How To Make A Paper Envelope

Need a quick, DIY envelope for your letter, note or gift card?

Learn how to make a paper envelope with that requires just one square sheet of paper-no glue or scissors needed!

Creating a paper envelope using origami is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to letters, invitations, or small gifts without having to rely on store-bought options.

These paper envelopes have a charm all their own, giving each letter a unique look that stands out from standard envelopes.

This project is not only easy and quick but also allows you to experiment with various types of square paper, adding character through colors, patterns, and textures.

These origami paper envelopes are perfect for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, or any event where you want your note to feel a little extra special.

The beauty of this DIY paper craft is in its simplicity: with just a few well-placed folds, you'll have an envelope that securely holds notes or gift cards without any adhesive or additional materials.

It's also highly adaptable-switching between smaller and larger squares allows you to control the envelope size, making this a versatile addition to your DIY craft skills.

Whether you're making an envelope for a holiday card or creating several to match a wedding theme, this easy technique lets you customize each one to suit any purpose.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

• No glue or scissors needed, just folding!
• A versatile project that can hold small items like notes, gift cards, or photos.
• Customizable to any theme or occasion.
• Easy to make in just a few minutes.

Skill Level

★☆☆☆☆ (Very Easy)

Materials Needed

Paper Size Options

For most uses, a 6 inch x 6 inch (15 cm x 15 cm) square will create a perfect size envelope for notes or small cards. Larger sizes like 8 inch x 8 inch (20 cm x 20 cm) or 10 inch x 10 inch (25 cm x 25 cm) work well for longer notes or larger items.

Paper Type & GSM

Origami or lightweight paper with 70-90 GSM works well. Avoid thick paper, as it may make the folds difficult and result in a bulky envelope.

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.

Step 2: Fold the bottom edge to meet the top edge.

Step 3: Unfold previous step.

Step 4: Fold the bottom edge to meet the middle crease.

Step 5: Fold the top edge to meet the middle crease.

Step 6: Unfold previous 2 steps.

Step 7: Fold the bottom edge up to meet the nearest crease.

Step 8: Fold the bottom edge up to meet the middle crease line.

Tips For Success

For a more polished look, make sure your folds are crisp and aligned. Using a bone folder or even the edge of a ruler can help smooth and secure creases.

Color, Paper Ideas, and Variations

Opt for paper that matches the theme or occasion. Pastels work well for spring events, whereas bold colors or patterns can make the envelope stand out as a gift.

You can also use recycled paper for a more eco-friendly approach or decorate plain paper with stamps, stickers, or drawings for a customized look.

FAQ

Other Paper Crafts You Might Like To Try:

• Origami Masu Box
• Triangle Origami Corner Bookmark
• DIY Gift Bags From Wrapping Paper
• Christmas Tree Napkins Fold
• Origami Mouse
• Origami Swan

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.