WIYM: Handmade Envelopes

Envelopes are so fun and super easy to make! Plus, we all use them for the swaps we send.

Templates: There are all sorts of ways to get them, but one of the simplest ways is to take an envelope you already own and carefully take it apart. Trace it onto a piece of heavy card stock or lightweight cardboard (cereal boxes work great), cut it out, and now you have your very own template and are ready to make envelopes! I’m sure once you try this method, you’ll start looking all envelopes in a new way.

You can also find free templates online, or you may already have a special scoring board just to make envelopes with. I have the Martha Stewart scoreboard and it definitely saves time because you don't have to trace or cut. You just use your paper cutter to cut squares, score, fold, glue/tape and you're done. But the first technique I told you about is the best way to get started if you don't have the money to get the scoring board. Plus, I still use it especially when I find a unique sized envelope I want to make a template for.

So, what do you make envelopes out of? All sorts of papers (decorative, scrapbook, recycled calendars, wallpaper, maps, etc.) Please stay away from using paper that is too thin as it might rip or tear in the mail. Magazine pages and book pages fit this category - they crinkle and tear in the mail.

Fine Details:

You will have 2 partners. You will make and send each partner 3 envelopes.

The envelopes should be no smaller than the minimum allowed by United States Postal Service (5” x 3 1/2” = 8.89 cm x 12.7 cm). Other than that, you can make them as large as you want to. It's optional to put a double-sided peel off tape strip on your envelopes.

It's also optional to include mailing labels (sometimes I use labels and sometimes I write directly on the envelope with a Sharpie marker).

This swap is sender's choice. Have fun!

P.S. Minimum joining requirements: 5 recently completed Type 2 or 3 swaps, and all of them rated a 5.