I used to save all of my bottles (still have 5 or 6 cases in storage). That got a little out of hand, so then I just started saving bottles with really cool looking labels or from a beer that that I really liked. That got a bit out of hand, too. Now I've just got 80-100 bottles above the bar, some cool looking, some favorites, but most because of a memory--where I had it, who I was with etc. Every once in a while a new one goes up and an old one comes down.
You're definitely not alone as a bottle collector. I started 10-12 years ago but I've slowed down due to a lack of wall space, and now a lack of case storage space. There are about 1,400-1,55 on display in my basement. (I have about 10 cases of bottles stored until I figure out if I will ever display them.) A collage photo is displayed in this thread from last year along with other replies on this topic: http://beeradvocate.com/community/threads/1-047-different-beer-labels-whats-your-count.30383/
Basically, build a frame big enough to hold 9 bottlecaps out of your favorite material, Im going to use various exotic woods with a backing made of also wood, *FINISH WOOD AT THIS POINT* glue bottle caps down in frame, mix and pour in liquid plastic until it covers the caps, but doesn't overflow onto the surface of the frame. Allow to harden, sand and polish if necessary (usually not necessary). Tell Balki I said hi!
I started to, but I am not sure if I will keep going. Probably got about 75 right now. If I decide to toss them they recycle guy is going to be pissed... ha!
My girlfriend likes to save our favorite bottles, or anything that looks cool, to use as candles. I plan on buying a glass cutter to remove the tops, then filling them to make actual large candles.
