Stationery Crafts

How to Make a Custom Envelope in Any Size

Read all of the steps before starting.

Step 1: Measure Card

Measure the card or letter and add a little extra. (How much extra depends upon the thickness of the card or letter—usually about ¼", or 5 mm.) Draw a rectangle the measured size onto the center of a large piece of paper. Mark the center with an 'X'.

Tip:  To determine the size of paper needed, sketch a small version of the envelope pattern on a piece of paper making note of all the measurements.

Tip: The pattern may fit better if the rectangle is drawn at a 45° angle on the paper. As a guide, look at the envelope patterns in the Envelopes to Make project. You might also want to duplicate some of the features of these envelopes.

Step 2: Measure for Top Flap

Measure the distance from the 'X' to the top of the rectangle. Add ½" to ¾" (13-19 mm) to this value for overlap. Mark a point this distance above the rectangle, in the center.

Step 3: Draw Top Flap

Draw lines from this point to both corners of the rectangle to form a triangular-shaped flap.

Step 4: Draw Other Flaps

Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the bottom and side flaps, but only add about ¼" (6 mm) extra for overlap to the side flaps.

Tip: If you drew a small sketch for paper sizing, use the measurements noted to determine the size of paper needed. For the paper height, add the top and bottom flap measurements to the center rectangle height. For the paper width, add the side flap measurements to the center rectangle width. Draw the full-size pattern on the paper.

Step 5: Make Envelope

Follow the instructions in the Envelopes to Make project for completing your custom envelope.

Tip: Remember, it may be best to orient the pattern on the diagonal to get the best fit.

That's it! You are done!

Keep up with Aunt Annie's Crafts on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, RSS feed or with our newsletter.