By Shelia Odak, eHow Contributor

Early American pattern or pressed glass was manufactured from about 1850-1910 but reached its peak in the 1880s. This durable glassware was made for everyday use in the home; it is collected today because of its attractive design and value. With over 3,000 known patterns that range from plain to highly elaborate, it can often be hard to identify this type of glass. It is important to educate yourself using guidebooks and other resources in order to become confident in choosing vintage pattern glass.

1.         Familiarize yourself with the characteristics of American pattern glass. A quick Internet search will help you begin to acquaint yourself with the many patterns, shapes and makers of pattern glass. A Web site such as Collectors' Weekly offers general information on the history of American pattern glass and its most important and collectible makers, which include companies such as Heisey, Fostoria, and The U.S. Glass Company. The site for the Early American Pattern Glass Society goes in depth on all aspects of recognizing and collecting pattern glass pieces.

2.         Look for identification guidebooks. Check at your local bookstores and library to find collectors' guides that focus on American pattern glass. Studying these books can help you hone your skills in identifying these collectibles. Some examples of good guidebooks are "Early American Pattern Glass Cake Stands & Serving Pieces" by Bettye S. James and Jane M. O'Brien; "American Pattern Glass Table Sets" by Gene Florence, Cathy Florence, Don Jones, and Danny Cornelius; and "Early American Pattern Glass: Collector's Identification & Price Guide" by Darryl Reilly and Bill Jenks.

3.         Learn from other collectors. People who are passionate about American pattern glass are eager to share their expertise and teach others about the collectible glassware. Joining a collectors' club, such as the Early American Pattern Glass Society, allows you access to information that has been collected by other members. You can learn about the different patterns, use the pattern ID service, and find dealers in pattern glass. The association also sponsors an annual convention and offers members information on auctions that feature pattern glass.

4.         Study what is in the marketplace. If you have access to antiques and collectibles stores that carry pattern glass, look at their inventory in order to familiarize yourself with different makers, pieces, and patterns. Internet stores are another place to see many varieties of glassware. The Web site PatternGlass.com is a virtual consignment store that specializes in American pattern glass. The site also offers extensive help in identifying different pieces and a "pattern glass school" for learning everything you wanted to know about these collectibles.