Printing multiple envelopes in Microsoft Word is useful when you need to send several letters, invoices, invitations, or documents to different recipients without setting up a full mail merge system. Many users prefer a simple, manual approach where they can control each envelope’s layout, alignment, and formatting.
When Should You Print Multiple Envelopes in Word
Printing multiple envelopes manually in Word is ideal when:
You have a small list of recipients
You want full control over formatting
Each envelope needs slight customization
You do not want to set up a data file
You are working with names from emails or documents
For large mailing lists, a mail merge solution is more efficient. But for everyday office or home use, Word’s built-in tools are often enough.
Method 1: Print Envelopes One by One Using the Envelopes Tool
This is the simplest and most reliable method for printing multiple envelopes in Word.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word and go to the Mailings tab
Step 2: Click Envelopes
Step 3: Enter the first recipient’s address and your return address
Step 4: Click Options to choose the correct envelope size and printer feed
Step 5: Click Print
After the first envelope prints, repeat the process for the next recipient.
This method works well when you have fewer than 10 envelopes to print and want to avoid layout errors.
Method 2: Save an Envelope Template and Reuse It
If all your envelopes share the same layout, font, and positioning, you can save time by creating a reusable envelope template.
Step 1: Create an envelope using the Envelopes tool
Step 2: Click Add to Document instead of Print
Step 3: Adjust the layout if needed
Step 4: Save the file as a Word template (.dotx)
Step 5: Open the template for each new envelope and change only the address
This method ensures consistent formatting across all envelopes while still allowing manual control over each recipient.
Method 3: Create Multiple Envelopes in One Word Document
Another option is to place several envelope layouts in a single Word file.
You can do this by:
Inserting multiple envelope pages
Copying and pasting the layout
Changing the address on each page
Printing the entire document
This works well if your printer supports continuous envelope feeding or if you are printing to PDF first.
Choosing the Right Envelope Size
Common envelope sizes supported by Word include:
#10 (4.125 × 9.5 inches) for business mail
DL (110 × 220 mm) for international mail
A7 for invitations
A2 for greeting cards
Always match the size in Word with your physical envelopes to avoid misalignment.
Printer Setup Tips for Multiple Envelopes
Most envelope printing issues come from printer configuration, not Word itself.
Use manual feed when available
Insert one envelope at a time
Check face-up or face-down orientation
Disable “Fit to Page” in printer settings
Test with a blank envelope first
Different printer brands handle envelopes differently, so it’s worth testing before printing all envelopes.
Formatting Tips for Professional Results
Use simple, readable fonts like Arial or Times New Roman
Keep font size between 10 and 14 pt
Avoid decorative fonts for business mail
Align addresses slightly right of center
Leave space for postage in the top-right corner
Consistency matters more than design complexity.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Text prints too high or too low
Adjust the address position in Envelope Options
Envelope jams in the printer
Use manual feed and insert one at a time
Ink smears on glossy envelopes
Use plain paper envelopes or let ink dry longer
Wrong orientation
Change feed direction in printer settings
Printing Multiple Envelopes on Mac
Word for Mac also supports envelope printing.
Go to Tools → Envelopes
Enter the address
Set the envelope size
Adjust the printer feed
Print
Mac users may need to set custom paper size in the print dialog.
When Word Becomes Inefficient
Word works well for small batches, but it has limitations:
No live visual preview
Manual alignment testing
Repetitive data entry
Limited automation
As the number of envelopes increases, the process becomes slower and more error-prone.
Faster Alternatives to Word for Multiple Envelopes
Many users switch to online envelope printing tools because they offer:
Live drag-and-drop preview
Instant layout adjustments
PDF export for accurate printing
No software installation
Better support for modern printers
These tools are designed specifically for envelope printing, making the process faster and more accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Word print multiple envelopes at once
Word prints envelopes one at a time. You can place multiple layouts in a document, but true batch printing requires mail merge.
Can I save different address presets
You can save templates, but Word does not store address profiles.
Is Word suitable for business mailing
Yes for small volumes, but not ideal for large campaigns.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft Word is a practical tool for printing multiple envelopes when you need control and simplicity. By using templates, consistent formatting, and proper printer setup, you can produce clean, professional envelopes without complicated automation.
For larger mailing tasks or when you want real-time visual control, dedicated envelope printing tools provide a faster and more reliable experience.