Red envelope craft — free printable hongbao template to make

Making your own red envelopes (hongbao in Mandarin, lai see in Cantonese) is a lovely, meaningful Lunar New Year craft for all ages — these little red packets hold money or small gifts and are given for good luck and blessings, especially by elders to children and younger family members. To make one from a printable template: print it, decorate it (red is the all-important lucky colour, with gold for prosperity, plus lucky symbols like blossoms or the year's zodiac animal), cut around the outline, then fold along the lines and secure to form the envelope. A handmade one adds a heartfelt, personal touch, and you can make a little set for different family members, personalising each with a name or a kind wish on the back. A few traditional notes worth knowing: the colour red and the gesture of giving matter as much as what's inside, amounts traditionally avoid the unlucky number 4 (and the number 8 is considered especially lucky), and red envelopes are given and received respectfully with both hands. Pop a coin or note inside before giving. It's a wonderful craft for involving children, who love both making and receiving them, and it connects them to the traditions and their meaning. Customs vary across cultures and families, so make and give them in the way that suits your own traditions. A small, joyful, handmade way to share good fortune. Happy Lunar New Year!

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