I'm not a big fan of plain envelopes. Wouldn't it be nice if an envelope was able to hint at the loveliness inside it like a beautifully wrapped gift creates anticipation at what might be within? Too much? Maybe just not be quite so plain and boring then!

I first shared this papercutting idea to fancy up an envelope back in September last year at It Happens in a Blink and as one is quite Valentine-y I thought I'd share it here with you all now. 

To have a go all you need is a plain envelope, a pencil, scrap paper, a craft knife and a piece of contrast paper for lining.

Draw your design in pencil on the scrap paper, keep it pretty simple unless you are a papercutting master. I did Sealed with a Loving Kiss and some very simple lips.

Open the envelope and place your design pencil side down, upside down on the inside of a red envelope point - face down and upside down - that is important!

Rub all over with a pencil, so it transfers to the envelope.

It's not the best photo every but you can just about make it out. 

Cut round each letter and the lips with a craft knife. I used my swivel-y one because there were lots of curves here but a regular craft knife will be fine too.

Then line with contrasting paper and you're done.

I also did one for my Dad for his birthday card last year and took more photos on how to line it as I was making that one. Just scroll down and it will all become clear....

For this one I used a stencil instead of drawing my own design.

Open the flap of the envelope and flip your stencil back to front and upside down. Do the centre letter of your message first then add the rest. You may need to put them pretty close together.

Cut them out with a craft knife. Remember upside down AND back to front - I learn't this the hard way!

When you close the envelope the writing will be the right way up.

Pop your contrasting lining paper under the envelope flap and draw round it.

I was using a bit of scrap paper so had to tidy up the sides. You need to cut it a fraction narrower than your envelope and long enough to fit right down inside below the V.

Glue just along the top edge of the lining paper then pop it in the envelope.

I had made a papercut card too for him, that is supposed to be a camera as he likes photography and collects cameras. Not the best camera I've even seen but at the time he was polite enough to say he liked it!

It's pretty quick and easy and doesn't get in the way of the address on the front if you are posting your card or letter. 

I've a few more ideas to fancy up envelopes to share soon - I'm on a bit of a mission now, I feel my handmade cards deserve a special envelope now and again!

Julie

I'll be linking up this project at these lovely link parties