How to Make an Envelope

Why Learn How to Make an Envelope Yourself?

Making an envelope from scratch is simple, creative fun. You don’t need fancy tools—just a piece of paper and a few minutes. It’s a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your letters or cards.

If you make the envelope by hand, you can choose the color, size, and style all by yourself. This makes your card or message feel so special. It shows your love and care.

Over the years, I’ve made many DIY envelopes in different styles. Learning how to make an envelope by hand is always rewarding—especially when you see someone smile as they open it. And once you’ve created your own, knowing how to address an envelope properly adds the perfect finishing touch. Try it once and you’ll be surprised how easy and meaningful it can be.

Step-by-Step Process to Make a DIY Envelope

Start with a Square Sheet of Paper

Start with a square shaped piece of paper. Make sure the paper is clean and smooth. the size of the square will depend how big you want envelope will be.

Tip: Use a ruler to trim the edges

Fold the Paper Diagonally into a Triangle

Now if you are wondering how to fold a piece of paper into an envelope, first fold the square paper in half, diagonally to make a triangle.

Press the fold with your fingers, it’ll make your crease sharp.

Tip: Make sure the corners match exactly for a clean finish.

Fold the Left and Right Corners Inward

Take the left corner of your envelope and fold it towards the center. repeat the same process with right corner. Make sure the edges should meet or slightly overlape each other.

This forms the side flaps of your envelope

Tip: The envelope will stay balanced if the folds are even.

Fold the Bottom Corner Upwards

‘Fold the bottom corner of the triangle upward. Now this creates the envelope shape where you’ll place your note or card. If you are thinking to make an envelope without glue, this fold holds well on its own.”

Tip: Make sure the bottom fold should slightly cover the side flaps to hold everything in place.

Cover the Side Flaps with the Bottom Fold

The bottom flaps should cover the side corners neatly. This step will lock the side folds and help you to keep the shape strong.

Tip: Firmly press down to create smooth surface

Fold the Top Flap Down to Close the Envelope

To make the envelope lap, fold down the top corners. This flap will give the envelope a clean, finished look

Tip: You can decorate the flap or leave it simple.

Insert a Note or Card and Secure the Envelope

Insert your card, note or letter inside the envelope. Then use glue, sticker or tape whatever you have to seal the top flap.

If you’re not using glue, you’ve just learned how to make an envelope without glue.

Ta da, your hand made envelope is ready to use!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making DIY Envelopes

Creating your envelope at home is all fun and easy until a little mistake spoils the look or shape. I listed some common mistakes to avoid while making an envelope:

• Not Using a Perfect Square: Make sure your paper is in a square shape. If the paper is not even, it won’t line up the folds and the envelope will look messy.
• Incorrect Fold Alignment: Make sure every fold is neat and even. If folds are not even, the envelope won’t close properly.
• Using the Wrong Paper Type: Don’t use very thin paper, it’ll tear apart. Same for thick paper, it’ll be hard to fold. Choose medium-weight paper. Now you may want to know how to make an envelope out of printer paper, it also follows the same steps.
• Using Too Much Glue: If you use glue, only apply a minimal amount. Not too much, otherwise it’ll make the paper wet. And once you’re done folding, don’t forget to learn how to write apartment address an envelope correctly—it’s a small detail, but it makes sure your handmade envelope gets to the right place.

If you want to learn how to make an envelope out of A4 paper, don’t worry; just follow the same steps! Once you’re done, you can also learn how to address an envelope properly to complete the process.