How to Buy Stamps: A Comprehensive Guide

Your Guide to buying the best stamps

Overview

Stamps are a fun and relatively easy way to add an extra touch of personality to your paper projects. Whether you are creating a scrapbook, mailing a letter, or making a homemade greeting card, stamps can provide an artistic addition. This buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to choose the perfect stamps for your project. From identifying the type of stamp you need, to understanding the different kinds of stamps available, you will be able to find the best stamp for your project.

Key features

  1. Type of Stamp - Consider the type of stamp needed for your project. Some stamps are for decorative purposes while others are for mailing or for creating wax seals.
  2. Size of Stamp - Determine the size of stamp needed for the project. Some stamps may be too large or too small for the project.
  3. Cost of Stamp - Consider the cost of the stamp and decide if it is within the budget for the project.
  4. Ease of Use - Check to see how easy the stamp is to use and if it fits the needs of the project.
  5. Design - Choose a stamp design that fits the look and feel of the project.
  6. Durability - Consider the durability of the stamp and make sure it is the right material for the project.

See the most popular stamps on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Cost-Effective: Stamps are a cost-effective way to send letters and packages, compared to other shipping methods.
  • Flexible: You can buy in bulk or even buy single stamps for smaller mailings.
  • Wide Variety: There are many different stamps available to fit any occasion.
  • Easy to Use: Stamps are incredibly easy to purchase and use, which makes them a popular choice for both casual and business mailers.
  • Secure: Stamps provide a secure way to send mail without worrying about theft or loss.

Cons

  • Cost - Stamps can be expensive, especially if you purchase in small quantities or buy specialty, commemorative, or international stamps.
  • Coverage - Stamps are only valid on domestic items and may not cover the cost of larger items or items sent overseas.
  • Storage - Stamps must be stored safely and properly to remain valid and usable. This means that they must be kept in a cool, dry place and away from sources of heat.
  • Security - Stamps are valuable and can be stolen if left out in the open or not properly locked away. It is important to take precautions to protect your stamps from theft.
  • Inconvenience - If you need to send something internationally, you may have to purchase international stamps to cover the cost of the item. This can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
  • Expiration - Stamps have an expiration date and can be rendered invalid if used after the expiration date.

Best alternatives

  1. Stickers - Self-adhesive labels that can be printed onto in a variety of sizes and shapes
  2. Address Labels - Pre-printed labels with return addresses already printed, making it easy to quickly send out mail
  3. Embossers - Specialized stamps that create a raised impression in paper
  4. Seals - Wax-like items with a design that can be melted onto paper
  5. Postage Meters - Specialized machines that allow you to print out your own postage for mail

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Stamp Pad - A stamp pad is used to apply an ink to the surface of a stamp.
  • Stamp Album - A stamp album is used to store and display stamps.
  • Stamp Hinges - Stamp hinges are adhesive strips used to mount stamps into a stamp album.
  • Stamp Mounts - Stamp mounts are plastic sleeves used to protect stamps from damage.
  • Perforation Gauge - A perforation gauge is used to measure the size of the perforations on a stamp.
  • Magnifying Glass - A magnifying glass is used to view the details of a stamp.

Common questions

  1. What types of stamps are available? Stamps come in a variety of sizes, denominations, and designs, including definitive stamps, commemorative stamps, and special occasion stamps.
  2. Which type of stamp is best for me? It depends on the purpose of the stamp. Definitive stamps are typically used for everyday postage, while commemorative stamps feature a special design to commemorate an event or person. Special occasion stamps are used to express a sentiment or celebrate a holiday.
  3. Where can I buy stamps? Stamps can be purchased at post offices, convenience stores, supermarkets, online, or from a stamp dealer.
  4. How much do stamps cost? The cost of individual stamps depends on the denomination and type of stamp. Definitive stamps generally range from $0.49 to $0.55, while commemorative and special occasion stamps may cost more.
  5. How should I store my stamps? Stamps should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is also important to keep the stamps away from moisture, as this can cause the ink to smudge.
  6. Are there any other tips for collecting stamps? Yes! Collecting stamps can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Start by researching different types of stamps and learning about stamp collecting terminology. It is also important to keep track of the stamps you have, so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

Trivia

In 1949, the United States Postal Service issued a stamp commemorating the invention of the TV. The stamp, however, featured a picture of a radio instead. This mistake was corrected in the second printing, but the original mistake made its way into history and remains a funny yet highly collectable item to this day. The error was so popular, it even inspired a book written about it in 2010. Source: https://www.collectorsweekly.com/articles/the-story-behind-the-radio-stamp-a-funny-postal-error/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.