I have long admired artist Katharine Watson‘s block prints. Her pleasing patterns and clean lines catch your attention — and invoke a tinge of whimsy and nostalgia. It’s no wonder that Katharine’s pieces are available in so many stores, even my local Two Hands Paperie!
You can imagine my delight when Katharine agreed to design an envelope template for TPK! I love the design that she came up with, and the knowledge that the design was hand-carved makes it even more special.
How to Use The Printable Envelope Template
If you’ve been reading the TPK blog for a while, then you’ve probably downloaded and printed your fair share of envelope templates. If I’m repeating myself with these instructions, please bear with me! I just want to make sure that everyone knows how to put this envelope together. 🙂
First, go to this page to download the printable envelope template for free. Once you’ve downloaded the template, print it off on the paper of your choice (I prefer 32# laserjet), and cut the template out along the guidelines.
Next, turn the envelope around and fold all of the flaps inward.
Now, glue the two side flaps to the bottom flap.
Once you glue the side flaps, you’re ready to add some contents — and an address!
Adding Lettering to the Envelope
The design of this envelope will complement virtually any calligraphy or lettering style that you choose! I wanted to contrast delicate calligraphy with the substantial flowers and leaves, so I used Janet Style calligraphy with delicate flourishes. The envelope isn’t large enough to calligraph a street address in large letters, so I used unobtrusive Sans Serif lettering below the name.
Envelope art like this merits a return address that’s written on the back. That way, the return address doesn’t distract from the design on the front.
After you write out the recipient’s address, put your desired contents into the envelope. Once everything is safely tucked in, you can glue, tape, or use a wax seal to secure the back flap. (If you plan on printing several of these envelopes for later use, you might consider applying vanilla envelope glue on the back of the flaps.)
What Makes This Template Special
This is the first time that I’ve had someone — well, besides myself — design envelope art for TPK. It was so cool to collaborate with Katharine, especially since she works with mediums that I’m not familiar with!
The original inspiration piece for this template was printed on a Chandler & Price press. It’s electric — meaning the wheel moves automatically. The press is three feet tall and weighs over a ton, and it’s the one that Katharine uses the most because you can print quite quickly on it! Katharine also has a manual press that she uses to print larger pieces.
I am proud to have Katharine’s work here on the TPK website, and I hope that you enjoy the envelope template as much as I do! If you like Katharine’s art, you can check her out on Instagram, visit her website, or peruse her Etsy shop.
Thanks very much for reading, and enjoy the rest of your week!
Warmly,
