Beginning your Collection
Most people are introduced to stamp collecting by a friend of relative, who passes on their used stamps or simply by collecting all the stamps coming through their own letterbox. Another good way to start collecting would be to buy a large packet of mixed stamps. These are often available in good newsagents or stamp dealers. You can always arrange to swap stamps with your friends. Once you have them sorted into countries or themes, you will need somewhere to store them. Most people use a stamp album but we have found this to be messy starting off as you have to use small pieces of gummed paper called stamp hinges. If you want to rearrange your collection you have to take out the stamps and go through the whole process again.
We have found that you need -:
- To decide to collect by countries or by themes.
- Find someone to swop with.either amongst your friends or yours pals in school.
- A stock book( available in various colours/sizes from your Dealer).
- A stamp album is too messy for beginners
- A metal Tweezers (tongs) to handle your stamps
- Time. energy and enthusiasm to get your collection together.
- Put your stamps in on a regular basis.
- Keep your swops in a tin or a small metal box so they won't get damaged.
- Join a local stamp club.
Gilbert,Edward,Donal and Lee, members of the "Seasiders Stamp Club" discuss their collections.
Why not contact your national Post Office and find out more about your own countries stamps. If you live in Ireland or would like to collect Irish Stamps why not join the Voyager Stamp Club which caters for the young collectors.
