That is the simple piece of advice from one experienced collector and stall holder at the Queen's Birthday weekend Ballarat Antique Collectables and Vintage Bazaar.

The bazaar is not the biggest event of its type. Occupying the floor area of the Ballarat Mining Exchange, it is relatively modest in size.

What it lacks in quantity though, it makes up for in the quality, according to Eleanor Sheldon of Glenelg Auction Centres.

"It is a more a boutique exhibition and is not overwhelming in size," Ms Sheldon said.

"It is more select than most because a lot of the people in the trade come here. Somewhere between two to three thousand people came last year.

"You could spend anything from $5 to $10,000. A lot of the items are very collectable."

Ms Sheldon introduced a couple of other stall holders (or "fellow exhibitors" as she calls them).

They included Malcolm Roberts, who is also the organiser of the Bazaar.

"We've tried to achieve is a broad range that will appeal to different people," Mr Roberts said. "But there is an emphasis on quality and collectability. We have been very selective with our stall holders. It is not a trash and treasure.

"If there is a theme, it is silver, glassware and porcelain, and high quality.

"We've also aimed for a warm and inviting atmosphere, including Devonshire tea. This is our second year. It is pleasing it has been so well received."

The Ballarat Antique Collectables and Vintage Bazaar is open 10am-5pm Saturday and Sunday, and 10am-3pm Monday, at the Ballarat Mining Exchange.