How to Print an Envelope on HP Printer

Printing envelopes on an HP printer is a common requirement for businesses, offices, and home users who want a professional look for their mail. Whether you are sending invoices, invitations, legal documents, or personal letters, printing directly on envelopes saves time and improves presentation. 

What You Need Before Printing Envelopes

Before you start, make sure you have the following ready:

1. An HP inkjet or laser printer that supports envelope printing

2. Envelopes in the correct size (such as #10, A7, A2, DL, or C5)

3. Your computer with Word, Google Docs, Pages, or PDF software

4. Correct printer driver installed

5. Proper envelope loading method for your HP model

Most modern HP printers support envelope printing, but the paper tray setup may differ depending on the model.

Common Envelope Sizes for HP Printers

Here are the most frequently used envelope sizes:

1. #10 Envelope – 4.125 x 9.5 inches (business mail)

2. A7 Envelope – 5.25 x 7.25 inches (invitations)

3. A2 Envelope – 4.375 x 5.75 inches (RSVP cards)

4. DL Envelope – 110 x 220 mm (international)

5. C5 Envelope – 162 x 229 mm (documents)

Always check your printer’s supported paper sizes in the manual or HP support site.

Step-by-Step: How to Print an Envelope on HP Printer

Step 1: Load the Envelope Correctly

Each HP printer model has a specific envelope loading direction. In general:

1. Place the envelope in the paper tray

2. The flap should be closed

3. The print side should face up (for most inkjet models)

4. The envelope should be aligned to the right

5. Adjust the paper guides snugly

For rear-feed printers, insert the envelope one at a time.

Step 2: Set Envelope Size in Printer Settings

On your computer:

1. Open your document

2. Click Print

3. Select your HP printer

4. Open Printer Properties or Preferences

5. Choose the envelope size (#10, A7, DL, etc.)

6. Set Paper Type to “Envelope” or “Plain Paper”

7. Save the settings

This ensures the printer feeds and prints correctly.

Step 3: Create the Envelope Layout

You can design your envelope in:

1. Microsoft Word

2. Google Docs

3. Apple Pages

4. PDF editor

5. Online envelope tools

Make sure:

1. The recipient address is centered

2. The return address is in the top-left

3. Text does not touch the edges

4. Font size is readable

Step 4: Print a Test Envelope

Always print a test envelope first.

1. Use a blank envelope

2. Check alignment

3. Verify text orientation

4. Adjust margins if needed

This prevents wasting envelopes.

HP Printer Envelope Orientation Guide

Orientation varies by model, but typical rules are:

1. Inkjet printers – Print side up, flap on the left

2. Laser printers – Print side down, flap closed

3. Rear-feed models – Envelope centered

If the print comes out upside down or reversed, flip the envelope and try again.

Best Print Settings for Envelopes on HP Printers

Use these recommended settings:

1. Paper Size: Match your envelope

2. Paper Type: Envelope or Plain

3. Print Quality: Normal or High

4. Scaling: 100%

5. Orientation: Landscape or Portrait based on layout

Avoid auto-scaling or “Fit to Page” options.

Printing Envelopes from Microsoft Word

To print envelopes from Word:

1. Go to Mailings

2. Click Envelopes

3. Enter delivery and return addresses

4. Click Options

5. Select envelope size

6. Choose your HP printer

7. Print

Word also allows you to save envelope templates.

Printing Envelopes from Google Docs

Google Docs does not have a built-in envelope tool, but you can:

1. Use a custom page size

2. Create text boxes

3. Align addresses manually

4. Print using correct envelope size

Alternatively, use an online envelope generator.

Common HP Envelope Printing Problems

Problem 1: Envelope Jams

Causes:

1. Thick paper

2. Curled envelopes

3. Wrong tray usage

Fix:

1. Use flat envelopes

2. Insert one at a time

3. Use manual feed tray

Problem 2: Misaligned Text

Causes:

1. Wrong margins

2. Incorrect size selection

Fix:

1. Adjust margins

2. Select correct envelope size

Problem 3: Smudged Ink

Causes:

1. Ink not drying

2. Glossy envelopes

Fix:

1. Use matte envelopes

2. Set paper type to “Envelope”

Problem 4: Printer Refuses Envelopes

Causes:

1. Driver limitation

2. Tray restrictions

Fix:

1. Update drivers

2. Use rear feed

Tips for Best Results

1. Always print a test envelope

2. Use quality envelopes

3. Avoid decorative textures

4. Keep envelopes flat

5. Clean printer rollers

6. Use proper paper guides

When HP Envelope Printing Is Not Ideal

Sometimes envelope printing is not the best option:

1. Bulk mail campaigns

2. Thousands of envelopes

3. Variable data printing

4. High-speed needs

In these cases, professional printing or automated tools are better.

Using Online Envelope Printing Tools

Online tools allow you to:

1. Design envelopes easily

2. Adjust text position

3. Add logos

4. Preview in real size

5. Download print-ready PDFs

These tools often produce more accurate results than Word or Docs.

Final Checklist Before Printing

1. Correct envelope size selected

2. Proper orientation loaded

3. Margins adjusted

4. Test print done

5. Ink levels sufficient

Following this checklist saves time and prevents errors.

Conclusion

Printing envelopes on an HP printer is simple when you follow the correct steps. The key is proper envelope loading, accurate size selection, and careful layout design. Whether you are printing one envelope or preparing professional mail, your HP printer can deliver clean, sharp results with the right setup.

If you frequently print envelopes, consider using a dedicated envelope printing tool for better control, faster workflow, and consistent results.