A timeless tool of communication
An envelope is a common packaging item made from thin, flat material—typically paper—used to enclose and protect letters or small documents. It features a folding design with a flap that can be sealed to keep contents secure during transit.
Envelopes have been used since ancient times. Early forms appeared in Babylon around 3500 BCE, where clay envelopes protected important tablets. The modern paper envelope emerged in the 19th century with the rise of postal systems and mass communication.
A simple illustration of a traditional rectangular envelope with a triangular flap.
Did you know? The first machine to cut, fold, and gum envelopes was invented in 1845 by Edwin Hill and Warren De la Rue. Today, billions of envelopes are produced worldwide every year!