macOS is widely used in offices, schools, and creative workspaces, and it supports envelope printing through built-in printer drivers and system print settings. Whether you are printing from Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages, or another application, the key to successful envelope printing on macOS is selecting the correct paper size, tray, and orientation in the macOS print dialog.
This guide explains how to print an envelope on macOS, including supported envelope sizes, recommended envelope types, loading methods, macOS print settings, alignment tips, and solutions to common printing problems.
Does macOS Support Envelope Printing?
Yes, macOS supports envelope printing through printer drivers and application print menus. As long as your printer is designed to handle envelopes, you can print them by choosing the proper paper size, paper source, and orientation.
Most envelope printing issues on macOS are caused by:
Incorrect paper size selection
Wrong paper source or tray
Automatic scaling or “fit to page” options
Envelope loaded in the wrong orientation
Supported Envelope Sizes
| Envelope Type | Size |
|---|---|
| #10 | 4.125 × 9.5 inches |
| DL | 110 × 220 mm |
| C6 | 114 × 162 mm |
| C5 | 162 × 229 mm |
If your envelope size is not listed, you can create or select a custom paper size in the macOS print dialog.
Recommended Envelopes for macOS Printing
For the best results, use:
Standard #10 or DL envelopes
Flat, unpadded envelopes
Inkjet-compatible envelopes for inkjet printers
Laser-compatible envelopes for laser printers
20–24 lb paper weight
Avoid using:
Bubble or padded envelopes
Glossy or coated envelopes
Envelopes with metal clasps or thick adhesive areas
How to Load Envelopes in Your Printer
Envelope loading depends on your printer model, but these general steps apply to most printers:
Turn off the printer.
Open the manual feed tray or main paper tray.
Place one envelope in the tray.
Adjust the paper guides so they touch the envelope edges.
Keep the envelope flat and unbent.
Turn the printer back on.
Printing one envelope at a time improves feeding accuracy.
Envelope Orientation Guide
Correct orientation is essential for proper address placement.
General guidelines:
Load the envelope according to your printer’s diagram
Keep the flap flat and out of the print path
Align the envelope straight in the tray
If the address prints upside down or sideways, rotate the envelope and try again.
How to Set Envelope Size and Tray on macOS
Follow these steps to adjust envelope settings on a Mac:
Open the document you want to print.
Click File > Print.
Click the Paper Size dropdown menu.
Select your envelope size (#10, DL, C6, or C5).
If the size is not listed, choose Manage Custom Sizes and create a new size.
Open Paper Feed or Paper Source (if available).
Select Manual Feed, Multipurpose Tray, or Envelope Tray.
Set Orientation if needed.
Make sure Scale is set to 100%.
Click Print.
Creating a Custom Envelope Size on macOS
If your envelope size does not appear:
Open the Paper Size menu.
Click Manage Custom Sizes.
Click the + button.
Enter your envelope width and height.
Set margins to small values.
Save the custom size.
You can now select this size when printing envelopes.
Print Alignment Tips
To keep your envelope prints centered:
Always select the correct envelope size
Keep scaling at 100%
Print a test envelope first
Adjust margins slightly if needed
Use the manual feed tray for better control
Common Problems and Fixes
Paper Jams
Load only one envelope
Use flat, non-padded envelopes
Avoid thick adhesive areas
Misaligned Text
Recheck paper size
Adjust margins
Confirm envelope orientation
Smudged Ink or Toner
Use printer-compatible envelopes
Allow ink to dry fully
Avoid glossy surfaces
Feeding Issues
Use the manual feed tray
Align the envelope carefully
Adjust the paper guides
Envelope Prints Rotated
Change the orientation setting
Rotate the envelope in the tray
Disable automatic rotation options
Best Print Settings for Envelopes on macOS
Paper Size: Match envelope size
Paper Type: Plain / Envelope
Tray: Manual Feed or Envelope Tray
Orientation: Based on printer feed
Scaling: 100%
Print Quality: Normal
Can You Print Logos on Envelopes?
Yes, macOS supports logo printing on envelopes.
Tips for safe logo placement:
Keep logos away from the edges
Avoid the flap and adhesive areas
Place logos in the top-left corner
Use high-resolution images
Simple designs print more clearly.
Alternative Online Envelope Printing Option
If you need to send large volumes of mail, online envelope printing services can handle bulk printing, addressing, and mailing without using your local printer.
Final Tips
Printing envelopes on macOS is reliable when the correct paper size, tray, and orientation are selected. By using the manual feed tray, running a test print, and keeping scaling at 100%, you can produce clean and professional-looking envelopes for business or personal use.
This guide covers everything you need to know about envelope printing on macOS.