If you’re a fan of anime, you might want to bring a piece of your favourite series into your home. How to start collecting anime artbooks is the perfect first step in creating a collection that showcases beautiful illustrations and character designs. Anime artbooks are a great way to dive deeper into the art and creativity of anime shows and films. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of getting started with your anime artbook collection.
1. Understand What Anime Artbooks Are
Before learning how to start collecting anime artbooks, it’s important to understand what they are. Anime artbooks are collections of artwork from anime series or movies. They usually include concept art, character designs, backgrounds, and sometimes even storyboards. These books give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind their favorite shows. They often feature beautiful, high-quality prints and detailed descriptions of the design work.
Anime artbooks can be divided into different categories. Some focus on a single anime, while others may collect artwork from several different series. Knowing what kind of artbook you want is an important first step in your collection journey.
2. Decide on Your Focus
When you begin how to start collecting anime artbooks, it’s helpful to decide on a focus for your collection. Do you want to collect books from your favorite anime series? Or do you want to collect artbooks that cover a range of styles and genres? Focusing on a particular theme will help you narrow down your choices and build a more personal and meaningful collection.
For example, you could start by collecting artbooks for a popular series like Naruto or My Hero Academia. Alternatively, you might want to focus on the works of specific artists or studios, such as Studio Ghibli or Makoto Shinkai’s films. Deciding your focus will make your collecting experience more enjoyable and organized.
3. Where to Find Anime Artbooks
One of the most important aspects of how to start collecting anime artbooks is knowing where to find them. There are many different places to buy anime artbooks, both online and in physical stores.
Online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, or specialty websites like RightStufAnime offer a wide range of anime artbooks. Many online stores provide detailed information about the artbooks they sell, including previews of the artwork inside. These previews can help you decide if a particular book is worth adding to your collection.
Physical stores like comic book shops or anime conventions may also carry anime artbooks. Shopping in person allows you to flip through the pages and see the art before buying. Visiting anime conventions is also a great way to find rare or limited edition artbooks that might not be available elsewhere.
4. Check for Limited Editions and Special Releases
As you learn how to start collecting anime artbooks, you’ll discover that some books come in limited editions. These editions are often more expensive but can be highly valuable for collectors. Limited edition artbooks may include additional features such as signed prints, special covers, or exclusive artwork. Some even come with extra items like posters or figurines.
When buying an artbook, keep an eye out for these special releases. They can add a unique touch to your collection and might become more valuable over time. However, always make sure the price is reasonable for the features included.
5. Condition and Preservation of Your Collection
When collecting anime artbooks, it’s essential to care for your books properly. How to start collecting anime artbooks also involves learning how to keep them in good condition. These books are often made with delicate materials and can be easily damaged if not handled with care.
To keep your artbooks in great condition, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Consider using book sleeves or protective covers to prevent dust, dirt, and wear. If you’re looking to preserve your collection for the long term, a bookshelf with enough space to prevent books from being bent is a must.
It’s also a good idea to handle your artbooks with clean hands to avoid transferring oils or dirt to the pages. Keeping them organized and well-maintained will ensure that your collection stays in excellent condition.
6. Join Anime Collecting Communities
A great way to learn more about how to start collecting anime artbooks is by joining online anime collecting communities. There are many forums, social media groups, and websites where collectors share tips, reviews, and information about the latest releases. You can learn from more experienced collectors and even trade books to expand your own collection.
Being part of a community can help you stay up-to-date with upcoming artbook releases and find rare books that might be hard to find on your own. It’s also a fun way to connect with other anime fans who share your passion for art and animation.
7. Set a Budget and Be Patient
As you begin how to start collecting anime artbooks, it’s important to set a budget for your collection. Some artbooks can be expensive, especially limited edition versions or books from well-known anime. By setting a budget, you can avoid overspending and focus on collecting books that you truly love.
Remember that building a collection takes time, so be patient. It’s better to take your time and find the perfect artbooks for your collection rather than buying too many at once. With patience and careful selection, your collection will grow over time and become something special.
Conclusion: Start Collecting Today!
In conclusion, how to start collecting anime artbooks is an exciting and rewarding journey. By understanding what these books are, deciding on a focus, and finding the right sources, you can begin your collection with confidence. Don’t forget to care for your books and be part of the anime collecting community. With time and effort, your anime artbook collection will become a beautiful reflection of your love for anime and its art. Happy collecting!
