The Do’s and Don’ts of Envelope Design

Envelopes can be designed by the business or can be outsourced to another company or a graphic designer. You can use graphics or bold color schemes to stand out; or keep it basic and use a more generic black and white design. Whatever method you use, the goal is the same. You want the letter to be noticed and read. However, before you start designing, it is important to remember a few do’s and don’ts of designing envelopes.

DO Convert Your Colours. Remember not to rely on your computer screen. The colours that are represented on your monitor may not be what the ink will appear like on paper. Always convert your colours from RGB (red, green, blue) to CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black).

DON’T Use Decorative or Unusual Fonts. If the logo design uses them, that’s okay. However, you want the information on an envelope to be easy to read.

DO Keep It Simple. You want your design to be clean and easy to read. Make sure to pay attention to the alignment used and avoid cluttering areas.

DON’T Change Your Layout Arrangements. If your logo appears above your company information on your letterhead, then it should appear the same way on your envelopes. Always keep your envelopes and letterhead designs cohesive.

Do Use Postal Regulations. Depending upon where you live around the world, there are a different postal requirements and regulations. For example, Australia Post has design guidelines for envelopes. One of these regulations is to leave specific areas that will be used for barcoding free of bold patterns or images.

DON’T Forget the Back of the Envelope. Often times, people forget about the back of the envelope and only concentrate on the front. However, envelopes are opened from the back. Therefore, at some point, the back of the envelope will be looked at. Don’t miss out on a great marketing opportunity. Have your web address across the back of the envelope or use a corporate logo seal.

Unfortunately, many times envelopes are just viewed as the container that houses your message. People forget about the opportunities envelopes can have in your marketing efforts. Envelopes are a great way to further your brand recognition. Always make sure to follow the postal requirements and regulations for your geographical area and keep your envelopes cohesive with your other printed marketing efforts.

Adelphi Design and Print offers a variety of printed materials for branding your business. There are 5 different envelope sizes and a variety of paper stock choices you can use to customise the envelopes to fit your needs. If you would like to discuss your envelope design details, please feel free to call the Adelphi team at 1300 134 894 or email us at [email protected].