On this page we look at writing up a collection, and as promised take a look at what at first thought might sound like as much fun as a visit to the dentist. But JUST WAIT A MINUTE...we don't normally bore you to death here on planetstamp do we?
So give me a moment or two of your time and let's see if we can get you started on a new type of collection.
At the end of this section (next page) you can have a look at the competition entries mentioned earlier.
|
What about writing up?
|
|
|
|
You can use handwriting, although many exhibitors, these days, prefer to produce their writing up on a computer.
This gives you the chance to check what you have written, and to make sure it is not too long, or includes unnecessary detail.
|
click for picture |
|
It is good to provide information about your stamps. However, you should never write too much, it is a stamp display not an essay!.
Keep the information down to just the basic facts. Always ensure your spilling is correkt. (see what happens if you don't!)
|
|
click each for larger image
|
 |
 |
|
|
You can write directly onto the album page, or you can put your writing up on separate small pieces of paper, and mount these on the pages with your stamps, but again make sure they are carefully cut out. However, you may be able to design your final page on the computer, mounting your stamps on your printed-out page.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Trying something different
|
|
If you would like a change from simply collecting stamps, why not try postal history?
What is postal history?
Postal history normally involves collecting complete envelopes (known to collectors as covers, and if you've been paying attention you will know this already!) or letters.
What you are trying to discover is:
how much postage was paid;
when and from where the item was sent;
by which method it travelled;
which route it took;
were any special services used.
You need to look not only at the stamps but also at any markings the Post Office might have applied.
If there is a letter, you can often find out so much more about the sender, and the life and times of the people concerned.
There is a moral in this story – never throw away an envelope, or even remove the stamps, until you have examined it closely.
There are many collectors who now regret throwing away an envelope in the past.
|
|
click each for larger image
|
 |
 |
|
What should I look for?
First, check the postmark. This will tell you when and where the letter was posted. The postmark might also include a slogan or similar message which could fit in with a thematic collection.
Note: many large companies do not use postage stamps, but put a ‘meter mark’ on their envelopes, which shows that the postage has been paid. However, even such meter marks tell you when and where the item was posted, and can also include a ‘slogan’ message, again of interest in a thematic collection.
Look out for items such as an airmail sticker, as this might tell you how the letter was sent.
|
|
|
|
|
|
