Need Help Identifying Which Showgard Mounts To Use For Some US Stamp Blocks

need help identifying which Showgard mounts to use for some U.S. stamp blocks. if someone is will to help, I can give you a few scott #'s. I am a new member and just getting back into this hobby after many years. Thank you in advance.

You have to measure the stamp, block or whatever it is that you are mounting. The height (which includes any perforations, selvage, etc.) in millimeters is the size of the mount. For example, if the height is 25mm, then you want 25mm mounts. The mounts themselves will usually be 5mm taller in actuality, but that's because the stamp goes inside the mount. You might also consider using the next larger size to leave more room so as to not cramp the stamp. It's really up to each collector. Then you have to cut the mounts to be the width of the stamp plus 4mm or 5mm (personal preference) to even out the border once the stamp is in the mount. I'm sure some collectors use different methods. You can buy precut mounts, but it is far more cost effective to cut your own. Do not use scissors, buy a stamp mount cutter. I have one that has served me nicely in cutting tens of thousands of mounts.

When you say blocks, do you mean full sheets? Or plate blocks? Or something else?

Have you checked out the Showgard site? It includes size guides by Scott number, etc.

showgard.com

Most 20th-century definitives are 22x25 (in mm, width x height). Most commemoratives are 25x40 or 40x25. Just multiply to get sizing for blocks. Definitive (rotary press) plate blocks are often 62x60. Commemorative (rotary press) plate blocks are often 110x62 or 62x110, though selvedge sizing is not the same for all issues.

Years ago, I followed the standard 22x25, 25x40, 40x25 recommendations for my US collection. While they appeared to be correct, I have been remounting with 26mm high and 41mm high mounts, cut to the width as needed. The reason is the stamps became cramped over time. Back then I used Showguard. Today I use Scott. For blocks of 4 and pairs or strips without selvage, yes, you can usually add the width or height of the extra stamp(s), but I always measure anyway. One mm off and you could be wasting a cut. Any stamps with selvage should be measured because selvage can vary, even for the same stamp design.