How to Start a Stamp Collection with The Stamp Nest

Quick answer

The Stamp Nest World Explorer Kit gives children everything they need to start a real stamp collection, including 30 unique stamps, an album, tweezers, and hinges. It's a ready-to-go hobby kit for ages 6 and up.

6 steps to start your stamp collection

1. 1. Set up your workspace: Clear a flat surface with good lighting. Lay out the album, tweezers, hinges, and the envelope of stamps from The Stamp Nest kit. Keep a damp sponge nearby to moisten hinges, but never lick them — moisture from your mouth can damage stamps.
2. 2. Sort the stamps by theme or country: Look at each stamp and group them by continent, country, or subject (animals, flags, landmarks). This helps you plan the album layout. Use the tweezers to handle stamps by the edge — fingerprints can reduce a stamp's value over time.
3. 3. Prepare a hinge for each stamp: Fold a small stamp hinge in half. Moisten the shorter end slightly and attach it to the back of the stamp near the top edge. Don't use tape or glue — hinges are designed to be removable without tearing the stamp or album page.
4. 4. Mount the stamp in the album: Moisten the longer end of the hinge and press the stamp onto the album page in your chosen position. Hold gently for a few seconds. Leave space around each stamp so you can add a label or note later. Crowding makes the page look messy.
5. 5. Label each stamp: Write the country name, year (if known), and a fun fact about the stamp's design or origin in pencil next to each stamp. Use a soft pencil rather than pen — you can erase and update information as you learn more.
6. 6. Store and grow your collection: Keep the album closed in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Look for additional stamps from family letters, local post offices, or stamp fairs. Avoid storing the album in damp basements or hot attics — humidity can cause stamps to curl and hinges to fail.

Product spotlight

• The Stamp Nest - A Stamp Collecting Activity: The Stamp Nest World Explorer Kit includes 30 real world stamps, an A6 collector album, stamp hinges, tweezers, and a My Stamp Journey guide. Everything a child needs to begin collecting is in one box, eliminating the guesswork of finding supplies and suitable stamps.