An Article from the Texas Blenko Collectors Newsletter

Recently there has been quite a bit of

discussion between Blenko collectors
regarding the definition of “true”
collecting. Some collectors purchase the very
best examples of Blenko they can afford. As
a rule these collections tend to be smaller
but of a higher quality and value. Then there
are some of us who are “Hunter and Gatherer”
collectors. We’ve never met a piece of
Blenko we didn’t like (or almost never).
These collections can run into the hundreds
or thousands of pieces. Finally there are collectors
who collect Blenko glass in as much it
helps their décor. Of course there are variations
of the above or combinations of two or
all three. No that there is a right way or a
wrong to collect Blenko. Bottom line, if a
hobby isn’t fun, why do it? I wouldn’t trade
the numerous excursions with my wife or
friends on our long hunts for Blenko glass for
anything. Be it a flea market, antique show
or shop. It’s always been fun, even when we
come home empty handed. I always rationalize
by saying we saved money that week. At
the first Blenko Collectors Convention, I met
a collector who limited his collection to 100
pieces of glass. As he found better pieces he
sold his less desirable pieces. This way, he
hoped, he could always have the best Blenko
he could afford. At the time Karin and I were
already over a hundred pieces and there was
no end in sight. I told Karin I admired this
collector’s discipline and goal, and perhaps
we could adapt such a plan of action. After
we mulled over the thought for a while we realized
what worked for him, probably would not
work for us (we are undisciplined). Hindsight
has proven us right. I like seeing the hundreds
of pieces in our window every morning we start
our day. Karin looks around and say “we sure
have some pretty glass”. The fact of the matter
is don’t let anyone person, pundit or expert define
you or your collection. It’s your glass and
your hobby and yes we all have some pretty
glass.

by Tim Alonzo, Texas Collector