You can make this envelope using any paper of your choosing, as long as it is suitable for your card-making project. I wanted the envelope to have an old-fashioned parcel look, so I used brown paper used for wrapping parcels.

Also consider, if you are going to post or hand-deliver the card. I decided to add extra protection so that my handmade card would survive the postal sorting machines.

Children should be supervised by adults, if they want to make this project.

Where can I buy art and craft materials?

Dick Blick Art Materials sell a vast range of art materials. It is an art supplies company that is based in the US.

If you order over a certain amount, shipping can be free within the US, conditions apply. Orders placed from outside the US will have a different shipping charge and may be subject to import duties. (Click on the shipping information link at the bottom of the page on Dick Blick Art Materials for details.)

You can also buy craft materials from ScrapbookingAlley.com, who are also based in the US.

If you are based in the UK, Hobbycraft is a good place to buy very similar art and craft materials.

How to create a handmade protective envelope, step-by-step

You will need:

• papers of your choice
• craft knife or scissors
• glue or craft stick
• pens

[Click here for a SLIDESHOW]

Step 1
Open up an old envelope and use it as a template to trace onto the paper of your choice. I used brown parcel wrapping paper.

Step 2
Cut out the paper and fold as per original envelope.

Step 3
If you are sending a greetings card with embellishments that need protection, cut out a piece of card that will cover the front of your greetings card. This step is optional.

Step 4
Glue and stick down the edges of the envelope over the top of the protective card, if using.

Step 5
Glue the back of the envelope over the top of the protective card, if using. Alternatively, just glue the back to the sides of the envelope.

Step 6
Fold over the top to form a flap.

The finished envelope
I used brown parcel paper to make the envelope and added the finishing touch of string drawn on with a white gel pen.