DIY Paper Envelope

Create a quick and stylish DIY paper envelope with no glue or scissors required!

All you need is an A4 sheet of paper and a few simple folds to make a handy envelope perfect for notes, cards, or small keepsakes.

Making a paper envelope from a standard A4 sheet is a convenient way to add a handmade touch to your letters, gift-giving, or organization needs.

This easy origami project requires no extra materials-just a rectangular piece of paper, ideally one you already have on hand, to fold into a functional and stylish envelope.

Perfect for holding notes, letters, invitations, or even small mementos, this DIY envelope is highly versatile and can be personalized with your choice of colors and paper textures.

For those who enjoy papercrafts or origami, this project offers an opportunity to practice neat folds and crisp creases, producing a final product that feels thoughtful and unique.

It's also a practical and eco-friendly option; instead of buying envelopes, you can repurpose any A4 sheet or even recycled paper into a useful envelope.

This method is suitable for creating envelopes for any occasion, from special events to everyday use.

Whether for a personal note, a holiday card, or a quick thank-you gift, this DIY envelope is the perfect addition to your homemade craft ideas and skills.

Other paper envelopes you might like to try include these easy Square Paper Envelope or these rectangle origami envelopes.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

• Great way to make custom-sized envelopes for A4 paper notes.
• You could also use A5 sized paper for smaller envelopes.
• Requires no extra materials, only paper and folding.
• Customizable for any occasion.
• Quick to fold and perfect for last-minute gifting.

Skill Level

Difficulty Level: ★☆☆☆☆ (Very Easy)

Materials Needed

Paper Size Options

An A4 sheet of paper (8.3 x 11.7 inches or 21 x 29.7 cm) is standard for this project. Adjust the paper size for different envelope dimensions.

You could also use A5 sheet of paper for a smaller envelope.

Paper Type & GSM

Lightweight to medium-weight paper, such as 70-100 GSM. Printer paper works well for easy folding.

Video Tutorial

Struggling with a tricky fold or want to see it done in real time?

You're not alone - that's why we created a full step-by-step video tutorial for this design inside The Fold Collective (an Easy Foldable Creations exclusive community).

We guide you through each fold at a pace that's easy to follow, so you can fold along with confidence and enjoy the process.

Joining gives you access to this video tutorial and a growing library of exclusive tutorials - all designed to inspire you, help you improve, and make folding even more fun.

The Fold Collective is more than just exclusive video tutorials and printable PDF patterns.

It's about building a thriving community of paper crafters from all over the world.

If you want to be part of something special, and gain access to a growing library of exclusive tutorials, join The Fold Collective and start folding today.

Prefer the step-by-step photo tutorial instead?

No problem - the full photo guide is waiting just below.

Instructions

Step 1: Start with the color you want your envelope to be facing down. Arrange it to lay horizontally.

Step 2: Fold the paper in half from left to right.

Step 3: Unfold previous step.

Step 4: Fold the top left corner to meet the middle crease.

Step 5: Fold the top right corner to meet the middle crease.

Step 6: Fold the bottom edge up to meet the edge of the triangles.

Step 7: Fold the bottom edge up again, following the existing crease.

Step 8: Fold the top point down to meet the bottom edge.

Tips For Success

• Use a bone folder or ruler edge to achieve sharp creases, making the envelope structure more secure.
• Make sure folds are aligned, as this will help the envelope close neatly and evenly.

Common Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

• Misaligned folds: Take time to align the edges carefully, as even small misalignments can affect the envelope's appearance.
• Paper buckling: Avoid heavy or textured paper, which can make folds bulky and uneven.

Color, Paper Ideas, and Variations

Experiment with patterned or colored paper to make the envelope stand out.

Use themed paper for holiday events, or add stickers, washi tape, or small drawings to personalize a plain white envelope.

For a more elegant feel, try pastel or textured paper.

FAQ

Other Paper Crafts You Might Like To Try:

• Rectangle Origami Box With Lid
• Origami Fox
• DIY Gift Bags From Wrapping Paper
• Triangle Origami Corner Bookmark
• 2D Origami Bell
• Origami Wreath
• Origami Star Bowl
• Eagle Paper Plate Craft
• Paper Card Holder

Helpful Origami Tips

If you're curious to learn more about origami, you might like to look at our basic guides on how to make some common origami folds.

Start with the valley fold and mountain fold-these are the foundation of most origami models.

Once you're comfortable, you might like to try the petal fold for 3D shapes, and explore the bird base and square base for more complex designs.

The water bomb base is also great for creating inflatable or geometric models, like this inflatable origami rabbit.

Useful Paper Craft Terms

Want to learn a little more about paper crafts and origami?

We've made this helpful printable just for you. It explains common terms and helpful tips you might come across when you are folding origami or making a paper craft project.

You can download the useful paper craft terms printable PDF here.