Chessex Dice: The Foundation of a Serious Collection
Every dice collector has a starting point. For many of us, that foundation is Chessex. Before artisan resin makers flooded social media and before limited Kickstarter runs became the norm, Chessex was already producing consistent, recognizable, table-ready dice in an enormous range of colors and finishes. They remain one of the most important pillars in modern dice collecting. Recently, The Hidden Lair refreshed and expanded their Chessex inventory, and it reminded me why these dice still deserve attention in a serious collection. You can browse their current selection here. Why Chessex Still Matters Collectors sometimes get distracted by rarity alone. But collecting isn’t just about scarcity — it’s about lineage, production history, and design evolution. Chessex offers: – Long-running color lines with subtle batch variations – Speckled series that have become instantly recognizable classics – Translucent sets that defined early modern RPG tables – Marble and layered blends that continue to evolve – Reliable numbering and molds that have remained consistent over time When you lay out a collection chronologically, Chessex becomes a timeline of tabletop culture itself. The Appeal of Production Consistency One thing collectors appreciate — even if they don’t always articulate it — is consistency. Chessex dice feel familiar in the hand. The weight distribution, the edge finishing, the numbering style — it’s predictable. That reliability is part of their charm. When you’re building a cohesive color-family display or trying to complete a specific line, consistency matters. You know what you’re getting. And when a store stocks a broad selection rather than a handful of random sets, it becomes a legitimate hunting ground instead of a casual browse. Color Families and Completion A serious collector eventually starts organizing by: – Color family – Finish type (translucent, opaque, speckled, glitter, marble) – Number ink contrast – Era of production Chessex makes this possible because their catalog is deep. When a retailer expands inventory, it increases the odds of finding that one variation you’ve been missing — maybe a different ink pairing or a less common speckle blend. That’s why inventory refreshes matter. Availability cycles in and out. If you collect intentionally, you pay attention when shelves get restocked. Table Presence vs. Display Presence There are dice made for photographs. Then there are dice made for tables. Chessex continues to excel at table presence. High readability. Durable finish. Clear contrast. They roll well, and they age well. Some of my oldest sets are still sharp after years of campaigns. That durability is part of their long-term collector appeal. A collection should not only look good — it should endure. Why Local Stores Matter for Collectors You can scroll endless photos online, but there is something irreplaceable about seeing dice in person. Lighting changes perception. Swirls look different at different angles. Glitter density varies from set to set. Being able to compare two similar colorways side by side is invaluable. That’s why expanded in-store inventory — like the recent Chessex revamp at The Hidden Lair — is worth noting. When a local store commits to carrying depth rather than just surface variety, collectors benefit. If you want to see what’s currently available, you can browse their Chessex inventory. Final Thoughts Chessex may not always be the flashiest brand in a display case, but it remains one of the most important. It is the backbone of many collections.It is the baseline for comparison.It is the history many of us started with. Serious collections are not built only on rare finds. They are built on intentional additions — understanding where a set fits in the larger story. And Chessex is still very much part of that story. Read more about The Hidden Lair on my blog here.
The Return of P3 Paints – A Legacy Reignited
For miniature collectors and painters, few names carry the same reverence as P3 Paints. Long hailed for their buttery-smooth texture and rich pigmentation, these paints weren’t just another product line—they were a cornerstone of the miniature painting hobby. Now, after years in limbo, P3 Paints have officially returned, reimagined and revitalized under Steamforged Games, and collectors everywhere are taking notice. A Classic Reborn The original P3 line, developed in collaboration with hobby legend Mike McVey, first hit the scene in 2006. What set it apart wasn’t just its colors—it was the formula itself. P3 paints blended like a dream, allowing hobbyists to achieve lifelike tones, smooth transitions, and artistic effects that few other lines could match. Now, nearly two decades later, Steamforged Games has brought this beloved brand back to life. Their P3 Paint: Starter Set features ten foundational colors—some fan favorites, others completely new—crafted with modern production techniques that enhance pigment load, consistency, and coverage while maintaining that signature creamy flow. For collectors, this return isn’t merely about function; it’s about heritage. Each bottle represents a continuation of a legacy that helped shape the golden age of tabletop painting. Why Collectors Care Collectors of classic hobby materials understand the value of owning something that represents both art and history. Original P3 bottles—especially limited-run shades and early Privateer Press labels—have become sought-after items on secondary markets. The new relaunch presents an opportunity to start fresh with a line that honors that past while introducing refinements for the next generation. What makes this re-release especially appealing to collectors: – Consistency across eras – the paints still behave like the originals, allowing old and new sets to mix seamlessly. – Improved packaging and formulation – ideal for long-term storage and display. – Historical significance – part of the evolving story of miniature artistry, from Privateer Press to Steamforged stewardship. Whether you paint your miniatures or simply curate the tools of the craft, these paints represent a bridge between the pioneering hobby culture of the 2000s and today’s renaissance of high-quality miniature production. Looking Ahead Steamforged has confirmed that Wave 2 of the P3 revival will include classic favorites like Coal Black and Murderous Magenta, along with new metallics and sprays. For collectors, that means the line will once again become a full-spectrum system—perfect for display, archival, or use in restoration projects involving vintage Privateer Press models. As someone who’s collected paints, pigments, and hobby materials for over two decades, I can confidently say: this is the comeback to watch. Whether you buy them to use, display, or preserve, these bottles belong in any serious collector’s workspace. Final ThoughtsP3’s return is more than a reprint—it’s a restoration. It’s proof that craftsmanship, creativity, and community still drive our hobby forward. For collectors, this is your chance to be part of that story again. You can find the P3 Paint: Starter Set now at The Hidden Lair. Because some things aren’t just paint—they’re pieces of hobby history. Read about – A Collector’s Journey Through the History of Reaper Miniatures
Why I Want Property Owners to Consider Merging with BACH
When I helped start BACH Investment Group, the goal was simple: build wealth while improving communities. At the time, we thought locally—focusing on properties in Decatur, Illinois. But as our group has grown, We’ve realized something important: the model we’ve built isn’t limited to one city. It’s scalable, it’s sustainable, and it’s something property owners everywhere can benefit from. Why Property Owners Should Consider Partnering with Us Owning investment property is both a privilege and a challenge. Whether you own a single-family rental in Decatur, a duplex in Chicago, or a small portfolio in another state, the struggles are often the same: Management headaches that take up your time. Unexpected costs from repairs or vacancies. Uncertainty about growth—how do you scale without burning out? That’s where BACH comes in. By merging with us, property owners don’t lose their assets—they gain a partner. Together, we create something bigger than any one of us could achieve alone. The Numbers Don’t Lie If you want proof that this model works, look no further than where BACH stands today: 53 properties under management $4,111,000 total ARV value (After Repair Value) $2,725,000 invested value That means we’ve already built a portfolio worth over $4 million by strategically acquiring, renovating, and managing properties. Even more impressive: we’ve done it with discipline, focusing on affordability, long-term tenants, and community impact. For property owners considering a merger, these numbers are more than just stats—they’re reassurance. They prove that when you join BACH, you’re aligning with a proven, growing investment group that knows how to turn properties into wealth-building assets. Why This is So Impressive Think about this: in just a few years, we’ve taken investments totaling $2.7 million and created a portfolio valued at over $4.1 million. That’s not just growth—it’s strategic appreciation driven by our buy-renovate-rent model. Here’s why this matters to property owners: Equity Growth: We increase property values through smart renovations and management. Cash Flow Stability: Reliable tenants placed through our management partner keep rental income steady. Scalable Model: What works in Decatur also works in other markets across the country. This isn’t theory—it’s proof of concept, backed by millions in assets. Beyond Decatur: A Model for Property Owners Everywhere While Decatur is our home base, the truth is that distressed housing and management challenges exist in every city. Whether you’re in Indianapolis, St. Louis, or Atlanta, the formula for success is the same: Acquire undervalued properties. Renovate to add real value. Place reliable tenants. Manage professionally for long-term results. If you’re a property owner anywhere in the U.S., merging with BACH means you can tap into a system that already works, without carrying the weight of doing it all alone. What You Gain by Partnering with BACH By merging your properties with us, you gain: Professional management that takes the stress off your shoulders. Diversification by joining a larger group portfolio. Shared resources that lower costs and increase efficiency. Growth potential by participating in future acquisitions. Instead of being an isolated landlord, you become part of a proven investment group with a track record of scaling portfolios into multi-million-dollar assets. Why Now is the Time The real estate market is shifting, and opportunities are everywhere. But seizing them requires capital, systems, and strategy. By merging with BACH now, you position yourself to: Weather economic uncertainty with group stability. Scale your investments without scaling your headaches. Be part of a mission-driven group focused on both profit and community. We’ve already proven what’s possible with 53 properties. Imagine what we can achieve together with yours. Final Thoughts As the founder of BACH, I’m proud of what we’ve built—but I’m even more excited about where we’re going. Our $4.1 million portfolio is just the beginning. With the right partners, we can expand into new markets, revitalize more neighborhoods, and help more property owners unlock the true potential of their assets. If you’re a property owner—whether you have one property or ten—don’t think of merging as giving something up. Think of it as leveling up. Together, we can build lasting wealth, reduce stress, and create communities people are proud to live in. If you’re ready to explore what this could look like for you, let’s connect.
The Collectors’ Web: Why Spider-Man Endures in Every Collection
When it comes to superhero collectibles, few characters command as much attention—or as much shelf space—as Spider-Man. From action figures to miniatures, trading cards to statues, the wall-crawler has been a mainstay in collections since his debut in Amazing Fantasy #15 back in 1962. For collectors, Spider-Man isn’t just another hero—he’s a cornerstone of pop culture. A Legacy That Fuels Collecting Part of what makes Spider-Man so collectible is the sheer variety of his history. Each new era of comics, film, or animation has brought a fresh take on the character, and with it, new waves of merchandise. Collectors can trace Spider-Man’s evolution not only through comic panels but through toys, model kits, and game tie-ins that capture specific looks and storylines. Whether it’s the bright red-and-blue suit of the Silver Age, the sleek black symbiote look of the 1980s, or the multiverse of Spider-People seen in Into the Spider-Verse, every costume and story arc has inspired new items that collectors chase down to complete their personal “Spider-Verse.” Spider-Man in Gaming Collectibles Beyond the shelves of action figures, Spider-Man has made his mark in tabletop gaming. WizKids’ HeroClix line has produced countless Spider-Man miniatures over the years, spanning everything from classic Peter Parker to alternate universe versions like Spider-Gwen or Spider-Man 2099. For collectors who also love strategy games, HeroClix offers the best of both worlds—a playable figure and a collectible miniature. Trading cards are another major frontier. With Spider-Man joining Magic: The Gathering this September in the highly anticipated crossover expansion, fans are preparing for an entirely new way to collect the web-slinger. The pre-release event starts on September 19, and for collectors, this marks the beginning of what could become some of the most sought-after MTG cards of the year. Why Spider-Man Collectibles Matter What sets Spider-Man apart isn’t just his popularity—it’s the personal connection fans feel with him. Collecting Spider-Man memorabilia often feels less like acquiring objects and more like celebrating milestones of a shared journey. Every figure, card, or miniature carries a piece of that story, whether it’s the responsibility of Peter Parker, the hope embodied by Miles Morales, or the sheer creativity of the Spider-Verse. For me—and for many collectors—Spider-Man collectibles aren’t just about rarity or value. They’re about seeing a hero who struggles, fails, learns, and still finds the strength to swing forward. That kind of inspiration is worth curating on any shelf. If you’d like to dive deeper into Spider-Man’s history and cultural impact, check out the full write-up over at The Hidden Lair, where they’re also gearing up for the Magic: The Gathering / Spider-Man pre-release event on September 19.
Why Tabletop Games Are the Ultimate Social Experience (From My Perspective)
When people ask me why I love tabletop games so much, I always come back to the same thing: the people at the table. Don’t get me wrong — I love rolling dice, painting minis, and building strategies as much as anyone. But what keeps me hooked, year after year, isn’t the rules or the pieces — it’s the shared experience. I’ve played plenty of video games in my life, but nothing quite matches the feeling of being across the table from friends (or even strangers who become friends). The laughter when someone rolls snake eyes. The groans when the “never-fail” strategy falls apart. The stories that linger long after the game is packed up. The Magic of Face-to-Face Play There’s a certain energy you can’t replicate through a screen. When you’re in the same room, you see every reaction: the grin when a combo lands, the dramatic sigh after a bad draw, the excitement of a perfectly timed move. Those little human moments are what transform a game from “just playing” into a memory worth keeping. Creativity and Connection One of the reasons tabletop gaming has always drawn me in is the creativity. Whether it’s a custom-painted miniature, a character backstory in a roleplaying campaign, or a deck built around a quirky idea, players put part of themselves into the game. And when those personal touches collide on the table, it feels like everyone is telling a story together. Community at the Heart At The Hidden Lair, I see this magic every week. Players who started as total strangers now greet each other like old friends. Parents bring their kids to hobby nights, and those kids end up teaching adults a thing or two. Every game, every laugh, every story shared over the table reinforces the same point for me: tabletop games are more than just games — they’re a way to connect. And in a world that can feel increasingly disconnected, I think that’s something worth celebrating. Interested in tabletop games? Check out my store The Hidden Lair!
A Collector’s Journey Through the History of Reaper Miniatures
As a longtime miniature collector, there are a few names that have defined my hobby, and Reaper Miniatures is right at the top of that list. My shelves are lined with dragons, knights, wizards, and monsters, many of which were crafted by Reaper over the years. But collecting them isn’t just about filling space — it’s about tracing the history of a company that has grown alongside the hobby itself. My First Encounter with Reaper I still remember the first time I picked up a Reaper pewter mini back in the 1990s. Compared to some of the bulkier wargaming figures I was used to, these sculpts felt alive. They had character, personality, and detail that made them stand out. For a roleplayer like me, that meant I could finally put a face to my D&D characters and see them at the table in miniature form. That personal connection was powerful — and it’s why I kept coming back. The Golden Age of Variety One of the reasons I became such a devoted collector is because Reaper seemed to have a model for everything. Need a lich for a campaign boss? Done. Want a tavern bard with a lute? They had it. While other companies were focused mainly on massive armies, Reaper embraced the individual adventurer, monster, or NPC. Over the years, I found myself hunting through their catalogs like a treasure seeker, trying to track down obscure sculpts that would perfectly match the characters in my stories. Even today, I get the same thrill when a new line is released. The Bones Era — A Game-Changer When the Reaper Bones Kickstarter dropped in 2012, I knew it was going to change everything — but I didn’t realize how big it would be. As a collector, the affordability of Bones opened the floodgates. I could suddenly pick up entire hordes of skeletons, armies of goblins, or multiple dragons without breaking the bank. What I love most is how Bones lowered the barrier for entry. I’ve seen so many new painters in the community take their first steps with Bones minis because they weren’t afraid of “ruining” something expensive. For me, it meant I could expand my collection faster than ever, while still cherishing the pewter classics. Reaper Today and Beyond Now, Reaper isn’t just a company — it’s a culture. Their ReaperCon event feels like a pilgrimage for hobbyists, and their paint line has become a staple on my painting desk. Every new release brings that same excitement I felt when I bought my first mini all those years ago. As a collector, Reaper has been more than just a supplier of models — they’ve been a constant companion in my hobby journey. Each figure tells a story, not only on the tabletop but also in my personal history as a gamer and painter. And honestly? I can’t wait to see what comes next. Interested in purchasing Reaper Miniatures? Make sure you check them out at my store The Hidden Lair!