Preparing Covers

How do I Remove the Staple?

Most collectors use a pocket knife or small kitchen knife for this. Carefully bend up the two ends of the staple, turn the matchbookover, and gently pry and pull the staple out. (Some collectors use a small needle-nose pliers.) Discard the matches.

How to I Make My Matchcovers Flat?

Pressing the covers flat makes them look neat and stay in the album better. Lay a stack of covers end for end and front to back, so the folds are evenly distributed. Put the stack between two small pieces of wood or heavy cardboard, and wrap them tightly with strong rubber bands. Set them aside for a day or two. You can also press them in a book or clamp, or under weights.

For more information on preparing matchcovers, check this article by Bill Thomas.