Things to Collect: Eight Collections from My Home

One of the words that I would use to describe my style is definitely traditional, and the hallmark of any traditional home is that is is full of collected items. Traditional style is a treasure trove of amazing things to collect, including beloved china collections, gorgeous artwork, and so much more!

I took inventory of the collections in my home and realized that I have about eight notable collections going. They are of various sizes, and some are composed of just a few items while others have possibly over 50 items. Follow along as I take you on a tour of eight different collections that I treasure in my home.

Blue Willow China

Of everything I own, my favorite things to collect are Blue Willow china pieces. It started with a set of about six plates, bowls, and cups inherited from my mother. I’ve always loved the stunning colors and pattern of Blue Willow, and when my mom gave me her set I began adding to the collection through thrifting and visiting antique stores. Besides the pieces that my mom gave me, I scored everything in my Blue Willow collection for very low prices.

I have about 18 newer dinner plates that I consider my good china. It is used for special occasions, but I have way more than I need, as I don’t have space in my home to host 18 people.

I also have a set of six vintage Blue Willow salad plates. I enjoy pairing these with my larger dinner plates to create a nice tablescape.

A large portion of my collection is on display above my kitchen cabinets. These plates are all different shapes, sizes and tones of blue that don’t fit in with the portion of the collection that I actually use to serve, so they were the perfect pieces to display.

I have a Blue Willow teapot without a lid that holds a floral arrangement and adds color to my china cabinet. You may notice in the photo below that I also have a tiny child sized Blue Willow tea set that I’m saving for my daughter.

Finally I have about 18 Blue Willow tea cups and saucers. Not pictured are my gravy boat, serving bowl, cream pitcher, and sugar bowl.

Pink Depression Glass

Also among my favorite things to collect are pink depression glass pieces. This type of glassware is of interest to me because my mom collects it as well. While I only have a few pieces, I treasure them. I purchased the large floral bowl at a local thrift shop for $18. The bird bowl is a unique piece that a relative gave me.

Gold Bamboo Silverware

My silverware collection is a Flatasy gold bamboo silverware set that I treasure. They are not vintage – I actually ordered them on Amazon. I am very happy with this set and would recommend it if you are looking for something similar! I bought enough to serve eight, and I always hand wash these pieces because I’m too scared to ruin them in the dishwasher.

White Footed Vases

I have a rather large collection of white footed vases, which I collect these because I enjoy creating floral arrangements and I just think that a white footed vase overflowing with flowers is a stunning look. A few of them are on display in my china cabinet as shown below, but I actually have way more of them in storage in my décor shed.

Gold Frames

I simply can’t pass up a vintage gold frame! I displayed most of the artwork hanging in my home in vintage and antique gold gilded frames, mainly because I just love the look of them and I think they look amazing! While I thrifted many of them, I actually found quite a few of them on the curb for free!

Milk Glass Plates

I inherited these lace edged white milk glass plates from my mom. She initially gave me a set of six. I added to the collection with some that I found at an estate sale. I love layering these with my Blue Willow plates for an interesting tablescape.

Pioneer Woman Kitchen Accessories

I rarely buy things brand new, but when I do I’m partial to the Pioneer Woman brand that Walmart carries. They use so many bright, beautiful colors, including my favorite shade of turquoise and a cobalt blue. They also have a lot of pretty floral patterns.

My cobalt blue drinking glasses are my favorite Pioneer Woman find. They pair well with my Blue Willow plates.

This Pioneer Woman canister set was a great find! They store sugar, coffee beans, and rosemary salt.

I also have a large serving bowl from Pioneer Woman, which I thrifted for just $5. I have a few other things not picture, including a pretty crock pot, some food storage containers, and some dip bowls.

You can get a closer look at how I style some of the serving pieces in this post by checking out this bright and colorful tablescape.

Your Favorite Things to Collect

What are your favorite things to collect? Let me know in the comments!