Crazy About Vinylmation

As a former reality show contestant, I still like to check the listings for casting calls for various shows, mostly for fun. Recently I saw one for a program that was looking for people who had weird hobbies or addictions. I thought to myself “well, I wouldn't fit in for that” as I sat next to something that may prove me wrong. I'll let you decide. I like to save my money and spend it wisely when I do. There is however an Achilles heel when it comes to my spending, and that would be Vinylmation.

Vinylmation are, most commonly, three or nine inch figurines manufactured exclusively by Disney. They are sold only at Disney related properties and stores (and of course, on eBay). The unique characteristic that sets them apart from most other Disney figurines is that they are all in the same shape of Mickey Mouse (although the brand has deviated to a Cars mold, and some Park attractions). Where it gets awesome in my opinion is what they do with this uniform mold. Artists go crazy and design all sorts of things on the 3D rodent canvas – from other beloved Disney characters to dark eerie patterns, food items to wild animals, there is really no limit to how creative these figures can become.

Another part of the fun is that many of the series that are released are sold in blind boxes, meaning you know only the theme that you're buying but you don't know the specific figure you'll get – it's a mystery. It's like a treasure hunt. To up the ante, Disney also randomly inserts rare figures (called chasers and variants) into these blind boxes which are obviously much harder (and more thrilling) to find.

I started my collection a little over a year ago and it's grown quickly as I have taken advantage of great sales, eBay auctions, and making friends with other collectors. While Disney only started making Vinylmation a few years ago, there is already a huge network of people who collect these figures. There are all types of collectors – young and old – purists and money hungry resellers (who are not looked kindly upon) – the whole Vinylmation world is fascinating to behold.

The first figure I got was from a Toy Story series. I chose this series as Toy Story is one of my favorite movies, and thought I would be happy with any of the characters. I opened up the box, tore into the silver wrapping, and got the much sought after at the time 'Buzz Lightyear' figure. It was an adrenaline rush of sorts, and that really began my addiction to these awesome collectibles.

Another part of this world is the trading community. Obviously if you collect these blind box figures you're bound to get duplicate figures that you don't need for your personal collection. Disney sets up trading events (where no money can be exchanged) in Anaheim, California and Orlando, Florida. These free events allow collectors to bring their duplicates and trade with others who also have ones they don't need. I went to one of these events last January in California, and it was a blast. I could write a book on all of the interesting characters I met there, not to mention the awesome figures I walked away with. For the most part, people want to help you get what is on your wishlist if there is something you have that they need.

As I can't go to these events often due to their distance, I'm thankful we're so close to the Solomon Pond mall where manager Melody (also a Vinylmation addict) is committed to helping new collectors grow their collections. She has been Mr. Miyagi to my Karate Kid-ness when it comes to collecting these figures. There are other workers there too who are totally cool (Christine and Mindy just to name a couple) and appreciate that awesome feeling of opening a box to reveal a character you need.

In the photo section of this post I added pictures of my ten favorites I have so far. If you collect these, let me know and post pictures of your favorites! I would love to put together a network of traders in this area. It's not easy to get to Florida or California and I think it would be fun to set up a local trading event. Last November I lent my collection to the Shrewsbury Public Library so people could view them in the display cases and see first hand how cool they are.  Most people around here had never heard of them.  I will be bringing in a whole new batch to display this November as well to continue to spread the word about these offbeat pieces of art.

Okay, so is this too weird for you? Normal hobby or do I need an intervention? Let me know what weird things you collect in the comments!