Types of Envelopes
Anish
March 16, 2024
In today’s world of digital communication, featuring email and instant messaging, physical paper envelopes are no longer the primary means of interaction and may even strike you as a relic from the past. However, they remain indispensable for various mailing needs.
Envelopes come in an astonishing array of types and sizes, from standard business envelopes to elegant invitation envelopes, each meticulously designed to fulfill various forms of correspondence.
That said, choosing the right envelope is more than a matter of preference. Instead, it’s about ensuring your precious documents and heartfelt messages are delivered securely and in style.
Whether you’re sending a greeting card, an official business contract, or an event invitation, understanding which envelope is appropriate for a given situation is essential.
This article explores the myriad types, sizes, and applications of envelopes, navigating how these pieces of paper play a crucial role in the art of communication.
Are you curious about what envelope types you can send through the United States Postal Service (USPS)? Talk to a retail associate at your local post office. Visit FindPostOffice.org to find your area’s Postal Service facilities.
A Guide to Envelopes
When you hear the word “envelope,” what image comes to mind? For most people, this word immediately brings a picture of a rectangular piece of paper with a triangular-shaped opening flap and is used to house letters.
However, the first known envelopes, which date back to 3,500 to 3,200 B.C., were far from this modern preconception. Instead, as if in total contrast, they were spherical, made of clay, and were used to cover coins. It wasn’t until 2nd century China that we would first glimpse paper envelopes.
This historical tidbit highlights an essential aspect of envelopes – they come in various shapes and sizes. Let’s break down the different types of envelopes available today, shall we?
Envelopes Have Feelings Too!
The primary purpose of an envelope is to protect the contents within it. But aside from its obvious objective, envelopes serve an often forgotten goal – to convey your feelings.
The envelope is the first thing your recipient sees, making it your initial mode of expression. Choosing the appropriate envelope type lets you communicate the intention of the mailpiece and your personality as the mailer.
For instance, a business envelope featuring a company’s logo and return address indicates it contains business correspondence. In contrast, a colorful envelope with whimsical stickers attached shows the sender’s intentions are light-hearted.
How Many Types of Envelopes Are There?
Asking the question of how many envelope types there are is like asking how many grains of sand are on a beach. While some may say there are only 19 and others 7, it’s difficult to put a precise number on the available types of envelopes.
The envelope world is quite diverse. From common styles that follow standard size guidelines to specialized options that use features like security tints, there’s practically an envelope for every occasion.
Common Envelope Styles: What Are the Primary Types of Envelopes?
As mentioned, envelopes come in all shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific purpose. Therefore, choosing the right envelope type suited to your unique needs ensures your message is conveyed as intended.
Unfortunately, with an almost endless supply of envelope styles, picking one perfect for you can sometimes be overwhelming. To simplify this process, let’s explore some primary envelope styles, their unique features, and the situation they’re best suited for.
Baronial Envelopes
If you want an envelope option that exudes elegance and tradition, choose baronial envelopes. These envelopes find their calling in various applications, including greeting cards, personal letters, and invitations.
Although other envelope types can fulfill a similar purpose, baronial envelopes set themselves apart in their design. These envelopes are characterized by their distinctive pointed flap, which is deeper and more extensive than most others.
Baronial Envelope Size Chart
The beauty of baronial envelopes lies in their versatility. They come in various sizes, colors, materials, and flap depths, accommodating diverse needs and preferences.
If you’re contemplating using a baronial envelope to complement your style and the tone of your message, here’s a size chart:
| Baronial Envelope Type | Envelope Width and Height |
| 4 Bar | 5 1/8” x 3 5/8” |
| 5 Bar | 5 5/8” x 4 1/8” |
| 5 ½ Bar | 5 3/4” x 4 3/8” |
| 6 Bar | 6 1/2” x 4 3/4” |
| 7 ½ Bar | 7 1/2” x 5 1/2” |
A-Style Envelopes
A-style envelopes are distinct for their eye-catching square flap design. This envelope type is perfect as a social announcement envelope. It’s commonly used for invitations, small booklets, and promotional pieces, offering a stylish and contemporary touch to your correspondence needs.
These envelopes typically use text-weight papers as their primary material. However, other A-style envelopes use vellum-finished paper in white and ivory, cotton fiber, and high-grade sulfite paper.
Announcement Envelope Size Chart
As mentioned, A-style envelopes can give your communications a unique and premium appearance with its square flap design and diverse material options. So, if you’re aiming for a distinct presentation, here are some common envelope sizes:
| A-Style Envelope Type | Envelope Width and Height |
| A2 | 4 3/8” x 5 3/4” |
| A6 | 4 3/4” x 6 1/2” |
| A7 | 5 1/4” x 7 1/4” |
| A8 | 5 1/2” x 8 1/8” |
| A10 | 6” x 9 1/2” |
| Slimline | 3 7/8” x 8 7/8” |
Square Envelopes
Square envelopes are exactly what their name says – they’re square in shape. These envelopes are best known for their symmetrical design. They are simple yet incredibly stylish, making them ideal for announcements, advertising, and invitations.
However, like other envelope types, square envelopes are diverse. Some feature timeless square flaps, while others have deep triangular contour flaps.
Size and Dimensions
Square envelopes come in assorted sizes, ranging from miniature- to calendar-sized, giving you an option for almost every mailing situation. These sizes include the following:
| 3 1/4” x 3 1/4” | 7 1/2” x 7 1/2” |
| 5” x 5” | 8” x 8” |
| 5 1/2” x 5 1/2” | 8 1/2” x 8 1/2” |
| 5 3/4” x 5 3/4” | 9” x 9” |
| 6” x 6” | 9 1/2” x 9 1/2” |
| 6 1/2” x 6 1/2” | 10” x 10” |
| 7” x 7” |
Colors
If you want to add flair to your correspondence, square envelopes provide color options. From neutral shades like bright white, natural, and clear translucent to more elegant ones such as ruby red, blonde metallic, and blush, there are so many hues to choose from.
Commercial Envelopes
If you need an envelope type suitable for business correspondence, you can choose commercial envelopes. What makes these envelopes ideal for professional mail is their size, which is purpose-built to accommodate standard paper sizes, like printer papers and letterheads.
Additionally, commercial envelopes sport a lengthwise seal, with the open end positioned at the top, making them a reliable option for ensuring invoices, professional letters, and other documents reach their destination securely.
Commercial Envelope Size Chart
Most commercial envelopes are in traditional white, off-white, or gray. While you have limited color choices, the same isn’t true for sizes, allowing you to pick an envelope that lets your professional mail items remain well-organized. Here’s the commercial envelope size chart:
| Commercial Envelope Type | Envelope Width and Height |
| No. 6 ½ | 6 1/4” x 3 9/16” |
| No. 6 ¾ | 6 1/2” x 3 1/2” |
| No. 7 ¾ (Monarch) | 7 1/2” x 3 7/8” |
| No. 9 | 8 7/8” x 3 7/8” |
| No. 10 | 9 1/2” x 4 1/8” |
Booklet Envelopes
For the perfect solution to enclose brochures, catalogs, and hefty stacks of paper like annual reports and sales materials, consider using the booklet envelope. This envelope type features a long-side flap, ensuring your documents are well-protected during mailing.
Size and Dimensions
Booklet envelopes are versatile, offering a range of sizes to suit various mail items, such as marketing brochures and business proposals. So, whether you need something compact or more spacious, there’s a booklet envelope that fits your specific mailing needs.
Here are some common envelope sizes:
| 5 1/2” x 7 1/2” | 7 1/2” x 10 1/2” |
| 5 1/2” x 8 1/8” | 8 3/4” x 11 1/2” |
| 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” | 9” x 12” |
| 6” x 9” | 9 1/2” x 12 5/8” |
| 6” x 9 1/2” | 10” x 13” |
| 6 1/2” x 9 1/2” | 10” x 15” |
| 7” x 10” |
Colors
One of the standout features of a booklet envelope is its wide array of color choices. From colorings that exude sophistication, like midnight black, to tones that give an earthy touch, like avocado, you’ll find an assortment of options to match your branding or personal preferences.
Catalog Envelopes
Despite the various sizes available, some envelopes require you to fold your mail items to make them fit. Enter catalog envelopes, which do away with this practice, giving you ample space for diverse mail items.
These envelopes are ideal when you want to maintain a document’s pristine condition for your recipient, such as those that might be framed or presented professionally.
But what about security? Fortunately, most catalog envelopes have a width-wise sticker closure seal. However, some use clasps, ties, and bubble wrapping for additional protection, perfect for documents for filing and archiving purposes.
Catalog Envelope Size Chart
Like other envelopes, catalog envelopes also come in several sizes. However, because of their intended purpose, they have fewer size options than others. These choices include:
| 6” x 9” | 10” x 13” |
| 9” x 12” |
Banker Envelopes
If you’re talking about the most common envelope styles, banker envelopes must make the top of the list. They feature distinctive triangular flaps, various color options, and various sizes. They also boast diverse applications, from greeting cards and personal correspondence to interoffice communication.
Air Mail Envelopes
When you need to send essential mail overseas swiftly, the solution typically arrives through the skies. Hence, you use air mail envelopes, which are explicitly designed to ensure your mail reaches its destination promptly.
Unfortunately, unlike other envelope types, air mail envelopes use a distinct pattern to maintain uniformity for overseas mail delivery.
Disc Envelopes
As the name implies, a disc envelope offers a practical solution if you want to package CDs (compact discs) or DVDs (digital versatile discs) securely. Like air mail envelopes, disc envelopes follow a standard size, which is 5” and 4 7/8” in width and height.
These envelopes often use a combination of plastic and paper as their primary materials. They also sport a cut hole covered with transparent plastic on the front or open side of the envelope, allowing you a clear view of the enclosed disc.
Diamond Flap
The C5 diamond flap envelopes, which measure 9 1/50” x 6 19/50”, are among the most common choices for mailing unfolded A5- or 5 4/5 x 8 3/10 inch-sized documents.
However, diamond flap envelopes also have other sizes, with the C6 and DL being the most frequently used for high-volume production. A C6-sized envelope has dimensions of 6 19/50” x 4 49/100”. On the other hand, a DL envelope measures 4 3/10” x 8 7/10”.
Diamond High Cut
A diamond high-cut envelope is a diamond flap envelope with an additional layer of privacy. It maintains the attractive presentation of the diamond-shaped flap while concealing the contents after opening.
It’s an excellent choice for business-to-consumer (B2C) communications that require a touch of discretion.
Wallet Envelopes
The wallet envelopes take their name from their wallet-like design. Thanks to their trapezoidal straight flaps, which help in automated insertion, wallet envelopes are often employed in automatic mailing machines.
Choosing this envelope for your correspondence can help make a strong impression on recipients and maximize direct mail campaigns and other forms of professional communication.
DL Wallet
Like diamond flap envelopes, wallet envelopes have a DL or a 4 3/10” x 8 7/10” variant. These dimensions let you mail A4 or 8 3/10” x 11 7/10” letters when folded into three.
Unfortunately, DL wallet envelopes are typically brown- or white-colored, limiting your customization options. However, it’s also this simplicity that makes DL wallet envelopes easily recognizable as business-related mail.
DL Wallet With Window
The DL wallet with window envelope separates itself from the standard DL wallet envelope with a distinctive window. This transparent section eliminates the need for you to address the envelope directly.
This time-saving feature becomes especially beneficial when dealing with large volumes of mail. However, for this feature to work, you must ensure you fold your documents correctly.
Additionally, while it lacks the color choices other envelope types have, the DL wallet with window envelopes provides custom window shapes and positions.
DL Wallet Pocket
Another twist on the standard business envelope is the DL wallet pocket. It features a side entry flap instead of a traditional top entry flap, making it significantly easier and faster to fill. This unique feature makes this specific envelope type popular for finance-related correspondence.
Block Bottom
If you’re looking for an envelope that’s up to the challenge of holding more substantial items, like nuts and bolts, the block bottom envelope may be the right envelope for you.
It features a robust inset that makes it ideal for bulky contents. The distinct feature of block bottom envelopes is their lower portion, which folds out flat, making it a perfect label space.
Board-Back Pocket
While you may wonder what a board-back pocket envelope is, you’ve likely encountered this envelope type before, especially if you’ve ever received photos through the mail.
The primary features of a board-back pocket envelope include a sturdy board on one side, which prevents it from bending during transit, and a label section on the other side made from paper for addressing purposes.
Commercial Square Flap
The commercial square flap envelope is a unique envelope that doesn’t require sealing. While this envelope may seem unsafe, it’s a go-to choice for gifts, vouchers, and promotional materials due to its elegant appearance.
Commercial square flap envelopes boast a square-cut design, with a large top flap equal in size to the bottom flap. So, if you want to make a lasting impression, this envelope style is worth considering.
Pocket Envelopes
The pocket envelope comes in various sizes, some smaller and resembling banker envelopes, while some more extended pocket envelope variations have opening flaps on the short side.
Nevertheless, a pocket envelope’s orientation provides ample space for accommodating various contents, including receipts, coupons, passports, traveler’s checks, and photos.
Broad Pocket
Unlike traditional envelopes, which feature diamond-shaped flaps, broad pocket envelopes offer simplicity. Like wallet envelopes, broad pocket envelopes have a wallet-style closure on their short side.
Sample Pocket
Once upon a time, sample pocket envelopes were used for holding seeds. Today, however, their utility extends beyond gardening. One of the most significant advantages of sample pocket envelopes is their split fastener closure system, allowing you to reuse and store them.
Gusset Pocket
The gusset pocket envelope is a versatile variation of the block bottom envelope. However, unlike the latter, gusset pocket envelopes can expand on all sides. These sides are also generally reinforced, as the name of the envelope type suggests, for more robust usage.
Long Pocket
As mentioned, pocket envelopes have opening flaps on their short sides. The long pocket envelope features a similar flap system. However, due to its more extended design, it’s explicitly designed to hold lengthy, narrow documents or bulkier mail items folded to fit.
Eagle Pocket
Like the DL wallet with window envelopes, the eagle envelope offers a streamlined and transparent back panel. This feature allows for an unobstructed view of the return address.
Interestingly, eagle pocket envelopes may not be named after the majestic bird of prey. Instead, their moniker’s origin may have come from the 1986 film Legal Eagles – fitting, as these envelopes are often associated with the legal profession and are commonly used by lawyers.
Topless Thumb Pocket
Most envelopes use a closure flap system to secure their contents. On the other hand, the topless thumb pocket envelope takes minimalism to the next level – it doesn’t have a flap.
Instead, this envelope type features a thumb cut, allowing easier access to documents, record cards, and CDs. This distinct characteristic also makes this envelope reusable and an eco-friendly choice for various applications.
String and Washer
As their name implies, string and washer envelopes offer the tactile feel of unwinding a string from a washer. Note that this envelope type may incur a $0.40 nonmachinable fee.
The nonmachinable surcharge is a tariff that USPS puts on mailpieces that its postal workers must manually cancel. For more information on envelopes ineligible for automated processing, visit your local post office, which you can find with FindPostOffice.org’s search tool.
Tissue-lined Tuck
The tissue-lined tuck envelope is the embodiment of luxury. This envelope boasts an elegant tissue paper lining, adding a touch of sophistication to your message or invitation.
Tuck and Slit
If you prefer an envelope without adhesive, the tuck-and-slit envelope is a practical choice. It features a convenient slit for tucking in the flap, providing secure closure without the need for glue. This reusable design is ideal for items that don’t require frequent access.
Tuck Flap
The tuck flap envelope is characterized by a distinctive feature: the throat of the envelope is cut off. Like the tuck and slit envelope, tuck flap envelopes provide a place to crease the flap in. In this case, the envelope throat.
Note that some tuck flap envelopes use peel-and-stick closures, combining the security of a tuck and slit envelope and envelopes that feature traditional adhesives. This versatility makes these envelopes suitable for various applications, including presenting invitations.
Square Flap Envelopes
With their stylish square flap design on the back, the aptly named square flap envelopes are worth considering if you want to add a touch of sophistication to your correspondence.
These envelopes are an excellent choice for sending greeting cards, photos, and other personal communication, as they come in all the standard sizes and various color options.
Size and Dimensions
As mentioned above, square flap envelope sizes include all the standard invitation dimensions, giving you an option for every situation.
Here are the available sizes for square flap envelopes:
| 2 7/8” x 6 1/2” | 4 3/8” x 5 3/4” |
| 3 5/8” x 5 1/8” | 4 3/4” x 6 1/2” |
| 3 7/8” x 8 7/8” | 5 1/4” x 7 1/4” |
| 4 1/8” x 9 1/2” | 5 1/2” x 8 1/4” |
| 4 1/4” x 6 1/4” | 6 x 9 1/2” |
Colors
If you want to add more character to your personal correspondence, you can customize your square flap envelopes with various colors, including holiday red, mandarin, and candy pink.
Contour Flap Envelopes
The contour flap envelope offers a unique and luxurious feel for invitations, announcements, and greeting cards. Its deep triangular flap, which almost connects to the bottom edge of the envelope, complements the flap’s smoothly curved tip.
Size and Dimensions
Like square flap envelopes, contour flap envelopes are available in all standard invitation sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for your mail items.
Here are the standard sizes for this envelope style:
| 3 5/8” x 5 1/8” | 5 7/16” x 7 7/8” |
| 4 1/4” x 6 1/4” | 5 3/4” x 8 3/4” |
| 4 3/8” x 5 3/4” | 6” x 9” |
| 4 3/4” x 6 1/2” | 6 1/2” x 6 1/2” |
| 5 1/4” x 7 1/4” |
Colors
Contour flap envelopes not only feature an extensive array of size options, but they also come in various colors. These shades range from palette tones like baby blue and lilac to more eye-catching hues such as rose quartz metallic and Jupiter metallic.
Regular Envelopes
If you prefer a more traditional approach to business correspondence, consider regular envelopes. These envelopes feature an iconic, timeless design – a conventional flap with no window.
That said, some regular envelopes come with security tints and pre-moistened adhesive flaps for an additional layer of security. These extra features make regular envelopes suitable for checks, invoices, and communication requiring discretion.
Size and Dimensions
Despite their simplistic nature, regular envelopes provide a variety of sizes. The available dimensions include the following:
| 2 1/8” x 3 5/8” | 3 7/8” x 7 1/2” |
| 3” x 6 1/4” | 3 7/8” x 8 7/8” |
| 3 1/2” x 6” | 4 1/8” x 9 1/2” |
| 3 5/8” x 6 1/2” | 4 1/2” x 10 3/8” |
| 3 5/8” x 8 5/8” | 4 3/4” x 11” |
| 3 3/4” x 6 3/4” | 5” x 11 1/2” |
Colors
Regular envelopes don’t have to be boring. Fortunately, you have a diverse catalog of color options at your disposal. These include traditional choices, such as white, pastel gray, and classic linen, and contemporary selections, like electric coral, seafoam, and pool.
Window Envelopes
A window envelope is an option with at least one opening in the front. This opening allows your recipient to see the contents within. Like envelopes themselves, window envelopes have several types.
For instance, double-window envelopes feature a viewing screen for the mailing and return addresses.
On the other hand, a full-face envelope provides a complete view of the inside, with its entire front side serving as the opening.
Size and Dimensions
Unfortunately, because window envelopes are designed to show specific parts (sometimes all) of the mail within, they follow a strict size guideline. As of October 2023, these envelopes only come in dimensions of 5 34” x 8”.
Colors
While window envelopes lack size variation, it doesn’t in terms of color variety. They’re available in diverse tints, including ivory, white linen, brown Kraft, and wasabi.
Open-End Envelopes
Also known as catalog envelopes, open-end envelopes have flaps on their short side. This design language lets you easily place and remove mail items from these envelopes.
Size and Dimensions
Open-end envelopes are available in various sizes, from small ones to accommodate coins and jewelry to oversized envelopes to fit catalogs and booklets.
Here are the dimensions for the available open-end envelopes:
| 2 1/4” x 3 1/2” | 6” x 9” |
| 2 1/2” x 4 1/4” | 6 x 11 1/2” |
| 3” x 4 1/2” | 6 1/2” x 9 1/2” |
| 3 x 4 7/8” | 7” x 10” |
| 3 1/8” x 5 1/2” | 7 1/2” x 10 1/2” |
| 3 3/8” x 6 | 8 1/2” x 10 1/2” |
| 3 1/2” x 6 1/2” | 8 3/4” x 11 1/4” |
| 3 5/8” x 6” | 9” x 1/2” |
| 4 5/16” x 9 9/16” | 9 1/2” x 12 1/2” |
| 4 1/2” x 10 3/8” | 10” x 1/3” |
| 4 5/8” x 6 3/4” | 11” x 17” |
| 5” x 4 7/8” | 11 1/2” x 14 1/2” |
| 5 x 7 1/2” | 12” x 15 1/2” |
| 5 x 11 1/2” | 12 1/2” x 18 1/2” |
| 5 1/2” x 7 1/2” | 14” x 18” |
Colors
If the open-end envelope’s size options haven’t clued you in yet, it has an extensive amount of color choices, with 9” x 12” envelopes alone having a staggering selection of 50, which includes navy, smoke, and sunflower.
Clasp Envelopes
Like open-end envelopes, clasp envelopes are ideal for bulkier mail items, such as office, school, and home supplies. What sets clasp envelopes apart from their open-end counterpart is the presence of a double-prong metal clasp, reinforced eyelet, and sticky flap for additional security.
Size and Dimensions
Because these envelopes are meant to fit more substantial mail items, clasp envelopes are generally available in larger sizes than others.
Here are the common sizes for clasp envelopes:
| 6” x 9” | 9” x 12” |
| 6 1/2” x 9 1/2” | 10” x 13” |
| 7” x 10” | 10” x 15” |
| 7 1/2” x 10 1/2” |
Colors
While the smaller clasp envelopes offer a diverse set of colorings, such as gray wove and bright lemon, the large-sized ones only come in brown Kraft or traditional bright white.
Document Envelopes
If you’re looking to mail flat but beefy mail items, such as magazines, catalogs, or large stacks of paper, you can use a document envelope. This specific envelope type features a three-inch-wide flap on its long side that lets you quickly access the contents while ensuring their safe arrival.
Size and Dimensions
Like clasp envelopes, document envelopes have limited sizes due to their purpose of securing bulkier mail items. The available document envelope sizes and dimensions are as follows:
| 9” x 12” | 10” x 15” |
| 10” x 13” | 12 x 18” |
Colors
The document envelope follows the design philosophy of “function over form.” Therefore, it stands to reason that it only has gray and brown Kraft as its available color options.
Remittance Envelopes
Donation or remittance envelopes offer a way to collect essential information, serving as the container and the form itself. The outer envelope and the inside of the flap provide ample space to print forms.
The distinct feature of remittance envelopes is that they keep the forms away from prying eyes after you seal them, making them ideal for payment and donation collection. Hence, churches, schools, and fundraising groups prefer to use them.
Size and Dimensions
Remittance envelopes are available in various sizes and dimensions to suit diverse needs. These proportions include the following:
| 3 1/2” x 6” | 4 1/4” x 6 1/2” |
| 3 5/8” x 6 1/2” | 4 5/8” x 8 7/8” |
| 3 7/8” x 8 7/8” |
Colors
Most remittance envelopes are available in pastel colors. These shades include cream, pastel green, pastel pink, pastel canary, pastel blue, and goldenrod. However, if you prefer your envelopes to have a more professional appearance, remittance envelopes also come in bright white.
Pointed Flap Envelopes
Like baronial envelopes, pointed flap envelopes sport refined edges and distinctive pointed triangular closure flaps. This envelope type invokes a classic look, making it suitable for formal correspondence, such as invitations.
Size and Dimensions
Invitations come in various shapes and sizes. So, pointed flap envelopes do, too. Here are the available sizes and dimensions for this specific envelope style:
| 3 5/8” x 5 1/8” | 5 1/4” x 7 1/2” |
| 4 1/8” 5 1/2” | 5 1/2” x 7 1/2” |
| 4 3/8” x 5 3/4” | 5 1/2” x 7 3/4” |
| 4 3/4” x 6 1/2” | 6” x 8 1/4” |
| 5 1/4” x 7 1/4” | 6 1/4” x 8 1/2” |
Colors
Being an envelope designed to give off elegance, pointed flap envelopes have a substantial selection of color offerings. If you want your correspondence to exude passion, there’s ruby red. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bespoke look, you can choose midnight black.
Mini Envelopes
Despite their small stature, the mini envelope isn’t lacking in the style department, offering bright and metallic color options. This specific envelope type’s primary purpose is to provide a convenient way to hold smaller mail items, such as seating cards, greeting cards, gift cards, and business cards.
Size and Dimensions
While relatively smaller than other envelope styles, mini envelopes still come in various sizes and dimensions, including the following:
| 2 1/2” x 4 1/4” | 3” x 4 1/2” |
| 2 11/16” x 3 11/16” |
Colors
As mentioned, you have several color options for mini envelopes, ranging from natural colors, like white and black linen, to more radiant selections, including garnet, magenta, and crystal metallic.
Lined Envelopes
A lined envelope features an elegant lining extending from 1/4” of the bottom inside of the envelope to its flap. You can also add customized printing on the envelope’s front side or the flap to add your unique touch.
Due to their luxurious design, lined envelopes are ideal for a bit of surprise for your recipients and a perfect holder for wedding invitations, photo greeting cards, or heartfelt letters.
Size and Dimensions
Lined envelopes come in most standard invitation sizes, which include dimensions of 4 3/8” x 8 1/4” and 5 3/4” x 8 3/4”.
Colors
One of the most distinct features of lined envelopes is their color diversity, allowing you to choose colors for the envelope and the lining. These choices include white with gold lining, silver with black lining, and natural with red lining.
Specialty-Use Envelopes
As their name suggests, specialty-use envelopes fulfill specific purposes or applications beyond mailing letters and documents. Uses can vary, from protecting CDs and DVDs from scratches to holding credit cards and coins.
Size and Dimensions
While specialty-use envelopes can accommodate various mail items, ranging from tickets, X-rays, and stamps, they generally come in a size of 3 7/8” x 8 1/2”.
Colors
Like other envelope types, specialty-use envelopes are available in various shades. From clear translucent to limelight, multiple options are available to help you see the contents within or to organize your envelopes.
Folded Cards
If you require an envelope that you can fully personalize or as a creative outlet, consider folded cards. These envelopes allow you to integrate your branding or message on the outside and provide a space for your recipients on the inside for their replies- like a response card.
Size and Dimensions
A noteworthy feature of a folded card is that it lets you mold it to your preferences and needs. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about insufficient space, as these envelopes come in various sizes.
Here are the common dimensions for folded cards:
| 2 9/16” x 3 9/16” | 5” x 7” |
| 3 1/2” x 4 7/8” | 5 1/8” x 7” |
| 4 1/4” x 5 1/2” | 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” |
| 4 4/8” x 6 1/4” |
Colors
An envelope isn’t customizable if you can’t pick your preferred colors. Luckily, folded cards are available in diverse palettes, from metallic colors, such as silver and gold, to natural ones that use textures and materials, like natural embossed and natural recycled.
Notecards
Like folded cards, notecards are blank canvases, allowing you to add a personal touch to your correspondence. This envelope type utilizes high-quality cardstock or heavy-weight paper, making it durable and luxurious.
Size and Dimensions
Notecards come in various sizes and dimensions, allowing you to make them personable and unique. Here are the available size options for notecards:
| 2” x 3 1/2” | 4 5/8” x 6 1/4” |
| 2 9/16” x 3 9/16” | 4 3/4” x 4 3/4” |
| 3 1/2” x 4 7/8” | 5 1/8” x 7” |
| 4” x 6” | 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” |
| 4 1/4” x 5 1/2” | 5 3/4” x 5 3/4” |
Colors
You’ll have your fill of color choices with notecards. Do you want your envelope to stand out? Consider using a bright color like sunflower or teal. If you prefer a more subdued appearance, you have your pick of natural linen, vintage plum, and champagne.
Vertical Square Flap Envelopes
Unlike standard square flap envelopes, vertical square flap envelopes have a vertical orientation, technically making them rectangular. Nonetheless, these envelopes make suitable containers for invitations, greeting cards, and photos like their square counterparts.
Size and Dimensions
Unfortunately, vertical square flap envelopes only come in a size of 5 1/4” x 7 1/4”. While severely limited in customization, these dimensions can accommodate various mail items.
Colors
As of October 2023, vertical square flap envelopes are only available in six colors, including bright white, natural, smoke, midnight black, grocery bag, and ruby red.
Cardstock
A cardstock can serve various applications, from small greeting cards to restaurant menus. These blank canvases let you unleash your creativity and add personality to your correspondence.
Size and Dimensions
Like notecards and folded cards, cardstocks are available in various sizes, including the following:
| 4 3/16” x 5 7/16” | 11” x 17” |
| 8 1/2” x 14” | 12” x 12” |
Colors
Cardstocks boasts a staggering collection of over 100 color choices and textures. These tints include classics, such as white, natural, and cream parchment, and striking colors, like copper metallic, chocolate, and boardwalk blue.
Paper
While you can put almost anything inside an envelope if it fits, traditional correspondence involves paper.
Size and Dimensions
Standard paper sizes that will fit most envelopes include the following:
| 4” x 6” | 8 1/2” x 14” |
| 4 3/16” x 5 7/16” | 11” x 17” |
| 5” x 7” | 12” x 12” |
Colors
You’d think that paper used with envelopes only comes in one color: white. However, paper colorings can be as diverse as the selections for envelopes. This variety lets you tailor your message or presentation to make a lasting impression.
All-Purpose Window Envelopes
As mentioned, window envelopes provide a viewing section to see the contents. All-purpose window envelopes take this concept to the next level by providing a large window on the front, eliminating the need for multiple windows.
Size and Dimensions
All-purpose window envelopes are ideal for statements. With that in mind, it makes sense that this envelope type has a standard size with dimensions of 4 1/8” x 9 1/2” in width and height.
Colors
Unlike envelope types, such as mini envelopes or square flap envelopes, all-purpose window envelopes are more business-oriented, warranting more professional colors, like white wove, white with security tint, grocery bag, navy, and wasabi.
Double-Window Envelopes
Standard window envelopes have one window. On the other hand, double-window envelopes, as their name suggests, have two. These viewing sections display the sender’s and the recipient’s address information, making double-window envelopes ideal for business correspondence.
Size and Dimensions
Like all-purpose window envelopes, double-window envelopes have a standard size for their professional purpose. The dimensions of a double-window envelope are 3 5/8” x 8 3/4”.
Colors
As mentioned, your chosen envelope type can convey the purpose and intent of your mail. The same is true for the color you pick. Fortunately, there’s no room for misunderstanding with double-window envelopes as they’re only available in bright white.
Thumb-Cut Envelopes
A thumb-cut envelope has a small cut-out or notch on its side, allowing you to retrieve its contents using your thumb quickly. This envelope type is perfect for credit cards, business cards, or other mail items you must open and close frequently.
Size and Dimensions
The standard thumb-cut envelope size follows the dimensions of 2 3/8” x 3 1/2”. These measurements provide ample space to accommodate items that fit the typical credit card size.
Colors
While thumb-cut envelopes only have one size, they offer 44 color options, including metallic, natural, and vibrant selections. These envelopes are also available in various materials, such as linen, cotton, and recycled paper.
Full-Face Window Envelopes
Like all-purpose window envelopes, full-face window envelopes feature a large transparent screen on the front. However, the latter’s window is considerably more extensive, taking up most of the envelope.
This envelope type is best for mailing catalogs, account statements, or other documents that benefit from an oversized viewing section large enough to show off the entire contents.
Size and Dimensions
Considering that full-face window envelopes can display various mail items, there are several size options available.
Here are the dimensions for the various size choices:
| 4 1/8” x 9 1/2” | 9” x 12” |
| 6” x 9” | 10” x 13” |
Colors
Like other envelopes that feature a viewing window, full-face window envelopes have various colors to suit your preferences, including bright white, midnight black, grocery bag, and citrus.
Blank Standard Presentation Folders
If you need a sturdy envelope to mail brochures, reports, and other personal and professional documents, consider using a blank standard presentation folder.
The distinct feature of this envelope type is that it includes four-inch-high interior pockets on either flap, giving you ample space to store and secure your mail items.
Size and Dimensions
The blank standard presentation folder has several standard sizes to accommodate commonly used documents.
Here are the dimensions for the available size options:
| 6” x 9” | 9” x 14 1/2” |
| 9” x 12” |
Colors
While blank standard presentation folders can be clean canvasses for you to customize, they are available in 33 hues, covering almost the entire color spectrum.
Playing Cards
Card games, such as poker, crazy eights, and cheat, are a fun way to pass the time. But if you want to customize your gaming nights with your photos, personal messages, and designs, you can with playing card envelopes.
Size and Dimensions
Playing card envelopes, as their name implies, are explicitly designed to store playing cards. Therefore, they also follow the playing card standard size – 2 1/2” x 3 1/2” in width and height.
Colors
The available colors for playing card envelopes can vary depending on where you buy them. However, considering that these envelopes are created with customization in mind, expect various color options.
Expansion Envelopes
If your mail items don’t fit standard envelope sSizes, consider expansion envelopes. These envelopes feature an accordion-folded side panel that can expand from one to four inches, making them ideal for books and financial reports.
Size and Dimensions
Like other envelopes specializing in bulkier mail items, expansion envelopes have limited size options. The available sizes have dimensions of 10” x 13” x 2” and 10” x 15” x 2”.
Colors
Unfortunately, diversity isn’t the expansion envelope’s strong suit. The only color options for this specific envelope type are Tyvek, white Kraft, and brown Kraft.
Poly Mailers
Poly mailers are lightweight, moisture-resistant envelopes made with polyethylene. If you’re looking for an envelope that can help avoid moisture damage to documents, apparel, or pharmaceuticals, choose poly mailers.
Size and Dimensions
Because of their intricate design and manufacturing process, poly mailers are uniform with dimensions of 10” x 13” in width and height.
Colors
Polyethylene has a milky-white coloring. While polyethylene can take on various colors using plastic colorants, poly mailers are only available in white.
Spot Seal
A spot seal envelope is an envelope type featuring an adhesive to secure your mail items within. Because of this sealing solution, spot seal envelopes make perfect containers for booklets, magazines, and other flat but bulky materials.
Size and Dimensions
Like expansion envelopes, document envelopes, and others that cater to more oversized mail items, spot seal envelopes don’t have much size variety. The standard size for this envelope style is 10” x 13”.
Colors
Spot seal envelopes are ideal for professional and business needs. Therefore, it uses classic colors like bright white to convey elegance, simplicity, and sophistication.
LUX Mailers
LUX® mailers offer an alternative to traditional mailers. These envelopes use high-quality cardstocks like notecards do and “peel and press” strips, which work like spot seals. LUX mailers also feature a quick-open zipper system, allowing the recipient to access the contents.
Size and Dimensions
Like spot seal envelopes and other specialty-use envelopes, LUX mailers only have one size. The standard measurements are 9 1/2” x 12 1/2” in width and height.
Colors
If you want to add character to your correspondence, you can do so with LUX mailers’ diverse color selection. Choose black linen, smoke, and midnight black for a bespoke feel. On the other hand, pick silver metallic, gold metallic, and magenta if you want your mail to stand out.
A single-window envelope is a mailing envelope with a transparent window for the recipient’s address. While using a single-window envelope eliminates the need to print the recipient’s information, you still must write your return address.
Euro Flap
For a blend of contemporary aesthetics and timeless elegance, the euro flap envelope is worth considering for your cards and invitations. This envelope type uses Reich paper, made using 100% brilliant white cotton.
Colorplan
The colorplan envelope stands as a frontrunner in the colored paper market, boasting over 55 color options, making it suitable for almost every situation. What sets this envelope type apart is its vellum finish, which adds a tactile “toothy” texture to your correspondence.
References
- Envelope Fun Facts
https://www.bamm.co.zw/articles/2014/05/22/envelope-fun-facts - The 19 types of envelope for a million different messages
https://baddeleybrothers.com/19-types-envelope-million-different - The A-Z of Envelope Sizes – Seven Different Types of Envelopes
https://www.avansas.com/uk/blog/different-types-of-envelopes/ - #9 Regular Envelope (3 7/8 x 8 7/8) – 24lb. White w/ Security Tint
https://www.envelopes.com/envelopes/control/product/ - TYPES OF ENVELOPES
https://www.neenahpaper.com/resources/paper-101/types-of-envelopes - Standard Envelope Sizes and Styles
https://coastalcreative.com/standard-envelope-sizes-and-styles/ - Envelope Sizes
https://www.envelopes.com/envelope-sizes - White and Colored Square Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/invitations/square-envelopes - Booklet Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/business/booklet-envelopes - 10 Types of Envelopes You Really Need to Know About
https://homequicks.com/types-of-envelopes - Standard CD/DVD Envelope with window (Carton of 500)
https://www.nationalaudiocompany.com/product/standard - Everything about the C5 Envelopes Size
https://www.helloprint.co.uk/c5-envelope-size - Everything You Need to Know about A5 Size
https://www.apprintable.com/a5-size.html - Dimensions Of C Series Envelope Sizes
https://www.papersizes.org/c-envelope-sizes.htm - A4 paper
https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/a4-paper - Gusset
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/gusset - USPS Price List
https://pe.usps.com/text/dmm300/notice123.htm - First-Class Mail
https://www.usps.com/ship/first-class-mail.htm - Square Flap Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/invitations/square-flap-envelopes - Contour Flap Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/invitations/contour-flap-envelopes - Regular Size Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/business/regular-envelopes - Window Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/business/window-envelopes - Open End Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/business/open-end-envelopes - 6 x 9 Full Face Window Envelope – 28lb. Bright White
https://www.envelopes.com/business/window-full-face/ - LUXPaper 9″ x 12″ Presentation Folders
https://www.amazon.com/Presentation-Folders - What is a Presentation Folder?
https://www.colorcopiesusa.com/presentation-folders - 9 x 12 Presentation Folder
https://www.envelopes.com/folders/blank-standard-presentation - Black Envelope Playing Cards
https://www.zazzle.com/black_envelope_playing_cards - Tyvek Playing Card Envelopes
https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/magic-accessories/ - Expanded Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/shipping/expansion-envelopes - 10 x 13 Poly Mailer – White Poly
https://www.envelopes.com/shipping/poly-mailers/10-x-13-poly-mailer - Can the PE foam have different colors?
https://trocellen.com/can-pe-foam-different-colors/ - 10 x 13 Spot Seal Envelopes
https://www.walmart.com/ip/10-x-13-Spot-Seal-Envelopes-Gray-Kraft - LUX Mailer (9 1/2 x 12 1/2)
https://www.envelopes.com/shipping/lux-mailers/lux-mailer - WHAT ARE 3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF ENVELOPES?
https://www.announcementconverters.com/blog/what-are-3 - Clasp Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/business/clasp-envelopes - Remittance Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/business/remittance-envelopes - Pointed Flap Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/invitations/pointed-flap-envelopes - Gift Card and Business Mini Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/mini-envelopes - Lined Invitation Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/envelopes/control/category/ - High Quality Specialty Envelopes
https://www.envelopes.com/specialty-envelopes - Folded Cards
https://www.envelopes.com/envelopes/control/category - Notecards
https://www.envelopes.com/envelopes/control/category - A7 Vertical Invitation Envelope
https://www.envelopes.com/invitation/vertical-square-flap/ - Cardstock
https://www.envelopes.com/cardstock - All Purpose Window
https://www.wsel.com/products/commercials/specialty-items/all-purpose-window - #10 All Purpose Window
https://www.envelopes.com/business/window-all-purpose/ - DOUBLE WINDOW ENVELOPES
https://www.businessenvelopes.com/double-window-envelopes-1 - Check Double Window Envelope
https://www.envelopes.com/envelopes/control/product - Credit Card Sleeve
https://www.envelopes.com/business/thumb-cut