Hello G45ers!
Looking for creative handmade envelope ideas? Today, Graphic 45 Brand Ambassador Maria Smeshkova is sharing a beautiful set of three elegant DIY envelopes created with our romantic Always & Forever paper collection and the versatile Ornate Gatefold, Envelope & Pocket Die Set. In this step-by-step video tutorial, Maria demonstrates how to make luxurious handmade envelopes for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, gift cards, cash gifts, and special occasions using just one die set. Discover inspiring paper crafting techniques, including layered die-cuts, embossing, ribbon closures, ephemera embellishments, and dimensional details that transform simple envelopes into treasured keepsakes. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced cardmaker, this tutorial will inspire you to create stunning handmade gift packaging with Graphic 45 papers and dies.

Birthday Envelopes
Tutorial by Maria Smeshkova
“Hello, crafty friends!
Today I’d like to share a set of three handmade envelopes created with the beautiful Always & Forever collection and the new envelope die set from Graphic 45.
My goal for this project was to show how versatile a single die set can be. Using the same base design, I created three envelopes with completely different looks and closure styles.

For the blue envelope, I made a belly band and decorated it with Ephemera Set pieces, delicate die-cuts, gold embossing, and a few sparkling gems.



The pink envelope features a soft organza ribbon closure tied into a bow on the back. I combined ephemera pieces with layered die-cuts in white and blue, adding a touch of embossing for extra texture and detail.







For the green envelope, I decided to try something a little different. I used shabby ribbons in coordinating shades, added an oval eyelet, and finished the design with layered die-cuts, ephemera, gems, and sequins.







Throughout the project, I also used leftover paper pieces from the envelope bases to create additional die-cut embellishments. It’s always satisfying to give those scraps a second life while adding extra layers and interest to a project.
I love how all three envelopes turned out unique while still working beautifully together as a set. They would be perfect for gifting cash, gift cards, certificates, or a handwritten note for a special occasion.
Video Tutorial
https://youtu.be/LIHocM-jLx4
Supply list:
- Always & Forever 8×8 Collection Pack
- Always & Forever 8.5 x 11 Patterns & Solids Pack
- Always & Forever Ephemera Set
- Ornate Gatefold, Envelope & Pocket Die Set
- Rectangle Frames with Ferns & Foliage Die Set
- Antique Jewel Set – Ivory & Champagne
- Gold embossing powder
- Organza ribbon
- Shabby ribbons
- Oval eyelet
- Sequins
Thank you so much for stopping by today!” ~Maria



Tip: Get More from Your Die Sets
Stretch your crafting supplies by saving the leftover paper pieces from your die-cut projects. Maria uses scraps from her envelope bases to create coordinating embellishments, layered accents, and decorative die-cuts. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also creates beautifully cohesive projects while maximizing every sheet of your favorite Graphic 45 papers.


Introducing Maria Smeshkova
2025-2026 Graphic 45 Brand Ambassador
We hope Maria’s gorgeous handmade envelope set inspires you to explore the endless creative possibilities of the Ornate Gatefold, Envelope & Pocket Die Set. With just one versatile die set, you can create elegant envelopes, gift card holders, cash envelopes, and personalized keepsakes for every celebration. Be sure to watch the full video tutorial, shop the beautiful Always & Forever collection, and give these techniques a try in your own craft room. We’d love to see what you create! Share your projects with us on social media by tagging @Graphic45 for a chance to be featured. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Graphic 45 blog for more paper crafting tutorials, inspiration, and tips.
Happy Papercrafting!
