DIY: String Tie Envelopes

Hello everyone! I hope you're having a great week and enjoying this fabulous summer weather we're having! It's been a while since I've done something crafty with you here on my blog. So today, I'm happy to share this lovely DIY papercraft project. I've been making these for a while now and thought you would really like them.

If you follow my blog, you know that I love anything handmade, especially if it's made from paper. I originally came across this project almost a year ago when I was browsing through Pinterest. You can find that "pin" here on my "Printables/Templates" pinboard. After reading that post, I knew I had to add these fun little envelopes to my collection.

The original blogger provided a great tutorial, but certain aspects of the project didn't work for me. So I made some modifications to suit my needs and added a few touches that showcase my own personal style. Here is what I came up with...

SUPPLIES

• Cardstock: White, plus a variety of colors and patterns. I use 12x12 scrapbook paper.
• String/Twine: Embroidery Floss works great and is inexpensive.
• Glue Stick
• Scissors
• Mini Brads: Mine are 3mm.
• Paper Piercer: A push pin or needle works too.
• Bone Folder
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Template: Download here at MinieCo Blog

DIRECTIONS

1. Print the envelope on standard white cardstock rather than plain paper. It's much sturdier and allows you to use it as a template. Cut it out. Don't forget the 2 circle pieces! (I label all of my templates so they're easily identifiable in my collection when I need them.)

2. Choose your desired colored or patterned paper and place it [print-side down] on your work area. Using your template and a pencil, trace around the envelope and cut it out. Score each flap with your ruler and bone folder, then fold each side.

3. Using the scrap from the envelope you just cut, or scraps from coordinating patterned or colored paper, trace and cut the 2 small circles. For extra sturdiness, I usually double these, cutting 4 discs and gluing them back to back.

4. Poke the two holes in your envelope and a hole in the center of each circle (marked on the template). Attach both discs to your envelope using the mini brads.

5. Fold the sides and bottom flaps and secure with glue. 

Tip: I use small craft clamps along the areas I glue to be sure that I get a nice and secure bond.

6. Using about a 10" length of string, tie one end to the disc on the top flap and secure it with a double knot. Trim the excess string under the disc. Wrap the remaining string around both circles to close your envelope. Tie a knot at the end to keep the string from unraveling.

This project is so simple and can be easily customized to fit any theme, mood, or occasion. I love using them to hold precious ephemera or small treasures or trinkets in my smashbook. I've also added them to some of my handmade daybooks. You can find more info about my daybooks in this post, or in the tab at the top of my blog titled Daybooks. My most favorite thing to do with these envelopes is including them in my Happy Mail swaps! The girls I send them to just love 'em! I even created my own 4x6 template so I could have a larger envelope for my 2012 December Daily album. But they can also hold little cards, plant seeds, or any other small item that needs a special home. Leave them as is or embellish any way you want. 

Have fun with 'em!

Looking for more crafty inspiration? Browse through my blog. I have plenty of other DIY projects. And be sure to check out my "Printables/Templates," "SMASH & PL," and "Crafty Mama" pinboards on Pinterest before you leave. You'll find hundreds of links to DIY's, ideas, inspiration, printables, and templates to satisfy your crafty fix.Wanna stay updated on my recent posts and projects? Be sure to "like" my new fan page on Facebook! 

I really hope you enjoyed my post and feel motivated and inspired to create something beautiful. Feel free to share it! And please let me know if you have any questions, thoughts or comments. Your feedback is always welcome and much appreciated!

Mahalo for stopping by!