Stamp Mounting Tips Part II Of II

In continuation to the post on Friday.

When using your stamp tongs, be sure to use special care. Stamps are delicate and mint stamp can be very valuable. You need to avoid creasing, tearing or doing any other harm to your stamps.

When mounting used stamps, most people use stamp hinges. Hinges are small gummed pieces of glassine that are lightly moistened and adhered to both the album page and the back of the stamp. Don’t apply to much moisture to the mount as it can become soggy or soiled, which could make the stamp useless.

It would be wise to use hinge-less stamp mounts for mint stamps. These mounts have pockets of adhesive on the back. When using hinge-less mounts, the stamp is placed inside the mount and the back of the mount is moistened. The stamp is not moistened. This will keep the gum of your mint stamp in mint condition. Be careful to never seal the mount completely shut. Stamps need to breathe because they are made of paper. If you make them air-tight; they could become brittle or decompose.

Humidity and moisture are sure to damage your stamp collection. Avoid storing them in attics and basements. A cool and dry place is the best storage option for stamps. Collectors have found that once the stamp gum has become tacky in an album, it is nearly impossible to remove the stamp without destroying it.

The most important thing to remember about stamp collecting is to enjoy your collection. Stamps come from around the world and provide a wonderful learning experience for both young and old.