Preservation and Care of Philatelic Materials
Subsidiary Page
10
Dealing with Scotch Tape
Scotch tape should remain in the kitchen and should never be seen in the stamp den.
Adhesive tape of this type can easily render an otherwise attractive cover unfit for
exhibiting and perhaps even collecting. An example of the deleterious presence of adhesive
tape on a cover is shown in Figure 13.
Figure 13. Top portion of a cover with scotch tape applied at upper
right.
After nearly 15 years, the adhesive tape used at the top of the cover shown in Figure 13 has
turned an unsightly brown. With care, however, the tape can be removed and the cover
cleaned. Follow these instructions carefully.
Soften the adhesive tape with a hand iron heated to a temperature just below that
used for synthetic fabrics. Be careful that the iron is not too hot. Then, carefully
pick up a corner of the tape and peal it off. If the tape is stubborn and will
not come off, use an eye-dropper to apply a little acetone or trichloroethylene
at the point where the tape is separating from the surface of the item. If acetone
is used, be exceptionally careful since acetone is very flammable and as it will
change the color of some stamps. Use a soft cloth with a bit of trichloroethylene
and gently rub off the adhesive left on the cover or stamp. Always provide adequate
ventilation when using these solvents, and follow the hazard instructions on the
container. If feasible, apply the solvent out of doors where thorough ventilation
is assured.
END OF SUBSIDIARY PAGE 10
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