How To Properly Seal Envelopes
Making sure your envelopes have a good seal is integral to ensuring they make it through the mail safely. The following tips will help you be sure you get it just right!
WATER: It's important to make sure you are using the correct amount of water to seal your envelopes. No one wants to lick envelopes (yuck!) so we recommend using a foam paintbrush to seal them. Dip your foam brush in a bit of water, squeeze out the excess, then carefully run it along the adhesive strip of the envelope. You want enough water to fully dampen the strip, but not so much that it drips off or ripples the paper. Test this on a blank envelope before trying it on your printed envelopes.
PRESSURE: The glue on envelopes does not seal immediately, so it is important to apply pressure to the seal after closing the envelope. After adding the water and folding it closed, run your fingers along the seams for 10-15 seconds to ensure that it fully adheres. For extra peace of mind, you can stack a heavy hardcover book on the envelopes until they are fully dry.
LINERS: If you're using an envelope liner, you want to place the liner below the adhesive, leaving the adhesive fully exposed. Covering part of the adhesive may prevent your envelopes from sealing properly.
OTHER WAYS TO SEAL: If using water to seal your envelopes makes you nervous, you can also use glue sticks (like the ones they use in elementary school), Zip Dry Glue, or a tape runner.