Introduction
A string and button envelope is a reusable envelope closed with a string wrapped around a button or disc — the classic tie closure used for legal files, contracts, medical records, and anything that needs to be opened and resealed many times over.
Unlike a gummed flap that seals once, the string-and-button closure is reusable indefinitely, making it the standard for files that move through hands repeatedly. This guide covers the closure design, sizes, and the document-storage uses where it excels.
The String and Button Closure
The tie closure is what defines this envelope.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Button/disc | Anchor point on flap |
| String | Wraps around button |
| Flap | Deep, full-coverage |
| Reusable | Open and close repeatedly |
The reusable closure is the core advantage:
| Benefit | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Reusable | Not a one-time seal |
| Secure | Holds contents in |
| Adjustable | Accommodates thickness |
| Quick | Easy open/close |
How It Differs from Other Closures
String-and-button is one closure among several, each with its own job.
| Closure | Reusable? | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Gummed flap | No | One-time mailing |
| Clasp (metal) | Yes | Interoffice |
| String-and-button | Yes | Thick files, archival |
| Peel-and-seal | No | Clean, modern |
For the full closure comparison, see our envelope closures compared guide.
Sizes
String-and-button envelopes come in standard document sizes.
| Size | Dimensions | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 9×12 | 9″ × 12″ | Standard file, contract |
| 10×13 | 10″ × 13″ | Thick legal file |
| 6×9 | 6″ × 9″ | Smaller records |
| 9×14 | 9″ × 14″ | Extra-thick files |
The string closure’s adjustability makes it ideal for thick contents:
| Contents | Size |
|---|---|
| Standard contract | 9×12 |
| Thick legal file | 10×13 |
| Medical record | 9×12 or 10×13 |
| Engineering drawings | 9×14 |
Paper Options
The tie-closure envelope is typically kraft for durability.
| Paper | Character | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Kraft | Durable, opaque | Standard |
| Manila | Smooth, lighter | Lighter files |
| White | Clean | Professional |
Kraft dominates because these envelopes handle repeated use:
| Factor | Kraft advantage |
|---|---|
| Durability | Withstands reuse |
| Opaque | Privacy |
| Cost | Economical |
For kraft manufacturing, see our kraft envelope manufacturing standards guide.
Document Storage Uses
String-and-button envelopes serve file-and-retrieval workflows.
| Use case | Why string-and-button |
|---|---|
| Legal files | Reusable, secure |
| Contracts | Reopen for review |
| Medical records | Repeated access |
| Engineering drawings | Large, thick |
| Archival storage | Durable, long-term |
Two uses deserve note — legal offices favor these for files reviewed repeatedly, and medical practices for records accessed across visits.
Choosing a String-and-Button Envelope
A quick decision guide:
| If you need… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Reusable contract file | 9×12 kraft |
| Thick legal file | 10×13 kraft |
| Medical record | 9×12 or 10×13 |
| Large drawings | 9×14 |
Match the size to the file thickness, and choose kraft for repeated-use durability.
Conclusion
String and button envelopes are the reusable tie-closure carriers of legal, medical, and archival documents. Their string-and-button closure opens and reseals indefinitely, their kraft stock withstands repeated handling, and sizes from 6×9 to 9×14 accommodate everything from a single contract to a thick legal file. For the full closure comparison, see our envelope closures compared guide.
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