Looking to add an extra special touch to a letter or wedding invitation? Instead of proper sealing wax I’ve substituted a red crayon. But all in all, I’m pretty pleased with the result. It’s a good idea to have a little practice on some scrap paper before you attempt to seal your final project.
Sealing wax tips and fundamentals emerge throughout this guide. Real sealing wax contains resin which helps it stick to the paper and makes it supple and flexible. I read somewhere that the stamp should have a film of moisture to prevent the wax from sticking. I think it looks quite smart on this envelope made from a vintage map. I probably wouldn’t expect that this crayon seal would stay intact if posted, so best to use on hand delivered items.
Do I even need to say it? You know that I love wax seals. It’s a little bit of a problem, but not enough of one to make me change my ways ;) Which is why I’m so excited to share this tutorial with you today! I’m sure you’ve been there too-you have a fun idea for a wax seal stamp, but you don’t want to spend the money on this little idea… or wait for the production and delivery, for that matter! So what is a girl (or boy) to do? Follow this video tutorial to create your own wax seal stamp, of course!
I’m not usually one for “crafts” like this, but again, if it has to do with wax seals? Supplies:Sculpey ClaySealing Wax (haven’t used this, but it’s prime!)A medal spoon and candle OR a hot glue gun to melt the waxCarving tools: - Sharp Pencils or pens - Needles or a Safety Pin - Pendents to create an impression
DIY Wax Seal Stamp Written Tutorial:
Shaping and preparing the stamp
Shape the stamp: Warm up the clay in your hands (I used about half a 1oz block) and then create the shape for your stamp. I did this by rolling the clay in-between my palms to create a ball, shaping it into a cyllandar and then pinching the top to create a handle of sorts. I recommend about a 1 - 1.5 inch diameter for the stamp itself. Too big and it’s more likely to break. To keep the top of your stamp nice and smooth, simply tap it gently against the table.
Create the Impression: Now for the fun part: designing your stamp! Using whatever tools are at your disposable, press into the clay in order to create the design for your stamp. I have found that pendants or embellished jewelry is a great option for creating a fun design and requires less “creativity” on your part ;) I used a pearl earring for the design in this video, but previously I preferred using a mechanical pencil for control when creating the thin lines in the stamp. Don’t let this intimidate you-it’s just clay and if you “make a mistake” then you can always fix it by kneading the stamp and forming it again or covering the “mistake” with a little piece of clay.
Keep in mind! Everything you carve into the stamp will be in reverse when you actually stamp the wax! So if you’re trying to create a monogram or date, make sure that you hold it up to a mirror to make sure it will stamp correctly before you cook it :)
Cooking and finishing the stamp
Cook the stamp: Check the instructions on your clay (should be on the packaging), but the sculpey clay that I used cooked in a 275 °F oven (130 °C) for 15 minutes. I found that it was critical to cook for the full 15 min or else your stamp is more likely to break. Don’t forget to allow your stamp to cool before you use it! It’s hard to wait that extra time, but your stamp will be so much stronger if you’re patient enough to wait for it (also, it would stink to burn your crafting fingers!).
Use your beautiful stamp! After your stamp has cooled it’s time to make a seal-woo-hoo! You can either use a spoon and candle (tutorial here) or a glue gun (tutorial here) to melt your wax. This will probably take a little practice to find the right amount of wax for your particular stamp, so use a scrap piece of paper for your first attempt. After pouring your wax, carefully press the stamp into the wax while it is still hot and allow it to rest for a few minutes. I recommend waiting longer than you think you will need to -because the sculpey clay absorbs the heat rather than cooling the wax, it will take some time.
Time to remove the stamp? Give it a little push-if the wax seems to make a little lip right next to the stamp, then it’s not ready. If there is a small gap created between the wax and the stamp, then you know that it’s ready to be removed!
Alternative sealing methods and long-lasting options
If you want something that will stand the test of time: I recommend exploring Artisaire and their beautiful stamps for something that will last. I’ve worked with them for a few years now and their quality and customer service has been unmatched so far. Thank you all so much for the love and support of my Wax Seals Collection!!
With that being said, I thought I should share with you my wax seals step-by-step guide on how to make the best of it! Over time I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that I thought I should note as well as a few ideas when applying it to various pieces at once!
01. 02. CUT WAX: If using the wax sticks, cut into pieces around 3/4″ long. 03. MELT + CHILL: Put the small cut piece into your spoon (my favorite here) and hold over the flame about 1.5″. I use a small tool or toothpick to actually stir the wax while in the spoon to speed the process and create an even melt. 04. POUR WAX: When the wax is runny + liquified (but not boiling) pour onto your paper in a small circle about .75-1″ in circumference. 05. 06. COOL + PULL: If you didn’t chill the seal prior, let it sit for a minute or so before peeling off.
P.S. Always use caution when using candles or heating. Never leave unattended. Never leave melts sitting with candle going without intended immediate use.
Historical note: Many years ago I wanted to find sealing wax for invitations for a murder mystery party. I wasn’t giving up on my idea and since Michaels stores weren’t prevalent in Canada yet, I went to the library and found a book that said that letter wax was originally made with beeswax, and then eventually mineral pigments were added for colour. Eventually I had an idea to seal my jars of homemade vinegars, condiments, and bottles of wine by dipping them in the wax. Beeswax didn’t work quite how I wanted it to. It was too crumbly and a pain to remove. After many mixes and messes, trying everything from colored beeswax candles, cheese wax, and paraffin wax, I remembered trying to clean up the large round balls of melted glue stick that dripped on Mr. Handy’s grandmother’s craft table.
The method evolved: a small pot to melt the glue sticks, experimenting with combinations of glue and wax, and finally discovering a reliable recipe. This approach has been used for sealing envelopes, gift bags, pirate maps, wedding invitations, and even bottled products. The process involves melting and mixing crayon and glue sticks, using a jar or spoon to apply the melted wax, and then sealing with a stamp while the wax is warm. It remains a flexible and practical option for many craft and packaging projects.
5 DIY Wax Seal Stamps : Beginner to Advanced
Practical steps at a glance
- Cut wax into pieces and melt in a spoon over a flame until liquid.
- Pour a small circle of wax on paper; allow to cool slightly.
- Press your stamp into the wax and hold for a moment before lifting.
- Let the wax fully cool to ensure a clean imprint.
Table: materials and basic temperatures
| Material | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sculpey clay | Stamp handle | Shape and bake as instructed (275 °F / 130 °C, ~15 min) |
| Sealing wax | Wax seal | Wax sticks or crayon-based substitutes; test for adhesion |
| Wax melting tool | Application | Spoon or glue gun; avoid direct flame on wax |