ricky93
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What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 14, 2021 20:30:36 GMT
Hello all, I am collecting for a year now the stamps of Great Britain, mostly the all the commemoratives since 1950 till now and all the different Machins (also from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) . After collecting this area for a little while I have some questions regarding collecting this specific area. The first, I want some album pages, self printed on 200 gr/m2 sheets. I was underway with the AlbumEasy software, tackling that one. Now I came across this website, and that work of making my own, is already done. Tick that box. Well I have to buy some paper for printing those pages on, of course. My first question is about the phosphor, as I am a beginning GB collector, I only have a few GB catalogs, and further nothing more regarding GB. So what is the cheapest (price/quality) option to see of a stamp does have 1 or more phosphorus band on them?? And my second one is about the watermarks. I know that you can see the watermarks by holding the stamp in very bright light, but I don't find that a satisfied solution. What are other options to easily spot the watermarks? I know there are some watermark detectors on the market, bur for it's price, I find it difficult to just purchase one blindly... So can you guys and girls give me some advice on that?? Furthermore I need mounts, I would like the clear ones that are clear through and through. I buy them from the Netherlands, at Collectwereld, are they 'normal' priced? They are 200 grams for 20 euros (about 17 quid for about 7 ounces assorted). Also for the other equipment I am located in the Netherlands, so I mind buying them from across the Atlantic... Well I hope you all can help me out on this one. I need to say that I am housebound, and only can buy online, because of my Asperger, my PTSD and my complex anxiety disorder, I definitely cannot go outside to clubs and so. Thanks in advance for all the help, and I hope this thread is posted in the right forum/subforum/category. Kind Regards, Ricky |
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clivel
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Posts: 386 
What I collect: Basutoland, Bechuanaland, Rhodesias, South Africa, Swaziland, Israel to 1980, Ireland predecimal, Palestine Mandate
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Post by clivel on Jun 15, 2021 2:29:10 GMT
And my second one is about the watermarks. I know that you can see the watermarks by holding the stamp in very bright light, but I don't find that a satisfied solution. What are other options to easily spot the watermarks? I know there are some watermark detectors on the market, bur for it's price, I find it difficult to just purchase one blindly... So can you guys and girls give me some advice on that?? Often one can see the watermark if the stamp is held over a black surface, face down, with the light above the stamp. For stamps that cannot be seen without an aid, probably the most popular and cheapest way is by placing the stamp in a little black tray, again face down, and then dripping a few drops of watermark fluid on the back to reveal the watermark. The black trays and watermark fluid should be available from most places that sell stamp supplies. Instead of a proprietary watermark fluid many collectors use Ronson lighter fluid. The majority of stamps are not damaged by this process, not even mint never hinged. Clive |
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stanley64
Member
Posts: 1,985
What I collect: Canada, USA, Netherlands, Portugal & Colonies, Antarctic Territories and anything that catches my eye...
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Post by stanley64 on Jun 15, 2021 8:16:58 GMT
My first question is about the phosphor, as I am a beginning GB collector, I only have a few GB catalogs, and further nothing more regarding GB. So what is the cheapest (price/quality) option to see of a stamp does have 1 or more phosphorus band on them?? For examining phosphor bands or to check paper types and fluorescence tagging, a collector will need a UV lamp. Lamps come in two varieties, short wave and long wave and are relatively inexpensive; without prejudice or bias, here is an example found with an Internet search and the phrase - " uv lamp stamp collecting"
Keep in mind there are two varieties and short-wave lamps are best suited for checking phosphor bands on UK, USA or older Canada & Mexico issues, whilst long-wave lamps are better suited for France, Germany, Norway, Canada, Mexico, PRC, Hong Kong, Australia or even Russian stamps and examining paper or fluorescence tagging varieties on their stamps.
At the same time, a long-wave uv lamp may be useful for detecting restoration work on older stamps, particularly when checking for cancellation removal, identify repairs or for determining other modifications. In which case, the monies spent, may well be worth it ;-)
Happy collecting!
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angore
Member
Posts: 5,699
What I collect: WW, focus on British Empire
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Post by angore on Jun 15, 2021 10:16:19 GMT
For Great Britain Machins you can often see the bands by holding them at off angle under a light. You need a lamp to see phosphor paper since it is all over. Early Machins (sterling issues) often need a shortwave lamp and later get by with a longwave. I may also use a magnifying glass since sometimes the luminescent response is weak so looking for a transition.
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ricky93
**Member**
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Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 15, 2021 13:03:38 GMT
Thanks all three for the fast replies. I am in need of a UV lamp, that's clear. Is there any UV lamp with both wavelength? Because then I have to buy only one of them, instead on two, for every wavelength one... The other question, about the watermarks is now clear to me, I have a little black tray found in between the stamp stuff of a deceased uncle, and now I know where that is used for! Thanks! If you people know more tips, tricks or things I need to know, I would love to hear. Because of my disorders it has great value to me to have such "internet friends", these stamp communities as so valuable!   |
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Admin
Administrator 
Posts: 2,676
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Post by Admin on Jun 15, 2021 13:52:03 GMT
...If you people know more tips, tricks or things I need to know, I would love to hear... There is a good deal of useful information to be found in the Stamps 101 board. You may find that many of your questions will be answered there, along with many tips and things you need to know. |
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ricky93
**Member**
Inactive
Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 15, 2021 16:39:24 GMT
...If you people know more tips, tricks or things I need to know, I would love to hear... There is a good deal of useful information to be found in the Stamps 101 board. You may find that many of your questions will be answered there, along with many tips and things you need to know. Thanks, but I actually meant tips and tricks related to collecting UK stamps. No hard feelings,  ! |
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darkormex
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Swinging through Switzerland and getting tied up in Thailand
Posts: 2,197
What I collect: The World...just printing and mounting as I go...call me crazy!
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Post by darkormex on Jun 15, 2021 23:45:46 GMT
ricky93, the tips and tricks in the Stamps 101 board are pretty universal and will apply to not only other countries' stamps but UK stamps as well. I have a uv light and it is both shortwave and longwave capable. I suspect most uv lights sold for stamp collecting purposes are capable of doing both jobs.
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stanley64
Member
Posts: 1,985
What I collect: Canada, USA, Netherlands, Portugal & Colonies, Antarctic Territories and anything that catches my eye...
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Post by stanley64 on Jun 16, 2021 6:58:03 GMT
Indeed, UV lamps are available with the capability of multiple wavelengths, i.e. short, medium and long as Darrin ( darkormex ) points out, but they can be pricey. If cost is a factor Rick ( ricky93 ), individual lamps or even purchasing just the bulbs themselves is another option...
Happy collecting!
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Post by dgdecker on Jun 16, 2021 20:03:23 GMT
Four mounts have you looked at nordfrim.com in Denmark. Prices seem to be the same as any other place. I just had a few arrive here in Canada. As I had catalogues ordered I added mounts. For me the price was the same as I would pay for any retailer here in Canada. Been dealing with them for many years and have never had a service issue.
David.
PS Hope to see your Machins one day. One of my side collections.
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ricky93
**Member**
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Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 20, 2021 17:54:49 GMT
Thanks guys for helping me out. I am going to look on eBay for a nice dual UV lamp, or 2 single ones if the dual is too expensive. Do you have advice regarding types and brands of lamps/bulbs?? Still need to buy some paper too but that's coming. What is the best way to show my Machins, because I would love to show my collection And the mount are indeed coming from the Dutch branch of Nordfrim, 20 euros was what I though reasonable. Greetings, Rik PS. Comment on the Stamps101 forum, Yes I am looking there and it is a treasure chest full of information regarding collecting stamps! Thanks for tipping me! |
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stanley64
Member
Posts: 1,985
What I collect: Canada, USA, Netherlands, Portugal & Colonies, Antarctic Territories and anything that catches my eye...
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Post by stanley64 on Jun 21, 2021 9:48:34 GMT
Whilst my original response contains a link for pricing reference, alas there are no manufacturer details. My own UV lamp, although only long-wave, came from these folks here. In either case or if there is doubts, send an email or give them a call.
As for Machin pages, you have come to the right spot! A ' Search' of the TSF website, with the words or terms, "machin", "album" and "DIY" turned up a number of interesting items. I am sure you can find others of interest, but here are a few to get you started; have a look:
For pure inspiration and to see what others have done in creating their own albums pages, this is the thread to cast your eyes upon,
Enjoy and happy collecting!
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ricky93
**Member**
Inactive
Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 23, 2021 23:44:41 GMT
Thank you stanley64 for all the beautiful links and detailed info. Are there also some tips and tricks of how to make digital photos/digital scans to show my collection to you and other people here on TSF? About my other points, I am still searching for some UV lamps and so on. Want to share my collection ASAP, but first I to proper identify my collected stamps. Kind Regards from Europe, Ricky |
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stanley64
Member
Posts: 1,985
What I collect: Canada, USA, Netherlands, Portugal & Colonies, Antarctic Territories and anything that catches my eye...
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Post by stanley64 on Jun 24, 2021 8:23:15 GMT
Ricky ( ricky93 ), you are more than welcome... Happy collecting! |
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ricky93
**Member**
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Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 25, 2021 11:03:53 GMT
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brightonpete
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Post by brightonpete on Jun 25, 2021 12:07:51 GMT
I use this Fiskar's Guillotine Cutter. Having the extra bit on the left of the cutter helps a lot! You should be able to find one easily enough! They aren't too terribly expensive.
I think they are the best! A heck of a lot better than that cheaply made Hawid cutter!
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angore
Member
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What I collect: WW, focus on British Empire
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Post by angore on Jun 25, 2021 12:18:00 GMT
I have a Showgard cutter but $30 (current Showgard price) is high. It has a couple features to aid cutting but for a budget conscious will find a general cutter will work fine. Some still claim scissors ae good for them.
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ricky93
**Member**
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Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 25, 2021 16:06:24 GMT
brightonpete, So a generic blade paper cutter as shown in your link, is as good as a 30 usd one from Hawid? Thanks in advance, Ricky
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brightonpete
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On a hike at Goodrich-Loomis
Posts: 5,110
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Post by brightonpete on Jun 25, 2021 18:30:06 GMT
I haven't used the Hawid version of that cutter. Maybe it is better than the Lighthouse one that fell apart in my hands after less than a year. I like the Fiskars, as it allows me to cut mounts for much larger items. I have ataxia, so scissors are out as I am not very steady, I'd probably cut off my fingers instead!
I've had the Fiskars a few years now and love it.
But then not having something, well... take what you can get and afford! One is better than none in my opinion.
Peter
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renden
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What I collect: Canada-USA-France-Lithuania-Austria--Germany-Mauritius-French Colonies in Africa
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Post by renden on Jun 25, 2021 19:14:50 GMT
Pete brightonpete - I have 2 cutters, one by Hawid and one by Unisafe - I think they are the safe and OK - up to now, no problems (except my usage of......) I had a bigger one by Hawid but I lost track of it - All cutters are rom my late dad so I think they are pretty "tuff". Will order one when I need it René |
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stainlessb
Member
qaStaHvIS yIn 'ej chep
Posts: 4,906
What I collect: currently focused on most of western Europe, much of which is spent on France, Belgium, Germany and Great Britain Queen Victoria
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Post by stainlessb on Jun 25, 2021 19:29:09 GMT
I have an old "Photo Materials & Company" paper cutter- which looks pretty much like any paper other table-top type paper cutter you'd see in an office, or art class, etc. Works great, but I have found large mounts have atendency to pull slightly as the blade comes down leaving a non-square cut- To solve this I have a piece of 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper that I put under the mounts and it keeps them form moving
and it's handy when I need to cut down larger materials (or card stock to fit in envelopes when I'm send out stamps)
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ricky93
**Member**
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Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jun 25, 2021 20:29:54 GMT
Thanks all for the in depth explanation of paper guillotines/cutters, I'm going to get a generic on Amazon or equivalent in Holland.
Greetings!
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radiocruncher
Member
Posts: 317
What I collect: GB especially Wildings and Machins. Early Germany to 1945
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Post by radiocruncher on Jun 30, 2021 16:54:13 GMT
Hello all, I am collecting for a year now the stamps of Great Britain, mostly the all the commemoratives since 1950 till now and all the different Machins (also from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) . After collecting this area for a little while I have some questions regarding collecting this specific area. The first, I want some album pages, self printed on 200 gr/m2 sheets. I was underway with the AlbumEasy software, tackling that one. Now I came across this website, and that work of making my own, is already done. Tick that box. Well I have to buy some paper for printing those pages on, of course. Hi Ricky Thanks very much for the links to the GB album pages. I've printed a load out this morning onto 150 gsm paper. They look great. One point though is that they seem to be laid out for the stamps rather than mounts and it's a tight squeeze to fit mounts in the spaces without overlapping the text. One solution might be to use clear mounts so I will experiment with that. Regards Graham |
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angore
Member
Posts: 5,699
What I collect: WW, focus on British Empire
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Post by angore on Jul 1, 2021 10:39:14 GMT
The Showgard cutter has a cantilevered feature (press before cutting) that holds the mount in place so it does not move during the cut.
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ricky93
**Member**
Inactive
Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jul 15, 2021 11:57:42 GMT
Thanks for your information angore . And thanks for your message radiocruncher . I think I will print my GB album pages on 200 gsm paper, or do you think that is too thick? And I need to buy everything, but thanks for the tip of the mounts and spaces. I am going to use transparant mounts so the outlines are seen through the mounts. And if the outlining would fall away, well it is free and I don't think it would be such a disaster... |
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radiocruncher
Member
Posts: 317
What I collect: GB especially Wildings and Machins. Early Germany to 1945
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Post by radiocruncher on Jul 15, 2021 12:03:06 GMT
Thanks for your information angore . And thanks for your message radiocruncher . I think I will print my GB album pages on 200 gsm paper, or do you think that is too thick? And I need to buy everything, but thanks for the tip of the mounts and spaces. I am going to use transparant mounts so the outlines are seen through the mounts. And if the outlining would fall away, well it is free and I don't think it would be such a disaster... 200 gsm is card really. It might be worth checking if it will go through your printer as well. I printed my pages with a colour laser printer and the 160 gsm just went through. I don’t think it would take much thicker paper. |
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ricky93
**Member**
Inactive
Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jul 15, 2021 17:24:10 GMT
Thanks for your information angore . And thanks for your message radiocruncher . I think I will print my GB album pages on 200 gsm paper, or do you think that is too thick? And I need to buy everything, but thanks for the tip of the mounts and spaces. I am going to use transparant mounts so the outlines are seen through the mounts. And if the outlining would fall away, well it is free and I don't think it would be such a disaster... 200 gsm is card really. It might be worth checking if it will go through your printer as well. I printed my pages with a colour laser printer and the 160 gsm just went through. I don’t think it would take much thicker paper. Well my printer can go up to 220-250 gsm, read in the manual. But I will check for 160gsm paper, because I don't want to have too thick paper to print on. Don't want to browse through the album and have paper that is too rigid.... |
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renden
Member
Posts: 9,162
What I collect: Canada-USA-France-Lithuania-Austria--Germany-Mauritius-French Colonies in Africa
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Post by renden on Jul 15, 2021 18:26:15 GMT
I use 170g/m2 or 8 mil brochure and flyer paper which is thick enough, goes into my Canon printer well and is cost effective
René
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ricky93
**Member**
Inactive
Posts: 17
What I collect: DDR (GDR), UK and Transportation/Space topical
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Post by ricky93 on Jul 20, 2021 10:24:26 GMT
I use 170g/m2 or 8 mil brochure and flyer paper which is thick enough, goes into my Canon printer well and is cost effective René Thanks for your contribution, renden. Will have a look at the 160g/m2, cause I couldn't find 170 so quick at my paperstore. I hope that 160 is not too thin, but also not too rigid... Greetings, Rick |
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angore
Member
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What I collect: WW, focus on British Empire
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Post by angore on Jul 20, 2021 10:46:00 GMT
I use 104 gsm so thinner is ok with me.
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