Community Spotlight: Meet Rainbowchu

Welcome to another exciting instalment of Community Spotlight at hoardboard, where we shine a light on our community's passionate collectors and their extraordinary collections. This time, we're thrilled to bring you an exclusive insight into the Pokémon collecting universe with our esteemed community member Rainbowchu. Having journeyed through the realms of Pokémon since its emergence in the 90s, Rainbowchu provides a fascinating peek into the rich tapestry of Pokémon card collecting. In this candid Q&A session, Rainbowchu shares personal stories, challenges, favourite items, tips for beginners, and much more, promising a captivating read for fellow collectors and Pokémon enthusiasts alike

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you started your collecting journey?

I was in elementary school when Pokémon first came out in the 90s, and everyone in my class was obsessed with the cards and game. The school quickly banned Pokémon and we weren’t allowed to bring our cards to school, so we played at a local comic book store. We opened base set and Japanese packs for like two dollars each and played in the league where we got badge pins.

What’s the story behind your first collectable?

My first Pokémon toys that I can remember were talking Meowth and Pikachu figures. I still have the Meowth and he speaks Japanese, and the Pikachu had light-up cheeks.

What does your collection mean to you?

My binders are not only collections of my favourite cards, but also memories of where I was and who I was with when I got each one. They make me think of all of the friends I’ve met, traded with, and the cool people that share the same love for these characters.

How do you find and select items for your collection?

I try to complete smaller collections of types of cards I like rather than whole master sets. Right now, I’m trying to get every full art Eeveelution and every base set Japanese holo with a swirl. Some collections I’ve recently completed were every Amazing rare and every Radiant in both English and Japanese.

What challenges have you encountered during your collecting journey and how have you overcome them?

I think most of the challenge is keeping up with each new set without spending too much money. I learned to appreciate the common, inexpensive cards a lot instead of just the main chase cards. I have fun collecting any card by my favourite artists and separating them in binders. Even adding a common card by a top artist is fun and cheap!

What is your most prized possession in your collection and why?

My Japanese Lenticular Sky Splitting Deoxys promo that changes into the different forms of Deoxys depending on how you tilt the card! It’s so unique and cool!

How has the hoardboard platform enhanced your collecting experience?

I’m excited to do a giveaway in the future and share with my followers!

Can you share some tips for beginners who are just starting their collecting journey?

Don't worry about getting every new product that comes out and make friends you can trade with. Fill your binders with what you love, even if it’s cheap cosmo foil promos or commons, and make a separate trade binder so you’re ready to show others what you have to trade. You can make tons of friends. Plus, it’s nice to get mail every day, LOL!

What trends do you see emerging in the world of collecting?

I notice that a lot of things that people hate on end up becoming the most popular, so don’t let the trends influence what you like. Iono was hated when she was announced and became the main chase. Most people hate new Pokémon designs, but still end up chasing those cards, etc. LOL. Do your own thing and be unique. Even if you like collecting some random Pokémon like Blipbug, LOL!

Can you share a memorable story or experience related to your collecting journey?

Meeting up with friends in real life and going to card shops together in person. Many people I know in real life will support the hobby, but are not truly obsessed and into it like I am. It feels so exciting to hang out with people that are as passionate about it as me, who can have a two-hour convo about shiny colours, LOL!

We hope you've enjoyed this deep dive into [Rainbowchu]'s Pokémon collecting journey. From early days at the comic book store to nurturing a comprehensive and personally meaningful Pokémon card collection, it's clear that Rainbowchu's passion transcends beyond the physical cards into the realm of shared experiences, friendships, and personal growth. As our conversation with Rainbowchu comes to a close, we're reminded of the diverse and personal ways people can engage in and enjoy collecting. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, there's a unique joy in pursuing what you love. Remember Rainbowchu's sage advice - fill your binders with what you love and don't let trends dictate your passion. Happy collecting to all - want to be featured? Become a contributor today!