Giving of Red Envelopes

Red Envelopes @ Mid Autumn Moon Festival –

 

#1  Envelope is a tri -fold card with a place inside to hold money.

#2 is made using Directions below.

 

Red envelopes always contain money in China, and are given, most commonly, to kids from their parents, grandparents, and others as Chinese New Year gifts.

They are called hongbao in Mandarin and lai see in Cantonese. The term “red packets” has also come into common use, though hongbao look and function more like envelopes than packets.

Why Chinese Give Red Envelopes

Chinese people love the color red, and regard red as the symbol of energy, happiness and good luck. Sending red envelopes is a way to send good wishes and luck.

Actually, the significance of red envelopes is the red paper, not the money inside. Wrapping money in red envelopes is expected to bestow more happiness and blessings on the receivers. Hence, it is impolite to open a red envelope in front of the person who gives it to you.

In China, the red envelope is called yasui qian (压岁钱 /yaa-sway chyen/), which means ‘suppressing ghosts money’. Those who receive a red envelope are wished another safe and peaceful year.

Of course you can buy them from most Asian market or on line sources.

 

But if you are crafty – and have supplies ( you know you do)

Here’s a site to make your own envelopes –

red envelopes