Commercial
Standard business envelopes.
Best ForLetters, invoices, direct mail
Envelope Guide: Types, Sizes , Materials
Looking for the right envelope for your mail?
We created this guide to give you a quick overview of common envelope types, sizes, materials, closures, flaps, and finishes so you can find the best option for your project. And don't worry—if you need a custom-made solution, we've got you covered.
#10
Commercial
4⅛" × 9½"
A-7
Announcement
5¼" × 7¼"
SQ
Square
Marketing
Envelope Types
Different types of envelopes are built for different uses. Choosing the right one helps improve presentation, protect your materials, and simplify mailing.
Announcement (A-style)
More formal, balanced shape; between commercial and square.
Best ForInvitations, cards
Square
Exact square; eye-catching; extra postage cost.
Best ForMarketing, invitations
Booklet
Opens on long side.
Best ForMulti-page documents, brochures
Catalog
Opens on short side; stronger.
Best ForHeavy contents, large documents
Envelope Sizes
This breakdown shows how big the different envelope sizes are. Each envelope size can be used for almost any project, but here are some of the most common use cases.
| Size | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| #6¼ | 3½" × 6" | Small mailings, statements |
| #6¾ | 3⅝" × 6½" | Checks, statements |
| #7 | 3¾" × 6¾" | Folded documents |
| #7¾ | 3⅞" × 7½" | Business correspondence |
| #9 | 3⅞" × 8⅞" | Reply envelopes |
| #10 | 4⅛" × 9½" | Standard business letters |
| #11 | 4½" × 10⅜" | Larger documents |
| #12 | 4¾" × 11" | Brochures, expanded mailings |
| #14 | 5" × 11½" | Large flat documents |
| A-6 | 4¾" × 6½" | Invitations, cards, announcements |
| A-7 | 5¼" × 7¼" | Invitations, cards, announcements |
| A-8 | 5½" × 8⅛" | Invitations, cards, announcements |
| A-9 | 5¾" × 8¾" | Invitations, cards, announcements |
| A-10 | 6" × 9½" | Flat mailings |
| Booklet | 9" × 12" | Multi-page documents, reports, presentations |
| Catalog | 12" × 9" | Large-format materials, catalogs, marketing kits |
No sizes match your search.
Custom sizes are also available depending on your project requirements.
Envelope Materials
Material affects both how your envelope looks and how it performs. The right choice depends on how important presentation is, how the envelope will be handled, and the type of message you are sending.
White Wove (Standard)
White wove is a smooth, uncoated paper that is widely used for everyday envelopes. It offers a clean, professional look and prints clearly, especially for text-heavy designs. These are also the most cost effective option.
Best for: Invoices, statements, business correspondence, and high-volume mailings where cost and consistency are the priority.
Coated
Coated envelopes have a treated surface that allows ink to sit more cleanly on the paper. This process results in sharper images, richer colors, and a more polished appearance.
Best for: Branded mail, promotional campaigns, and any envelope that includes logos, graphics, or bold design elements where visual impact matters.
Textured/Specialty
Textured and specialty materials add a distinct feel that stands out the moment someone picks up the envelope. These can range from subtle finishes to more noticeable textures that create a premium impression. Some options include linen, felt, and stipple.
Best for: Invitations, announcements, and high-end marketing pieces where you want to elevate the experience and signal quality before the envelope is even opened.
Flap Options
Flap choices affect both usability and presentation.
Commercial
Angled, standard business look
Wallet
Straight and narrow, clean appearance
Square
Straight across, balanced look
Pointed
Angled to center, more formal feel
Catalog
Deeper flap for added strength
Envelope Customization Options
Enhancements can improve both function and visual appeal:
Full-color and full-bleed printing
Window envelopes for visibility
Peel & seal adhesive strips for fast, clean sealing
*Best for personal use, not bulk mailings.
*Best for personal use, not bulk mailings.
How to Choose the Right Envelope
Use the examples below as a guide when selecting your envelope:
If you're sending standard business letters
Use a #10 commercial envelope
If you're sending invoices with return envelopes
Use a #9 reply envelope with a #10 outer envelope
If you're sending invitations or cards
Use an A-7 or any A-style envelope
If you're sending marketing pieces and want to stand out
Use square or coated envelopes
If you're sending multi-page documents
Use booklet envelopes (12" × 9")
If you're sending heavy or large materials
Use catalog envelopes (9" × 12")
These guidelines can help you quickly narrow down your options, but the right choice ultimately depends on your specific project, volume, and goals.
Let's Get Started
Have a mailing project coming up? Our team can help you choose the right envelope based on your content, goals, and budget.
Contact us today to get started.