How to Make an Envelope at Home With and Without Glue

 Making envelopes using glue is a classic method that produces strong and neat envelopes. This process is relatively simple and suitable for various types of paper. With a little precision, you can create the perfect envelope for your needs, ensuring your documents or letters are well protected. 

What You Need:

- Paper (A4 size or as needed)

- Ruler

- Pencil

- Scissors or cutter

- Paper glue or double tape

- Cutting mat (if using a cutter)

1. Prepare the Paper: Start with a square or rectangular piece of paper. For a standard envelope, you can use A4 paper and cut it into a larger square shape, or directly use origami paper. Make sure the paper is clean and not wrinkled.

2. Determine the Size: Place the card or object to be inserted into the envelope in the center of the paper. Make sure there is enough space around it for the folds, ideally about 1-2 cm on each side so that the envelope is not too tight.

3. Fold the Bottom: Fold the bottom of the paper upwards, covering about two-thirds of the height of the card or object to be inserted. Make sure the fold is straight and neat, you can use a ruler to help fold.

4. Fold the Sides: Fold the left and right sides of the paper towards the center, making sure both sides meet or slightly overlap in the middle. The width of this side fold will determine the width of the envelope, so adjust it to fit the contents.

5. Make the Top Triangle: Fold the top of the paper down to form a triangle or envelope flap. The tip of this triangle will be the envelope flap that will be sealed later. Make sure this fold is also neat.

6. Apply Glue: Reopen the side folds and the bottom. Apply a thin layer of glue along the edges of the side folds that will meet the bottom. You can also use double tape for a cleaner and faster drying result.

7. Glue: Reattach the side folds to the bottom that has been glued. Press gently so that the glue adheres firmly and the envelope is formed. Let the glue dry completely before use so that the envelope does not reopen.

 Making envelopes without glue is a practical solution when you don't have an adhesive or want to make an envelope that can be easily reopened. This method often relies on clever folding techniques to lock the shape of the envelope. This is a good choice for small gifts, letters that don't require a permanent seal, or when you want to recycle paper. 

What You Need:

- Paper (A4 size or as needed)

- Ruler

- Pencil

- Scissors or cutter

- Cutting mat (if using a cutter)

1. Prepare the Paper: Choose a square or rectangular piece of paper. Paper that is not too thick will be easier to fold and shape without tearing. Make sure the paper is in good condition.

2. Fold Diagonally (Optional): For origami-style envelopes, you can start by folding the paper diagonally to find the center point, then reopen it. This helps in determining the next folding point.

3. Fold Corners to Center: Fold the four corners of the paper towards the center point or slightly past the center point. Make sure the folds are neat and the corners meet in the center to form a symmetrical envelope base.

4. Shape the Sides: After the four corners are folded, you will see a diamond shape. Fold the left and right sides towards the center, making sure the edges are aligned and form a sturdy envelope body.

5. Lock the Folds: Fold the bottom up. To lock without glue, you can make a small slit on one of the side folds and insert the end of the bottom fold into it, or fold the bottom in such a way that it forms a pocket to lock.

6. Close the Envelope: Fold the top down to close the envelope. You can tuck the end of this flap into the pocket formed from the bottom fold or lock it by folding the end in, creating a secure closure.

7. Neaten: Press all folds firmly using a ruler or fingers to ensure the envelope remains in shape and looks neat. This also helps strengthen the folds so they don't open easily.

 After successfully making the envelope and inserting its contents, the next equally important step is to seal it securely. Sealing ensures that the contents of the envelope remain protected and are not easily lost or seen by others. There are several methods you can use to seal your homemade envelope, depending on the type of envelope and the level of security desired. 

- Using Envelope Glue: If your envelope has a built-in glue strip (like commercial envelopes), simply moisten the strip with a little water or lick it, then press the envelope flap down. For homemade envelopes with glue, apply paper glue to the inside of the flap and press firmly.

- Using Double Tape: Attach thin double tape along the edge of the inside of the envelope flap. Remove the protective layer, then press the flap down to seal it. This is a clean, strong, and fast-drying method, suitable for various types of paper.

- Using Sealing Wax: For a classic and elegant touch, use sealing wax. Melt the sealing wax over the closed envelope flap, then press the wax seal stamp into the still-liquid wax before it dries. This gives a very personal and difficult-to-forge look.

- Using Stickers or Decorative Tape: For envelopes that don't require a permanent seal or for decorative purposes, you can use large stickers or decorative tape (washi tape) to hold the envelope flap. This is easy to open and adds aesthetics to your envelope.

- Using Paper Clips or Ribbons: If you want an envelope that can be opened and closed repeatedly, use a paper clip to hold the flap. Another alternative is to wrap a ribbon around the envelope and tie it neatly. This is suitable for envelopes containing items that are frequently accessed or as gift wrapping.