Practical and Beautiful, Stick Pins Make a Great Collectible

By: Aldene Fredenburg
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:20:46
Print this article | Tell a friend | For publisher | Social Bookmarking
Rating:
 

If you like the idea of collecting beautiful objects but don’t have the room or the desire to accumulate shelves of dust-catchers, stick pins lapel and tie pins are a great alternative. They’re small, easy to store, and best of all, supremely functional; you can enjoy their beauty on a daily basis by incorporating them into your wardrobe.

Stick pins have been popular since the mid- to late-1800s; many organizations, from the Salvation Army and Red Cross to the Masonic Lodge, have issued stick pins to present to their members. The popular online auction site, eBay, displays ads for over 1100 stick pins, including vintage British pins from the Queen’s Royal Irish Hussars, the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment, and the Grenadier Guards.

Some collectors focus on stick pins from a specific era, or of a specific category for instance, the British military stick pins mentioned above. Others purchase items based solely on their beauty. Some collections start out with a few treasured pieces passed down through the family; one such collection began with a fleur-de-lis pin brought home from France after World War I, a favorite cameo from a great-grandmother, and a Herkimer diamond from a great-grandfather, and expanded from there.

Once you’ve begun your own collection of stick pins, you’ll want to wear them, on the lapel of a suit or blazer or a tie or scarf. It’s a great way to add a personal, and even meaningful, touch to your wardrobe.

Aldene Fredenburg is a freelance writer living in southwestern New Hampshire. She has written numerous articles for local and regional newspapers and for a number of Internet websites, including Tips and Topics. She expresses her opinions periodically on her blog, http://beyondagendas.blogspot.com

Article source: Expert Articles

Most Recent Articles in Crafts category

  • The Best Gifts for Cross Stitchers - By: Joanne Jones
    Do you know someone who loves to cross stitch, but you aren't sure of what gift to buy him or her? Don't worry. Even if you don't know what supplies they already have, it's easy to get them a gift that they are sure to love. Here are eight great gift suggestions for anyone who cross stitches.
  • Preserving Cut Flowers - By: Timothy Spencer
    As much as we adore receiving a bouquet of flowers, we would love to enjoy these blossoms for a long time. We may not avoid fresh flowers from wilting but we can definitely prolong their vase life. This article shares some tips on how to extend the shelf life of a colorful bouquet of fresh flowers.
  • Traditional Scottish Gifts - By: Michiel Van Kets
    You might find plentiful of traditional Scottish souvenirs and gift ideas that spring to mind, but none will ever be as familiar as Scottish tartan.
  • Artwork and Handicfrafts from Tuscany - By: Michiel Van Kets
    Tuscany is a coastal town located on Italy's west coast. The town is a popular tourist destination attracting people with its religious and historical centres as well as delicious cuisine and fine wines and its stunning scenery.
  • Different Types of Quilts - By: Joanne Jones
    Do you have trouble figuring out what the differences are between the different types of quilts? Is so, here is a quick guide to the most popular types of quilt designs and styles out there.
  • Reuse Household Items - By: Lily Morgan
    Turning regular everyday household products into art is not as impossible as it sounds. In fact, it's a great way to reuse things that would otherwise end up in the trash. There is no limit to what you can do. The key to good craft work is to avoid placing any restrictions on what can realistically be accomplished. Make use of that junk you just never look at anymore before it finds its way to the garbage.
  • How To Create A Cross Stitch Journal - By: Joanne Jones
    Have you ever forgotten what supplies and patterns that you already own? Or how many projects are still waiting to be completed? Do you want an easy way to keep track of all the projects you have already finished? The solution is simple - create your own cross stitch journal.
  • The Best Gifts for Scrapbook Lovers - By: Joanne Jones
    Scrapbooking has become the latest craze in the crafting world. If you aren't into it, you probably know someone who is. So, what are the best gifts that you can give to a scrapbook lover? Here are the ones that make the top 8 list.
  • Tips for Encouraging Kids with Crafts - By: Lily Morgan
    When it comes to kids and crafts, often the first thing that comes to mind is the mess that often results. Allowing kids to get creative doesn't have to be messy and can in fact be quite the opposite. A little extra planning makes creative play fun while keeping it convenient and clean. Children should always be encouraged to use their imagination while furthering their artistic abilities. Parents need to remember that most of the learning kids do takes place while they are at play.
  • Diaper Cakes Are a Unique & Artistic Piece to Add To Your Next Baby Shower - By: Kimberly Green
    Whether you make it yourself or buy one ready-made these charming creative Diaper Cakes are perfect for baby related festivities.