How to Make Christmas Money Envelopes: A Detailed Guide
Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and giving. One of the most cherished traditions is the exchange of gifts, and what better way to present your loved ones with a thoughtful present than by wrapping a sum of money in a beautifully crafted envelope? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of making Christmas money envelopes, ensuring that your gift is both practical and festive.
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Red or green cardstock paper (8.5 x 11 inches)
- Scissors
- Glue or double-sided tape
- Gold or silver pen for writing
- Optional: Decorative stickers, ribbons, or stamps
Step 1: Cutting the Paper
Start by cutting your cardstock paper into smaller rectangles. You can choose any size you like, but a common size is 4.5 x 5.5 inches. This will give you enough room to write a message and fold the envelope without it being too bulky.
Step 2: Folding the Envelope
Take one of the rectangles and fold it in half lengthwise. Crease the fold well, then unfold it. Fold the top corners down to the center crease, creating a triangle shape. Crease these folds as well. Now, fold the triangle in half, bringing the bottom point up to the top point. Crease the fold and unfold the envelope.
Step 3: Adding the Flaps
Take the top layer of the envelope and fold it down to the bottom layer, creating a flap. Crease the fold well. Repeat this process on the other side, so you have two flaps on the top of the envelope.
Step 4: Gluing the Flaps
Apply a small amount of glue or double-sided tape to the bottom of the flaps. Fold the envelope back together, pressing the flaps down to secure them in place. Make sure the flaps are even and the envelope is well-sealed.
Step 5: Writing Your Message
Using a gold or silver pen, write a festive message on the front of the envelope. You can include a simple “Merry Christmas” or a more personal message, such as “To [Name], with love from [Your Name].” This will add a personal touch to your gift.
Step 6: Decorate Your Envelope
Now it’s time to get creative! Add decorative stickers, ribbons, or stamps to your envelope to make it stand out. You can also use markers or colored pencils to draw festive designs or patterns.
Step 7: Adding a Closure
For an extra touch, you can add a closure to your envelope. You can use a small piece of ribbon tied in a bow, a decorative button, or even a sticker with a festive design. This will not only make your envelope look more polished but also ensure that the money stays inside until it’s opened.
Step 8: Fill the Envelope
Once your envelope is decorated and sealed, it’s time to fill it with money. Place the cash inside, making sure it’s flat and doesn’t crinkle. You can add a few extra dollars if you want to make the gift more generous.
Step 9: Wrap the Envelope
Finally, wrap your envelope in festive wrapping paper or place it inside a larger gift bag. You can add a bow or ribbon to the top for an extra touch of elegance.
And there you have it! You’ve successfully made a Christmas money envelope. This thoughtful gift is sure to bring joy to your loved ones this holiday season. Happy crafting!