Gustamps advice to philatelists

Removing stamps from paper properly...Gustamps tells you how to do it.

Gustamps explain that if you wish to remove stamps from paper in a safe and clean way, you should soak them. Firstly, say Gustamps, is make sure that the stamps do not have fugitive colours. Gustamps explain that this is when stamps have colours which fade 'or run' when in contact with water. Gustamps also point out you should not include stamps from brightly coloured envelopes such as those used for Christmas or birthday cards. Finally Gustamps add, take care not to include paper which has fountain pen ink on it as this tends to dissolve in water and discolour the stamp. Gustamps go on to say, after the 'safety checks' just put the stamps (on paper) into a plastic bowl and submerge them under luke warm water for 15 minutes. Gustamps say the stamps should easily separate from the paper backing finally say Gustamps remove the stamps from the water and place onto some clean white blotting paper (ordinary white paper should do) face downwards. Gustamps recommend leaving the stamps for a few hours until completely dry when they can be placed into your stamp album.

How should I remove stamps from paper?

Removing stamps from paper is a question often put to Gustamps from new stamp collectors. First Gustamps point out a couple of don'ts. Gustamps say don't try to tear the stamp from the envelope or paper as there is a risk of damaging the stamp. Gustamps don't number two, say Gustamps, is to use a kettle to steam the stamps from the paper backing. Gustamps say that in addition to damaging the stamp there is also a danger of scalding from the steam. Look out for Gustamps blog tomorrow and Gustamps will explain how to do it properly.

F.A.Q. to Gustamps

Should I remove stamps from envelopes?

A Gustamps tip to novice stamp collectors is if you have an envelope with an old stamp on it, check out if it is worth more on the envelope or cover. Gustamps point out that depending on the stamp or postmark the value might be much more if left on the original cover. Gustamps would be pleased to look at any stamps or covers you may have and give you their expert opinion and valuation free of charge. So, if you want to be sure of doing the right thing, check it out with Gustamps first.

Gustamps frequently get asked by new stamp collectors about philatelic tools and accessories

Gustamps frequently get asked by new stamp collectors about philatelic tools and accessories. Here are some useful tips about philatelic accessories for stamp collectors.

To those new to stamp collecting, philatelic accessories can be confusing. Gustamps advice to new stamp collectors is once you have your basic accessories, i.e. a stamp album, stamp catalogue, and stamp tweezers there are two philatelic aids you might consider getting. First on Gustamps list would be a stamp perforation gauge, this could cost you nothing at all as Gustamps provide Gustamps perforation gauges free to stamp collectors on request. Second on Gustamps 'to get' list would be a watermark tray and watermark fluid. Gustamps say these are always useful if you wish to identify your stamps watermarks which could greatly affect the value of your stamps. For more advice on these important philatelic tools, get in touch with Gustamps. Gustamps advice regarding all aspects of stamp collecting is always free to everyone.

Small difference can affect stamp values

Gustamps are sometimes asked to explain the difference between stamps which seem the same. Quite often stamp collectors bring stamps to Gustamps and ask why when they buy a packet of all different stamps, duplicate stamps are contained in the packet. Gustamps explain that sometimes differences in stamps are not that obviously apparent. Gustamps point out that a common difference are watermarks which are not always easy to see. Gustamps add that perforation sizes can also make a stamp different. Gustamps also tell collectors to check out graphite or phosphor markings. Finally Gustamps point out that stamps often have small printers imprints on the base of the stamp. Gustamps say collectors should be aware of all of the different variations on stamps, as it can affect stamp values.