Sending a handmade card is a wonderful way to show someone you care, but why stop at the card? Decorating the envelope adds an extra touch of magic and makes your mail even more special. Here are five fun and creative ways to decorate an envelope that will delight anyone who receives it!
1. Stamped Borders
One of the easiest ways to jazz up an envelope is by adding stamped borders. Using coordinating stamps to create decorative borders around the edges of your envelope adds a cohesive and charming touch that matches your handmade card. You can also simply stamp on the flap of the envelope to add a beautiful and coordinated touch.
Stamped borders are quick, easy, and make a big impact!
2. Envelope Liners
Envelope liners are a delightful surprise for the recipient and can be coordinated with your card’s design. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own envelope liner. Click here for a template I have created that you can download and print out or follow my instructions below.
How to Do It:
- Choose Your Paper: Select a patterned paper or cardstock that complements your card design. The paper should be thin enough to fold easily but sturdy enough to hold its shape.
- Measure the Envelope: Open the envelope flap and measure the width and the length from the bottom of the envelope to the tip of the flap.
- Create a Template: Using your measurements, draw a template on a piece of scrap paper or cardstock. The liner should be slightly narrower than the envelope width and long enough to fit inside with the flap covered. I also have a template you can use. Click here for the download.
- Cut the Liner: Trace your template onto the patterned paper and cut it out. Make sure to trim any excess if it doesn’t fit perfectly.
- Adhere the Liner: Slide the liner into the envelope to check the fit. Once it fits nicely, use adhesive on the back of the liner’s top flap portion and press it down inside the envelope flap. Avoid putting adhesive on the lower part to keep it flexible when opening and closing.
- Fold and Seal: Close the envelope flap to create a crease in the liner, ensuring it folds neatly along with the envelope.
This added touch of a liner not only looks beautiful but also gives an extra hint of craftsmanship to your handmade card.
3. Embossed Details
Adding embossed details to your envelope flap can elevate the entire presentation. Use an embossing folder to create texture, making your envelope feel extra special.
How to Do It:
- Place the envelope flap inside an embossing folder.
- Run it through your Cut & Emboss Machine.
- Gently remove the envelope and admire the elegant texture.
Embossed details are a subtle yet sophisticated way to enhance your envelope.
4. Heat Embossing
Heat embossing creates shiny, raised designs on your envelope, adding a personalized touch.
How to Do It:
- Stamp your design using VersaMark embossing ink.
- Sprinkle embossing powder over the inked design, tapping off any excess.
- Use a heat tool to melt the powder, creating a shiny, raised effect.
Heat embossing makes your design pop and gives a professional finish to your envelope.
5. Stenciled Designs
Using stencils is a great way to add intricate designs to your envelopes.
How to Do It:
- Secure a stencil over your envelope using a removeable tape.
- Use ink pads and blending brushes or sponge daubers to apply ink through the stencil.
- Carefully remove the stencil to reveal your design.
Stenciling allows for endless creative possibilities and can be easily coordinated with your card.
Here is the YouTube video from my channel showing step-by-step for how to decorate envelope using these tips and tricks. While you’re there, please give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. I sure appreciate your support.
Decorating your envelopes with these techniques will make your handmade cards even more special. Try out these ideas and see how they transform your mail into a work of art! Happy crafting!
