How to Remove Stamps from Envelopes

When collecting used stamps you should remove the stamp from the envelope before mounting in albums. In this article I go through the easy steps to removing stamps for your collection.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• small tray
• warm water
• stamp tongs
• used stamps on paper
• cloth towel

1. Find a tray with sides that is large enough for a handful of stamps you want to soak off paper.

2. Put warm water in the tray. You need enough water to cover the bottom but not too much so the water overflows when the stamps are added. Too much water is only a problem when it creates a mess.

3. Place a couple of stamps face down in the water.

4. Layout the towel.

5. After the stamps soak for 1-2 minutes move them gently with the tongs. Before long the stamp will separate from the paper. Do not force the stamp off the paper or it will tear.

6. As stamps separate from the paper gently pick them up with the tongs and place them face down (glue side up) on the towel.

7. Leave the stamps to dry completely before removing from the towel and mounting them in your album.

Tips & Warnings

• Test the water periodically to make sure it is still warm.
• Hot water will damage the stamps and will not make the soaking process go faster.