Envelope Art

Recently I’ve taken to doodling using colored pencils, markers, and water color. My husband has been urging me to try something new like decorating postal envelopes. He is a collector of postal items and he collects a lot of envelopes that have been decorated.

So, finally, after thinking it over, I tried to think of why I didn’t do it. I was afraid it would look silly or that not turn out well. Then I realized that no one would know except me. What did I have to lose?

We bought an envelope maker that makes it easier to make envelopes. It does make life easier if I’m going to make several. I like how easy it is to use.

Then I had to experiment with different size envelopes. My first two envelopes are considered invitation size envelopes but now I’m ready to try standard envelopes. I’m also trying different types of paper to see if one size is easier to draw on then others.

My first attempt was with watercolors and markers. Using plain printer paper, it was hard to use watercolor and I probably won’t do that again.

My second attempt with the same paper went much better. I used markers and colored pencils. I liked how this turned out, so I will probably use them from now own.

All of my attempts had me thinking about how this can be used in the classroom. First, there is a lot of stuff on the internet about Envelope Art. I would show many examples and ask students which ones they like and why they like it. There is no right or wrong answer to this because different people have different tastes.

I would also decide on one size envelope that everyone would use. This would make it easier for everyone. I would show them how to make it with the envelope maker.

I thought this would be a great way to commemorate different holidays. I would have the students decide what they would draw on the envelope for specific holidays. I might even have a contest where people vote for them and a small prize is given. This would encourage to research the holiday or the specific person who is being honored. They would have to decide what is the best picture that focuses on something special about that holiday. It could be whimsical or serious. Students can use clip art for inspiration or make up their own pictures.

I think my students would really enjoy this lesson that involves research, reading, and comprehension and even measuring when making the envelope, Students would be learning and have fun at the same time. Success would be had by all!

Have you ever done envelope art? If so, please share.