Story
Before envelopes became common, a letter could be folded into its own wrapper. This basic fold brings the long sides inward and fits one end into a pocket at the other. Its first maker is unknown.
Basic letterfold
Fold the sides of a rectangular letter inward and tuck the lower end under the top flap.
- DifficultyEasy
- Paper15 × 22.5 cm rectangle
- Steps4
- About5 min
Why this level: All folds follow straight lines. Open the top flap, fit the lower end inside, then close it.
You need: 1 rectangular sheet
Preview Preview: checked on screen; real-paper verification is in progress.
Steps at a glance
1. Crease the vertical centre line
Place the rectangle tall, white side up. Fold the left edge to the right edge, then unfold.
2. Fold both sides to the centre
Fold each long edge to the vertical centre crease, making a strip with the two edges meeting in the middle.
3. Fold the top flap down
Fold the upper end down about one fifth of the original paper height from the top, taking all layers together.
4. Fit the lower end under the flap
Lift the top flap upright. Fold the lower end up so its tip fits inside the flap, then lower the same flap to close.