Are you drowning in a sea of board games, struggling to find your favorite title amidst the chaos? A dedicated board game shelf isn't just about storage; it's about celebrating your hobby and making your collection easily accessible. This guide will help you design the perfect board game shelf, covering everything from storage solutions to aesthetic considerations. We'll explore various shelving options, organization techniques, and even address common questions surrounding board game storage.
What Kind of Shelf is Best for Board Games?
This is a question with many answers, depending on your collection's size, your budget, and your personal aesthetic. Let's explore a few options:
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Standard Bookshelves: A classic and readily available option, standard bookshelves are versatile. However, you might need to employ creative storage solutions (like using dividers or vertical storage) to maximize space and prevent games from tipping over. Consider the shelf depth; you'll need enough space to accommodate larger game boxes.
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Cube Shelves: These offer excellent organization, particularly for smaller games. The individual cubes allow for compartmentalization, reducing clutter and maximizing visibility. However, larger games may require additional storage solutions or might not fit at all.
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Wall-Mounted Shelves: These save floor space and are ideal for smaller collections or displaying prized games. However, they require wall space and may not be suitable for extremely heavy collections. Consider the weight capacity before purchasing.
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Custom-Built Shelves: For the ultimate solution, consider custom-built shelves tailored to your exact needs and space. This option provides the most flexibility but is usually the most expensive.
What is the Best Way to Organize Board Games on a Shelf?
Organization is key to a functional and aesthetically pleasing board game shelf. Here are some effective strategies:
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By Game Type: Group similar games together (e.g., strategy games, party games, card games). This allows for easy browsing and selection.
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By Publisher: This approach works well if you have a preference for specific game publishers.
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By Player Count: Organize games by the number of players they support, making it simple to find games suitable for your current gaming group.
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By Theme: Group games with similar themes (e.g., fantasy, sci-fi, historical) for a visually appealing and thematic display.
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Alphabetical Order: A simple and straightforward approach, ensuring easy access through quick searching.
How Do I Store Board Game Pieces?
Keeping game pieces organized is crucial for preventing loss and damage. Consider these options:
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Baggies: Simple, inexpensive, and readily available, baggies are perfect for small components. Label them clearly to avoid confusion.
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Storage Boxes: Larger, more durable boxes offer excellent protection for game components. Consider using clear plastic boxes for visibility.
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Component Trays: These custom-fit trays help keep pieces organized within the game box itself.
How Much Space Do I Need for My Board Game Collection?
The space you need depends entirely on the size of your collection. Measure your games and estimate the overall storage space required. Remember to factor in additional space for expansion packs and future acquisitions. It's always a good idea to overestimate slightly to avoid outgrowing your shelving too quickly.
Where Should I Put My Board Game Shelf?
Consider these factors when choosing a location:
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Accessibility: Choose a location easily accessible to you and your gaming group.
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Lighting: Good lighting will enhance the display of your collection.
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Stability: Ensure the shelf is sturdy and stable enough to support the weight of your games.
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Proximity to your gaming area: Placing the shelf near your gaming table optimizes convenience and reduces the time wasted retrieving games during game nights.
Ultimately, the perfect board game shelf is one that suits your needs, reflects your personality, and makes it enjoyable to both store and play your games. Remember, building the perfect shelf is an iterative process – start with the basics and adapt as your collection and preferences evolve.
