Manila envelopes are commonly used for mailing documents, contracts, certificates, and official paperwork. Their thicker paper and textured surface make them more durable than standard envelopes, but they also require special care when printing. With the right setup, printer settings, and envelope handling, you can print clean and professional addresses on manila envelopes without smudging or jams.
This guide explains how to print on a manila envelope, including choosing the right envelope, printer setup, print settings, and solutions to common problems.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, prepare the following:
Flat manila envelopes (no clasps or gussets)
A printer that supports thick paper or envelopes
A word processor (Word, Google Docs, Pages, etc.)
A test print sheet
Always test your layout on plain paper first.
Choose the Right Manila Envelope
Not all manila envelopes are printer-friendly.
Best options:
Flat, non-clasp manila envelopes
Smooth-surface manila paper
Standard sizes like #10, 9×12, or 10×13
Avoid:
Metal clasp envelopes
Gusseted or expandable envelopes
Very thick or heavily textured stock
Thinner, flatter manila envelopes feed more smoothly.
Understand the Challenges of Manila Envelopes
Manila envelopes differ from white envelopes because:
The paper is thicker
The surface is more porous
Seams are stiffer
These factors can cause:
Paper jams
Ink smudging
Crooked feeding
Proper setup helps reduce these issues.
Set Up the Envelope Layout
You can create your envelope layout in any word processor.
Basic steps:
Open a new document.
Set the page size to match your envelope.
Adjust margins to leave space from the edges.
Type the recipient address in the center-right area.
Add the return address in the top-left corner.
Save the file as a reusable envelope template.
Print Settings That Matter
Correct printer settings are especially important for manila envelopes.
Use these settings:
Paper Size: Match the envelope size
Paper Type: Thick Paper or Envelope (if available)
Print Quality: Normal (not draft)
Scaling: 100%
Tray: Manual feed or multipurpose tray
Avoid fast or draft modes, which can cause ink bleeding.
How to Load a Manila Envelope in Your Printer
Proper loading helps prevent jams.
Turn off the printer.
Open the manual feed or multipurpose tray.
Insert one manila envelope.
Adjust the paper guides snugly.
Make sure the flap is out of the print path.
Turn the printer back on.
Always print one envelope at a time.
Envelope Orientation Guide
Orientation depends on your printer model.
General tips:
Follow the diagram on the printer tray
Keep the flap away from the rollers
Align the envelope straight
If the text prints upside down, rotate the envelope and try again.
Let the Ink or Toner Dry
Manila paper absorbs ink more slowly than white paper.
To avoid smearing:
Let the envelope dry for a few minutes
Avoid stacking printed envelopes immediately
Handle the edges carefully
Laser toner may also need time to fully bond.
Common Problems and Fixes
Paper Jams
Use flat envelopes only
Load one envelope at a time
Avoid thick seams and clasps
Smudged Ink
Use Normal print quality
Let the ink dry fully
Avoid glossy coatings
Crooked Printing
Adjust the paper guides
Use the manual feed tray
Keep the envelope straight
Text Too Close to the Edge
Increase margins
Reposition the address
Test again on plain paper
Can You Print Logos on Manila Envelopes?
Yes, you can print logos on manila envelopes.
For best results:
Use simple, high-contrast logos
Place them in the top-left corner
Avoid the flap and seams
Let the ink dry completely
Dark logos show up better on tan paper.
Final Tips
Printing on manila envelopes is easy when you choose flat envelopes, use the correct printer settings, and allow enough drying time. Always print a test copy first and load envelopes carefully to avoid jams.
This guide covers everything you need to know about printing on manila envelopes.