem. Many fakes look real but break easily. These fakes hurt real brands and make it hard to trust sellers. You need to know how to tell if a figure is real.

Here are the best ways to check if a figure is real:

Look at the figure closely. Check the paint, shape, joints, and materials. Real figures have clean lines and strong parts.
Check the seller. Read reviews and look at their history. Good sellers have happy customers.
Compare prices. If a price is too low, it may be fake.
Check for fingerprints. Real figures from factories do not have fingerprints.
For limited editions, ask the maker to confirm the number and details.
Trust your feelings. If something feels wrong, do not buy.
Buy in person if you can. Stores and shows let you check the figure yourself.
Search for the seller online. Forums and review sites can warn you about bad sellers.
Be careful with shipments from places known for fakes.
Study the character’s face and clothes. Real figures have sharp, correct details.
Feel the weight and material. Fake figures are often light and cheap.
Learn about the figure’s rarity and history.
For rare or costly figures, use a professional to check if it is real.

Note: If you want to know if a figure is real, always check the details and ask for proof. Being sure your figure is real is important for your collection and peace of mind.

Buying from untrusted places can cause problems like:

Fake sales or false listings.
Hidden problems like scams or legal trouble.
No proof of ownership or missing papers.
Delays or sellers who do not ship after payment.
Losing money if you buy a fake or broken figure.

You can avoid these problems by using safe payment methods. Check seller reviews and ask for help from the action figure community.

Collecting action figures is more fun when you know your figures are real and safe. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy every new figure you add.

Display and Store Your Collection

Plan Your Display Space

Think about where you will put your figures before buying more. Planning your display keeps your collection safe and looking nice. Many collectors like to use wall-mounted display cases. These cases hang on the wall, so you save shelf and floor space. Your collection can look like a small art gallery. Wall-mounted cases help keep dust, sunlight, and accidents away from your figures. Some cases have UV protection to stop colors from fading. You can find cases with shelves that move up or down. This helps fit figures of different sizes. BrickShell Cases is a well-known brand for stylish wall-mounted cases made for collectors.

Here’s a simple guide for showing off different figures:

Figure Type	Recommended Display Solution	Benefit
Anime Figures	Acrylic display cases	Show off bright colors, protect details
Action Figures	Custom cases with adjustable shelves	Fit all sizes, keep dust away
Funko Pop Vinyls	Stackable cases or acrylic shelving	Easy to organize, keep boxes safe
Model Kits & Gundam	Acrylic cases with LED lighting	Show craftsmanship, less handling
Statues & Resin	Premium custom display cases	Protect large, fragile pieces

Tip: Choose a display case made with strong acrylic or glass. Try to get one with UV protection and easy doors.

Protect and Organize Figures

You want your figures to stay nice for a long time. Keep them away from sunlight and heat. Use a soft brush or cloth to dust them often. If you have pets or small kids, put your figures up high or inside closed cases. This keeps them safe from being knocked over.

Keeping your collection neat makes it more fun to look at. Do not put too many figures close together. Give each figure enough space so you can see it well. If you do not have much room, change your display every few months. Put extra figures in boxes with labels, so you can find them later.

Making a list of your figures helps you remember what you own. The iCollect Everything app is a good tool for this. You can scan barcodes, add photos, and write notes about each figure. The app works on phones, tablets, and computers. You can even save your list or share it for insurance.

Note: Planning how to store and show your action figure collection saves time and keeps your figures looking great.

Grow Your Collection Wisely

Track and Catalog

When you start an action figure collection, keeping track of your figures makes everything easier. You can begin by writing down your newest figures first. Take clear photos of each one. This helps you remember what you own and makes sharing with friends or buyers simple. Write down details like the name, artist, when you got it, and how much you paid. You can also add stories about where you found each figure. Assign a spot for every figure, like your shelf or a storage box. If you use an app or online tool, you can see your whole collection from any device.

Here’s a quick way to organize your figures:

List your newest figures first.
Take a photo of each figure.
Write down important details and stories.
Note where each figure is kept.
Save receipts and important papers online.

Tracking your collection helps you avoid buying the same figure twice. It also makes it easy to see what you have and what you want next.

Avoid Impulse Buys

Impulse buys can sneak up on you, especially when you see a cool new figure online. Almost half of online shoppers make impulse purchases, and more than half regret it later. You can avoid this by making a shopping list before you buy. Wait a day or two before you decide. Use apps to track your spending. Try to enjoy the figures you already have. This helps you focus on what matters most in your collection.

Tip to Avoid Impulse Buys	Why It Works
Make a shopping list	Keeps you focused
Wait before buying	Stops quick, regretful choices
Use budgeting apps	Tracks your spending
Appreciate your current figures	Reduces the urge to buy more

Connect with Collectors

You do not have to collect alone. Many people love to share tips and stories about their figures. Join forums like Toy News International, The Toyark, or Action Figure Insider. These places have thousands of collectors who talk about new releases, rare finds, and display ideas. You can ask questions, get advice, and even trade figures. When you connect with others, you learn faster and enjoy collecting more.

Some collectors start an action figure collection as a hobby. Others see it as an investment. Rare or limited-edition figures can go up in value, especially if you keep them in good shape. Figures from popular series or special events often become more valuable over time. If you track your collection and make smart choices, you can build something special that brings you joy and maybe even grows in value.

Take your time as you build your figure collection. Focus on what makes you happy, not what others collect. Many beginners rush or buy random figures, but you can avoid this by choosing what you love and planning ahead. Share your progress with other collectors—this builds trust and helps everyone learn. When you connect with the community, you find support and inspiration for a great collection. Ready to start? Jump in and enjoy every step!

FAQ

How do I know if a figure is fake?

Look for official logos and check the paint quality. Buy from trusted shops. If a deal seems too good, it might be fake. Ask other collectors for advice if you feel unsure.

Can I start a figure collection on a small budget?

Absolutely!

Start with prize figures or secondhand finds.
Watch for sales and bundles.
Focus on one theme or series.
You can build a great collection without spending a lot.

What is the best way to display my figures?

Use a shelf or a display case.

Keep figures out of direct sunlight.
Dust them often.
Give each figure space so you can see it clearly.
A neat display makes your collection look awesome!

Should I keep the boxes for my figures?

Keeping boxes can help if you want to sell or move your figures later.

Keep Boxes	Toss Boxes
Higher resale value	Save space
Easier to move	Less clutter

Tip: Store boxes flat if you want to save space.

Key Takeaways