Printing envelopes on a Mac can feel confusing at first, especially if you are used to Windows tools like Microsoft Word. macOS offers multiple ways to print envelopes using built-in apps, Microsoft Word for Mac, Google Docs, and online tools. With the right setup, you can print professional, properly aligned envelopes for business, personal mail, or event invitations.
Can You Print Envelopes on a Mac?
Yes, macOS fully supports envelope printing. You can print envelopes using:
Microsoft Word for Mac
Apple Pages
Google Docs (with manual setup)
Online envelope printing tools
Most modern printers, including HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother, also support envelope printing on macOS.
What You Need Before Printing
Before you start, make sure you have:
A printer that supports envelope media
The correct envelope size (such as #10 or DL)
Printer drivers installed on macOS
A test envelope for alignment checks
Using the correct paper tray and orientation is essential for accurate printing.
Method 1: Print an Envelope Using Microsoft Word for Mac
Microsoft Word for Mac is the most reliable option for envelope printing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Open Microsoft Word
Go to Tools > Envelopes
Enter the delivery address
Enter the return address (optional)
Click Options to select envelope size
Set the feed method based on your printer
Insert the envelope into the printer
Click Print
Word automatically positions the addresses for standard envelope sizes.
Best Settings for Word on Mac
Use these recommended settings:
• Envelope size: #10 for business mail
• Font: Arial or Calibri
• Font size: 10–12 pt
• Paper feed: Manual or rear tray
Always print a test envelope first.
Method 2: Print Envelopes Using Apple Pages
Apple Pages does not have a built-in envelope feature, but you can still print envelopes with custom page sizing.
How to Set It Up
Open Pages
Create a blank document
Go to Document > Page Setup
Set a custom paper size (e.g., 9.5 × 4.125 inches for #10)
Add text boxes for addresses
Position the text correctly
Print the envelope
This method requires more manual alignment but works well for simple prints.
Method 3: Print Envelopes Using Google Docs on Mac
Google Docs does not offer native envelope templates, but you can still print envelopes manually.
Steps
Open Google Docs
Go to File > Page setup
Set a custom page size
Insert text boxes
Type addresses
Print using custom settings
This is best for one-off prints rather than bulk jobs.
Method 4: Use Online Envelope Printing Tools
Online tools allow you to:
• Choose envelope size
• Enter addresses
• Preview placement
• Download a PDF
• Print accurately
These tools are ideal if you want fast results without configuring Word or Pages.
Printer Setup on macOS
Correct printer setup is critical for envelope printing.
Recommended Printer Settings
Paper type: Envelope
Paper size: Match envelope size
Feed tray: Manual or rear
Orientation: Landscape for #10 envelopes
Check your printer manual for exact envelope loading instructions.
Common Envelope Sizes on Mac
Here are the most common envelope sizes:
#10 – 9.5 × 4.125 inches
DL – 8.66 × 4.33 inches
A7 – 7.25 × 5.25 inches
C5 – 9.02 × 6.38 inches
Always match the size in your document to the physical envelope.
How to Fix Alignment Problems
If your envelope prints incorrectly:
Adjust margins in the document
Change feed orientation
Use the rear tray
Print test samples
Check scaling is set to 100%
Small changes can make a big difference.
Printing Multiple Envelopes on Mac
For bulk printing:
Use Word Mail Merge
Import a CSV or Excel file
Preview all addresses
Print in small batches
This prevents paper jams and ink issues.
Mac Keyboard Shortcuts for Printing
Useful shortcuts:
• Command + P: Print
• Command + ,: Preferences
• Command + Z: Undo
These help speed up your workflow.
Ink and Paper Tips
For best results:
Use laser printers for sharp text
Choose smooth envelope paper
Avoid glossy surfaces
Replace low ink cartridges
Faded ink can affect mail readability.
When to Use a Dedicated Envelope Tool
If you frequently print envelopes, consider using an online envelope printer that:
• Supports Mac browsers
• Offers live preview
• Allows logo uploads
• Exports print-ready PDFs
This saves time and reduces setup errors.
Final Thoughts
Printing envelopes on a Mac is easy once you choose the right method. Microsoft Word offers the most reliable built-in solution, while Apple Pages and Google Docs work well for simple tasks. Online envelope tools provide the fastest and most flexible option.
By using correct printer settings, matching envelope sizes, and testing before full prints, you can produce professional envelopes every time.
Whether you are sending business mail, invitations, or personal letters, your Mac is fully capable of handling envelope printing with accuracy and ease.
