It is summertime! And what does that mean? Yard sales! Time to empty the old and make room for the new. What is that thing in your garage? What is it worth? Who would want it?

Here’s my tried and true method: Google it. Look it up on eBay. Everything is at your fingertips!

One of the absolute perfect examples is a stamp collection I acquired this year. I knew nothing about stamps. I searched eBay. I found groups on Facebook to help me. But the best advice I got sent me to a website called stampworld.com. Here I found almost everything I needed to know. I learned terminology, value, and collector appeal.

Many collectors and collectible items have websites designed for newbies to learn. Some, like the stamp page, allow you to buy and sell. If it is people you want to talk to about your items and collections, Facebook is where to go. Hands down, you can find any group of collectors there and they all want to talk about their passions. It’s a great place to start learning about things.

The summer also brings us wonderful vintage markets and outdoor events that highlight our winter work. I participated in a market in Denver on July 10 with more than 90 vendors. Lots of great finds for people and super fun to attend.

Thanks to those who have reached out with their curiosities! It’s been fun chatting.

Keep sending questions to pamspantiques@gmail.com.