Collecting Squishables: A Beginner's Guide to Starting Your Plush Collection

Introduction: Why Squishables Are Worth Collecting

In the vast world of collectibles, Squishable plush toys stand out as uniquely huggable treasures that combine artistry, comfort, and charm. These perfectly round, extraordinarily soft companions have inspired a passionate collector community worldwide, drawn to their distinctive designs, premium materials, and the simple joy they bring to everyday spaces.

Unlike many collectibles that must remain untouched in protective cases, Squishables invite interaction while still maintaining their value and appeal over time. Whether displayed proudly on shelves, used as comforting companions during stressful days, or arranged as whimsical home decor, these versatile plush friends offer multiple ways to enjoy your growing collection.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start and develop a satisfying Squishable collection. From selecting your first piece to understanding limited editions, storing your collection properly, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts, we'll cover the essentials of becoming a successful Squishable collector.

Getting Started: Your First Squishable

Understanding the Squishable Universe

Before diving into collecting, it helps to understand the various categories and types of Squishables available:

By Size:

• Micro (3-4 inches): Perfect for desktop companions or keychain attachments

• Mini (7-8 inches): Highly collectible due to their manageable size and lower price point

• Classic (15 inches): The standard size that showcases the iconic roundness

• Large (22+ inches): Statement pieces that make impressive display items

By Category:

• Animals: From realistic to stylized interpretations of wildlife

• Food: Everything from fruits to comfort foods with adorable faces

• Fantasy Creatures: Dragons, unicorns, and other mythical beings

• Pop Culture: Characters inspired by internet phenomena and media

• Seasonal: Limited holiday designs released throughout the year

By Type:

• Open Edition: Regular production designs available for extended periods

• Limited Edition: Produced in limited quantities, often numbered

• Exclusive: Available only through specific retailers or events

• Retired: No longer in production, available only on the secondary market

For a detailed look at the most beloved designs in each category, check out our "Top 10 Most Popular Squishables: Fan Favorites & Bestsellers" article, which highlights the designs that have captured hearts across different collector demographics.

Choosing Your First Squishable

While there's no wrong choice for your first Squishable, these tips can help you select a piece you'll treasure:

1. Follow your heart: Choose a design that genuinely makes you smile, whether it represents a favorite animal, food, or character.

2. Consider your space: Think about where your Squishable will live. Limited space might make mini or micro Squishables more practical to collect.

3. Reflect on purpose: Will your collection be primarily for display, comfort, or play? This might influence which designs and sizes work best.

4. Start with standard editions: Before investing in limited editions, get familiar with the quality and appeal of regular production Squishables.

5. Begin with versatile classics: Designs like the classic cat, fox, or popular food items have enduring appeal and pair well with future additions.

Our stuffed animal collection includes a wide range of Squishables suitable for beginning collectors, with helpful staff available to guide your selection process.

Building Your Collection: Beyond the Basics

Collecting Strategies

As your collection grows, you might adopt one of these common collecting approaches:

The Completionist: Some collectors aim to acquire every design within a specific category or series. This approach works well for limited series like the "Zodiac Collection" or "Seven Deadly Sins" series.

The Curator: Curators select only pieces that fit a specific theme, such as food Squishables, marine creatures, or a particular color palette. This creates a visually cohesive collection even as it grows.

The Hunter: These collectors focus on rare, retired, or limited-edition pieces, enjoying the thrill of tracking down elusive designs. This approach often leads to connections with other collectors for trades.

The Joy Collector: Perhaps the most common approach, these collectors simply acquire pieces that bring them happiness, without concern for completeness or theme cohesion.

Understanding Value and Rarity

While Squishables should primarily be collected for enjoyment rather than investment, understanding what makes certain pieces more valuable can enhance your collecting experience:

Factors Affecting Value:

1. Limited Production Runs: Designs produced in smaller quantities naturally become more sought-after.

2. Retirement Status: Once a design is retired, its value typically increases, especially for popular characters.

3. Special Features: Glow-in-the-dark elements, scented fabrics, or unique materials can increase desirability.

4. Collaboration Designs: Squishables created in partnership with artists or brands often have special appeal.

5. Condition and Packaging: Mint condition with original tags and packaging preserves maximum value.

For insights into the craftsmanship that goes into creating these collectible pieces, visit our behind-the-scenes look in "Squishable Plush Characters: From Design to Your Doorstep".

Collection Care and Management

Display Options

How you display your Squishables affects both their longevity and your enjoyment of the collection:

Shelving Systems:

• Floating shelves provide a clean, modern look

• Cube storage units allow for organized grouping

• Glass cabinets offer dust protection for valuable pieces

• Tiered displays maximize vertical space

Creative Alternatives:

• Wall-mounted nets or hammocks for an interactive display

• Rotating featured pieces on mantels or entryway tables

• Themed seasonal arrangements that highlight special designs

• Shadow boxes for micro Squishables or particularly rare pieces

Preservation and Maintenance

Proper care ensures your collection remains in excellent condition for years:

Regular Maintenance:

• Gentle fluffing to maintain shape

• Dust removal with a soft brush

• Rotation to prevent uneven fading or compression

• Periodic inspection for any repair needs

Storage Solutions:

• Breathable containers for off-season pieces

• Acid-free tissue for buffering

• Climate-controlled spaces away from direct sunlight

• Labeling systems for easy identification

For comprehensive care instructions, including cleaning techniques for different fabrics and materials, reference our detailed guide: "The Ultimate Guide to Squishable Plush: Cuddles, Collection & Care".

Advanced Collecting: Leveling Up

Finding Rare and Retired Pieces

As your collection grows, you might become interested in adding rare or retired pieces:

Ethical Sourcing Options:

• Secondary marketplaces with buyer protections

• Collector trading groups and forums

• Specialty toy shows and conventions

• Estate sales and collector downsizing events

Authentication Tips:

• Verify the authenticity of rare pieces by checking tag styles

• Compare stitching patterns to known authentic examples

• Research production dates and limited edition numbering

• Beware of deals that seem too good to be true

Budgeting for Your Collection

Collecting should bring joy, not financial stress. Establish sustainable collecting habits:

Financial Strategies:

• Set a monthly collecting budget

• Save for special pieces rather than using credit

• Consider one-in-one-out policies as space becomes limited

• Focus on quality over quantity

Value Opportunities:

• Watch for seasonal sales events

• Join collector clubs for early access and discounts

• Consider slightly imperfect "second quality" pieces for display-only collections

• Look for bundle deals when adding multiple pieces

Special Considerations for Different Collectors

For Parents Building a Child's Collection

If you're helping a young person start a Squishable collection, consider these special factors:

• Choose washable designs for younger children

• Start with standard rather than limited editions for play collections

• Consider the baby collection for especially soft, age-appropriate options

• Create a rotation system to maintain interest in existing pieces

• Teach proper care habits early to preserve collection value

• Document the collection with photos and acquisition dates

For Space-Conscious Collectors

Limited space doesn't mean you can't enjoy collecting:

• Focus on micro and mini sizes

• Invest in space-efficient vertical display solutions

• Consider seasonal rotation systems, storing off-season pieces

• Select multi-functional Squishables that serve as pillows or décor

• Prioritize designs that coordinate with your existing décor

For Gift-Givers

Squishables make excellent gifts, and helping someone start or add to a collection shows thoughtfulness:

• Consider the recipient's existing collection theme or color scheme

• Look for special occasion pieces that commemorate events

• Check for wish lists the collector may maintain

• Include care instructions with the gift

• Browse our impulse buys section for gift-ready Squishables

Connecting with the Squishable Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of collecting Squishables is joining the vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts:

Online Communities:

• Official Squishable social media accounts for release announcements

• Collector groups on social platforms for trading and showcasing

• Forums dedicated to plush collecting with Squishable subgroups

• Video platforms where collectors share "unboxing" and collection tours

In-Person Opportunities:

• Collector meet-ups in major cities

• Comic conventions with designer appearances

• Specialty toy stores with community events

• Trading events and collector markets

Sharing Your Collection:

• Create a catalog system with photos and acquisition information

• Develop creative ways to photograph and share your collection

• Consider starting a collection-focused social media account

• Share the joy with friends and family through thoughtful gifting

Starting Your Collection Today

Ready to begin your Squishable collecting journey? Here's how to take your first steps:

1. Set a budget for your initial purchase and ongoing collecting activities.

2. Identify your collecting style - theme-based, completionist, or joy-driven.

3. Research current offerings to find pieces that speak to you personally.

4. Prepare a proper display space before your collection grows.

5. Make your first purchase from a reputable retailer like Rocky Mountain Toy Company.

6. Document your beginning - take photos of your first piece and the date acquired.

7. Connect with other collectors for advice and community.

Conclusion: The Joy of Squishable Collecting

Collecting Squishables offers a unique blend of artistic appreciation, comfort, and whimsy that few other collectibles can match. As textile art pieces that double as huggable companions, they bring joy on multiple levels - from the thrill of finding a rare design to the daily comfort of having these soft friends in your space.

Whether you're drawn to the artistic aspects, the comfort factor, or simply the joy of curating a collection that makes you smile, Squishables offer an accessible entry point to the world of collecting. With designs ranging from affordable impulse buys to limited-edition treasures, there's a starting point for every budget and interest.

We invite you to visit our Squishable collection at Rocky Mountain Toy Company to find the perfect first piece for your collection. Our knowledgeable staff can help guide your selection and share care tips to ensure your Squishables bring joy for years to come.

Happy collecting!