How to Safely Open Wax Sealed and Other Types of Letters Without Damage

Opening wax-sealed or delicate letters delicately can be a rewarding experience. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step approach to safely uncover the contents of these historical documents without causing any damage.

Opening a Wax Seal Letter

Opening a wax-sealed letter can be a significant moment in document handling. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to approach this task carefully:

Examine the Seal: Look closely at the wax seal to understand its structure. Gather Tools: You will need a sharp thin blade, tweezers, or a small letter opener. Warm the Wax: Gently warm the wax with your breath or a hairdryer for a few seconds to soften it. Cut the Seal: Carefully slide the blade under the edge of the wax seal. If it is soft enough, it should lift without cracking. If not, apply more warmth. Lift the Seal: Use tweezers to lift the seal away from the paper gently. Take your time to avoid tearing the paper. Open the Letter: Once the seal is lifted, you can unfold the letter as you normally would.

Tips:

Practice on a Dummy Seal: If you’re nervous, practice on a piece of paper with a wax seal you don't mind damaging. Be Patient: Rushing can lead to tearing the paper or breaking the seal, so take your time.

Alternative Methods for Opening Envelopes

There are other methods to open envelopes that don’t have wax-sealed closures. Here are some techniques:

Method 1: Using Leverage and Water

If a wax seal is not present, you can try using leverage and water to open the envelope. This method is less risky and can be successful on thick paper or envelopes with poorly attached glue:

Find a tongue depressor or similar tool: Use a flat, curved wooden tool to gently open the envelope. Poke the tool under the corner flap: Gently rock the tool up and down, applying light pressure to the edge of the envelope flap. Use a damp cotton swab: Slightly dampen the corner flap with a cotton swab. If it doesn't work, try the steam method. Try other flaps if present: Check if the envelope has multiple flaps.

Method 2: Freezing an Envelope

This method works on envelopes that were sealed with glue that can become loose when frozen. It is a less risky technique:

Put the envelope in a plastic bag: Protect it from moisture while it is in the freezer as some glues may become loose and sticky again when frozen. Pry the envelope open: Use a blunt tool like a tongue depressor to gently open the envelope. Seal the envelope again: Use a damp cotton swab or inconspicuous dabs of glue to seal the envelope.

Method 3: Steaming an Envelope

This method is particularly useful on envelopes that were licked closed. Here are the steps:

Use boiled water: Start with a cup of boiled water to produce steam. If it doesn't work, try a jet of steam from a kettle. Warm a flat opening tool: Warm a tongue depressor or butter knife in the steam for ten seconds. Attempt to open the envelope: Place the warm tool against the corner of the flap and hold it directly in the path of the steam. Move the envelope gently against the tip of the tool to prevent water damage. Use an iron to smooth the opened envelope: Wait for the envelope to cool and dry before replacing the contents.

Method 4: Cutting and Repairing with Papier-maché Paste

This creative method is useful for hiding a small cut in the side using papier-maché paste. Here are the steps:

Hold the envelope in front of the light: Examine the document inside to ensure you don't disturb it. Make a small cut: Snip off a tiny corner of the envelope, preferably at the bottom, without damaging the document. Create a papier-maché paste: Mix white flour and water to a runny consistency and test it on a spare piece of paper. Seal the cut with papier-maché: Spread the paste to the edge of the cut in the envelope, ensuring not to get the document wet. Sand away rough edges: Once the paste is dry, use fine sandpaper to smooth any rough bits.

By following these methods, you can safely open and restore the contents of delicate letters without causing any damage. Each technique has its own advantages and is suitable for different types of envelopes.