Expert Tips: Collecting & Displaying Bearbrick Figures

Published on 16 October 2023 10 min read

Start your Bearbrick collection
How to choose Bearbrick figures
Maintain and care for your Bearbrick collection
Display your Bearbrick collection
How to trade and sell Bearbrick figures
Bearbrick collection storage solutions
Spotting fake Bearbrick figures
How to catalogue your Bearbrick collection
Bearbrick collecting community and events
Why collecting Bearbrick matters

The world of Bearbrick figures is exciting and vibrant, filled with a vast array of colorful characters and designs. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newbie just stepping into the Bearbrick universe, this guide is here to help you navigate this thrilling journey. So, let's jump right in!

Start your Bearbrick collection

So, you've decided to enter the universe of Bearbrick collecting. Fantastic! But where do you start? Here's a simple roadmap that can guide you:

Do Your Homework: Start by learning about Bearbrick figures. Google is your friend here, and there's a wealth of information out there about different series, artists, and editions of Bearbricks. Also, familiarize yourself with the different sizes of Bearbrick figures—100%, 400%, and 1000%—to better understand what suits your preference and budget.
Pick a Starting Point: Choosing your first Bearbrick can be a momentous decision. You might want to start with a figure from your favorite artist, a Bearbrick that matches your decor, or even a Bearbrick that just makes you smile every time you look at it. Remember, this is your collection, so go with what makes you happy.
Set a Budget: While Bearbrick collecting can be a lot of fun, it can also be quite costly. Setting a budget early on can help you avoid overspending. Keep in mind that some rare Bearbricks can fetch high prices, but there are plenty of affordable options as well.
Buy from Reputable Sources: To avoid counterfeit Bearbricks, always buy from trustworthy sellers. Websites like Medicom Toy, the maker of Bearbricks, are a good place to start.

Remember, the joy in collecting Bearbricks comes not only from owning these unique figures but also from the thrill of the hunt. So, take your time, do your research, and enjoy the journey. Happy collecting!

How to choose Bearbrick figures

With the myriad of Bearbrick figures available, choosing which ones to add to your collection can feel a little overwhelming. But don't fret! Here are a few tips to help make your selection process smoother and more enjoyable.

Identify Your Personal Style: Bearbricks come in a multitude of designs, from comic book characters to abstract art pieces. Identifying your style will help narrow down your choices. Maybe you're a fan of pop art, or perhaps you prefer Bearbricks that feature iconic movie characters. Whatever your style, there's a Bearbrick out there for you.
Consider the Rarity: Some Bearbricks are more elusive than others. Limited edition and artist collaborations often have fewer pieces produced, making them rarer. If you're someone who enjoys the thrill of tracking down hard-to-find items, these Bearbricks could be a great addition to your collection.
Think About the Size: As mentioned earlier, Bearbricks come in different sizes: 100%, 400%, and 1000%. The size you choose can depend on the space you have available for display, your budget, and personal preference. Some collectors enjoy the uniformity of collecting just one size, while others like the variety of having different sizes.
Don't Forget the Fun: It's easy to get caught up in the seriousness of collecting, but remember, it's also supposed to be fun! Choose Bearbricks that brings you joy, spark your creativity, and make you excited about your collection.

Ultimately, the best Bearbrick for you is the one that you love. Whether it's because of its design, rarity, size, or just because it makes you happy—those are the Bearbricks that will make your collection truly special.

Maintain and care for your Bearbrick collection

Now you've started your Bearbrick collection, it's important to keep them in prime condition. Here are some simple yet effective tips to ensure your Bearbricks stay as vibrant and appealing as the day you got them.

Keep Them Clean: Regular cleaning is the key to maintaining your Bearbricks' fresh look. Use a microfiber cloth to dust them off regularly. For grime or stubborn dirt, a little bit of warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush will do the trick. Remember to be gentle, though; you don't want to scratch the surface.
Protect from Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the colors of your Bearbricks over time. To preserve their vibrant hues, display them in a spot away from direct sunlight. If you must place them near a window, consider using UV protective film on the glass.
Safe from Harm: Try to position your Bearbricks in a safe location where they won't be accidentally knocked over. If you have children or pets, consider placing your Bearbricks in a secured display case or on a high shelf.
Regular Check-Ups: Just like us, Bearbricks benefit from regular check-ups. Regularly inspect your Bearbricks for any signs of damage or aging. This way, you can act quickly if any repair is needed.

Taking care of your Bearbrick collection might seem like a task, but it's well worth the effort. Not only will it keep your Bearbricks looking their best, but it'll also help hold their value in case you decide to trade or sell them in the future.

Display your Bearbrick collection

Displaying your Bearbrick collection is where the fun truly begins. It’s the time where you can showcase your unique tastes and let your personality shine. Here are some tips on how to display your Bearbricks in style.

Create a Theme: Group your Bearbricks by color, series, or artist. Creating a theme helps draw attention to your collection and makes it more visually appealing. For instance, you can have a section dedicated to all your Bearbricks from the 'Jellybean' series or group together all your blue Bearbricks.
Use the Right Lighting: Lighting can make or break how your collection looks. Try to use soft, diffused lighting that highlights the figures without causing harsh shadows. You can use LED strips or small spotlights to emphasize specific Bearbricks.
Experiment with Arrangements: Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Try arranging your Bearbricks in different ways – you could line them up, create a pyramid, or even scatter them across multiple shelves. The important thing is to have fun and let your creativity flow.
Use Display Cases or Shelves: Display cases or shelves not only protect your Bearbricks from dust and accidents, but they also provide a neat and organized look. Choose a case or shelf that complements your room's decor for an added visual bonus.

Remember, there’s no one right way to display your Bearbricks. The best display is one that reflects your personal style and brings you joy every time you look at it. So, go ahead and get creative with your Bearbrick display!

How to trade and sell Bearbrick figures

Trading and selling Bearbrick figures is a common practice among collectors. It's a great way to upgrade your collection, make space for new additions, or even earn a little extra cash. Here are a few steps to keep in mind:

Know the Value: Before you put your Bearbricks up for trade or sale, it's essential to know their market value. You can do this by checking recent sales of similar figures on various collector forums or online marketplaces. This will give you a fair idea of what you can expect to get in return.
Keep them in Good Condition: The condition of your Bearbricks plays a significant role in determining their worth. So, ensure they're clean, free of scratches, and comes with their original packaging if possible. The better the condition, the higher the value.
Choose the Right Platform: There are numerous online platforms where you can trade or sell your Bearbricks. Each platform has its own set of rules and fees, so choose one that aligns with your needs. Some popular platforms include eBay, Facebook groups, and dedicated Bearbrick forums.
Be Honest: Always be upfront about the condition of your Bearbricks. If there's a scratch or a missing part, make sure to mention it. Honesty goes a long way in building trust with other collectors.

Whether you're trading or selling, remember to be patient and respectful. Not every deal will go in your favor, but that's part of the fun. Happy trading!

Bearbrick collection storage solutions

As your Bearbrick collection grows, you'll soon realize that your desk or shelf space might not suffice. Storing Bearbrick figures requires a bit of planning to prevent damage and maintain their appearance. Plus, a well-planned storage solution can turn your collection into an impressive display. Here are a few storage solutions you might want to consider:

Display Cabinets: Display cabinets are a great way to show off your Bearbrick collection. They provide ample space and help protect your figures from dust. Plus, they add a touch of class to your living room or office. Ikea's Detolf glass door cabinet is a popular choice among Bearbrick collectors due to its size and affordability.
Wall-mounted Shelves: If you're tight on floor space, wall-mounted shelves can be a good option. They offer a unique way to display your Bearbricks and can be easily customized to fit your collection. Just make sure to secure them properly to avoid any mishaps.
Storage Boxes: For collectors who have a large number of Bearbricks, storage boxes can be an efficient solution. They're easy to stack and store, providing protection from dust and sunlight. You can opt for clear plastic boxes to quickly identify what's inside.
Custom Display Cases: For those willing to invest a bit more, custom display cases can be a fantastic option. They're designed to fit Bearbricks perfectly, providing protection while showcasing your figures in style.

Remember, the goal is to keep your Bearbricks safe and in good condition while showing them off in all their glory. Choose a storage solution that suits your needs and space constraints. Happy storing!

Spotting fake Bearbrick figures

Beware, Bearbrick fans! Not all Bearbricks are created equal. With the popularity of these collectible figures soaring, there's been an uptick in fake or counterfeit Bearbricks in the market. But don't worry—I've got some expert tips to help you avoid the fakes and ensure your collection stays authentic.

Check the Packaging: Authentic Bearbricks come in a precise, well-made box. If the packaging seems flimsy or has poor-quality printing, it's a strong warning sign. Also, look for the Medicom Toy logo and the Bearbrick logo—they should be clear and correctly placed.
Examine the Figure: Bearbricks are known for their high-quality finish. If your figure looks rough, has uneven paint, or visible glue marks, there's a good chance it's a fake. Also, genuine Bearbricks have smooth and well-defined joints.
Assess the Price: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Ultra-rare or popular Bearbricks command high prices. If you see one going for a fraction of its usual price, be suspicious.
Buy from Reputable Sellers: Always buy from trusted sellers or directly from Medicom Toy's website. Marketplaces like eBay can be risky due to the presence of counterfeit sellers.

Remember, it's your hard-earned money you're investing in these collectibles. Make sure you're getting the real deal! Spotting fakes can be a bit of a challenge, especially for newcomers. But with a little attention to detail, you can keep your Bearbrick collection authentic and worth every penny.

How to catalogue your Bearbrick collection

So, you've started acquiring Bearbricks, and your collection is growing. Awesome! But as the number of these artistic figures increases, it can be a bit of a challenge to keep track of them all. That's where cataloguing comes in. Cataloguing your Bearbricks can not only make your collection more manageable but also more enjoyable. So how do you get started? Let's dive in.

Record Basic Information: For each Bearbrick, jot down its name, series, release date, and size. This basic information is a great starting point for your catalogue.
Note the Condition: Is your Bearbrick in mint condition, or does it have a nick or two? Keeping a record of the condition of each figure can help you assess the value of your collection.
Save the Story: Why did you choose that particular Bearbrick? Maybe it was a limited edition, or perhaps it reminded you of a special event. Remembering why you added a Bearbrick to your collection can add personal meaning to your catalogue.
Organize Digitally: While a paper catalogue can work, a digital one is often easier to manage and update. You can use a simple spreadsheet or a specialized app to keep track of your Bearbricks.

Remember, the goal of cataloguing isn't just to keep track of your Bearbricks—it's to enhance your enjoyment of them. So make your catalogue as simple or detailed as you like. After all, it's your collection. Make it work for you!

Bearbrick collecting community and events

You've probably noticed by now that collecting Bearbricks isn't just about the figures themselves; it's about being part of a vibrant, worldwide community. It's about sharing your passion with others who understand the thrill of hunting down that elusive Bearbrick or the joy of finally adding a long-coveted figure to your collection. So, how do you tap into this dynamic Bearbrick community?

Join Online Forums: There are countless online forums dedicated to Bearbrick collecting where you can connect with fellow collectors, discuss your favorite figures, and even get tips on finding rare Bearbricks.
Participate in Events: From trade shows to conventions, there are many events around the globe where Bearbrick collectors come together. These events are a great place to meet other collectors, see some amazing Bearbrick displays, and maybe even find your next Bearbrick!
Follow Social Media Groups: There are many social media groups where collectors share their latest acquisitions, discuss upcoming releases, and support each other in their Bearbrick pursuits. It's another great way to connect with the Bearbrick community.
Build Your Own Network: As you engage more with the Bearbrick community, you'll naturally start to build your own network of fellow collectors. These relationships can be invaluable, providing support, advice, and friendship as you continue your Bearbrick journey.

Remember, collecting Bearbricks is not just about the objects themselves—it's about the connections you make and the experiences you have along the way. So don't hesitate to dive into the Bearbrick community and start making your own unique mark!

Why collecting Bearbrick matters

Now, you may be wondering, "Why does collecting Bearbricks matter?" Well, there are more reasons than you might think:

Art Appreciation: Bearbricks are more than just toys—they're miniature pieces of art. Each Bearbrick is designed with meticulous attention to detail, often by world-renowned artists and designers. Collecting Bearbricks allows you to appreciate the artistry that goes into each figure.
Personal Expression: Your Bearbrick collection is a reflection of your personal style and interests. Whether you favor the quirky, the elegant, or the outlandish, there's a Bearbrick out there that perfectly captures your spirit.
Investment: Believe it or not, Bearbricks can be a savvy investment. Some limited-edition figures have been known to increase significantly in value over time. Just remember, as with any investment, there's no guaranteed return.
Community: As mentioned earlier, collecting Bearbricks also means joining a passionate, worldwide community. It's a chance to connect with like-minded people, share experiences, and make lifelong friends.

So, you see, collecting Bearbricks isn't just a hobby—it's a way of life. It's about finding joy in the small things, expressing who you are, and being part of a community that shares your passion. And isn't that what life's all about?

If you enjoyed this blog post on collecting and displaying Bearbrick figures and want to take your passion for art and design to the next level, check out the workshop 'Sculpt 3D Objects in VR!' by Tabitha Swanson. This workshop will teach you how to create your own unique 3D sculptures in virtual reality, allowing you to explore your creativity and expand your collection in a whole new way.