Initially, an individual should start collecting a broad range of stamps, in order to give themselves an opportunity to see what types of designs are available. It is important for collectors to develop their own taste and build a collection based on personal preference. Otherwise, they may not enjoy the collection to its fullest.

The Internet is a great place to find stamp collections for beginners. By purchasing a stamp price book, those new to the practice can start exploring basic values. It can also be helpful to connect with other collectors, whether through community groups or online. A little bit of guidance goes a long way.

On-paper stamps, which have been cut from an envelope or another form of paper, are glue-based. Many experts suggest leaving the stamp on the paper unless it will be sold or used for some other purpose, since the extra strength of the paper will help to protect it from bending or tearing.

If the stamp needs to be removed from the paper, extreme caution is required. After the edges have been trimmed of excess paper, the stamp needs to soak in clean water for about fifteen minutes. While stamp ink does not often run, dye may be released from the paper itself, so it is important to watch for changes in the water color. Self-adhesive stamps can be easier to remove but require more soaking.

Stamps should be stored in a clean, dry place, such as a shoebox. Once the value of the collection starts to increase, specially-designed tongs should be used when handling. Stamps should be transferred to a collectors’ album and inserted individually, not back-to-back. Humid locations, such as basements, should be avoided in order to prevent damage.

Stamp collecting began in the 1840’s when the first stamps were issued. “Stamp madness,” or “timbromania” swept through Europe and spread worldwide. Stamp collecting is not as popular as it once was, but there are still an estimated 25 million people in the US alone and over 200 million around the world who still collect. It is not hard to get started in the infamous art of stamp collecting, nor is it overly expensive. There are a few must have items needed to begin: tweezer-like tongs to handle stamps, a magnifying glass, a stamp album, and of course, the stamps.

The first thing to decide is what type of stamps you wish to collect. Many people collect new stamps and just as many collect used ones; it is all a matter of personal preference. If collecting new stamps, there are thousands of Internet sites selling stamps, there are dealers all over the world that sell them, and there are even stamp auctions. If collecting used stamps, most people will save stamps off of their mail and also save the stamps off of all their friends and families mail. One of the cheapest ways to start a large collection is buying a roll of used stamps from a collector. You can get 1000 mixed stamps for as low as $12.00.

Many people only collect stamps from their respective countries, then there are some that collect worldwide stamps. If you like a specific theme of stamp you can collect just that one type, such as birds, ships, planes, animals, or even celebrities. The types of stamps are as different as the people that collect them. It is often a good idea to start with a general collection until you decide exactly what type of stamp interests you.

After there are a good number of stamps in your collection they need to be sorted. Most people will sort their stamps by countries and or themes. Then go another step further and arrange them alphabetically. This will make stamps much easier to find.

When stamps have been accumulated, it is essential that you know the proper ways to care for stamps so as not to ruin them. In order to remove the stamp from the envelope, first cut around the stamp carefully. Place the stamp face-up in a bowl of luke-warm water and let it soak for about 20 minutes. When the stamp comes off carefully put the stamp on a dry towel then use the special stamp tweezers to put it into an album.

If looking for more information on stamps and stamp collecting, the local post office is a good place to start. They usually have separate philatelic counters. Some larger post offices also sell a Stamp Collecting Start-up Kit. As a source for more information there are also stamp clubs, magazines and stamp catalogues, or experienced stamp dealers.