What is a Wax Seal Stamp and How Do You Use One?

Few details make a letter or invitation more impressive than a wax seal on the envelope. Dating back to medieval Europe, the wax seal has had a remarkable revival in recent years as a way to add a personal, handcrafted touch to correspondence. This guide covers everything you need to know about wax seal stamps, including how to use one correctly.

What is a Wax Seal Stamp?

A wax seal stamp is a tool with a metal die (the engraved design) attached to a handle. The die is pressed into warm sealing wax while it is still malleable, creating a circular impression bearing the design. When the wax cools and hardens, it retains the impression permanently.

Wax seal stamps are used on the back flap of envelopes, on paper parcels, on cards and on any surface where a decorative seal is appropriate. They are available with personal designs including monograms, initials, florals, animals, geometric patterns and many others.

What is Sealing Wax?

Sealing wax is a wax compound formulated to melt at a manageable temperature, flow into the impression made by the stamp die and harden quickly with a smooth, consistent surface. Modern sealing wax comes in two main forms:

Traditional Sealing Wax Sticks

Melted using an open flame (a candle or lighter), traditional sealing wax sticks produce a classic, slightly textured seal. They drip slightly when molten, which requires some practice to control. Traditional wax produces the most authentic look but requires more technique.

Wax Melt Glue Gun Wax

Sealing wax formulated for use in a low-temperature glue gun is significantly easier for beginners. The glue gun dispenses a controlled amount of molten wax precisely where you need it, with no dripping and consistent volume every time. The results are slightly smoother and more uniform than traditional wick wax.

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Wax Seal Stamp

What You Need

• A wax seal stamp with your chosen design
• Sealing wax (either traditional sticks or glue gun formulation)
• A heat source (candle or glue gun)
• A silicone mat or scrap paper to protect your surface
• The envelope or paper to be sealed

The Process

1. Prepare your stamp. Some people chill the stamp die briefly in the freezer before use to help the wax release cleanly. Others apply a very light coat of cooking spray or beeswax to the die. Both are optional but help with release, especially for new stamps.
2. Melt your wax. If using a candle and traditional wax stick, hold the stick over your target area and allow the wax to drip to form a pool slightly larger than your stamp die. If using a glue gun, dispense a similar amount directly onto the surface.
3. Press the stamp. While the wax is still molten (work quickly), press the stamp die firmly and evenly into the center of the wax pool. Apply even pressure for 5 to 10 seconds.
4. Release cleanly. Lift the stamp straight up without rocking or twisting. If the wax has cooled sufficiently, the stamp should release cleanly leaving a crisp impression.
5. Allow to cool completely before handling the seal. Most sealing wax is fully hard within 60 seconds at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Wax Seals

• Practice on scrap paper before applying seals to your actual envelopes or invitations
• Work in a warm room. Cold rooms cause wax to cool and harden too quickly
• Keep a consistent stamp pressure for every seal to get uniform results
• If a seal does not release cleanly, allow it to cool fully, then gently pry the wax off the stamp with a fingernail or dental floss
• Experiment with wax colors to match your stationery or occasion aesthetic
• Mix two colors of molten wax for a marbled effect

Can You Use Any Stamp as a Wax Seal Stamp?

Yes, with some important caveats. Rubber stamps should not be used with sealing wax as the heat can damage the rubber die. Metal stamps or stamps with a smooth metal, brass or acrylic face work best with sealing wax. Our round custom stamps can be used as wax seal stamps by pressing the stamp face into the wax rather than using it as a standard rubber stamp.

Dedicated wax seal stamps with solid metal or brass dies give the crispest and most consistent results because the die conducts heat evenly and releases cleanly from the wax.

Wax Seals for Wedding Invitations

Wax seals are particularly popular for wedding invitations, where they add a tactile, formal elegance to the envelope before it is even opened. For wedding use, consider:

• A monogram design with the couple's initials
• A thematic design connected to the wedding style (floral for a garden wedding, geometric for a modern celebration)
• A color matched to the wedding palette

Pair your wax seal with a custom return address stamp on the front or top left of the envelope for a completely personalized wedding mailing. Browse our address embosser collection for a raised address alternative to complement your wax seal aesthetic.