The use of Qiagen QIAamp and QIAshredder for extracting DNA from envelope f
laps and stamps is reported. The stamps or flaps can be added directly to e
xtraction solutions and the DNA is bound to a spin column containing a sili
con membrane for washing prior to elution. DNA extracted from four stamps a
nd four envelope flaps was amplified and analyzed using a multiplex PCR sys
tem. Complete DNA profiles were obtained from five samples.