<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Nice Stamp Information</title>
	<atom:link href="http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk</link>
	<description>Nice Stamp Articles</description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 10 Aug 2008 15:01:07 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=2.5.1</generator>
	<language>en</language>
			<item>
		<title>Experience A Different World Of Scrapbook With Scrapbooking Rubber Stamp</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/10/experience-a-different-world-of-scrapbook-with-scrapbooking-rubber-stamp/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/10/experience-a-different-world-of-scrapbook-with-scrapbooking-rubber-stamp/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 10 Aug 2008 15:01:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=20</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Scrapbooking is one such activity that provides immense pleasure to the creator. It also helps to unwind from the hectic schedules of life and work. However, it has been witnessed that scrapbookers are always looking for new and unique ideas to create their masterpiece and are also in search for good scrapbooking materials. Besides stickers [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">S</span>crapbooking is one such activity that provides immense pleasure to the creator. It also helps to unwind from the hectic schedules of life and work. However, it has been witnessed that scrapbookers are always looking for new and unique ideas to create their masterpiece and are also in search for good scrapbooking materials. Besides stickers and shimmers, scrapbooking rubber stamp is also gaining popularity amongst them. Thus, do not wait and get started for a great scrapbook.</p>
<p>Generally, people use unused or recycled products to generate a great scrapbook and to make it unique and different in every way. Moreover, this is possible with the availability of various scrapbooking materials, such as shimmers, stickers, printed and glossed paper; and now, hats off to the scrapbooking rubber stamp that has added more fun into the activity of scrapbooking. However, it has turned out to be more than an activity and people are using scrapbooking as a means of exploring themselves besides displaying their art work. However, now scrapbooking is considered to be a stress buster for many. With the availability of scrapbooking rubber stamp, scrapbooking becomes funnier and also adds substance into the scrapbook. Moreover, people are opting for stamps because they are usually short of ideas and concepts. In fact, it will not be incorrect to say that it also saves time of the person who is in the process of creating an album.</p>
<p>Scrapbooking stamps are readily available in craft stores or at any stationary shop. One can choose them from a variety, according to tastes and style and theme. However, the scrapbooking stamps that are getting popular for their easy application are quick rubber stamps, acrylic mounts, rubber stamps with depth and image, mounted rubber stamps and unmounted rubber stamps. In fact, these are easy to use, translucent and clear and above all lesser messy. Scrapbooking rubber stamp comes in various sizes and shapes. Therefore,hurry and grab the fun with these durable and versatile stamps. The best thing with these stamps is that besides being user friendly they are an ideal choice for people who are beginners or are totally new to the concept of scrapbooking. Moreover, a scrapbooker can create a unique album by using these scrapbooking stamps. Hence, get down stamping your scrapbook with the help of scrapbooking rubber stamp. These stamps lend style and aesthetic taste to album.</p>
<p>One can choose from a variety of simple, plain, animated, pictorial and embossed rubber stamps. The other quality with them is that these can be applied on any kind of fabric or paper that can liven up the card or an album. Scrapbooking rubber stamp is easy to manage and adds classy touch to the scrapbook. However, the most lovable and readily used images and caricatures are hearts, stars, figurines, smilies, birds, cows, cats, sea dragons, fishes, and lots more. One does not even have to bother about the look of the scrapbook, as these stamps leave an everlasting impression on the creator and even the onlooker is unable to escape the magic of scrapbooking rubber stamp. Thus, flaunt your scrapbooking skills amongst friends, family, children, co-workers and even strangers.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>John Foster has special interest in arts. He gives advice to anyone who wants to know about online art school and scrapbooking and others. To know about more for art school class for scrapbooking,scrapbooking rubber stamp visit on this leading internet source <a title="http://www.layersofourlives.com" href="http://www.layersofourlives.com/" target="_blank">http://www.layersofourlives.com</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/10/experience-a-different-world-of-scrapbook-with-scrapbooking-rubber-stamp/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Stamp Down Financial Burden, Avail Tenant Loans</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/01/stamp-down-financial-burden-avail-tenant-loans/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/01/stamp-down-financial-burden-avail-tenant-loans/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:00:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/01/stamp-down-financial-burden-avail-tenant-loans/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You can come across a financial emergency anytime in your life. Whenever, wherever you go you can compromise with anything but not money. Similar is the case if you are a non-homeowner. Getting your needs fulfilled becomes a tough job if you do not own a house. But you can make a wise decision by [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">Y</span>ou can come across a financial emergency anytime in your life. Whenever, wherever you go you can compromise with anything but not money. Similar is the case if you are a non-homeowner. Getting your needs fulfilled becomes a tough job if you do not own a house. But you can make a wise decision by opting for tenant loans which offers fund exclusively for non-homeowners.</p>
<p>Tenant loans are available to individuals who do not own a house. This includes tenants, paying guests, students, people living with friends or relatives, council tenants, housing association tenants, private landlord tenants and many more.</p>
<p>Tenant loans are available in two forms- secured and unsecured. A secured tenant loan can be availed by putting collateral against the loan amount. With a secured tenant loan, you can get a loan amount ranging from £3000-£25,000, and even more depending on your collateral value. The repayment term can be anything between 2-30 years. But if you do not want to put your property at risk, you can opt for unsecured tenant loans which do not need any security. You can get amounts ranging from £1000-£10,000 and for a repayment of 6 months to 10 years. The interest rate depends upon the loan amount and the repayment.</p>
<p>Tenant loans are offered to all kind of borrowers including no credit and bad credit holders as well. The lender will offer you loan at cheap and reasonable rate which will suit your financial situations.</p>
<p>The easiest and the most convenient way of applying for tenant loans is to apply online where there are enormous number of lenders available on the net. You can easily surf the net and choose the right lender for you. Apart from that online lenders also provide you speed as you no more require meeting personally with the lenders and getting the loan deal. All you need is to fill an online application form which is available on the website of the lender itself. It will take just a few minutes to complete it and submit it to the lender. After submitting the form, the lender will verify some of the details in order to lend a tenant loan to you. You will be asked for details regarding your employment, credit history, residential and identity proof etc. Being a tenant, you can fall short of money anytime. Applying for tenant loans online will satisfy your personal needs in a very short time.</p>
<p>Remove all delusion about a non-homeowner’s benefits. With Tenant loans, do not ever think that a non-homeowner cannot get financial support. Apply for tenant loans and make your life smooth.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Amanda Thompson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from CPIT and has completed her master’s in Business Administration from IGNOU. To find a Tenant loans, Personal loans, Cheap tenant loans, Secured Personal loans that best suits your needs visit <a title="http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk" href="http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.chanceforloans.co.uk</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/08/01/stamp-down-financial-burden-avail-tenant-loans/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Avoiding Personalized Postage Stamp Scams</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/25/avoiding-personalized-postage-stamp-scams/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/25/avoiding-personalized-postage-stamp-scams/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:59:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=18</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You can find many online shops that offer personalized postage stamps for all of your mailing needs. These sites will offer you additional postal services as well as many offers and deals. The trick is to make sure that you avoid the online shops that are actually scams. Unfortunately with the advancement of technology, there [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">Y</span>ou can find many online shops that offer personalized postage stamps for all of your mailing needs. These sites will offer you additional postal services as well as many offers and deals. The trick is to make sure that you avoid the online shops that are actually scams. Unfortunately with the advancement of technology, there are some people out there that just want your money without delivering you any product.</p>
<p>Credit Card by Telephone</p>
<p>You have found the perfect Internet site to create your personalized stamps of the new house you just bought. All of your house warming party invitations are written and addressed. You have filled out all the online information, uploaded your photo of your new house and are ready to finalize your order to print your sheet of personalized stamps.</p>
<p>Ideally this would be how everything should work. Yet, after all the time you just spent and the excitement building you are told that you need to pay for the order by phone. Once the order is paid for, you will be able to instantly print your personalized stamps.</p>
<p>This is an online shop that you should leave as quickly as you can log off the website, close your browser and clean your cookies from your Internet cache. No reputable company is going to ask for your credit card information by phone. Additionally, if they have their site developed enough for you to print your personalized stamps instantly after payment, they would not need to process orders by phone only. This is a major scam that you should have red flags raise the instant you see the message for finalizing your order.</p>
<p>Processing Fee</p>
<p>We all know the current rate of a traditional postage stamp that you can print online or purchase at the regular post office. Of course if you are going to create personalized stamps you expect to play slightly more. After all you are using their programs and web server. Reputable companies are going to list very clearly on the website the amount per stamp and per quantity. Often, you can get deals for ordering more than one sheet at a time. This is all that you should have to pay them.</p>
<p>Some companies try to back end the customer with processing fees. Clients are tricked into paying processing fees because they assume that is part of the additional price to make the stamps personalized. If any processing fees are added to the shopping cart when you pay for your order, you are being scammed. You should not pay the fees and should leave the stamp shop for a more reputable company.</p>
<p>Membership Fee for Personalized Postage Stamps</p>
<p>Some of the online photo and personalize stamps service companies offer more than just stamps. They will provide you with bulk mailing, postal meters, postal scales, ink cartridges, printing paper supplies, envelopes and even more. While these services are all wonderful and a great advantage to someone that has their own business, you do not need all of this stuff just for personalized stamps to go on envelopes for special occasions.</p>
<p>These companies are not being dishonest but are really catering to the business person instead of the average consumer. Instead of paying a membership fee for all of these additional services, there are plenty of reputable online services that will help you create and print personalized postage stamps without any membership fees.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Receive discount personalized postage stamps for free. Tons of articles, news, reviews, and incentivized discounts for personal photo stamps and online stamps alike: <a title="http://DiscountStampsOnline.com" href="http://discountstampsonline.com/" target="_blank">http://DiscountStampsOnline.com</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/25/avoiding-personalized-postage-stamp-scams/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>You Can Have Great Fun With Stamp Collecting</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/25/you-can-have-great-fun-with-stamp-collecting/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/25/you-can-have-great-fun-with-stamp-collecting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:58:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=17</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Stamp collecting can be a fun activity not only for older people but also for kids. A person can have a pleasurable experience collecting a variety of stamps that he may find in plain binders or get through the mail. Many people find it to be a very interesting hobby. For someone starting out, he [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">S</span>tamp collecting can be a fun activity not only for older people but also for kids. A person can have a pleasurable experience collecting a variety of stamps that he may find in plain binders or get through the mail. Many people find it to be a very interesting hobby. For someone starting out, he might like to compile an assortment of stamps from his album until he sees that he could concentrate on collecting these stamps.</p>
<p>It can definitely be an enjoyable hobby because a person can have fun and learn all kinds of information from collecting stamps. A stamp can show everything that someone can think of from people, locations, events in history, sports, cars, and much more. He may find it satisfying later on for having enough information and albums where he may showcase his collection.</p>
<p>He might find that he can make a profit from these items. Some stamps are very special and may highlight a famous person or event. The premium on these important stamps can be very high but it depends on how rare they are and if there are a small number of releases. They can be like other commodities where a collector may locate a dealer that can give them an estimated price of a particular stamp.</p>
<p>A finer choice for him to profit more from his collection is to find stamp collectors that are interested in some stamps that he might be collecting. He might advertise his collection in magazines and newspapers that have specific advertisements for unique stamps. The internet can be very useful in getting in on auction sales for his stamps. He may also confirm the most recent market price of the stamp by comparing the internet and the latest advertisements.</p>
<p>The asking price can be different according to inventory and production of the item. The amount of collectors that concentrate on those rare stamps is growing and limited edition stamps may provoke him to be more aggressive when trying to locate these items. The high demand relates to an increased price value.</p>
<p>Regardless, they are more than just profiting and earning. A majority of stamp collectors believe it to be an enjoyable hobby. The pleasure he feels from locating the stamps he likes may be incomparable. People collect stamps for many reasons. In addition, one important reason they may give is that it is fun and it is very satisfying to accomplish something.</p>
<p>It encourages a person to learn about different things. Many stamps give insight into a country&#8217;s history and its landmarks. This is a primary reason why it is very attractive compared to other collections. A person can never get over the excitement of discovering and learning new things. If he wants to go after this hobby of being a stamp collector, here are some things to keep in mind.</p>
<p>1. He should be aware of which items interest him. He might begin looking for collections that can be important or special to him. He may have the choice of deciding from simple stamps that he might get from mail and postcards from binders.</p>
<p>2. He may go to groups and gatherings to collaborate with people. He could interact with people that are collecting things as well. He may question the person that may have some collections associated with these stamps. In this situation, he may be able to swap some of his stamps for a particular stamp.</p>
<p>3. He needs to make sure he uses his time wisely. He may locate places that he might find stamps with the particular theme that he collects.</p>
<p>4.  He may find sites on the internet that will give information on how and where to locate those special and rare stamps.</p>
<p>5. He may pursue this hobby for as long as it is enjoyable to him. There are a wide selection of topics and themes to pick from. A collector does not limit to a particular topic.</p>
<p>A stamp collector should constantly think back to the significance of the things that makes him happy and gratified. He should properly take care of his collections. Stamps are very delicate. They are just pieces of paper but they have considerable value and significance.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>To find more great stamp collecting tips please visit: <a title="http://www.mystampcollecting.com" href="http://www.mystampcollecting.com/" target="_blank">http://www.mystampcollecting.com</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/25/you-can-have-great-fun-with-stamp-collecting/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Important Facts For The Stamp Collector</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/15/important-facts-for-the-stamp-collector/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/15/important-facts-for-the-stamp-collector/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:58:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=16</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Everyone knows that a stamp is a small piece of paper that is glued to the exterior of a letter or parcel sent via the post office. It is used both locally and internationally as proof of paid fee for the service rendered.
Stamps represent something more for the collector. They represent significant valuable pieces to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">E</span>veryone knows that a stamp is a small piece of paper that is glued to the exterior of a letter or parcel sent via the post office. It is used both locally and internationally as proof of paid fee for the service rendered.</p>
<p>Stamps represent something more for the collector. They represent significant valuable pieces to a large imagined puzzle to be assembled physically in the collection according to the concept within the collector&#8217;s mind.</p>
<p>It is important to note that a distinction exists between philately and stamp collection. The philatelist both collects and studies stamps, postmarks, and related materials where a stamp collector does not study them.</p>
<p>Stamp collecting often begins by cutting out stamps that come from letters the collector receives. While some may come locally, others can come from friends and family abroad. Next the collector often beings going to the post office and buying stamps in bulk in order to add more to the collection.</p>
<p>Collecting stamps can only go so far without involving other people. A collector can ask friends and family members to also contribute the stamps that come on their incoming mail. Another option is to look for stamps offered for sale in the classified ads of the newspaper.</p>
<p>As usual, the Internet is an especially good source to find and obtain stamps. There exist many Web sites designed to do exactly that, making it simple to expand an existing stamp collection.</p>
<p>If the goal is to collect rare, old, or foreign stamps it is advisable to join philatelic exhibitions and bid at auctions. The savvy collector should be able to find some good deals that would be ideal additions to their collection.</p>
<p>Purchasing stamps is just one way to deal with other collectors. Another common method is to trade stamps within both collections with each collector&#8217;s goal being to create a more complete collection.</p>
<p>The acquisition of stamps is just one aspect of what stamp collectors do. They must also take care of the stamps in their collection so that the appearance and value of each stamp is maintained. This not only keeps the collection worthy of display, but also ensures the stamps within it are tradable or saleable if the collector should desire to do so.</p>
<p>The proper way to take care of a stamp is placing it in an album designed to protect stamps. Stamps should never be placed on facing pages as this can harm or even destroy them. If absolutely necessary, a plastic sheet placed over the stamps will allow the stamps to be placed on the facing page. However, a new album should be purchased in this case, as the purpose of collecting stamps is to maintain their worth, not risk damaging them to avoid the cost of an additional album.</p>
<p>Stamps should be handled with extreme care. Human hands are dirty and oily. Tongs should always be used when handling stamps to minimize the chance of causing damage. Tongs are a tool similar to tweezers but with thinner edges, making the safe handling of a stamp easier. Even when using tongs, handling stamps should be strictly minimized.</p>
<p>In order to properly remove a stamp from an envelope cut a small portion of the surrounding area and put it in water. Once the stamp is free, use tongs to extract it from the paper underneath and carefully air dry before inserting it in the album.</p>
<p>Many things can harm stamps. The most common culprit is sunlight. The UV rays in sunlight can change or fade the colors on the stamp and when heated the gum on the back of the stamp may adhere it to the album making it difficult to remove without damage. Stamps must always be stored at room temperature.</p>
<p>Food and drink never belong in the area when stamps are being handled. A stamp collection should be kept well separated from any tobacco smoke to prevent the odor from being captured by the paper in the collection. Failing to take these steps, regardless of the degree of caution exercised, can result in devastating damage from just a single accident.</p>
<p>Stamp collecting can be an easy and rewarding hobby for many people. The potential rewards of the hobby increase dramatically if key facts are known and care is taken to ensure the collection will be as remarkable in years to come as when each piece is added.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Barbara Davis is a writer for several popular online magazines, on <a href="http://cunid.com/">work at home</a> and <a href="http://sowbelly.com/">business and technology</a> themes.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/15/important-facts-for-the-stamp-collector/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Stamp Collecting: Fun For All Ages</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/15/stamp-collecting-fun-for-all-ages/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/15/stamp-collecting-fun-for-all-ages/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:57:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=15</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Stamp collecting is considered a fun activity for many people, both adults and children. It provides the enjoyment of collecting different types of stamps whether they may be found in ordinary binders or through received mail. For some it is an exciting hobby. Beginners are often fond of collecting as many different kinds of stamps [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">S</span>tamp collecting is considered a fun activity for many people, both adults and children. It provides the enjoyment of collecting different types of stamps whether they may be found in ordinary binders or through received mail. For some it is an exciting hobby. Beginners are often fond of collecting as many different kinds of stamps as possible until they realize that specializing in a specific type of stamp may be more enjoyable.</p>
<p>There are many different kinds of information that can be learned from collecting stamps, something many collectors find particularly fun. A stamp can represent anything from places, persons, sports, historical events, cars, and more. The careful and meticulous creation and maintenance of a creation can pay off huge dividends in personal satisfaction when displaying or exhibiting the mature collection.</p>
<p>There is also the consideration of profit in stamp collecting. Special stamps may feature an important event or a person. The value of these special stamps can be considerable, depending on their rarity and the limited versions of the releases. This is not unlike any other commodity, where a collector can find a professional dealer who can provide the possible price value of a particular item.</p>
<p>Another option to profit from stamp collection is to look for collectors who show interest in the kind of stamps that the collector has. Advertising the collection in newspapers and magazines that conduct special advertisements for rare and special stamps is a good way to gauge such interest. The Internet can also assist through auction sales and online advertising, and through those tools give updated information on the value of certain stamps.</p>
<p>The value of an individual stamp can vary depending on its production and supply. As the number of collectors that specialize in rare stamps and limited edition stamps increases it becomes important to be more competitive in finding these items. Of course this increased demand causes the value of the stamps to increase.</p>
<p>Regardless, most collectors do not focus on the potential profit. Most stamp collectors regard it a fun hobby. For them there is no comparison for the pleasure felt every time a coveted stamp is obtained. There are, of course, many reasons why people collect stamps. The sense of accomplishment given by building a quality collection is perhaps a favorite reason.</p>
<p>Stamp collecting can not only provide tools for a wide education, it also benefits from that education. Many stamps feature insights about the landmarks and history of a country. This is one reason a particular stamp might be popular or valuable. Not only do stamps give the collector a reason to learn about the people, events, or things they represent, but knowing these things gives the collector insight into why the stamp is valuable and what might make another stamp valuable as well. There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in stamp collecting.</p>
<p>1. Know what interests you. Your collections should have special meaning or importance to you. You have the endless options in the scope and type of stamps you want to collect.</p>
<p>2. Consider joining clubs and gatherings to interact with other collectors. Ask others about their collections to get ideas for your own. Other collectors may have collections related to your own. In this case, you may be able to trade stamps with them to work towards a more complete collection for both parties.</p>
<p>3. Use travel to your advantage. If you maximize your time while away from home you may be able to find stamps that aren’t readily available where you live.</p>
<p>4. The Internet can be an invaluable resource for finding, selling, or pricing your collection.</p>
<p>5. There are many topics and themes upon which to form a collection. Collectors need not limit themselves to a specific one. By changing focus as your interests change, stamp collecting can remain a vibrant hobby through your life.</p>
<p>A stamp collector should keep in mind how the stamps within the collection represent many years of enjoyment and a sense of achievement. For this reason proper care must be given to ensure their longevity. Stamps are very sensitive to their environment. They may be only pieces of paper but to the collector they have significant value and importance.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Barbara Davis writes for several popular web sites, on <a href="http://sowbelly.com/">technology and business</a> and <a href="http://cunid.com/">small business</a> topics.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/15/stamp-collecting-fun-for-all-ages/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Interested In Address Stamp Collecting?</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/13/interested-in-address-stamp-collecting/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/13/interested-in-address-stamp-collecting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 13 Jul 2008 14:56:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=14</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do you ever notice the picture on the address stamp? It is astounding to see just how many different kinds of address stamp pictures are seen on envelopes throughout the world. From famous presidents to regular members of the Disney World crew, there are many different pictures and icons that are featured on an address [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">D</span>o you ever notice the picture on the <strong>address stamp</strong>? It is astounding to see just how many different kinds of <em>address stamp</em> pictures are seen on envelopes throughout the world. From famous presidents to regular members of the Disney World crew, there are many different pictures and icons that are featured on an address stamp.</p>
<p>When we take a minute to reflect on some of the images we see on these stamps, it is easy to see that even these small little sticky pieces of paper mean more than the cents we pay for them. In other words, there can be some value of memory or meaning behind an address stamp for some consumers.</p>
<p>This is probably why many people collect stamps- because of the meaning behind some of them. The age-old hobby of collecting stamps can be a passion, or something that started when someone found one that had some kind of momentous value to it. After all, this kind of value would provide enough reason for anyone to keep it.</p>
<p>Collecting stamps can serve as a means to relax, to reflect, to play or more simply a time of redemption. It is amazing to think about the ways a simple address stamp can exert a positive impact on someone’s life, and not just because he or she gets an all important letter in the mail either. The bottom line is that collecting address stamps may not be for everyone, but it sure should not be ruled out as a great hobby to take part in when it comes to embracing part of our American culture, or our World’s culture for that matter.</p>
<p>Equivalent to paintings or portraits, address stamps attempt to preserve past lives or highlight current trends within a tiny piece of art, and what better way to keep and share the art than by collecting as many pieces as you can and putting them in a book of some kind. Many people who really could not care less about what is printed on an address stamp might think collecting them is simply a waste of their precious time, and for some people it just might be.</p>
<p>But in reality when some people enjoy the beauty of what is printed on an address stamp, and the value of some of these stamps may just make them rich one day, there does not seem to be a time wasting element here. The hobby offers a lot to people who are interested in it. The more you devote to it, the more pleasure you reap from it.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Linda E. Joy is a writer for <a href="http://www.the-arts-magazine.com/">The Arts Magazine</a>. The site provides readers with the latest insights and write-ups on all things <a href="http://www.home-and-health-guide.com/">home</a> and family oriented, and much more.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/13/interested-in-address-stamp-collecting/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Your Stamp Supply Shopping List</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/your-stamp-supply-shopping-list/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/your-stamp-supply-shopping-list/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:56:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/?p=13</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Collecting stamps is a great hobby that people from all over the world enjoy. It doesn’t matter if you are young or old. This hobby is not only fun, interesting but you can also learn a lot. There is a whole wide world collecting stamp community for you to be part of. The key for [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">C</span>ollecting stamps is a great hobby that people from all over the world enjoy. It doesn’t matter if you are young or old. This hobby is not only fun, interesting but you can also learn a lot. There is a whole wide world collecting stamp community for you to be part of. The key for collecting stamps is the variety you can collect. In this case you can certainly say more is better. If you are new to this hobby you have must realize that you have to have stamp collecting supplies ready before you start your collection of stamps.</p>
<p>Here is a list of supplies that you will need for your hobby. Stock books, stamp hinges, stamp tongs, magnifiers, glassing envelopes, blank pages, drying books, perforation gauge, water mark detector, stamp mounts, stamp catalogues, binders and of course stamp albums. This may look like big shopping list but there is no reason to be panic. Not like many other collecting hobbies, this hobby doesn’t have to be expensive at all. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive equipments and supplies.</p>
<p>There is of course a list of items no stamp collector can do without.</p>
<p>Let’s start with the one item that collectors can not do without and that is a stamp album. The stamp album keeps your stamps safe while at the same time it enables you to organize your collection and to display your stamps in an attractive manner. Look for something that is high in quality. What you should look for is an album that contains plenty of space for your stamps and have strong bindings with thick pages made from good quality acid free paper.</p>
<p>Another smart item you can not do without is a stamp hinge. A stamp hinge is a small, folded, rectangular piece of paper or glassine coated with a gum. One end of the hinge is gummed onto the back of a stamp and the other end is gummed onto the album page. This helps to firmly hold the stamp on the page. These hinges are very inexpensive and around a thousand can be purchased for a few dollars. Stamp tongs look like tweezers, but these are specially designed for picking up and handling stamps. Tongs are available in both stainless steel and plastic. Either type will do, but make sure you choose tongs that do not have sharp edges, as they may tear and ruin your stamp. If the value of your collection is important to you then a stamp catalogue is a must. The stamp catalog will help you identify a stamp and will also give you a rough indication of its current value. So you exactly know how valuable your collection is in the world of philately. What you also need is a magnifying glass. This will help you to examine the inscription and design closely, the feature of a stamp as well as its condition.</p>
<p>Also the magnifying glass would help you spot the creases or printing error of a stamp. All of these factors have an impact on a stamp’s grade and its value. Glassine envelopes are translucent and available in various sizes. They are useful for sorting and storing the stamps before you place them in the album. You can also mail stamps in these envelopes. Some other gadget you will need is a perforation gauge. It measures the number of holes per two cm length of the perforations on the side of the stamps. Stamps differ in the number of perforations each have, which even helps distinguish between two identical looking stamps and also influence the relative rarity. A water mark detector is useful in detecting forgeries and identifying stamp varieties.</p>
<p>In hobby shops and on the internet all these tools are easy to find. Remember that these tools don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. To start your hobby you will need these stamp collecting supplies and have fun while collecting.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Bryan Wong is the owner of the stamp collector website <a title="http://www.GetEasyInfo.com/Stamps" href="http://www.geteasyinfo.com/Stamps" target="_blank">http://www.GetEasyInfo.com/Stamps</a> - A great website that shares quality Info and TIPS for stamp collectors.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/your-stamp-supply-shopping-list/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Choosing A Rubber Stamp That Meets Your Needs</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/choosing-a-rubber-stamp-that-meets-your-needs/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/choosing-a-rubber-stamp-that-meets-your-needs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:55:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/choosing-a-rubber-stamp-that-meets-your-needs/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you want to make an &#8220;impression&#8221; there is no better way than with a rubber stamp. You can find a rubber stamp with a great design on it that expresses your personality, or order a custom rubber stamp with your name, address or company logo on it. Rubber stamps are great for business or [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">W</span>hen you want to make an &#8220;impression&#8221; there is no better way than with a rubber stamp. You can find a rubber stamp with a great design on it that expresses your personality, or order a custom rubber stamp with your name, address or company logo on it. Rubber stamps are great for business or pleasure; they are great for kids and for executives, depending on what they are used for. Rubber stamps come in a variety of styles and choosing one over another is going to depend on the use for the stamp. Three common types of rubber stamps are: standard rubber stamps, self-inking stamps and pre-inked stamps.</p>
<p>Traditional Rubber Stamps<br />
Standard rubber stamps are a good value for the money and are good for ordinary use. They are usually designed with wooden bases and handles and rubber heads. You can order a custom rubber stamp with your own phrase or information on it; and it is common for standard rubber stamps to have stock phrases like “Approved,” “Draft” or “Paid” on them for business use. Standard rubber stamps are available with dies that are made out of, photo polymer, or traditional rubber. Photo polymer stamp dies do not perform well with industrial inks. Rubber is the best material for standard stamps - it is durable and flexible. You will need to purchase an ink pad to go along with a standard rubber stamp, and there are many colors of ink available. Traditional Rubber Stamps can be made in any size or shape.</p>
<p>Self Inking Rubber Stamps<br />
With self-inking rubber stamps, you do not need a separate ink pad. A rubber die is mounted to a plate that strikes a built-in ink pad each time an impression is made. You don’t have to worry about the mess caused when you accidentally touch the ink and get it on your fingers as self inking stamps have the stamp and the ink pad self contained. They can make thousands of impressions before their internal ink pads need to be reinked. Self-inking stamps are popular for business purposes, mass mailings, or if you simply are tired of writing your address by hand on every letter you send. These are good for repetitive stamping tasks and are usually used for custom work like address stamps and endorsement stamps, or for general business uses.</p>
<p>Pre inked Rubber Stamps<br />
A pre-inked stamp does not require a separate ink pad either since the ink resides within the stamp’s surface. The ink is transmitted to the paper’s surface through microscopic pores in the rubber which also prevent leakage. A pre-inked rubber stamp is refilled by placing more ink into its reservoir. Like self-inking stamps, pre-inked stamps are good to use when you have many impressions to make, such as mass mailings or if you want to have a stamp with your address or monogram on it.</p>
<p>You might wonder which rubber stamp is right for you: a standard, self-inking or pre-inked stamp. A standard rubber stamp can be a good choice if you do not use it very often because a standard rubber stamp takes more time to use than the other varieties (i.e. you have to ink the stamp on the ink pad and then make the impression on the paper’s surface). Both the self-inking stamps and the pre-inked stamps are good options for business use. They are both neat and convenient, and can make a thousand impressions before more ink is needed. Pre Inked Stamps are the best decision if you are looking for a quality stamp.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Adam Raidabaugh is the president of ACORN Sales Company, Inc., a leader in the marking and stamp industry. ACORN Sales specializes in custom rubber stamps and personalized embossers –on the Web at <a title="http://www.acornsales.com/bigoak/rubber-stamps.htm" href="http://www.acornsales.com/bigoak/rubber-stamps.htm" target="_blank">http://www.acornsales.com/bigoak/rubber-stamps.htm</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/10/choosing-a-rubber-stamp-that-meets-your-needs/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Stamp Collector&#8217;s Guide</title>
		<link>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/01/stamp-collectors-guide/</link>
		<comments>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/01/stamp-collectors-guide/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:55:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>stamp</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Stamp Collecting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/01/stamp-collectors-guide/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Today, a hobby like stamp collecting too has become a specialized affair. It has gone from being a fun hobby to a proper investment and auction business. But for philately lovers the discovery of a stamp, the history attached to it and the chase of actually adding it to your collection is incomparable. Now this [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="cap">T</span>oday, a hobby like stamp collecting too has become a specialized affair. It has gone from being a fun hobby to a proper investment and auction business. But for philately lovers the discovery of a stamp, the history attached to it and the chase of actually adding it to your collection is incomparable. Now this hobby has a terminology of its own that even an amateur collector should be familiar with.</p>
<p>Philately is defined as a hobby that denotes stamp collecting and study of stamps and items related to stamps. There is a mark on them called the Authentication Mark that tells you that the stamp has been validated and examined by an expert. The Denomination on the stamp is the face value of the stamp and the collectibles vary by a wide margin. A Freak stamp is one that has mistakes on it like ink problems or wrong printing of the design etc. The Hinge is a small, gummed rectangle of paper that is used to stick stamps into the album by a narrow strip. Then there are stamps that are Never Hinged which means that the stamp was never mounted by its hinge. A Watermark is an embedded design that is used for anti-counterfeiting and it also adds to its esthetic value.</p>
<p>The Essay is the proposed design of a stamp that has not been issued yet. The Frame is the margin outside the design of a stamp. Centering is the position of a design on the stamp&#8217;s face in relation to the margin and if there is an error in the manufacturing process it can affect the value of the stamp. Tagging is defined as the use of phosphorescent dyes in making the stamp and the dye is read by machines by using an ultraviolet light and this will detect the face value and other elements of the stamp. The stamp is then Proofed, a process similar to coins where the trail stamp is used to ensure that there is no problem with the design and manufacturing process.</p>
<p>Variety is a term where there is a deviation from the standard issue like there may be a difference in the watermarks or a wrong colored ink may have been used etc. Perfins are stamps with perforated initials used mainly as a counterfeiting element and as part of the design. Then there are Imperforate or imperforated stamps that are valuable collectors stamps but can be duplicated easily.</p>
<p>A Block is a group of unseparated stamps and these have the complete watermark designs along with other features of the design that a torn out single stamp may have only a small part of the complete design and this makes it invaluable. A full sheet of such unseparated stamps is called Pane. Selvage is the plain margin area seen around the Pane and Gutter between the panes.</p>
<p>A stamp in Mint condition has never been used for postage. So there are no hinge marks, no tears, no marks and the original adhesive is intact. Original Gum is the term for the original adhesive on the back of a stamp. Its use and remains can affect the value of the stamp. The Cover is the envelope and the packaging on which the stamp was used and On Paper refers to stamps that have actually been used for postage and are typically still stuck to the cover and Entire refers to an intact cover.</p>
<p>Approvals are the stamps that stamps dealers will show collectors &#8216;for approval&#8217; and Expertizing is where the stamp is examined by an expert like someone from the American Philatelic Expertizing Service. A First Day Cover is a stamp that refers to an envelope on which the stamp was stuck and it now has a cancellation mark from the first day of issue. Definitive stamps are those on regular issue and are produced at a specific rate of postage.</p>
<p>Invert stamps were printed with multiple colors where one of the colored designs is printed upside down. These are invaluable to a collector and an example of this is the 1918 U.S. 24-cent Jenny. Another invaluable stamp is the One Penny Black which is the world&#8217;s first postage stamp, issued by Great Britain in 1840. Earlier the receivers of mail would generally pay the postage rather than the sender of the mail.</p>
<p>And finally we have Airmails which as we all know is the mail sent by air. These stamps saw their demise in the 1970s as issue of these stamps stopped when a vast majority of mail started traveling by air and there was no need to distinguish between<br />
mail sent by air or sea or road. Now they are invaluable to a collector.</p>
<p>===</p>
<p>Beverly Kane is a staff writer at <a href="http://www.collectiblesadvisor.com/">Collectibles Advisor</a> and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including <a href="http://www.theshoppinggazette.com/">The Shopping Gazette</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blog.nicestamp.co.uk/2008/07/01/stamp-collectors-guide/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
