Are you looking for the perfect greeting card envelope to complement your handmade card? This comprehensive guide to greeting card envelopes will explore the various types of envelopes available, including different sizes, colors, and materials. Whether you’re sending a heartfelt card to a friend or a formal invitation to a special event, choosing the right envelope is essential for making a lasting impression. Let’s delve into the world of greeting card envelopes and discover everything you need to know about your handmade greeting card’s perfect companion.
I. Introduction
Greeting cards are a timeless way to express sentiments and celebrate special occasions. Whether it's a birthday, wedding, or holiday, a thoughtful greeting card can brighten someone's day.
However, the presentation of a greeting card is not complete without a well-suited envelope. Greeting card envelopes play a crucial role in protecting the card and adding to the overall aesthetic appeal. Here at Altenew, we understand the importance of quality paper crafting tools, and our range of greeting card envelopes is designed to enhance your card-sending experience.
A Brief History of Envelopes
The history of envelopes dates back to ancient civilizations, where early forms of envelopes were used to enclose letters and important documents. In ancient China, envelopes were made of paper and used to store monetary gifts
The concept of folded paper envelopes, as we know them today, began to emerge in the 19th century. With the advancements in paper production and printing, envelopes became more standardized and widely used for personal and business correspondence.
The introduction of pre-gummed envelopes simplified the process of sealing envelopes, making them more convenient for everyday use. Over time, envelope designs and materials evolved, offering a wide range of options for different purposes and occasions.
In the modern era, envelopes continue to play a crucial role in communication, marketing, and stationery. With the advent of digital communication, envelopes have also adapted to new trends and technologies, remaining a staple in the world of paper-based correspondence and mailing.
II. Understanding Greeting Card Envelopes
Source: Common envelope sizes and styles
A. Greeting Card Envelope Sizes
Greeting card envelopes come in various sizes to accommodate different card dimensions. Common sizes include A2 (4.375" x 5.75"), A6 (4.75" x 6.5"), and A7 (5.25" x 7.25"). Another type of card and envelope is slimline, which measures 3 ⅞” x 8 ⅞”. It's essential to choose an envelope size that fits your greeting card comfortably, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
B. Envelopes for Greeting Cards: Standard Sizes and Custom Options
Standard envelope sizes for greeting cards provide a convenient choice for most card designs. However, for unique or custom-sized cards, custom envelope options are available to cater to specific dimensions and design preferences.
Source: Common envelope sizes and styles
Different companies also offer envelopes made from various materials such as:
- Smooth
- 100% Cotton
- Plain Weave
- Felt Weave
- Linen
- Kraft
- Metallic
- Vellum
Learn More About Basic Crafting Tools Every Crafter Should Have
C. Altenew's Greeting Card Envelope Products
- Crafty Necessities: A2 Greeting Card Envelopes
Have you ever wished your favorite Altenew ink colors had coordinating envelopes? Your crafty wish is our command!
Our Crafty Necessities Envelopes are the perfect companion for your A2-sized (4.25" x 5.5") handmade cards. These envelopes are designed to coordinate with Altenew's signature color families, adding a personal touch and a splash of color to your mail.
- Vellum Envelopes
Designed for 5" x 7" greeting cards, our A7 envelopes offer a spacious and elegant presentation for wedding invitation cards and other formal greeting cards.
Features:
- Size: A7
- Bar : 5.25 x 7.25”
- Quantity: 50 envelopes
- Flap Type: Square Flap
- Paper Type: Vellum
- Envelope Art Stamp Set
This clever stamp set allows you to adorn the outside of your envelopes with the same level of beauty as the card inside. Let the surprises begin before your loved one even opens your card!
A stunning bunch of ferns and leaves will be a joy to color, and the unique straight and curved banner stamps give you the versatility to customize between single or multi-layered banners. The charming sentiments and large "to" and "from" will find a place on the outside of an envelope or package, and you are sure to use the images on other projects, as well!
Here are 5 fun and easy ways to decorate your envelopes!
- Envelope Liner Die Set
Nothing is more luxurious than opening an envelope with a beautiful liner. An envelope liner can be used to add elegance, or you can use a funky patterned paper for a fun surprise! This die cuts a liner for an A2-sized envelope and perfectly coordinates with Altenew envelopes. We have even included a few extra dies, which can be used to cut details from the flap portion of the liner.
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Lovely Envelope Die Set
Before you put your card in an envelope, put an envelope on your card! This adorable little faux envelope die will add a small envelope image to your projects that you can decorate with a variety of flowers, leaves, and hearts. This die works great with any other stand-alone dies or stamps in your stash. Decorate this lovely envelope with your favorite images, or stuff a few removable bits and pieces for the recipient of your card.
TIP! If you add adhesive only at the edges of the envelope, you can create the easiest and quickest pocket for your projects and add little coupons, gift cards, or memorabilia.
Discover the Different Types of Paper Crafting Tools and Their Purpose
III. Choosing the Right Envelope for Your Greeting Card
Matching Envelopes to Greeting Card Sizes
Selecting the right envelope size for your greeting card is essential for a polished and professional look. A well-fitted envelope not only protects the card but also enhances its visual appeal.
Custom Greeting Cards with Envelopes: Personalization Options
Custom greeting cards deserve equally special envelopes. With Altenew's special stamps, dies, stickers, washi tapes, and more you can elevate your personalized cards with bespoke envelopes that reflect your individual style and creativity.
How do you personalize your greeting card envelopes? Here are a few products you can use.
- Stamps - Use your favorite stamp design to customize the front, back, or flap of your handmade card envelope.
- Stencils - Not into stamps? Try stenciling designs onto your DIY greeting card envelopes!
- Washi Tapes - These provide quick and easy designs that will turn your envelopes from 0 to 100 instantly!
- Stickers - Decorate or seal your DIY card envelopes with your favorite stickers.
- Wax Seal - Looking for something more posh and elegant? Try wax seal stamps!
Read more on how to decorate your envelopes with 3D embossing folders or watch the video below for more tips!
How do you mail cards with embellishments?
Here’s a top tip from May Park! “You can always add extra postage or use bigger envelopes. Adding padding in front of the card also helps keep the embellishments in place. If you don't want your card to be bulky, avoid using thick embellishments.”
Find the Best Color Coordinated Greeting Card Envelopes
IV. Steps to Make a Greeting Card Envelope
A. Materials Needed
To create your own greeting card envelopes, you will need paper or cardstock, a ruler, a pencil, scissors, adhesive, and any decorative elements you wish to add. You may also use an envelope punch board if you have one.
B. Step-by-Step Guide
- Measuring and Cutting the Paper
Start by measuring the dimensions of your greeting card and adding an allowance for a snug fit. Use a ruler and pencil to mark the outline on the paper or cardstock before cutting it out carefully.
- Folding and Assembling the Envelope
Score along the folding lines and carefully fold the paper to form the basic envelope shape. Apply adhesive to secure the edges and flaps, ensuring a sturdy construction.
- Decorating and Personalizing
Let your creativity shine by decorating the envelope to complement the greeting card inside. Add embellishments, stamps, washi tapes, stickers, wax seals, or hand-lettered designs to make the envelope as special as the card it holds.
V. Conclusion
We believe that sending a greeting card is more than just an exchange of words – it's an opportunity to share heartfelt emotions and thoughtfulness. By offering customizable envelope options and innovative designs, we aim to inspire creativity and personalization in every aspect of sending and receiving greeting cards.
Greeting card envelopes are an essential component of the card-giving experience, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Whether you opt for standard sizes or custom ones, the right envelope can elevate your greeting cards and make each recipient feel truly special.
FAQs
Greeting card envelopes come in various sizes, but the most common sizes are A2 (4.375" x 5.75") for smaller cards and A7 (5.25" x 7.25") for larger cards.
To make a simple greeting card envelope, you can start by measuring your card and adding 1/4 inch to each side. Then, cut a piece of paper to the calculated size, fold it according to the card's dimensions, and seal the edges to create the envelope.
An A6 envelope typically measures 4.75" x 6.5".
An A4 envelope usually measures 4.25" x 6.25".
A 5x7 envelope typically measures 5.25" x 7.25".
Envelopes for standard-sized cards are usually slightly larger than the cards themselves to allow for easy insertion and removal. For example, a 5x7 card would typically be paired with a 5.25" x 7.25" envelope.
