I’m interested in collecting used self-adhesive stamps. What do I need to know?
If you’re interested in collecting used self-adhesive stamps, there’s a few things to know before getting started.
Many collectors have found soaking self-adhesive stamps off letters and packages a thankless task, yielding poor results or even worse, damage to their stamps. Other collectors have tried chemical solvents, air fresheners, and hot soapy water to remove their used self-adhesive stamps from paper with varying degrees of success; some of it good, others not so good.
- How close to the stamp should you cut when cutting it off an envelope?
- There is not a standard measurement for how closely to cut. With a pair of sharp scissors, cut as closely as you comfortably can to the perforations without cutting into them.
- Can self-adhesive stamps be soaked off an envelope?
- Self-adhesive stamps do not soak easily or with good results, often leading to stamp damage. Mystic recommends simply trimming the envelop or backing paper very carefully around the stamp.
- How do I know what size mount to get for my self-adhesive stamp?
- Mounts for water-activated stamps are sized to allow 5 mm on each side. Mounts for self-adhesive stamps are sized to allow 6-7 mm, due to the thickness of the backing paper and how closely to the perforations the stamp has been trimmed.
Mystic created a booklet with important and interesting information about self-adhesive stamps. Click here to read it.