How to make DIY Envelopes

Learn how to make cute Handmade Envelopes using scrap book paper, magazine pages and other fun printed paper.

Years ago, when my Mom and I used to still write letters to each other (remember those?), we decided it would be fun to start making our own diy envelopes.

We used everything from the Sunday newspaper comic section to old calendar pages and even our own photographs.

For the labels, we mainly used white address stickers but these days there are also cool scrapbooking labels you could use.

What is the best paper to make envelopes?

Really, any paper will work for envelope making as long as it is sturdy enough and large enough.

Here are just a few suggestions:
Magazine pages, Catalogs, Scrapbook paper (many of the scrapbooking kits also include the labels you can use for the addresses), Family Photos printed on large paper.

And, you also need an envelope to take apart and use as a template. This can be a blank one you have laying around or even an envelope that was already sent to you. It really doesn’t matter since we are only using it as a template.

By the way, these cool, handmade envelopes are not just for greeting cards or letters, either.

Think Baby Shower or Bridal Shower Invitations, Kid’s Birthday Party and Christmas Party invites. Why no invite your girlfriends over for a DIY Envelope Party?

How to Make a DIY Envelope Template

Now, you have to create your template. As I said before, any blank envelope will do, just make sure it is larger than the card or letter you plan to put inside.

If you are going to make a lot of them, you may want to use several different sizes of blank envelopes.

Basically, all you do is open up your envelope by undoing the glued edges. A sharp knife may help. If you have the time (and are so inclined) you can also steam them open. This will ensure clean edges. They really don’t have to be perfect, though.

How Do You Make Homemade Envelopes?

Outline the Envelope

Now, you are going to place your template on top of your scrapbook paper or magazine page. Play around with the position of the template to make sure the front of your envelope looks the way you want it.

I wouldn’t worry too much about the image being perfectly straight on the envelope. It can be fun to play with different angles.

Once you have the layout you want, use the pencil and trace the edges of the blank envelope onto your craft paper. Then, cut out the outline with your scissors.

Fold Paper into an Envelope

Next, place the template on top of the cut out paper. Using the creases in the blank envelope, fold your paper along the same lines. It helps to lay the ruler along the creases and folding both papers over the ruler.

Glue the Handmade Envelope

Now, again using the blank envelope as a guide, fold and glue the edges on the bottom portion of the side flaps. Let the glue dry completely.

Finish Your DIY Envelope

The only left to do is add a label for the address. This can be cut out of coordinating paper or it can be a fancy address label.

Just make sure that all the glued edges are holding together well and that the label is firmly stuck along the edges. You don’t want it to get stuck in the sorting machine at the Post Office!

Can I Send a Homemade Envelope?

Absolutely! According to the US Postal Service, envelopes don’t have to be any specific size or shape. You can even slap an address label and postage on a basketball and mail it so have some fun with this.

Just be courteous and make sure the addresses are easy to read. It’s no fun if your cute diy envelope doesn’t arrive at its destination.

Hope you enjoyed this tutorial!
Annette

How to make DIY Envelopes