• FREE Envelope Address Guidelines Template for Calligraphy + Hand Lettering

    Today, I’m introducing a simpler way to create elegant, uniform envelope addresses. You don’t have to worry about about uneven lines and inconsistent spacing — today’s free template tool will help you to whip up orderly envelopes in half the time.

    Today’s free envelope address guidelines template will save you a good chunk of time next time you want to send centered snail mail. The template eliminates the need for writing pencil guidelines and erasing them after the fact — saving you from the possibility of smearing ink, wrinkling the envelope, or changing the paper’s sheen.

    White calligraphy on a dark green A7 envelope created with a free Envelope Address Guidelines Template for Calligraphy and Hand Lettering

    The template is excellent for certain hand lettering and calligraphy styles. Today, I’ll walk you through how to use it for calligraphy in a video tutorial; and I’ll show you how to use it for hand lettering with detailed written instructions.

    DOWNLOAD THE TEMPLATE


    Video Tutorial: How to Assemble + Use the Address Guidelines Template for Calligraphy

    If you plan to use this address guidelines template for calligraphy, the assembly and usage process is a little different than it is for block lettering. Follow the instructions below, and you’ll be equipped to make nicely spaced envelope addresses for years to come.

    If you’d like to contrast the process of using this template with the traditional process for spacing and centering calligraphy, see this tutorial. The time investment is night and day! (However, as I mention in the video, this template really only works for Kaitlin Style calligraphy.)


    Written Tutorial: How to Assemble + Use the Address Guidelines Template for Hand Lettering

    1. Assemble the Address Guidelines Template

    First, print out the template, which you can download for free here. You can print it off on any paper; I used 32# laserjet. (For a template that will potentially last for years, consider printing on cardstock.)

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template
    The hardier your paper, the more times you can re-use your template.

    Now, cut the template around the outside guideline.

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template

    Then, use an X-Acto knife to cut out the gray strips.

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template
    I like to use a self-healing cutting mat, but you can cut over some chipboard or cardboard.

    Once you’ve cut out the strips, you’ve got your template.

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template
    A little time investment up front cutting everything out will lead to many hours saved!

    2. Add Hand Lettering

    Once you’ve cut out the hand lettering guidelines template, you center it over an A7 envelope. If you have washi tape on hand, it’s a good idea to use it to affix the template to the envelope. Then, use the hand lettering style of your choice to start writing your recipient’s address.

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template
    I like to secure my template to an envelope with little squares of washi tape. That way, my hand won’t skew the template’s position.

    I didn’t design the template with any particular hand lettering style in mind, so it will work well with several different styles. Out of all the styles here on TPK, I’d recommend pairing the template with:

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template
    This template is perfect for Stitches Style Lettering. (The vertical lines on the template help you to center the address lines.)

    Lettering styles that won’t work well with this template include:

    3. Finish Up

    Once you’re finished writing, lift the template off of your envelope, and voilà:

    Hand Lettering Guidelines Free Printable Template
    An orderly envelope address + a pretty postage stamp collage = perfection.

    I hope that you can use this printable template to make your hand lettering life easier. When you make something cool with it, I’d love to see! Tag me on Instagram (@thepostmansknock) or, if the project requires some privacy, email me at [email protected]. It’s always such a treat to get to see what you’re creating!

    Warmly,