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Post by writingrav on Jul 31, 2015 11:29:57 GMT
Hi all I just thought I'd get some more topics up and running. One is the growing tendency of more and more of my pen pals to create their own envelopes. I love getting them (though they tend to be harder to open or get a letter opener into,)but how does anyone have the time? Where do you get all the different envelope-making materials? As of now I have avoided catching the bug, but I feel it coming on. Use this thread to discuss any and all ideas in this topics.
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Post by skye on Jul 31, 2015 11:49:09 GMT
There are envelope templates that one can buy (trace around, score and cut out), there are also envelope punch kits (cut the paper according to the size envelope and use the kit to punch the notches, then fold) and my personal (frugal) favourite, unseal an envelope of the size you want, trace it onto paper (or cardboard if you want to make a template) and cut out.
As for materials, you can use just about anything (wrapping paper, card stock, magazine pages etc) to make your envelope. I have used wrapping paper and cardstock (bought 12x12 pads either from Tuesday Morning or the clearance section of Hobby Lobby or Michaels) and i find the difference is adhesive. The heavier the paper the more the adhesive matters as they all dont stick equally. adhesive i have used are double sided tape and several brands of glue stick (by far Scotch permanent is the best).
As for time, I tend to cut and make about 30 at a time, usually on a weekend while watching tv. Sometimes I seal them all (sides only) at the same time and binder clip them all together to make sure the seals make contact while the adhesive adheres and othertimes i seal after i am finished writing a letter. For me the wrapping paper envies seal faster so i can wait til im ready, the cardstock weight paper is heavier and those i tend to pre-seal.
Thanks for heads up about opening envies, I will pay more attn to how close to the fold i apply adhesive.
These have been from my experience, others may have different things to contribute. I also use a bone folder and a paper scorer (i already had them, dont think its necessary for you to buy them).
Hope this helps.
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Post by sgtstretch on Jul 31, 2015 14:33:59 GMT
I bought a punch kit from Michaels, and I tend to use scrapbook paper or wrapping paper to make my envelopes. I'll sit down and make several envelopes at a time, it is relaxing to just sit and make them. I noticed the possible opening issue a few weeks ago, and have been trying to make sure I leave enough room to slip something under the flap to open easier.
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Post by writingrav on Jul 31, 2015 21:47:32 GMT
It does help. I think I'm finally going to give it a try sometime soon.
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Post by skye on Aug 1, 2015 0:20:30 GMT
hehe sgtstretch. I have been more concerned with my envie staying closed to worry about them getting open. Thanks to WritingRav I will now pay closer attention. I need to buy new wrapping paper now. heh.
Which punch kit did you buy, the We R Memory Keepers one?
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Post by writingrav on Aug 1, 2015 0:55:36 GMT
I bought a punch kit from Michaels, and I tend to use scrapbook paper or wrapping paper to make my envelopes. I'll sit down and make several envelopes at a time, it is relaxing to just sit and make them. I noticed the possible opening issue a few weeks ago, and have been trying to make sure I leave enough room to slip something under the flap to open easier. What exactly is a punch kit?
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Post by sgtstretch on Aug 1, 2015 2:20:42 GMT
skye, yes the We R Memory Keepers board. It works great, unless doing larger envelopes. One of the envelopes is close to No. 10 sized envelopes, and the board is a bit to short to fully score the fold line along the long edge. writingrav This is the punch board I bought. It has a guide for scoring the envelopes for folding and a punch to cut and round the corners. All you have to do is cut the paper down to the correct size.
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Post by skye on Aug 1, 2015 2:27:51 GMT
I have been debating buying it. I have had the Martha stewart scoreboard that can be used to make envies but it doesnt have the same sort of variety. Have you tried making most of the envies? Reason I ask is that I remember shortly after it came out people were saying that some of the measurements were incorrect. I may have to suck it up and buy one *cries*. I really dont need another crafty item in the house.
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Post by bogon07 on Aug 1, 2015 3:09:21 GMT
Thanks for all the info. Those do indeed look interesting. I'll have to look out for one of those punch kits; Sgtstretch the We R Memory Keepers ones seem pretty good.
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Post by sgtstretch on Aug 1, 2015 11:17:09 GMT
I have been debating buying it. I have had the Martha stewart scoreboard that can be used to make envies but it doesnt have the same sort of variety. Have you tried making most of the envies? Reason I ask is that I remember shortly after it came out people were saying that some of the measurements were incorrect. I may have to suck it up and buy one *cries*. I really dont need another crafty item in the house. Skye, I've made many of the sizes but not all. So far everything seems to be about the correct size. None of my envelopes are exact, but that comes down to paper size and how well you line up the first mark.
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Post by writingrav on Aug 1, 2015 11:40:09 GMT
I have been debating buying it. I have had the Martha stewart scoreboard that can be used to make envies but it doesnt have the same sort of variety. Have you tried making most of the envies? Reason I ask is that I remember shortly after it came out people were saying that some of the measurements were incorrect. I may have to suck it up and buy one *cries*. I really dont need another crafty item in the house. Skye, I've made many of the sizes but not all. So far everything seems to be about the correct size. None of my envelopes are exact, but that comes down to paper size and how well you line up the first mark. Who knew such things existed. I will likely get one and join the fun.
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Post by skye on Aug 1, 2015 12:02:35 GMT
bogon07 - It is one of the easier ones on the market. The one I have was bought before the We R Memory Keepers one and for a different reason. sgtstretch - *nods* I can see that happening. Let me go find a coupon to print and I may come home with one today. If I can justify 5 paper trimmers (I only bought 3, 2 were given to me) surely I can justify another envie gizmo. heh. writingrav - oh do! Must have you join in the fun
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Post by Mia on Aug 1, 2015 20:52:35 GMT
Oh good, it is available from Amazon UK too. I have been just making envelopes free-style. Some are a little wonky.
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Post by writingrav on Aug 2, 2015 0:04:05 GMT
Oh good, it is available from Amazon UK too. I have been just making envelopes free-style. Some are a little wonky. Just ordered mine. Now to start thinking about paper.
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Post by skye on Aug 2, 2015 1:26:33 GMT
Bought mine today. Had to watch the youtube video just to make certain as my initial attempt was pitiful. Thankfully I have lots of paper to play with.
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