Li See (red or lucky money) envelopes are often so beautifully designed that it feels a shame to discard them when they tear or become crumpled. A simple, attractive way to preserve their artwork is to turn selected sections into laminated gift tags that can be tied to presents or treats.
Begin by carefully cutting out the portion of the envelope design you want to preserve. I separated the felicitations into thin banners so they could be layered or placed independently. Place each cut-out into laminating pouches and run them through a laminator for a durable, glossy finish.
If you don’t have a laminator, you can sandwich the cut-outs between clear contact sheets. That method will protect the paper, but it won’t be as sturdy or as vibrant as heat lamination.
Left top: Laminated sheet.
Left bottom: Trim the laminated sheet, cutting close to the edges of the design but leaving a narrow border of laminate. I left extra laminate above the pony’s head and at the end of the “Best Wishes” banner to give room for a hole punch.
Right: Layer the banner vertically behind the animal or main motif, aligning any clear areas. Punch a hole through both laminated layers. Use an 11-inch length of thin ribbon (about 3 mm). Fold the ribbon in half and push the folded end through the punched hole from the front, forming a loop. Pull the ribbon ends up behind and pass them through the loop; tighten until the knot is snug. For extra charm, thread a small jingle bell (about 9 mm) onto the front ribbon and slide it down against the knot.
When my children were younger, they loved tying these tags to lunch boxes and backpacks. As teens, many of their tags end up knotted together and hung on a bulletin board or door knob, where the designs can still be enjoyed.
Laminated tags look especially lovely tied to bags of homemade treats. Here a Year of the Horse tag dresses up a bag of Sesame Ginger Puffed Rice Crunch. To keep the tag centered, attach double-sided tape behind the banner and main motif; secure the ribbon tail on the back of the bag with regular tape so it lies flat and neat.
Sesame Ginger Puffed Rice Crunch and a stack of Year of the Horse shortbread oatcakes
These small packages are perfect for visiting family and friends during the New Year season. Add a few oranges or tangerines for a traditional touch and you have a thoughtful, festive gift.
Single shortbread oatcakes with Year of the Horse tags
It’s fun to let classmates or guests pick which tag they prefer. To be inclusive, prepare options for people with dietary restrictions. For example, gluten-free apple chips make a themed alternative and often come packaged with a pre-punched hole—perfect for tying on a laminated tag.
These simple steps extend the life of ornate Li See envelopes and turn them into charming keepsakes that add a handmade touch to gifts and treats.