When you’re clearing out old hobby supplies, it’s easy to think many of those items have outlived their usefulness. However, some of these materials can still serve a purpose, whether for your current projects or for future creative ideas.
Knowing which hobby items to keep can save you time, money, and effort in the long run. By holding on to certain supplies, you allow yourself the chance to repurpose them or finish projects without needing to replace valuable materials. Taking a thoughtful approach will help you avoid throwing away things that could be useful again.
Vintage Model Train Sets
If you have vintage model train sets, hold onto them. These sets often carry a lot of charm and can be valuable, especially if they are well-maintained or rare.
You can find the manufacturer’s part number stamped on the pieces, which helps identify and assess their worth. Many collectors look for specific scales or makes.
Even if your trains aren’t worth a lot as complete sets, the parts usually have some value. Plus, they connect you to a hobby rich in history and craftsmanship.
Old Vinyl Record Collections
If you have old vinyl records, it’s worth holding onto them. Some albums, especially first pressings or limited editions, can be valuable to collectors.
Even records with damaged covers might still have worth for the music or the art. If your collection is large, sorting through it can help you spot gems.
If you decide some records aren’t worth keeping, consider donating them. Your “old” collection could mean a lot to someone else or find new life in creative projects.
Classic Board Games Like Monopoly
If you have a classic board game like Monopoly, it’s worth holding onto. These games often bring nostalgia and a simple way to enjoy time with family or friends.
You might find that games similar to Monopoly offer fresh strategies while keeping that familiar vibe. Titles like Acquire focus on buying and trading but add new twists to keep things interesting.
Classic board games, whether it’s Scrabble, Risk, or Clue, still provide fun challenges that many modern games don’t replicate. Keeping these around means you always have a reliable option for game night.
Antique Sewing Patterns
If you find old sewing patterns from the 1940s to 1960s, don’t rush to throw them out. Some vintage patterns, especially designer ones, can be worth anywhere from $20 to over $300.
You might not think much of them now, but collectors and sewing enthusiasts often look for patterns with unique designs or bright, well-preserved covers. Even if you don’t plan to sell, they can inspire creative projects or add charm to your craft space.
Retro Video Game Cartridges
If you have old game cartridges lying around, don’t rush to toss them. Many retro games, especially from systems like the Nintendo NES and Sega Genesis, have grown in value and collectability. Some cartridges can even sell for thousands if they’re rare or in good condition.
Keeping your cartridges safe means avoiding exposure to dust and moisture. You might want to clean and store them properly to preserve their value.
Whether for nostalgia or investment, your old games could be worth more than you think. So before you throw them out, take a moment to check if they’re hidden treasures.
