How to Remove Stamps from Envelopes

Removing Stamps from Envelopes

Important Tips:

• Always handle stamps with stamp tongs to prevent damage from oils on your fingers
• Work slowly and gently to avoid tearing the stamp
• For rare or valuable stamps, consider consulting a professional philatelist
• Let stamps dry completely before storing in an album
• Some modern self-adhesive stamps can be more challenging to remove and might require special techniques

When removing stamps from envelopes, cut the stamps from the postcards or letters first. There are a few different methods you can use to remove stamps from envelopes, depending on the type of stamp and the condition of the envelope. Here are a few options:

The Soaking Method for Removing Stamps from Envelopes

• Fill a shallow dish or container with lukewarm water
• Place the envelope with the stamp face-up in the water
• Let it soak for 10-15 minutes until the stamp begins to separate from the envelope
• Carefully remove the stamp using stamp tongs or tweezers
• Place the wet stamp on a clean, flat surface like blotting paper to dry. If you are worried about yours stamps curling, pop another bit of blotting paper or kitchen towel on the top and press with a book or other heavy option.

It’s important to note that some of these methods, especially those that involve water or solvents, may damage the envelope or the stamp.

Removing Stamps from Envelopes with Steam

Steaming stamps off envelopes is a method that can be used to remove stamps without damaging the stamp or the envelope. However, it is important to handle the stamps carefully, as steaming can soften the adhesive and make them more fragile. Here are the steps to steam stamps off envelopes:

1. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Hold the envelope above the steam, being careful not to let it get too close to the water, and let the steam soften the adhesive on the stamp.
3. Gently rub the stamp with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush to loosen the adhesive.
4. Carefully peel the stamp off the envelope.
5. Dry the stamp and the envelope thoroughly before storing them.

It’s important to note that the steaming method is not recommended for stamps that are old, rare, or in poor condition, as the heat and humidity can cause further damage. Also, some stamps may not be able to be removed this way and may require different methods, such as using water or oil.

How to Remove Stamp Hinges

Stamp hinges are small, transparent pieces of paper or plastic that are used to mount stamps in a stamp album. To remove stamp hinges from stamps, you can use the following methods:

1. Soaking: Soak the stamp in water for a few minutes. Then, gently rub the hinge with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush to loosen the adhesive.
2. Tweezers: Use tweezers to gently grasp the hinge and pull it off the stamp.
3. Solvent: Apply a small amount of stamp hinge solvent or stamp mount remover (such as Zippo lighter fluid) to the hinge. Let it sit for a few minutes before gently rubbing it off.
4. Heat: Use a heat gun or hairdryer to gently heat the hinge. This will soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove the hinge.

jadeknox

33 year old casual stamp collector from the UK!