This pleated origami envelope is an elegant way to present small gifts, handwritten notes, or gift cards for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, Mother’s Day, and more.
Made from just one sheet of paper, it folds beautifully in minutes—no glue or scissors needed!
Jump to:
If you love adding a personalized touch to your gifts, this pleated origami envelope is the perfect way to elevate your presentation.
Whether you're slipping in a handwritten note, a gift card, money, or small keepsakes, this no-glue origami design is a stunning alternative to store-bought envelopes.
With its intricate pleated design, this envelope looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.
You only need one sheet of paper and within minutes you'll have a beautifully folded envelope.
Plus, you can customize it to match the occasion by choosing different colors, patterns, and textures of paper.
This envelope is perfect for a variety of celebrations, including Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, or even just to surprise a friend.
If you want to add a little extra charm, try sealing it with a wax seal, ribbon, or decorative sticker.
Whether you’re crafting for fun or making a thoughtful handmade touch for a gift, this pleated origami envelope is a must-try.
It’s quick, stylish, and a joy to fold!
Other quick and easy envelopes you might like to try include this Paper Leaf Envelope, Origami Heart Envelope, DIY Paper Envelope, or this Square Paper Envelope.
Why You'll Love This Pattern
- No glue or scissors needed – Just fold and it’s ready!
- Perfect for any occasion – Ideal for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, and more.
- Stylish & unique – The pleats add a beautiful touch to a simple envelope.
- Beginner-friendly – Easy to fold, even if you're new to origami.
- Customizable – Use different paper types, sizes, and colors to match the occasion.
Skill Level
★☆☆☆☆ (Very Easy)
Materials Needed
- 1 square sheet of paper
Paper Size Options
| Paper Size | Final Envelope Size | |
| Small Envelope | 6 inches x 6 inches (15cm x 15cm) | 3 inches (7cm) x 2.5 inches (6.5cm) |
| Medium Envelope (great for gift cards) | 8 inches x 8 inches (20cm x 20cm) | 4 inches (9.5cm) x 3.5 inches (9cm) |
| Large Envelope | 10 inches x 10 inches (25cm x 25cm) | 5 inches (12cm) x 4 inches (11cm) |
Use thin origami paper for crisp folds or decorative cardstock (best for large envelopes) for a sturdier envelope.
Instructions
Step 1: Start with the color you want your pouch to be facing down. Arrange your paper to sit like a diamond.
Step 2: Fold the left point to meet the right point.
Step 3: Unfold previous step.
Step 4: Fold both the bottom left and right edges of the paper in to meet the middle crease.
Step 5: Fold the bottom point up to meet the point shown.
Step 6: Fold that same point inside the paper. If you find the point doesn’t stay inside the paper, add a bit of glue or double-sided tape.
Step 7: Fold the outer bottom left and right edges in to meet the lines shown.
Step 8: Unfold previous step.
✨ You're almost there! ✨
To unlock the final steps and complete your pattern, create a free account with Grow.me. below.
Make sure you tick the box to subscribe to our newsletter and stay up to date with the latest patterns, tips, and more!
Once you're signed up, you'll get instant access to finish your project and enjoy exclusive content in the future.
Already signed up? Hit the button below and select ‘Switch to Log In’ to pick up where you left off and finish your project!
Step 9: Reverse fold the folds you made in step 7. To do this, you will slightly open out your paper and then push the edges in until they sit inside your paper.
Step 10: Fold the bottom left and right edges of the paper (top layer only) inward slightly on a diagonal.
Step 11: Fold the top point down as far as it will go.
Step 12: Working on the top flap (that you just folded down in step 11), fold the bottom left and right edges inward slightly.
Step 13: Completed pleated origami envelope. To seal your envelope, you could use some double-sided tape and then seal it or use a sticker or washi tape.
Tips For Success
- Use thinner paper for easier folding—thick paper may be harder to crease.
- Press down on each fold firmly to keep the pleats sharp and crisp.
- If your paper is stiff, lightly score the folds with a ruler to make them neater.
- For a more secure envelope, use a wax seal, ribbon, double sided tape, or a sticker to keep it closed.
Color, Paper Ideas, and Variations
- Use red, pink, or pastel colors for a Valentine’s Day gift.
- Try Christmas-themed paper or metallic cardstock for holiday gifting.
- Neutral-toned paper with a wax seal for a sophisticated look.
- Use hand-painted or patterned scrapbook paper for a custom design.
- Add calligraphy, stickers, or stamps to the front for extra charm.
FAQ
Press each fold firmly and use a bone folder or ruler for extra crisp creases. If you are still having trouble, you can add a bit of glue.
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.
Stay Connected
Made this pattern? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
Pin this post - Pin now to take your paper crafting skills to the next level.
Share on Instagram or Facebook - Capture the beauty of your finished paper craft project and share it on Instagram or Facebook! Tag us @easyfoldablecreations so we can see your work!
Other Patterns You Might Like To Try:
Looking for other easy patterns like this? Try these:
Comments
No Comments