As we grow close to the end of the year, I started picking up some new wall calendars for our home like many folks, I imagine. The old calendars, however; still hold some purpose not only to keep track of these final weeks of December but also in terms of mailing needs for next year. I make upcycled calendar envelopes from every old calendar I can get my hands on. I use these envelopes for everything from paying bills to mailing thank you cards and more. These envelopes always get talked about and are a fun way to use what you already have on hand.
These are simple and quick to whip up. They’re a great cold night project and great for kids too.
Supplies Needed:
- Old Calendars
- Glue / Glue Stick
- Scissors
- Envelope Template (Feel free to print and cut this as a template or simply peel apart an envelope you have on hand for tracing)
Cutting:
Tear apart the calendars, so that each photo is a single page. Lay the template over the photo and arrange so that the center highlights a special or nice spot for the envelope. Trace the template and then cut along the lines.
Folding & Gluing:
Turn the envelope over so that you’re looking at the dates, not the picture. Fold up the bottom edge first, scoring with your fingernail. Fold in the side flaps next again scoring with a fingernail. Run a bead of glue down the edge of the bottom flap and fold the side flaps over, pressing down firmly.
Let the glue dry for a bit before folding the top flap down. Store your envelopes like this in a stack, in a drawer, or box.
Using Upcycled Calendar Envelopes:
Simply address and stamp as usual. To make mailing addresses clearly visible use labels. I’ve done this for years and have never had a problem with the postal service in delivering these.
Variations:
You can use any number of materials in place of calendars – old magazines, catalogs, etc. Don’t forget the coloring pages and artwork of children, too.
If this is a project you really enjoy, check local thrift shops for supplies (like old books, magazines, even calendars). These upcycled envelopes make great gifts. Combine a stack in a theme for friends and put them in a little box or tie a ribbon around them with a nice pen and some labels.
Teresa
Wednesday 2nd of September 2020
Kathie, I love these ideas! I knew there was a great project for all the calendars with wonderful pictures or designs I've saved. I have always enjoyed snail mail, sending and receiving. I got to know my husband's grandmother by sharing letters before long distance calling was part of everyday phone service. Before we married, I received almost daily letters from my soon-to-be-husband from overseas. We have letters my father-in-law wrote to my mother-in-law while he was in the service during WWII. There is something special about holding a personal letter in your hands and reading the written lines. Have you seen Hallmark "Signed! Sealed! Delivered!" series? Very sweet! Blessings to you!
Lisa Cudd
Friday 28th of February 2020
You can make coordinating note cards as well.
Laurie
Wednesday 12th of December 2018
When my kids were small, I would spray glue the calendar pages onto a piece of recycled cardboard or poster board. Then cut them into odd shapes for a pretty puzzle.
Kathie Lapcevic
Wednesday 12th of December 2018
Oh that's a super clever idea!
Wendy
Sunday 7th of January 2018
I am an activities director at an assisted living facility. Do you have any ideas of how to make greeting cards from past calendar pictures? Thank in advance for any help you can give me.
Donna B.
Sunday 27th of December 2020
@Wendy, if you have a Joann's Fabric and Crafts, Hobby Lobby, Michael's or dollar stores nearby, you can pick up pre-cut stacks of cardstock in smaller sizes that can be used as notecards and tucked inside the handmade envelopes.
Kathy
Wednesday 12th of December 2018
Consider using light weight card stock and glue the picture on front and fold in half. Writing personal notes inside personalizes the card.
Kathie Lapcevic
Monday 8th of January 2018
I'm sorry to say I don't know. Cardmaking is not at all in my wheelhouse.
Kristi Wheeler | green-holiday-guide
Friday 30th of December 2016
I love this idea! I always hate putting old calendars in the recycle bin. Thanks so much!
Homespun Seasonal Living
Saturday 31st of December 2016
You are welcome enjoy!