To mount stamps in a frame, you can secure the stamps to a mat board with mounting tape or hinges, then place the assembly into a frame. This method offers an elegant and protected display. Choosing the right frame and background can make your stamps pop and attract attention.
Mounting stamps for display allows you to showcase your collection while keeping the items safe from environmental damage and physical handling. A popular and effective technique involves using archival materials to affix the stamps temporarily to a mat board before framing.
Steps to Mount Stamps for Framing
Follow these steps to mount your stamps securely and attractively:
- Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure you have a clean, flat surface. Gather your materials: the stamps, a mat board (acid-free is recommended for preservation), mounting tape or hinges (specifically designed for stamps or archival materials), a ruler, a pencil, and the frame.
- Arrange the Stamps: Decide on the layout of your stamps on the mat board. Use a pencil to lightly mark the desired positions. Consider symmetry, spacing, and how the stamps relate to each other.
- Apply Mounting Material:
- Using Stamp Hinges: A stamp hinge is a small, folded piece of gummed paper. Moisten one half of the hinge and apply it to the back of the stamp, near the top edge. Then, moisten the other half of the hinge and stick it to the mat board at the desired position. Hinges are generally considered temporary and allow the stamp to be removed later, although they may leave a mark on the stamp's gum.
- Using Archival Mounting Tape/Corners: Acid-free, lignin-free mounting tape (like photo mounting tape) or archival photo corners can also be used. Small pieces of tape or corners are applied to the back of the stamp or around its edges to adhere it to the mat board. Ensure the adhesive is suitable for philatelic materials if permanence is a concern.
- Note: The reference specifically mentions using mounting tape or hinges to secure the stamps to the mat board. This is a widely accepted method for display.
- Secure Stamps to Mat Board: Carefully place each stamp onto its marked position on the mat board and press gently to secure the mounting material. Ensure the stamps are straight and evenly spaced according to your layout.
- Prepare for Framing: Once all stamps are mounted on the mat board, erase any visible pencil marks. The mat board with the mounted stamps is now ready to be placed into the frame.
- Place Assembly into Frame: Insert the mat board with the secured stamps into your chosen frame. Add any necessary backing board and secure the frame closures.
Choosing Materials
Selecting the right materials is crucial for both the aesthetic appeal and the long-term preservation of your stamps.
- Mat Board: Opt for acid-free and lignin-free mat board to prevent damage and discoloration of the stamps over time.
- Mounting Material: Use stamp hinges or archival-quality mounting tape/corners designed for collectibles or photographs. Avoid regular household tapes, which can damage stamps.
- Frame: Choose a frame that complements the stamps and your decor. Consider frames with UV-protective glass to prevent fading caused by light exposure. The reference notes that choosing the right frame and background can make your stamps pop and attract attention.
Benefits of This Mounting Method
As highlighted in the reference, securing stamps to a mat board with mounting tape or hinges and framing them offers:
- Elegant Display: Creates a professional and visually appealing presentation.
- Protection: Shields stamps from dust, dirt, humidity, and physical damage once enclosed in a frame.
- Preservation: Using archival materials helps protect the stamps from degradation.
This method provides a straightforward yet effective way to enjoy your stamp collection visually while ensuring its safety.
