Like most 20-something women in America, I love Anthropologie. If you’ve been hiding under a rock, go to their site immediately and I’ll see you back here $150 poorer. It’s like Target — nearly impossible to leave without buying something you don’t need. The worst part is, their home goods are equally as awesome as their clothing. So I was pretty glad when I moved further from the store; the less I see, the less I buy. 

But then, the catalog. Like clockwork, once a month, it arrives in the mailbox. I throw away 99% of what we get in the mail, but that always gets a look through — it’s filled with dreamy shoots in remote destinations and transports you to a serene place. Okay, okay, that’s a bit much, but I do like looking at it! Anyway, back to reality.

A few weeks ago, the May issue arrived and in it was the most stunning wall piece — a square frame that held 12 hand-address envelopes from 19th century France (see it here). As soon as I saw it, I knew exactly where it would go in our home. I rushed online to check the price (that’s how they get you, make you check it out online!) and then my heart dropped. $498!?!?! Are you kidding me, Anthropologie!? It’s just a frame with 12 envelopes inside! like seriously, anyone could make that.

Then, it dawned on me. ANYONE could make that! And so, I was a woman on a mission to outdo Anthro. I think I won this round, honestly. My project came in at $75, a mere 15% of what they were charging. And it looks identical! Well, I chose to get a brown frame because it fit better with the rest of our decor, but if I had opted for the white, you truly wouldn’t know the difference. It was so easy, anyone could do it!

Supplies Needed
+ 12 Vintage Envelopes (I found mine on Etsy!)
+ 1 Square Frame, approximately 25 x 25 
+ 1 Piece of Glass/Plexiglass fit for you frame (Glass cutters anywhere will do this for you)
+ Hot Glue Gun
+ Double Sided Tape
+ Ruler

1. Open up your frame and discard the back. Wipe down the inside and outside of both pieces of glass — you don’t want any dust specks! Cut 12 pieces of double sided tape to prep for step two. 

2. Taking whatever piece of glass will be your “back”, lay out your envelopes face up in 4 rows of 3. Use your rules to ensure they are straight. I simply measured from the edges on each side and then the “middle” between the rows. Being very careful not to disturb your layout, gently lift one side of your bottom right envelope and lay down a piece of double sided tape and then return the envelope to it’s spot. Repeat with the remaining 11 envelopes.

3. Give your glass one more check for spots before laying the back glass on the front glass. Now you’re ready for the final step! Taking your glue gun, dab a small amount of hot glue in each corner of the back side of the frame. You want to be sure you aren’t squeezing out too much — try to stay behind the lip of the frame so you cannot see it from the front! I also went to the middle of each side and did a small line there for extra protection. 

That’s it! Just wait for your glue to fully cool off and dry before hanging :) Seriously, the resemblence is uncanny — Anthro’s version on the left and mine on the right.