How to make a red envelope
- Design the front: choose size, color, pattern, the big character and a greeting.
- Download the PDF and print it at 100% (actual size) on A4 or US Letter paper. Thicker paper (around 120–160 gsm) works best.
- Cut along the solid outline, fold along the dashed lines, glue the bottom flap over the side flaps, add the money and tuck the top flap.
Choose the PDF for a real paper envelope
The printable PDF contains the envelope outline, solid cut lines and dashed fold lines on one A4 or US Letter sheet. The PNG download is only the decorated front panel; it does not include the flaps needed to assemble an envelope. Choose the PDF for a family craft, classroom activity or money gift.
Classic makes a 90 × 170 mm front panel, Short is 80 × 120 mm, and Mini is 60 × 95 mm. These are the panel dimensions, not a guarantee that every banknote fits unfolded. Try a folded paper slip the size of your gift before making a batch.
Print, measure, cut and fold
Select the paper size actually loaded in the printer. In the PDF print dialog choose 100% or Actual size, not Fit to page. Measure the front panel with a ruler after printing: a Classic panel should be 90 mm wide. If it is smaller, check scaling settings before cutting.
Cut the outer solid line, fold the side flaps toward the back and overlap them, then glue the bottom flap over the sides. Keep glue away from the pocket opening. Let it dry, insert your gift and close the top flap. A screen preview cannot confirm how a particular printer, paper or glue will behave; test one envelope first.
Plan a classroom or family activity
Prepare one sample and let children choose a name and a greeting. Explain the greeting before printing; use play money or a written wish for an activity that does not involve cash. An adult should supervise scissors and glue. Check that your printer accepts the chosen paper thickness.
The pale background option uses less colored ink than a solid red design, but this is still a color design, not an outline-only template. Printer colors may differ from the screen. Fonts are Google Fonts served through this site, so your browser never contacts Google; only the Chinese and Japanese characters a design needs are requested.
What a red envelope means
Red envelopes (紅包 hóngbāo) hold gift money for Lunar New Year, weddings and birthdays. Red stands for luck and protection, so the envelope itself is part of the blessing. In Singapore and Malaysia they are called ang bao or ang pow.
Elders and married couples give red envelopes to children and unmarried relatives, and adults often give one to their parents. Hand them over with both hands, and receive them the same way.
Ideas for the front
福 (good fortune) is the classic choice. 大吉 means "great luck", 恭喜發財 wishes prosperity, and 羊 marks the 2027 Year of the Goat. For a personal touch, write the child's name across the top.
Frequently asked questions
How big is a red envelope?
The classic size is about 9 × 17 cm (3.5 × 6.7 in), which fits folded bills. The short size is 8 × 12 cm, and the mini size matches a Japanese pochi-bukuro at 6 × 9.5 cm.
Is the template free to print and use?
Yes. Print as many as you like for your family, classroom or business. The brush fonts are openly licensed.
When is Lunar New Year 2027?
Lunar New Year falls on Saturday, February 6, 2027, the start of the Year of the Goat (also called the Year of the Sheep).
Can teachers use it in class?
Yes. Students can design their own envelope on screen, then print, cut and fold it as a Lunar New Year craft.