In this blog we are discussing, you guessed it, envelopes! I’m sure you know what an envelope is, but if you don’t, you’re in the right place. Envelopes come in all shapes and sizes and have different purposes. Choosing the right envelope has everything to do with what you are creating. Maybe you want an envelope that matches your paper, or something completely different to add a little contrast. Or maybe you just want to buy a ton of cool envelopes. Go for it. I won’t judge! Either way, I hope this blog helps with your next envelope choice.
As you know, or at least hopefully you remember from my last blog, envelopes are created by die-cutting. So basically, a machine is used to cut out a very precise shape out of a piece of paper. This piece of paper is folded into a shape that makes an envelope. The way that this envelope is cut and shaped is determined by what kind of envelope is desired. So, let’s get into types of envelopes.
Commercial Envelope: This is your standard, everyday envelope. Commercial envelopes are also called “officials”. They are typically used for personal and business correspondence. They typically have a square or pointed flap and diagonal seams. These envelopes can also have windows if desired. A window is the hole cut into an envelope, usually a rectangular shape, and often covered with plastic just to protect the materials inside. Windows usually have a purpose, which is to reveal some of the information in the envelope. These envelopes also fit your typical 8.5 x 11 standard letterhead. Commercial envelopes work for a lot of things, so you can’t necessarily go wrong with them, but there are definitely other ones to try out.
Square Flap: Square flaps are relatively common, but just the small detail of a square flap changes the look of an envelope completely. I really like the way envelopes.com describes it: “The elegant and distinctive square flap on the back of the envelope goes a step above standard envelopes and lets the recipient know there is something worth noticing inside.” Square flaps come in an assortment of sizes, but you can get them in your standard 8.5 x 11 which makes them pretty accessible. They work well for invitations and are very commonly used for greeting cards. Choosing different colors, or foil stamping to print on envelopes is also a nice touch. Just make sure that it represents the materials inside, and you’re good to go!
Side Seam: Side seams are found in a most envelopes. A double side seam is most common, and it is found in your commercial envelopes, or envelopes with square flaps, etc. The seams run along the back (or the opening side) of the envelope. All of these different kinds of seams are created with the die-cut. Here’s a picture of a double side seam:
A diagonal side seam is exactly what it sounds like. It’s just your typical seam, but diagonal. They work well for announcements, however it is not recommended to print over these seams as the ink does not lay well.
Single side seams are usually found on open end envelopes, and they can either be placed on the left or right side of the envelope. These side seams work well because they allow for more room for printing, which is always awesome!
A-style: A-style envelopes are great for “social announcements”. This includes, greeting cards, small brochures, invitations, promotional pieces, etc. They come in a variety of sizes, but typically have the square flap.
Booklet Envelopes: Booklet envelopes incorporate an open flap on the long side, rather than the back, that makes it easier to enclose brochures and booklets! The open flap also leaves a lot of room for printing whatever your heart desires, which is useful.
Square Envelopes: Square envelopes are exactly what they sound like; square shaped envelopes! This might not seem like a big deal, but they’re my favorite. I just think that the symmetry and balance of square shaped envelopes is extremely appealing. Most of the time, square envelopes also have square flaps, but you can find some with triangular flaps, too.
Catalog Envelopes: Catalog envelopes are similar to booklet envelopes that open on the long side, however they open on the short side. These are also known as open-end envelopes. This makes it easy to safely insert materials without damaging anything, so if you have a booklet or brochure that is fragile, I recommend these.
Business Announcement: Business announcement envelopes are mainly determined by size. They typically measure 4 ⅛” by 9 ½”. This sizing is relevant because papers used for business announcements are most often 8.5” x 11”.
In conclusion, there is a lot that goes into choosing the right envelope. It just depends on what you have to put inside of that envelope! Just make sure that when you choose one, it suits your work and won’t damage it. I hope my insight is helpful!
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