An envelope is a container that is used to hold a letter or document. It is typically made of paper and is designed to be sealed so that the contents cannot be seen or accessed without opening the envelope. Envelopes come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of documents.
In this post, I will explore the different types of envelopes and their all available sizes, and their uses.
Standard Card Envelope Sizes And Dimensions
Before venturing into envelope shopping, it is essential to have a clear idea of the type of card you are looking to mail. The right envelope will ensure that the card is protected from any damage and that no part of it is exposed or sticking out. Therefore, having an idea of your desired card beforehand is key to selecting the right envelope.
Ensuring that your envelope is the correct size for your card is essential. It should fully encompass the card, allowing the flap to fold over without any lumps or creases. That way, your card will arrive in perfect condition!
| Envelope | Size | Enclosed Size | Purpose |
| (4 Bar) A1 | 3.625″ x 5.125″ | 3.475″ x 4.874″ 3″ x 5″ | Response Cards, RSVP Cards Notecards |
| (5 1/2 Bar) A2 | 4.375″ x 5.75″ | 4.25″ x 5.5″ | Party Invitations, Thank You Notes, Announcements |
| A4 | 4.25″ x 6.25″ | 4″ x 6″ | Party announcements, Save the Dates, Birth announcements |
| A6 (6 Bar) | 4.75″ x 6.5″ | 4.625″ x 6.25″ 4.5″ x 6.25″ | Save The Dates, Invitations, Announcements |
| A7 (Lee) | 5.25″ x 7.25″ | 5″ x 7″ 5.125″ x 7″ | Party Invitations, Announcements, Very Popular for Wedding Invitations, Greeting Cards, etc. |
| A8 | 5.5″ x 8.125″ | 5.125″ x 7.75″ | Wedding Invitations |
| A9 | 5.75″ x 8.75″ | 5.5″ x 8.5″ | Wedding Invitations, Greeting Cards, Other Invitations, |
| No. 10 | 4.125″ x 9.5″ | 4″ x 9.25″ | Party Invitations, Announcements, Wedding Invitations, Business Sized Envelope |
Related: A4 Envelope Size
Types of Envelopes
Here are the different types of envelopes and their sizes.
Square Flap Envelopes:
Square flap envelopes are envelopes that have a flap on the top that is cut at a right angle to the edges of the envelope. These envelopes are often used for business correspondence, invitations, and other formal occasions.
One advantage of square flap envelopes is that they have a clean and professional appearance. The sharp, straight lines of the flap give the envelope a sophisticated look that is well-suited to formal settings.
Square flap envelopes are also easier to seal than envelopes with pointed flaps. The straight edge of the flap allows for a precise and secure seal, which can be important for protecting the privacy of the contents of the envelope.
Contour Flap Envelopes
Contour flap envelopes are envelopes that have a flap on the top that is cut in a curved or contoured shape. These envelopes are often used for invitations, greeting cards, and other special occasions where a more decorative and stylish look is desired.
One advantage of contour flap envelopes is that they have a unique and eye-catching appearance. The curved shape of the flap adds a touch of elegance and interest to the envelope, making it stand out from traditional square flap envelopes.
Contour flap envelopes can also be more forgiving when it comes to sealing. The curved shape of the flap allows for some flexibility, making it easier to get a good seal even if the envelope is not perfectly aligned.
Related: A6 Envelope Size
Regular Envelopes
Regular envelopes are envelopes that are used to send letters and documents through the mail. They are typically made of paper and have a rectangular shape with a flap that folds over to seal the envelope. Come in a variety of sizes and styles, including business envelopes, which are typically used for formal business correspondence, and personal envelopes, which are used for personal letters and cards. The size of a regular envelope is typically determined by the size of the document or letter that it will contain.
The popular #10 envelope is sized at 4 1/8″ x 9 1/2″. This traditional size is a great choice for mailing letters, cards, and invitations. It’s also suitable to store important documents safely.
Window Envelopes
Window envelopes are envelopes that have a small rectangular or oval-shaped window cut out of the front panel, through which the recipient’s address on the letter or document inside can be seen. These types of envelopes are often used for business correspondence and can be either a standard size, such as a #10 envelope, or a custom size. The window on a window envelope is typically covered with a transparent plastic film to protect the letter or document inside. Window envelopes are convenient because they allow the recipient’s address to be easily visible without the need to open the envelope, which can save time when sorting and delivering mail.
Square Envelopes
Square envelopes are envelopes that have a square shape, as opposed to the more traditional rectangular shape of regular envelopes. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as sending invitations, thank-you cards, and other types of personal correspondence.
Square envelopes can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, cardboard, and plastic. They may have a flap that folds over to seal the envelope or may have a peel-and-seal closure. Square envelopes are a fun and unique alternative to regular envelopes and can add a special touch to any correspondence.
Open End Envelopes
Open-end envelopes, also known as open-face envelopes, are envelopes that have one end left open, rather than being sealed on all sides. They are typically used for mailing flat items such as documents, photographs, or promotional materials that do not need to be folded.
Some open-end envelopes have a gummed flap on the open end that can be moistened and sealed to secure the contents inside. Others have a peel-and-seal closure or a self-adhesive strip to seal the envelope. Open-end envelopes are a convenient and cost-effective way to mail flat items that do not require the added protection of a fully sealed envelope.
Clasp Envelopes
A clasp envelope is a type of envelope that has a clasp or closure mechanism built into its design. This can be in the form of a metal clasp, a string tie, or a flap with an adhesive strip. Clasp envelopes are often used to send documents or other items that need to be securely sealed and protected during transit. They are also commonly used for legal documents, important business correspondence, and personal mail.
Booklet Envelopes
Booklet envelopes are envelopes that are specifically designed to hold booklets, brochures, or other flat, multi-page documents. They typically have a large, open-ended flap that allows for easy insertion of the booklet, and a square or rectangular shape to accommodate the size of the booklet. Some booklet envelopes may also have a clasp or other closure mechanism to keep the contents secure during transit. They are often used for promotional materials, catalogs, manuals, and other types of printed matter.
Related: A7 Envelope Size
Document Envelopes
Document Envelopes are designed to hold papers that are not only flat but also thick, like magazines, catalogs, booklets, brochures, pamphlets, or other large stacks of paper. These envelopes provide a secure and easy way to store and transport these items without damaging them.
The long side of the envelope opens, while a 3-inch wide flap holds it securely closed. Crafted with thick and durable kraft paper, each envelope also includes a Zip Stick adhesive closure to further protect its contents. Available in common sizes, such as 9 x 12 and 10 x 13.
Remittance Envelopes
A remittance envelope is a type of envelope that is used to send money, typically in the form of a check or cash, through the mail. Remittance envelopes are usually smaller in size than standard envelopes and have a pre-printed address on them for the financial institution or company that is receiving the payment. They often have a space on the front for the sender to fill in their personal information, such as their name and address, and a space on the back for them to write a message or include additional details about the payment. Some remittance envelopes also have a perforated area that can be torn off and returned to the sender as a receipt.
Pointed Flap Envelopes
Pointed flap envelopes are envelopes that have a triangular or pointed flap at the back instead of the traditional rectangular flap. Pointed flap envelopes are available in a variety of sizes and paper types, including traditional white or cream paper, as well as colored and textured options. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including invitations, business letters, and promotional materials.
Mini Envelopes:
A mini envelope is a small envelope that is used for mailing or storing small items such as cards, notes, or photographs. Mini envelopes are usually smaller than standard envelopes, and they can be made from a variety of materials including paper, plastic, or fabric. Mini envelopes can be used for a variety of purposes, such as sending thank-you notes, invitations, or save-the-date cards. They can also be used for organizing small items, such as paper clips, coins, or stamps.
FAQs
What size is an A4 card envelope?
The size of an A4 card envelope is approximately 8.3 x 11.7 inches or 210 x 297 millimeters.
What size envelope for a 4×6 card?
The envelope size for a 4×6 card is usually 4.25 x 6.25 inches or 108 x 159 millimeters.
What size is a 5×7 card?
A 5×7 card typically measures 5 x 7 inches or 127 x 178 millimeters.
What is a 5×7 envelope called?
A 5×7 envelope is commonly referred to as an “A7 envelope.”