Envelope Template Generator
Make an envelope that fits your card exactly. Pick a standard size such as A2 or A7 or type your own card size, choose the flap shape and depths, and download a true-size PDF to print and cut, or an SVG for a cutting machine.
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How to use the Envelope Template Generator
- Choose an envelope size from the list, or type your card's width and height; the envelope adds the clearance you set.
- Pick a top flap shape and adjust the flap depths with the sliders.
- Check the paper: Auto picks the smallest sheet the template fits on. Try the diamond layout if it is too big.
- Download the PDF and print at 100% / Actual size. Measure the 1-inch test square to confirm the scale.
- Cut on the solid line, score and fold on the dashed lines: side flaps first, then the bottom flap glued along the shaded edges, and the top flap last.
Standard envelope sizes
| Envelope | Envelope size | Fits card | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 / 4bar | 3.625 × 5.125 in | 3.5 × 4.875 in | RSVP and reply cards |
| A2 | 4.375 × 5.75 in | 4.25 × 5.5 in | Thank-you notes, Letter sheet folded in quarters |
| A6 | 4.75 × 6.5 in | 4.5 × 6.25 in | 4 × 6 photos, invitations |
| A7 | 5.25 × 7.25 in | 5 × 7 in | Wedding invitations, greeting cards |
| A9 | 5.75 × 8.75 in | 5.5 × 8.5 in | Letter sheet folded in half |
| #10 | 4.125 × 9.5 in | Letter folded in thirds | Business letters |
| C6 | 114 × 162 mm | A6 card (105 × 148 mm) | International cards |
| C5 | 162 × 229 mm | A5 card or A4 folded once | International documents |
| DL | 110 × 220 mm | A4 folded in thirds | International letters |
How the template is sized
The envelope body is the card plus the clearance (or the standard size you picked). Flap depths are set as a percentage of the envelope height: the bottom flap should reach past the middle so it overlaps the top flap, and the side flaps only need to be deep enough to give the bottom flap something to glue to. The whole template is roughly the body width plus two side flaps across, and the body height plus top and bottom flaps down.
- Paper weight: 24–32 lb text (90–120 gsm) folds crisply. Patterned scrapbook paper, maps, sheet music and gift wrap backed with light card all make striking envelopes.
- Liners: print the template again on decorative paper, trim about 1/8 in inside the top flap and body, and glue it inside before folding.
- Stack and trace: print once on card stock, cut it out and trace around it to make many envelopes from any paper.
Frequently asked questions
What size envelope do I need for a 5 × 7 card?
A 5 × 7 in card goes in an A7 envelope, which measures 5.25 × 7.25 in, a quarter inch bigger in each direction. Other common pairs: a 4.25 × 5.5 in card fits an A2 envelope (4.375 × 5.75 in), a 3.5 × 4.875 in RSVP card fits an A1 or 4bar (3.625 × 5.125 in), and a 4.5 × 6.25 in card fits an A6 (4.75 × 6.5 in).
How much bigger than the card should an envelope be?
Allow about 1/8 in (3 mm) of space on each side, so the envelope is about 1/4 in (6 mm) larger than the card in both width and height. Thick or layered cards need a little more. The clearance box sets this for custom sizes.
What paper size do I need to make my own envelope?
The flaps roughly double the height and add about two-thirds to the width, so an A2 template fits on Letter or A4, while A7 and larger envelopes usually need Legal, 12 × 12 in scrapbook paper or Tabloid. The diamond layout often fits a larger envelope on square paper. The tool shows the template size and the smallest paper it fits on.
How do I fold and glue the envelope?
Cut along the solid outline, then score the dashed fold lines with a bone folder or an empty ballpoint pen and a ruler. Fold in the two side flaps, fold up the bottom flap and glue it to the side flaps along the shaded glue areas. Insert the card and seal the top flap with glue, double-sided tape or a sticker.
Can I use the SVG with a Cricut or Silhouette?
Yes. The SVG is drawn at true size in inches with a single closed cut path (id "cut") and separate dashed fold lines. Import it, check the size in the software, set the fold lines to score or draw, and cut. Turn off labels if you don't want text on the envelope.
Will a handmade envelope go through the mail?
In the US, envelopes need to be at least 3.5 × 5 in and rectangular to mail at standard letter prices. Square envelopes and those that are rigid or unusually thick pay a non-machinable surcharge. Use paper of about 24 lb / 90 gsm or heavier and make sure the flap is sealed. Check current postal rules before mailing many.
Why should I print at 100% (actual size)?
Most PDF viewers shrink pages to fit the printable area by default, which makes the envelope a few percent too small for your card. Choose Actual size or 100% in the print dialog and measure the 1-inch test square before cutting.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.