Collecting and completing sets

[bnorth]

To me set collecting was much more fun before eBay. Now if you have the $ most sets/cards are just a click away.

I am about 90% through the 55 Bowman set in near poor condition and just starting the 54 Topps set in the same condition. Figured the 2 Ted Williams cards in the 54 would make up for the lack of one in the 55. To make it more fun I am only buying cards from fellow members to build these 2 sets.

I still find it fun to look for cheap cards for my set needs but know it would be way cheaper to just buy them completed. Good thing for me is it is just a hobby and the resale value really means nothing to me.

[vintagebaseballcardguy]

I completed a '53 Topps set and then had trouble deciding what was next. I stopped and started a few sets. I then swore off set building several times and decided I would be happier focusing on singles and player collecting or team collecting. However, I have realized how much I enjoy set building. Though nowhere near as accomplished as many on this board, I still have the '53 Topps set and am about half way through with '56 and '65 Topps. I also have gotten interested in vintage football and have purchased a '69 set, which I am upgrading.

What I enjoy most about set building is going through lots, partials, and sets and just shuffling through lots of cards. It is enjoyable for me watching them come together and filling holes and seeing it fill in. The thought of spending money on commons and nobodys used to drive me nuts. However, the best stories and poses and backgrounds in some sets are found among the commons. They often help to tell the story of that particular year. I am absolutely hooked!