You don’t need to travel far or spend big to start an impressive collection. In fact, some of the most satisfying themed collections can be built by sourcing items from just one variety store. These stores offer a unique blend of low-cost, rotating stock and licensed merchandise—making them ideal for hobbyists and collectors looking for creative ways to curate a focused collection.

Here’s how to build a theme collection using only the inventory from your favorite budget-friendly retailer.

Step 1: Choose Your Theme

Start with a theme that excites you and fits the store’s strengths. This could be:

• Anime accessories from Miniso
• Marvel or DC figures from Five Below
• Horror-themed decor from Dollar Tree around Halloween
• Gaming accessories from Dollar General or Big Lots

Picking a theme allows you to curate intentionally, rather than grabbing random items. It also makes the collection feel cohesive even when sourced on a tight budget.

Step 2: Visit Weekly or Seasonally

Variety stores rotate their stock frequently—especially seasonal or promotional items. For the best finds, check in at least once a week or plan visits around major holidays when new themed items hit the shelves.

• Back-to-school season for stationery, storage bins, and notebooks
  
• Halloween for gothic, horror, and cosplay-friendly items
  
• Valentine’s Day for pastel-toned collectibles and plush
  

Keep an eye on store websites and flyers for early previews of upcoming stock.

Step 3: Think Like a Curator

Focus on how your pieces work together. You’re not just collecting—you’re creating a micro-exhibit. For example, if you’re building a pastel anime shelf from Daiso:

• Pair character pens with matching notebooks
  
• Add acrylic trays, stickers, and tiny figurines
  
• Include packaging or tags as part of the display
  

If you’re going with a horror theme from Dollar Tree, look for candle holders, faux skulls, red LED lighting, and horror movie signs to create a unified aesthetic.

Step 4: Document Your Progress

Start a photo journal or dedicated Instagram page for your single-store collection. Use it to track your progress, showcase your best finds, and inspire others with similar goals. This also helps you stay consistent with your theme.

Step 5: Save More with Cashback Apps

Stretch your budget even further with cashback platforms like Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta. You can earn cashback at Dollar General or get rewards at Five Below by purchasing digital gift cards through Fluz before you shop.

The savings may seem small at first, but they add up—especially if you’re a regular shopper building out your collection over time.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need endless shelf space or a huge budget to build a collection that tells a story. By focusing on one theme and one store, you can develop a curated, meaningful collection that’s both affordable and personal—and maybe even inspire others to do the same.