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How to Repair Stamps

Stamps are made of paper and, as a result, repairing the damaged or aged stamps can be difficult. The most common problem with stamp collections is aging. Aging of a stamp can cause toning or oxidizing, which results in discoloration of either the ink or the stamp. If the stamp is torn or bent, there is nothing that can repair the problem and care must be taken to prevent further damage instead.

Things You'll Need

Chlorine
Water
Peroxide
Cotton balls or swabs

Instructions

- 1
  Dilute chlorine in water. Use a very small amount of chlorine for the water. The chlorine is used to bleach out toning in a stamp, but if too much is used it damages the stamp. Add about one capfull of chlorine for two or three cups of water. When in doubt about the amount, test the dilution on a worthless stamp before using it on a prized stamp.
- 2
  Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and gently apply the chlorine and water to the stamp. Allow it to sit for no more than five minutes and then clean with plain water. Allow the stamp to air dry.
- 3
  Apply peroxide to a cotton ball or swab. Since the peroxide already diluted when you buy it, it is not necessary to dilute further. Gently dab or apply to an oxidized stamp. This is used to stop the discoloration of stamp inks caused by oxidation.
- 4
  Clean with water on a cotton swab and allow it to dry.

Stamp Collecting