The Story of Envelopes

The earliest “envelopes” were actually clay outer shells used to protect clay tablets by the Assyrians and Egyptians around 3000 BC.

Later, letters written on animal skins or parchment were usually rolled up, tied with narrow leather strips (often cut from the same material), and sealed with wax.

With the arrival of paper, letters began to be folded so the outer side could carry the address and postal instructions. The folds were secured using sealing wax. This method continued in Europe until the 1860s, and even longer in other parts of the world.

The first paper envelopes were handmade. They were cut and folded arou…
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