How to Make an Envelope

People use envelopes to send letters or documents through regular postal mail, considering them a form of packaging. Typically crafted from paper or hardened paper, envelopes come in various sizes. Some may require folding the paper to fit inside, while others are large enough to accommodate the paper without any folding.

A large envelope is called a manila envelope, usually colored somewhere between yellow and orange, and is used to send several pages of paper when a regular envelope would be too small. People use manila envelopes for sending essential documents, such as birth certificates, which are better left unfolded. To send the mail, individuals typically affix a stamp to the envelope for postage payment.

Introduction

The art of creating a handmade envelope may appear outdated in the digital era of today when emails and other technological communication methods dominate. Still, there are times when adding a personal touch is beneficial. Making your envelope may give a distinct touch and individuality to any contact, whether you're sending a handwritten card, a meaningful letter, or an invitation. We will look at a simple and inviting method for creating an envelope in this step-by-step explanation.

Materials Required

The following supplies are required to build a basic envelope:

• Paper: Select a high-quality paper or sheet that suits your needs in terms of size and color.
• Pencil: Used for light sketching and marking guidelines.
• Ruler: Necessary for taking measurements and drawing straight lines.
• Scissors: A fine pair of scissors to cut the paper.
• Glue or double-sided tape: To keep the envelope folds in place.

You may choose to use more materials to improve the durability or add additional aesthetic aspects to your homemade envelope. The following additional resources are ones you may find helpful:

• Decorative Paper or Scrapbook Paper: Use creative paper for your envelope, such as patterned or decorative paper.
• Markers or Pens: Put artwork, doodles, or a message on the envelope using colored pens or markers.
• Stamps or Stickers: Put stickers or stamps on your envelope to give it a unique look.
• Washi Tape: A decorative adhesive tape that can decorate the borders or close the envelope.
• Seal: An attractive approach to sealing the envelope is with a wax seal or sticker.
• Envelopes Liner: Consider putting a liner inside your envelope to give it a more professional appearance.
• Corner Rounder: A corner-rounder tool might be useful if you want the corners of your envelope to be rounded.

Note: These additional elements are optional, and you may personalize your envelope according to your tastes and the event for which it is being made.

A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Pick a Paper Sheet

Choose a piece of paper to make your envelope. There are several alternatives for this, including wrapping paper, origami paper, brown paper bags, scrapbooking paper, and A4 papers.

Step 2: Fold the Two Longer Sides of the Paper

Put the paper down on the surface of your work. Make sure the pattern is facing down on the side of your envelope if you are using patterned paper. The paper should be folded in around 1.5 to 2 centimeters on each side. Firmly crease.

Step 3: Fold the Paper's Bottom Flap Upward

Now, crease the paper's lower edge. Firmly crease. The paper should be unfolded, and the sides should be taped or coated with adhesive. Press to firmly fold the card in half so that the edges stick together.

Step 4: Create Triangles by Folding the Paper's top Flaps

The upper corners should be folded down to form triangles where they meet in the center. Firmly press. Fold it down again and hold it until it is tight. Lift the corners on the left and right, then use glue or double-sided tape.

Step 5: Fold Down the Upper Flap of the Paper

Fold down this upper flap that you have created, and now your envelope is complete. You can use glue, double-sided tape, or a sticker to keep the flap down once you have placed your card or letter inside.

Creating an Envelope for a Card

Simply place the sheet of paper on the desk or table, align the bottom border of the paper with your card, and adjust the envelope so that it fits your card perfectly. Make sure that your paper is around 2.5 times the height of your card and 2 cm broader on each side than your card. The envelope-making process can be finished as previously indicated once your paper has been trimmed to the desired size.

Conclusion

Creating your envelopes is an easy and satisfying pastime that gives your letters a unique touch. Try creating distinctive envelopes for different occasions by experimenting with different kinds and sizes of paper. Whether you're sending a unique invitation or a passionate letter, a handcrafted envelope lends your message a personal and creative touch. Try it out and experience the delight of sending your words and a work of your handiwork.