https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog.atom Ozzie Collectables - The Ozzie Blog 2025-12-04T15:28:01+11:00 Ozzie Collectables https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/11-geeky-pop-culture-wedding-ideas 2023-06-23T16:00:00+10:00 2023-06-23T16:00:00+10:00 11 Geeky Pop Culture Wedding Ideas Dayna Mortimore Here are 11 geeky pop culture wedding ideas that are sure to make your special day unforgettable!

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These days, there's nothing really shocking about being a bit geeky. In fact, geek culture has found its way into popularity. Long gone are the days where us nerds were forced to meet up in the shadowy back corners of comic book shops and small-town conventions. Now, you'll be hard-pressed to walk more than a couple of metres without coming across someone who's seen a Star Wars movie, or who knows the name of that once-niche Marvel character who now appears in the most recent of their cross-overs, or who proudly lists video games as a top hobby. It's true: the age of the geek is upon us. And that means there are more opportunities than ever to celebrate the things you love in a big way.

My fiancé and I went to a friend's wedding recently. On the surface it was pretty standard as far as 2023 weddings go: trendy rustic venue, eucalyptus-heavy florals, an open bar that transforms someone's uncle into the worst version of himself. I'm planning my own wedding, so I've become painfully familiar with how it all works. That's why it was so refreshing to see something so different. Because the one thing that set apart my friends' weddings from every other wedding I've ever been to? These friends are huge geeks, and they weren't afraid to show it.
I was delighted to hear the plethora of pop culture references in their vows, and it reminded me that we really are lucky to live in an age where we have so much flexibility to celebrate the things we love without fear of judgement. It is our love of culture, popular or otherwise, that has the ability to bring us together, and that is what weddings are really about: coming together in celebration of love. In this particular instance, the bride and groom were big fans of Marvel, Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings, and so we were treated to a tonne of charming references that, when woven into their love story, reminded us all so much of the love of geek culture we've shared with our own loved ones. 

Geek culture has become more and more popular in recent years, with people incorporating their favourite movies, TV shows, and video games into their daily lives. So why not bring a little bit of that geeky flair to your wedding day? Here are 11 geeky pop culture wedding ideas that are sure to make your special day unforgettable!

1. Pick a special quote for your reading

Who says that readings need to be traditional? Pick a passage from your favourite book, comic series, or a monologue from your favourite show to share with your loved ones. Those who'll get it will really get it, and it can feel like a special secret between you and your spouse.

2. Incorporate hidden Mickeys

It's no secret that Disney fans have it easy when looking to incorporate their favourite franchise into their big day. With plenty of castles, poofy princess dresses, and romantic flair in the company's arsenal of animated films, the choices are endless. If you're a big fan of the Disney Parks like I am, consider opting a special touch to incorporate a sense of whimsy into your ceremony by hiding Mickey-shaped elements throughout your décor. Hunting for the tiny symbols will give your guests something fun to do, and it'll make you feel like you've brought some of the magic of Disneyland to your big day.

3. Go full geek and throw a Harry Potter themed wedding

If you and your significant other are both Harry Potter fans, why not have a Harry Potter-themed wedding? You can get married in a castle-like venue, have your guests sit in different Hogwarts houses, and have a wand ceremony instead of a traditional sand or unity candle ceremony. You can even have a sorting hat cake topper!

4. Have your bridesmaids hold lightsabers instead of bouquets

For the Star Wars fans out there, a Star Wars-themed wedding is the perfect way to show your love for the franchise. Have your bridal team march down to the aisle holding a colourful assortment of lightsabers instead of bouquets to add that much-needed touch of magic from a galaxy far, far away. Bonus points if you play the Imperial March.

5. Add some superhero flair

If you and your partner are Marvel fans, a Marvel-themed wedding is a great way to incorporate your love of superheroes into your special day. You can have your guests dress up as their favourite heroes, serve food and drinks inspired by the comics, and even have a superhero-inspired cake.

6. Throw a Red Wedding

A Game of Thrones-themed wedding is perfect for fans of the popular HBO show. You can get married in a castle-like venue, have your guests dress up in medieval-inspired attire, and serve food and drinks inspired by the show's fictional world. You can even have a "Red Wedding" cake!

7. Get creative with your song choices

Who said that every song choice has to default to Bruno Mars? When selecting your aisle, entrance, and first dance songs, don't shy away from pop culture tunes. My partner and I will be walking down the aisle to Sally's Song from The Nightmare Before Christmas and waltzing our first dance to Bowie's As The World Falls Down from the Labyrinth. As for our entrance song, we've decided on Fleetwood Mac's The Chain, which was a no-brainer for us. Bonus points if you can figure out why that's become a fandom thing again. (Hint: we've both got a thing for pirates.)

8. Who invited the Doctor?

For the Doctor Who fans out there, a Doctor Who-themed wedding is a great way to show your love for the show. You can have a TARDIS cake, serve fish fingers and custard, and even have your guests dress up as different characters from the show.

9. One Ring

If you and your significant other are fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy, a Lord of the Rings-themed wedding is a great way to show your love for the books and movies. You can get married in a forest setting, have your guests dress up as elves or hobbits, and even have a "One Ring" cake topper.

10. Game Over

Who ever said you had to keep video games out of your big day? Instead of opting for one of the usual entertainment options, set up a corner for guests to play video games during your cocktail hour.

11. Add an eye-POPping cake topper

Did you know that Funko Pop! Vinyls are just about the perfect size to act as cake toppers for your big day? Whether you want to pick two characters who remind you of you and your beloved or channel your inner DIY aficionado, adding some Funko flair to your dessert is a great way to show your guests a good, geeky time.

Overall, incorporating pop culture into your wedding day can be a fun and creative way to make your special day truly unique. Whatever you're a fan of, there's a pop culture-themed wedding out there for you. So go ahead and embrace your inner geek on your special day!
Would you mix fandom and wedding? Leave us a comment!
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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/5-must-watch-starter-anime-series 2023-06-02T15:30:01+10:00 2023-06-02T15:30:01+10:00 5 Must-Watch Starter Anime Series Jenny Huynh Anime is a much-loved form of entertainment that has gained a massive following worldwide over the past few decades. However, with so many anime series out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are five must-watch starter anime series that will introduce you to the world of anime and keep you entertained for hours!

Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan is a popular anime series that has been taking the world by storm. The series is set in a world where humanity lives within a city surrounded by walls, protecting them from Titans - giant humanoid creatures who eat humans without reason. The series follows the story of Eren Yeager and his friends, who join the military to fight against the Titans and uncover the secrets of their existence.

Death Note

Death Note is a psychological thriller anime that follows the story of Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. The series is an intense game of cat and mouse between Light and a genius detective known as L.

Fullmetal Alchemist

Fullmetal Alchemist is an adventure anime set in a world where alchemy is a powerful tool. The series follows the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who attempt to bring their mother back to life using alchemy but suffer a terrible consequence. The series explores themes of loss, sacrifice, and the true meaning of family.

Naruto

Naruto is a classic anime series that has been around for over 20 years. The series follows the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who dreams of becoming the strongest ninja in his village. The series is filled with action, adventure, and comedy and has a lovable cast of characters that will keep you invested in their stories. Practically a piece of must-know pop culture everywhere you go these days, this is one we think everyone should watch, anime fan or otherwise!

My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia is a superhero anime series set in a world where almost everyone has superpowers, known as quirks. The series follows the story of Izuku Midoriya, a boy who is born without a quirk but dreams of becoming a hero. When he is given the opportunity to attend a prestigious hero academy, he must work hard to prove himself and become the hero he always wanted to be.

To summarise, anime is a vast and exciting form of entertainment, and these five must-watch starter anime series will introduce you to some of the best the genre has to offer. Each series has its unique story and characters, and you're sure to find one that will become your new favourite. So, grab some popcorn and get ready for a thrilling adventure in the world of anime!

What was the first anime you ever watched? Do you agree with our list? Leave us a comment!

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/what-does-a-pop-protector-do 2023-05-19T15:30:02+10:00 2023-05-19T15:30:02+10:00 What Does a Pop Protector Do? Jenny Huynh More

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Funko Pop figures have become incredibly popular in recent years, with many collectors amassing impressive collections of their favourite characters. However, as with any collectable item, it's important to protect your Funko Pops from damage. One way to do this is by using Pop protectors. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Pop protectors and why they're important for collectors.

What are Pop Protectors?

Pop protectors are clear plastic cases designed to fit around Funko Pop! Vinyl figures. They help to protect the figures and their boxes from scratches, dings, and other damage. Pop protectors are available in various sizes to fit different Pop figures, and they're typically made from durable, high-quality plastic.

Why use Pop Protectors?

There are several reasons why collectors should consider using Pop protectors for their Funko Pop figures. Firstly, Pop protectors help to keep the figure in pristine condition, which is especially important for collectors who plan on selling or trading their figures in the future. They also help to protect the figure from dust and other environmental factors that can cause damage over time.

Pop protectors also add an extra layer of protection during transportation. If you plan on taking your Funko Pop figures to conventions or other events, Pop protectors can help ensure that they arrive in perfect condition. They're also great for storing your figures, as they help to keep them organized and protected.

How to use Pop Protectors?

Using Pop protectors is incredibly easy. Simply open the protector and place the Funko Pop figure inside. Make sure that the figure is centred and that the plastic is lying flat against the figure. Once the figure is inside the protector, you can seal it up and display it on your shelf or store it away for safekeeping.

It's important to note that not all Pop protectors are created equal. Some are made from flimsy plastic that can crack or tear easily, while others are made from high-quality plastic that's designed to withstand the test of time. Be sure to do your research and choose Pop protectors that are made from durable materials to ensure that your figures are protected properly. One way to ensure you're ordering high-quality protectors is to shop with reputable sellers.

Are Pop Protectors worth it?

Yes! Pop protectors are absolutely worth the investment for Funko Pop collectors. These clear plastic cases are designed to fit perfectly around your figures, protecting them from dust, scratches, and other damage that can occur over time. Not only do they help to preserve the condition of your collection, but they also add an extra layer of protection during transportation or storage. For serious collectors who plan on selling or trading their figures, Pop protectors are essential to maintaining the value of their collection. They're also a great way to keep your collection organized and looking its best. While Pop protectors may seem like a small expense, the benefits they provide far outweigh the cost, making them a smart investment for any Funko Pop collector.

In conclusion, Pop protectors are an essential tool for Funko Pop collectors. They help to keep figures in pristine condition, protect them during transportation, and make it easy to store and organize your collection. Whether you're a serious collector or just starting out, investing in Pop protectors is a smart move that will help you to preserve the value of your Funko Pop figures for years to come.

Tell us in the comments - do you protect your Pops?

Shop Pop Protectors

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/which-comic-con-pops-are-rare 2023-05-19T13:30:01+10:00 2023-05-19T13:30:01+10:00 Which Comic Con Pops are Rare? Jenny Huynh More

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Funko Pops have become a staple of the Comic Con experience, with exclusive figures released each year for attendees to collect. Some of these Comic Con Funko Pops have become incredibly rare and valuable, coveted by collectors around the world. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the rarest Comic Con Funko Pops and why they're so valuable.

Metallic Blue Batman - San Diego Comic Con 2010

This Funko Pop was limited to only 480 pieces and features a metallic blue version of Batman. It's one of the earliest San Diego Comic Con exclusives and is highly sought after by Batman fans and Funko collectors alike.



Glow-in-the-Dark White Lantern Batman - San Diego Comic Con 2011

This Funko Pop was limited to only 240 pieces and features a glow-in-the-dark version of White Lantern Batman. It's a rare addition to any Batman or Lantern Corps collection.



Flocked Sulley - San Diego Comic Con 2012

This Funko Pop features a flocked version of Sulley from Monsters Inc. It was limited to only 480 pieces and has become a rare and valuable addition to any Disney or Pixar collection.



Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Rider - San Diego Comic Con 2013

This Funko Pop was limited to only 480 pieces and features a glow-in-the-dark version of Ghost Rider. It's a rare and valuable addition to any Marvel collection.



Metallic Green Ranger - San Diego Comic Con 2016

This Funko Pop was limited to only 480 pieces and features a metallic version of the Green Ranger from Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. It's a rare and valuable addition to any Power Rangers or Funko collection.



Blue Heisenberg - San Diego Comic Con 2014

This Funko Pop was limited to only 1,000 pieces and features a blue version of Walter White from Breaking Bad. It's a rare and valuable addition to any Breaking Bad or Funko collection.



Metallic Beerus - San Diego Comic Con 2016

This Funko Pop was limited edition and features a metallic version of Beerus from Dragon Ball Z. It's a rare and valuable addition to any anime or Funko collection.



These are just a few examples of the rarest Comic Con Funko Pops, but there are many more out there. The limited quantities, unique designs, and exclusivity of these figures make them highly sought after by collectors. If you're lucky enough to come across one of these rare Comic Con Funko Pops, it's sure to be a valuable addition to your collection.

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/should-you-take-your-funko-pop-vinyl-figures-out-of-the-box 2023-05-12T13:30:00+10:00 2023-05-12T13:30:00+10:00 Should You Take Your Funko Figures out of the Box? Jenny Huynh More

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Reasons to take your Funko Pops out of the box


1. Displaying without the box

One of the most obvious reasons to take your Funko Pops out of the box is to display them without the packaging. Many collectors prefer to showcase their figures out of the box to show off the intricate details and designs.

2. Freedom of movement

Another advantage of taking your Funko Pops out of the box is the freedom of movement. You can pose your figures in different positions or switch them out with other figures to create unique displays.

3. Personal preference

Ultimately, whether or not to take your Funko Pops out of the box is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer to display your figures without the packaging, then taking them out of the box is the way to go.

Reasons to keep your Funko Pops in the box



1. Preservation

Keeping your Funko Pops in the box can help preserve their condition. The packaging can protect the figure from dust, scratches, and other damage that can occur when handling the figure.

2. Resale value

If you're a collector who's interested in the potential resale value of your Funko Pops, keeping them in the box can help maintain their value. Collectors often pay a premium for figures that are still in the original packaging and in mint condition.

3. Packaging design

The packaging of a Funko Pop can be just as intricate and detailed as the figure itself. Keeping the figure in the box allows you to appreciate the packaging design as well.

So, should you take your Funko Pop Vinyl figures out of the box? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you prefer to display your figures without the packaging and don't mind the potential risk of damage, taking them out of the box is the way to go. However, if you value the preservation and potential resale value of your Funko Pops, keeping them in the box is a smart choice. Whatever you decide, make sure to handle your figures with care to ensure they stay in the best condition possible.

Do you  keep your Pops in-box or out? Leave us a comment!

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/how-do-you-keep-a-funko-pop-vinyl-in-mint-condition 2023-05-05T13:30:00+10:00 2023-05-05T13:30:00+10:00 How Do You Keep a Funko Pop Vinyl in Mint Condition? 5 Tips for Collectors Jenny Huynh More

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Funko Pops are incredibly popular collectibles that have taken the world by storm. With their wide range of licenses and characters, they're loved by fans of all ages. Collectors take great pride in their collections, and keeping their figures in mint condition is essential. In this blog post, we'll go over five ways to keep a Funko Pop in mint condition.

1. Handle with care

One of the most important things you can do to keep a Funko Pop in mint condition is to handle it with care. Avoid touching the figure's face or paint job with your fingers, as this can leave smudges or scratches. When picking up a Funko Pop, hold it by the base or the sides to prevent any accidental damage.

2. Keep it in the box

Many collectors prefer to keep their Funko Pops in their original boxes to maintain their mint condition. If you decide to display your figures outside of the box, make sure to keep the box in a safe place to prevent any damage or discoloration.

3. Avoid direct sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause your Funko Pop's colours to fade or yellow over time. Keep your figures out of direct sunlight, and display them in a well-lit area instead.

4. Use protectors

Funko Pop protectors are a great way to keep your figures in mint condition. These clear plastic cases fit over the box, providing an extra layer of protection from dust, scratches, and other damage.

5. Store in a cool, dry place

Storing your Funko Pops in a cool, dry place is crucial for maintaining their condition. Avoid storing your figures in humid or damp areas, as this can cause mold or discoloration. Keep them in a temperature-controlled room or storage container to keep them in mint condition.

By following these five tips, you can keep your Funko Pops in mint condition for years to come. Remember to handle them with care, keep them in the box or use protectors, avoid direct sunlight, and store them in a cool, dry place. With a little extra attention, your Funko Pop collection will stay looking as good as new.

How do you keep your Pops safe? Leave us a comment!

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/how-to-be-a-sustainable-collector-in-2021 2023-04-22T13:30:01+10:00 2023-04-22T13:30:01+10:00 How to be a Sustainable Collector in 2023 Dayna Mortimore More

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Toy collecting is a beloved hobby for many people, but it's important to remember that our consumption habits can have a significant impact on the environment. As a collector, there are steps you can take to be more sustainable and reduce your carbon footprint. In this blog post, we'll discuss five ways to be a sustainable collector, plus three ways we've been doing our part.

1. Buy pre-owned collectables

Buying pre-owned collectible toys is an easy way to reduce waste and extend the life of toys. Look for second-hand shops, thrift stores, or online marketplaces to find pre-owned toys. One example is participating in Vault Drops, which re-release already discontinued Funko Pop! figures for the second hand market. Not only will you be scoring hard-to-find items, but you'll also be reducing the demand for new toys to be produced.

2. Choose sustainable materials

When buying new toys, choose items made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, organic cotton, or recycled plastic. Avoid toys made from non-biodegradable materials such as PVC or Styrofoam. Sometimes there's no getting around this, especially for lines that use materials like vinyl plastic in their toys, but even Funko produce Earth Day exclusives using recycled cardboard materials for their boxes. If you can't shop sustainable, consider only purchasing items you're likely to keep for a long time!

3. Avoid excessive packaging

Toy packaging often contains a lot of plastic and cardboard, which can contribute to waste. Look for toys with minimal packaging or packaging made from recyclable materials. Consider buying in bulk to reduce the amount of packaging per toy.

4. Repurpose and recycle

Rather than throwing away broken or outdated toys, look for ways to repurpose them. You can donate them to charity, give them to friends or family, or turn them into something new like a DIY toy storage unit. Also, recycle any packaging materials or broken toys that cannot be repurposed.

5. Display and store your collectables responsibly

When displaying and storing toys, be mindful of the materials you use. Avoid plastic storage containers and opt for natural materials like wood or fabric. Also, be sure to keep your toys in a cool, dry place to avoid damage and extend their lifespan.

 

It's not just collectors themselves who should strive to be more environmentally friendly. Here are 3 ways Ozzie Collectables are being sustainable in 2023.

1. Mother earth friendly packaging

We know our customers appreciate sustainability and convenience far more than they do being bombarded with Ozzie branding - all our orders are packed in brown shipping boxes and internally padded with true blue recycled Aussie newspapers. Unlike bubble wrap, this internal padding provides an extra-thick layer of protection that contours to the shape of every box, and is way less harmful to the environment.

2. Our "pay it back" philosophy

We're always giving back to our community - be that via charity, local clubs, or hosting free events to bring locals together to do something they enjoy. There's never been a better time to support local, so we're always trying to uplift the voices of local artists, creators, and enthusiasts.

3. Less plastic, more protection

Keeping the plastic film on pop protectors avoids scratches and cuts down massively on waste. We include free Pop Protectors with all standard sized Pop! Vinyl purchases without removing and discarding the protective film, which we recommend keeping intact to both cut down on waste and keep your items minty.

In conclusion, being a sustainable collector requires mindfulness and a commitment to reducing waste. By following these five tips, you can enjoy your hobby while also minimizing your environmental impact. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable future.

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/how-can-you-tell-if-a-pop-is-fake 2023-04-09T13:00:00+10:00 2023-04-12T16:32:03+10:00 How Can You Tell if a Pop is Fake? 9 Tips: Our Expert Guide Dayna Mortimore More

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Funko Pops are incredibly popular collectibles that have become a staple in the world of pop culture fandom. With their wide range of licenses and characters, Funko Pops are loved by fans of all ages. Unfortunately, their popularity has also led to an increase in counterfeit figures on the market. In this blog post, we'll go over some key tips on how to spot fake Funko Pops and avoid being scammed.

1. Check the print

One of the easiest ways to spot a fake Funko Pop is to look at the box it comes in. The box print should have high-quality printing with crisp, clear images and text. Check for any misspellings or blurry images, as these are common signs of a fake.



2. Look for the Funko logo

Every Funko Pop figure should have the Funko logo on the box, typically located on the bottom right-hand corner. Make sure the logo is printed clearly and matches the official logo found on the Funko website.

3. Check the paint job

One of the most common signs of a fake Funko Pop is a poor paint job. Look for any smudges, uneven lines, or colour bleeding, as these are all indications of a fake figure. That said, keep in mind that Funko figures are a mass-produced toy line, and so not all paint jobs are perfect. The difference between a real and fake paint job usually comes down to the details, so if you're unsure, check a few other versions of the same item either online or in-person.



4. Examine the details

Funko Pops are known for their attention to detail, so examine the figure closely to ensure it matches the character it's meant to represent. Check for accurate clothing, accessories, and other defining features.

5. Check the box

One of the easiest giveaways for most fakes is the box itself, and how it's been cut. Check the width of the boarder around the character image and the font used in the box art.



6. Beware of low prices

If a Funko Pop figure seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of independent or anonymous sellers online offering low prices, as these are often a sign of counterfeit figures. An easy rule of thumb? If it seems to good to be true, it usually is.

7. Purchase from reputable sellers

To ensure you're getting a genuine Funko Pop, purchase from reputable sellers such as official retailers or trusted online stores. Avoid purchasing from unknown or unverified sources. Nudge nudge, cough cough. Just sayin'.

8. Check the stickers

Certain exclusive items feature box stickers which add to the item's rarity. Carefully examine the sticker for font, colour, finish, and wording to make sure it's legit.

9. Cross-reference online

There are tonnes of resources out there for collectors, such as Funko Fake Finder, where you can search, share, and upload images of known fakes. 

By following these tips, we hope you'll be able to spot fake Funko Pops and avoid being scammed. With a little extra attention, you can build your collection with confidence and enjoy your Funko Pops for years to come.

Have you ever come across a fake in the wild? How could you tell? Leave us a comment!

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/how-do-you-know-if-a-funko-pop-vinyl-is-rare 2021-04-19T14:28:11+10:00 2021-04-19T14:28:12+10:00 How Do You Know if a Funko Pop Vinyl is Rare? Dayna Mortimore More

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It's one of the first question many collectors ask themselves when they're starting off: are any of my Pops rare? If you're only just starting out, you're probably already aware whether one or a few of your items are considered 'rare'. The world of Funko is both an exciting and complicated one, with prices and values constantly skyrocketing - as well as crashing - based on product demand. Since there are so many products on the market these days, it can be tricky to tell at a glance of the shelf whether something is really rare or worth collecting.

Read on to find out how you can identify which items in your collection have the best resell value or are considered 'rare'!

 

1. Stickers

It may seem like a no-brainer, but for a lot of really new collectors, it might not seem as obvious. Stickers are often a way of determining both rarity and retailer exclusive statuses for certain items. These stickers can be found on the front window of the box and vary in size and shape. For example, glow-in-the-dark items will feature a small, yellow sticker identifying it as such, DGL exclusives will feature a silver diamond sticker, Target exclusives will feature a red sticker, etc. Glow-in-the-dark, glitter, flocked, and chrome items, as well as overseas releases of 'US exclusives' (which tend to be produced in countries like Australia with a round silver 'special edition' sticker) are not typically considered rare just for featuring a sticker. Comic Con products, which are produced with a special convention sticker, tend to be rarer, as less are produced by Funko, as well as items with the classic blue and white 'Funko shop' sticker - especially those from 2017 and earlier.

Be on the lookout for stickers which specifically mention the rarity, as well as the year the product was released. For example, a sticker reading '2013 NYCC, 1 in 32' is considered more rare than a sticker reading '2020 SDCC' with no numeric rarity.

 

2. Vaulted

You can't always identify a vaulted item by sight alone. Especially in today's collectable community, where Funko can vault a product at the drop of a hat, it can be tricky to stay up to date with what's in stock and what's not. Here's where your social circle comes in handy. Following groups on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit can open up conversations about which products have recently become vaulted, often before retailers themselves are aware. We also recommend checking the going rate for older, second-hand items within online markets like eBay and Pop Price Guide, AKA HobbyDB. Look for higher-than-retail prices, sudden spikes in popularity, or disappearing stock from online retailers like Ozzie Collectables. That way, if you happen to run into the product on the shelf, you'll know exactly which Pops are about to spike in value.

 

3. Special Releases

Not every exclusive is released for Comic Con. Right now, this is more true than ever, with special Funko release campaigns supporting social and global issues such as breast cancer, the 2020 Australian bushfires, Coronavirus, and more. A lot of the time, these releases aren't available to everyone, and only certain retailers will carry the products. These can be especially rare for your collection. Look out for words like 'limited' over 'exclusive', as well as special announcements from Funko themselves about partnering with certain retailers. You may have to get up early to make the drop if you want to avoid the dreaded flipper re-sale prices, but it can be worth it.

 

How do you identify rare items? Do you have many in your collection? Let us know in the comments below!

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https://www.ozziecollectables.com/blogs/the-ozzie-blog/how-to-perfectly-pack-a-collectable 2019-04-12T18:15:00+10:00 2019-04-26T05:34:20+10:00 How to Perfectly Pack a Collectable in 4 Easy Steps Dayna Mortimore Want to know how to safely, securely, and perfectly package your Pop! Vinyl or prized collectable item? You’ve come to the right place!

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Want to know how to safely, securely, and perfectly package your Pop! Vinyl or prized collectable item? You’ve come to the right place!

The collectable, pop culture world is a complicated one. Companies like Funko are constantly releasing new and exclusive items, and a lot of the time, it can be hard to get them where you want them. Whether you’re shipping off a gift to a friend, getting ready to move your prized grails from one house to another, shipping out an exclusive to another country, or just looking to swap and transport collectables, you always run the risk of damaging them in transit.

There’s nothing quite worse than opening up a box only to find out that the item inside has been creased, crushed, torn or otherwise tarnished during its journey. Today we’ll be showing you the best way to pack your collectables to keep them in mint condition no matter where they’re headed!

Included below are the four steps plus some handy images to help you out, straight from the Ozzie warehouse. Take a look at how we perfectly pack our collectables!

Step 1) Pick the right box.

Sometimes preventing damage can be as simple as selecting the right box to ship your collectable item out in. This includes ensuring that your box is not too big or too small, but sized so that it fits your collectable item with not too much room on either side. If the box is too spacious, your collectable item is more likely to be knocked around during transit, and may become damaged.

For this same reason, we recommend that you find a box with the right cardboard thickness. A little extra padding goes a long way.

Step 2) Cushion the inside of your box.

This is a big one, and can mean the difference between receiving a crushed box and a mint condition item. Old newspaper, scrunched up plastic wrap, foam, and tissue paper are among some items you can use to internally cushion your box. The key is to prevent as much movement as possible and create a barrier between the walls of your box and the collectable item inside. Use these padding materials to frame your item and keep it stationary as close to the centre of the box as you can manage, as well as preventing as much damage as possible in the case of the outer box being dropped or thrown.

TIP: Go the extra mile when transporting Funko items and place them inside of a Pop! Protector case before packing. 0.5mm cases work the best, but the regular 0.35mm cases can work just as well with the right style of packing, and you can grab them starting at only $2 here.

Step 3) Seal your box.

This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s one that a lot of first timers seem to forget. Investing in a proper roll of packing tape that is strong enough to seal up the corners of your box can make a world of difference. We recommend using a tape gun to line the open edges of your box, folding over the corners to ensure that your collectable is packaged away with maximum security.

Step 4) Finishing touches.

Finally, it’s time to ship out, move, or transport your collectable item. If you won’t be handling it yourself, then we recommend even going the extra mile of including some Caution or Fragile tape to let the person handling it know that there are some delicate goods inside! This can be especially important for shipping items across long distances, as your box is likely to be handled by many people. This ensures that everyone gets the memo that your item needs to be handled carefully, preventing maximum damage.

Once your box is as secure as can be and ready to go, we recommend shipping only with the trusted major postal service in your area: one that can provide you with tracking info so that you can keep a close eye on your box in transit and be notified once it has arrived safely. Most postal services will notify you if any major damage occurs to the box whilst in transit, but as an added layer of security, we recommend taking some photographic evidence of the item, including internal and external boxes, before it ships out. This way, if any damage occurs on the trip, you can find out exactly where it took place.

The best part? All of these painstakingly perfect steps are included when you shop with Ozzie. Free Pop protectors, free signature, free tracking and minty fresh collectables. Try it out and place an order!

We hope these four easy steps are able to help you out in packing, shipping, or transporting your own collectable items. Let us know in the comments if we missed a step or if you have any other tips for aspiring collectors.

Until next time, happy collecting!

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