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.
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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.
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.
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Step 9: Unfold previous step.
Step 10: Fold the left side to meet the middle crease.
Step 11: Fold the right side to meet the middle crease.
Step 12: Fold the left flap up at about 45 degrees.
Step 13: Fold the right flap up at 45 degrees.
Step 14: Insert the top point of the paper into the bottom pocket, keeping the diagonal flaps underneath.
Step 15: Completed paper envelope.
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
Yes, you can.
Add a sticker or a piece of tape to keep it closed without changing the structure.
Absolutely! Repurposing old paper or even magazine pages adds charm and makes this a more eco-friendly project.
Other Paper Crafts You Might Like To Try:
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.
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