I usually prefer to work on a harmonica along with its comb and cover plates. However, there are times when I only require the reed plates. This can save on shipping costs because reed plates can be sent through regular mail.
You do need to be careful to package them in a way to try to avoid damage or loss. If you just drop reed plates into a plain envelope, I probably will receive an empty envelope with a hole in it.
Here's a safe way to package reed plates for transit by regular mail. Please be advised that although this is a great way to package them, regular mail is a lot less safe than sending them as a parcel with insurance. I cannot assume responsibility for list or damaged goods. It's up to you to make the choice whether the cost savings is worth the risk.
Step 1 - Place the reed plates back-to-back. Make sure the reeds are on the out side of both plates.
Step 2 - Wrap them up in wax paper.
Neatly fold the paper around the reed plates.
Step 3 - Use wide packing tape and stick the reed plates to a piece of cardboard. Make sure the reed plates are under a "bubble" of tape and completely covered.
Step 4 - Repeat the process for any other reed plate sets you are sending. Position the plates so they are parallel and centered on the cardboard.
Step 5 - Cover the first piece of cardboard with about piece of the same size. Make a sandwich.
Step 6 - Tape it up. Wrap the tape around the cardboard in both directions.
Step 7 - Put the cardboard sandwich into a bubble envelope and you are ready to send it!
