Can You Mail Letters with Wax Seals?
Receiving letters with wax seals feels like stepping back in time. That little splash of color, the raised texture of the wax, and the thoughtfulness it conveys—it’s a simple gesture that speaks volumes. But if you’ve ever stopped to wonder, "can you mail sealed envelopes?" you’re not alone.
The good news? Yes, you can! Wax sealed envelopes can absolutely be mailed, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they arrive safely and looking just as stunning as when you sent them. Let’s dive in with some practical tips to make your mailing letters with wax seals a success.
Can You Mail Wax Sealed Envelopes?
Yes, you can mail envelopes with wax seals! However, because wax seals add thickness and texture to your envelope, they can sometimes create challenges when passing through automated sorting machines. These machines are designed for flat, standard envelopes, so wax seals may get scuffed, torn, or even pulled off during transit.
But don’t worry—with a little preparation and care, your wax-sealed letters will arrive safely.
Best Practices for Mailing Letters with Wax Seals
To make sure your wax sealed envelopes arrive in perfect condition, here are some tried-and-true tips to follow.
1. Hand Cancel at the Post Office
If you’re serious about protecting your wax seals during mailing, hand-canceling is your best bet. Normally, envelopes go through machines that stamp or “cancel” the postage and sort the mail. These machines can be rough on delicate wax seals, often causing scuffs or even tearing them off completely.
When you request hand canceling, a real human (yes, an actual person!) manually stamps your envelope instead of sending it through the machines. It’s like giving your letter the VIP treatment.
Hand canceling typically costs an extra $0.21 in the U.S., but it’s worth it to keep your wax seal intact. But it’s worth noting that even with hand canceling, there’s still a small chance your letter might pass through sorting machines, especially for long-distance or international mail.
Tip: Before mailing, bring a fully assembled sample of your wax sealed envelopes to the post office. This way, they can weigh it, measure its thickness, and give you the exact postage cost before sending.
2. Use an Outer Envelope
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If you’re mailing something truly special—like wax seals for wedding invitations or formal correspondence—using an outer envelope is a game-changer.
Here’s how it works:
- Apply the wax seal to the inner envelope.
- Place the inner envelope inside a larger outer envelope.
This extra layer not only protects your wax seal from scuffing or tearing but also keeps your mail looking pristine. Outer envelopes are especially handy for formal events where first impressions matter.
Check out our Vintage Burlap Texture Envelopes for a rustic yet elegant touch that pairs beautifully with wax seals.
3. Use High-Quality Flexible Sealing Wax
Not all wax is created equal! If you’re mailing an envelope with wax seal, using high-quality flexible sealing wax is a must. Choose wax sticks or beads based on your preferred method, but make sure the formula is mailing-friendly.
Unlike brittle wax (like candle wax), flexible wax is designed to withstand the bumps and pressure of the postal system without cracking or chipping.
Avoid using crayons or cheap wax alternatives—they’re prone to melting, breaking, or staining your envelopes.
Pro Tip: Pair high-quality flexible wax with one of our wax seal stamps for a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Choose from our curated collection of elegant designs for every occasion—or upload your own artwork to create a truly one-of-a-kind custom wax stamp.
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4. Apply Your Wax Stamp Properly
The way you apply your wax seal can make all the difference in how well it holds up during transit. Here’s how to do it right:
- Seal the envelope first: Wax seals should be decorative, not functional. Make sure the envelope is fully sealed before applying the wax.
- Use enough wax: A thin layer of wax might not bond properly to the envelope paper, so use a generous amount.
- Press firmly: Once you pour the wax, press your wax stamp into it with steady, even pressure. Let the wax cool completely before removing the stamp to avoid smudging.
5. Make Pre-Made Wax Seals & Attach Them
If you’re working on a big project—like sending out wedding invitations or holiday cards —pre-made wax seals are a lifesaver. This method saves time and ensures consistency, especially when you’re sealing dozens (or even hundreds!) of envelopes.
Just make your wax seals in advance and attach them to your envelopes later using high-quality adhesive.
FAQs on Mailing an Envelope with a Wax Seal
1. Will my wax seal melt in hot weather?
If you’re using high-quality flexible wax, your seal should hold up just fine under normal mailing conditions. However, extreme heat—like being left in a hot mailbox—could soften the wax. To avoid this, try mailing your letters earlier in the day or use an outer envelope for added protection.
2. Is hand canceling guaranteed?
Hand canceling significantly reduces the risk of damage, but it’s not a 100% guarantee. Some mail may still pass through sorting machines depending on its destination or the policies of the postal service.
3. Can I use wax seals with international mail?
Yes, you can! But keep in mind that international mail often passes through multiple sorting machines, which increases the risk of damage to your wax seal. Using flexible wax and an outer envelope will give you the best chance of your wax sealed envelope arriving intact, even overseas.
4. What type of envelopes work best with wax seals?
Envelopes with a slightly textured or sturdy surface, like our vintage burlap texture envelopes, work best with wax seals. The texture helps the wax adhere better, reducing the chance of it falling off during transit.
5. Can I use wax seals for packages?
Yes, you can! Wax seals are a great way to add a decorative touch to packages. However, because packages are often handled more roughly than letters, it’s a good idea to:
- Use flexible sealing wax for added durability.
- Apply the wax seal to a smooth, flat surface on the package.
- Consider using adhesive backing to apply pre-made wax seals—this gives you more control and helps the seal stay firmly in place.
Final Words
Sending letters with wax seals is such a thoughtful way to make your correspondence stand out. By following these best practices above, you can confidently mail wax sealed envelopes without worrying about damage.
Ready to create your own wax-sealed mail? Check out our wax seal stamps and sealing wax to get started on your next project.
Don’t forget to tag us @GiftedChop on social media so we can celebrate your unique wax seal projects and share the inspiration with our community.
