Handmade Dhanteras shagun envelope
Fold an A4 sheet into a simple shagun envelope with narrow side seams and a labelled flap for a thoughtful gift.
- Easy
- 20 min active
- Use what you have
- 6 steps
A handmade envelope can hold a note, a small flat gift or folded currency without elaborate supplies. Make a paper test before decorating, then check that the gift fits comfortably. If you want to give a heavy coin, use a secure coin pouch or box rather than relying on a thin paper seam.
Keep ready
- A4 sheet of firm paper
- Ruler and pencil
- Paper glue or double-sided tape
- Pen or coloured pencils
- Scrap paper for a size test
- Optional flat sticker for the flap
How to do it
- 1Place the A4 sheet upright with its short edge at the top. Mark a 1 cm seam along each long side and fold both seams inward.
- 2Fold the lower part upward, leaving a flap about 5 cm deep at the top. Check that your intended flat gift fits with a little room around it.
- 3Apply a narrow line of glue or tape to the folded side seams of the lower panel. Press them onto the back panel without sealing the top opening.
- 4Let the adhesive set as directed, then fold the top flap down. Slide scrap paper inside to check the pocket is open and the seams hold.
- 5Decorate the front with a simple diya or leaf drawing and write a short message. Keep heavy embellishments off the folds.
- 6Insert the gift after the glue is dry. Close with a flat sticker or a small spot of removable tape and write the recipient’s name clearly.
Helpful tips 💡
- Test the pocket with scrap paper before inserting money.
- Use firm paper and a separate pouch for coins.
- Avoid loose glitter that can transfer onto the contents.
Plan ahead
Make and label envelopes in advance, leaving the gift insertion until the glue is fully dry. Keep them together in a folder so names and contents do not get mixed up.
Common questions
Can this paper envelope hold a heavy coin?
A heavy coin can tear the seams. Use a secure coin pouch or small box, and attach the handmade envelope as a message card instead.
How should I fit this project into my Dhanteras plan?
Make and label envelopes in advance, leaving the gift insertion until the glue is fully dry. Keep them together in a folder so names and contents do not get mixed up.