A collection of handmade money envelope ideas: from simple to elaborate
Pochi-bukuro are small envelopes used to give New Year’s money or a little token of thanks.
You can easily find them at convenience stores and 100-yen shops, and if you go to a stationery store or bookstore, you’ll see plenty with character themes and elaborate designs.
But if you’re going to give one, why not put your heart into it and make it by hand?
In this article, we’ll introduce a range of DIY pochi-bukuro ideas—from simple ones that are easy to make to more elaborate versions with clever mechanisms.
There are designs with a New Year’s feel and ones inspired by the zodiac, so be sure to use them as a reference.
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A collection of handmade money envelope ideas: from simple to elaborate (21–30)
How to Make Easy and Stylish Pochi-bukuro (Small Gift Envelopes)
Here’s an idea for making a small money envelope (pochibukuro) out of origami.
It uses simple steps, so try it with your favorite Japanese-patterned paper.
First, place the origami with the white side facing up and fold it in half diagonally to make a triangle, aligning the top and bottom corners.
Next, fold the top corner of the triangle down to meet the center of the base.
Lift the top layer of the upside-down triangle you just created and tuck it between the layers of paper.
Then fold down about 1 centimeter along the base of the remaining bottom triangle.
Create a decorative touch by making a diagonal step fold at the top corner of the triangle, then fold the left and right corners to the back to shape it into a pochibukuro.
You’re done!
Clover Square Pochi-bukuro (small gift envelope)
Clover-themed pochibukuro that evoke happiness are perfect for the festive New Year season.
You can easily make them with origami, and they offer a unique touch unlike typical pochibukuro.
Their vibrant look, combined with the fun of opening them, will give children receiving their New Year’s money an extra sense of excitement.
It’s an idea you’ll definitely want to try—so charming you’ll hardly want to throw it away.
In conclusion
We introduced lots of handmade ideas for pochibukuro.
From easy ones made with origami to interactive designs using construction paper, there was a wide range of ideas—did you find a pouch you’d like to try making? When giving New Year’s money or a small token of thanks, using a handmade pochibukuro made with care will surely delight the recipient.
Try making the perfect pouch to suit the person you’re giving it to.