DIY Chinese Lai-See Envelopes

Traditionally, red envelopes or Lai-See are given to children on the first day of the Chinese New Year. The red envelopes almost always contain money, usually varying from a few dollars to a few hundred. Whatever the amount, it is custom to give out quantities in even numbers as odd numbers associated with gifting money are traditionally given during funerals. The number 8 is considered very lucky and $8 is a common amount to find in Lai-See. Sometimes chocolate gold coins are found in the red envelopes as well.

If you decide to throw your own Chinese New Year party, red envelopes filled with chocolate coins make a great party favor for your guests. You can either buy small red envelopes or make them yourself. I chose to make mine using red cardstock. Use this easy template to cut out and construct your envelopes. I used my own personalized label to decorate each envelope, filling them with chocolate gold coins. Set them at each place-setting or put them in a basket by your front door to distribute to guests as they arrive.

Rachel (160 Posts)

Rachel Beyer is an artist, designer and creative maker based in Portland, OR. She loves crafting, party planning and illustration. Rachel runs her own creative blog, Adventures In Making and also has a line of greeting cards, art prints and handmade goodies called Camp Smartypants.