Bind a Kraft Envelope Album for Dry Seed Packets
Give leftover seed packets a place to sit upright without sliding into a drawer. This ring-bound album groups closed packets by sowing month, and pages can be moved without taking the whole book apart. It organizes packets you already have; it is not intended for drying or storing loose seeds.
Choose envelopes that fit
Collect six kraft envelopes about 5 by 7 inches with openings on the short edge, two pieces of stiff cardstock cut to the same size, two 1-inch loose-leaf binder rings, a single-hole punch, 12 hole reinforcement stickers, a ruler, and a pencil. Test the biggest packet in one envelope before starting. Leave space for fingers to grip the top without shaking it out.
Set the binding away from the pockets
- With one envelope upright and open at the top, mark two holes half an inch from the left edge, one 1.5 inches from the top and the other 1.5 inches from the bottom.
- Punch through both layers while the envelope is empty. Use the punched envelope as a template to mark the other five envelopes and both covers. Add a reinforcement sticker over each hole on the front of every envelope.
- Thread the rings through the back cover, envelopes, and front cover. Close both rings and turn every envelope once to make sure the holes line up. Push packets toward the unpunched side so their edges do not snag on the rings.
- Label each envelope by sowing month or planting location. Slip in closed packets only when the packets are dry. Leave the original names and dates visible.
Prevent torn holes
If a page binds, check for an offset hole rather than tugging on the ring. Patch a badly placed hole with paper tape and punch again through the repaired area. If the album bulges, remove a few packets or add another album instead of forcing the rings closed. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct light, following storage instructions on the packets.
