The anatomy of an envelope: read about the nine elements

At Baddeley Brothers, we don’t just sell envelopes, we are one of the few print houses that actually manufacture them in the UK. That means we can accommodate requests for different sizes, print around corners and on different stock (we’ve even printed on seaweed paper).

As an envelope user, you probably don’t need to refer to the ‘parts’ of an envelope that often. The flap is almost universal (although not entirely, see The 19 types of envelope for a million messages).

However, a standard envelope is made up of NINE parts.

What makes the naming of these parts interesting is that they only come about in the folding process, not like parts of a car which are bolted together.

When we make envelopes, the folding and cutting process determines the final product. A diamond flap or a wallet both start out as different shapes, cut and folded into the final products.

Customising envelopes

This is where our ability to manufacture offers versatility. We can cut to accommodate specific designs or shapes, and more importantly, we can print on the medium before it is folded. And on the inside before the gum is applied.

This is perfect for advertising campaigns that require impact before a letter is opened.

What are the parts of an envelope called?

• Seal flap gum (A)
• Seal flap (B)
• Throat (C)
• Shoulder (D)
• Side flap (E)
• Back flap (F)
• Bottom fold (G) – width
• Side fold (H) – depth
• Face (Other side)

Naturally, we use these terms internally, and naming these component parts is useful in communication between designers and printers to avoid confusion.