Envelope Organizer | Family Economics

By Cathe Holden

As the New Year begins, I’m starting new, positive habits such as better receipt organization. Mainly because every January, as I go through my receipts for tax purposes, I wish I had a better system throughout the year to make sorting a lot easier.

So, with very minimal expense, I created an envelope organizer for my small paperwork and instructions for sharing this simple project to help keep you a bit more organized throughout 2010. This organizer doesn’t have to be limited to only receipts. I will be using mine for coupons, discount offers, and more.

Once you have determined the number of categories you will need, gather enough basic no. 10 business envelopes for the pockets, plus one additional to act as the header piece for hanging.

Lay out all the pocket envelopes with the flaps opened and the open side up. Print out a sheet of organizer labels on plain paper for gluing or onto label stock. You can add typewritten categories either before printing or before hand-write your categories on the labels. Place a label in the center of each of the envelopes on their open side.

Moisten the first envelope flap and place the second envelope onto the flap to begin your row of pockets. Repeat with each envelope.

Finally, add the last blank header envelope to the top, open side down and sealed. Place your header label, if you choose, on that envelope and name your organizer or add a sentiment as I did.

I will be hanging my organizer inside my entryway coat closet door for immediate access while coming and going from my house.

Envelope organizers also make great memory pockets. Label each pocket with the months of the year and collect fun little written memories, notes, report cards, and photos. Add the year to the header label.

Organize your bills with an envelope pocket system or create a pocket file for loose pieces in your craft or sewing room. Make extra blank-label organizers, accordion fold, tie with string and give to your friends.

Click here for a label template: EnvelopeOrganizerLabels