The Timeless Art of Wax Seals: A Beginner's Guide for Crafters and Creatives
Wax seals have been used for centuries to add a personal, elegant touch to letters, invitations, and important documents. Today, theyâre experiencing a revival, not only on wedding stationery and brand packaging but also in the creative worlds of scrapbooking, junk journaling, and mixed media art. Whether you love the history or the aesthetic, learning how to use wax seals can add a unique, tactile element to your projects. What Are Wax Seals? A wax seal is created by melting sealing wax and pressing a wax seal stamp into it, leaving an impression. Historically, they authenticated the sender and ensured a letter or document hadnât been opened. Today, wax seals are just as likely to be tucked into a scrapbook layout, layered in a collage, or glued to a journal tag as they are to close an envelope. Artists and crafters love them for their instant vintage appeal and the way they blend beautifully with paper layers, lace, fabric, and ephemera. Why Wax Seals Are Still Popular with Creatives Wax seals have a certain magic,combining tradition with creativity. Hereâs why paper artists love them: * Personalization â Custom wax seals can match your initials, brand, or project theme. * Aesthetic appeal â The glossy, raised finish draws the eye and adds texture. * Versatility â Works on paper, ribbon, vellum, fabric scraps, and more. * Keepsake quality â Seals feel special, and people tend to keep them. Types of Sealing Wax Choosing the right wax helps you get the results you want: - Traditional sealing wax â Brittle, best for hand-delivered or display projects. - Flexible sealing wax â Resin-based, mail-safe and page-safe for scrapbooks. - Glue-gun sealing wax sticks â Perfect for batch-making seals for journals or embellishments. - Bead wax â Melt small beads in a spoon for a wider color palette. How to Use Wax Seals Creating wax seals is simple, but the method you choose depends on your project. Traditional method: 1. Heat the wax with a spoon over a flame. 2. Pour onto the surface.