What’s the Best Way to Store Wood-Mount Stamps After You’ve Removed Them from the Wood?
If you’ve made the leap from traditional wood-mount stamps to cling or photopolymer stamps, you might have wondered what to do with your old wood-mount stamps once the rubber has been removed. These stamps are still perfectly usable—but storing them the right way is key to keeping them in great shape for years to come.
Why Storage Matters
Wood-mount stamps are durable, but the rubber can lose its quality if exposed to heat, sunlight, or dust. Once removed from the wood, the stamps are lighter and easier to handle—but they also need a safe, organized home to prevent curling, sticking, or cracking.
1. Use Clear Plastic Sheets or Envelopes
A simple and effective method is to store your stamps on clear plastic sheets, similar to the packaging they came in. You can use old CD cases, clear craft pockets, or even repurposed photo sleeves. The transparency makes it easy to see your stamp designs at a glance, so you won’t have to dig through a pile to find the one you want.
2. Keep Stamps Flat
Avoid rolling or bending your stamps—they can warp over time. Lay them flat in your storage containers to maintain their shape. If using envelopes or pockets, make sure the stamps aren’t crowded; a little breathing room keeps them safe and easy to remove when needed.
3. Label Your Stamps
Organization is everything! Labeling your stamps by theme, size, or occasion helps you find the perfect one quickly. You can write directly on the plastic sheet, use stickers, or keep a separate index for reference.
4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Rubber stamps don’t like heat or humidity. Keep your stamp storage away from direct sunlight, radiators, or damp basements. A cool, dry craft drawer or cabinet works beautifully.
5. Optional: Use Mounting Blocks
If you miss the ease of wood-mount stamps, consider using clear acrylic blocks. Your removed stamps cling easily to the blocks for stamping, giving you the flexibility of modern cling stamps while still using your favorite designs.
Final Tip:
Even after removing stamps from the wood, a little care goes a long way. With proper storage, your stamps can last for decades—and you’ll always have them ready for your next crafting project!