Do you need a bunch of paper cd cases but don't want to spend $8 on a box of 50 envelopes? Here's how to do it.

thin cardboard (from a cereal box)
ruler
knife
pen
scissors
glue stick
plain copy paper 8.5x11 (can use old printouts as long as the back is clean)

First we'll make the template:

1. Take the cardboard and trim it to a rectangle 5 inches wide and 11+ inches tall.
2. Measure 5 inches from the bottom on either side, then draw a line straight across.
3. Fold cardboard neatly at this line.
4. Measure up from this line another five inches up each side and draw a line straight across.
5. Fold cardboard neatly at this top line.

To make your cd envelopes, do the following.

1. Take a sheet of plain copy paper and lay it on a flat surface. (used paper, clean side facing you.)
2. Put the template in the middle of the paper with the end flushed with the bottom. You'll have 1 3/4 inches roughly on each side.
3. Fold the sides of the paper over the edge of the template. To get a good fold, pull the paper tightly and rub along the edge.
4. Holding the paper in place, fold the template at the middle. If you want a top flap, fold again at the top line.
5. Unfold the template and set aside.
6. From the edge to the crease on both sides, cut out a dart (triangle). Trim the top if you want a flap.
7. Tuck the bottom sides in neatly and fold the paper at the middle crease.
8. Rub your glue stick on the sides, being careful not to go over the edges.
9. Fold the top sides onto the back and rub them into place.

Ta-dah! CD envelope. Repeat as necessary.

You can trim the top to make a flap or leave it up like that to make it easy to label. This is great for the cd crate boxes.

 

You could print something fancy or use a bit of stiff wrapping paper to make a nice case.