Looking for a fun way to give a teen or tween some money for their birthday? I’ve got you sorted! Most teenagers just want money or gift cards for their birthday but it can seem so impersonal to just stick them in a card. With just a few simple dollar store items, you can add a little spice to their gift this year. 

I made this gift in about 15 minutes for my cousin for his 13th birthday. He thought it was hilarious how it all unfolded to show the gifts inside. Last year I made him a chocolate bar & money gift. I have also made his sister a fun “birthday dough” gift.

All you need to make this envelope chain is, well, some envelopes! You’ll need one for each bill and/or gift card. You can also include one to hold an actual birthday card. Mine was 4 envelopes long: card, $20 in cash and 2 different gift cards. His requests were for an iTunes card and a PlayStation Network card. 

Simply lick the flap on an envelope and attach it to the next envelope. Do not line them up directly to the crease – you will need a little bit of extra space for when you fold it all up.

To seal the folded up chain, I cut a long rectangle of fun paper and wrapped it all the way around, sealing it with a sticker with his initial on it. This band can simply be slid down and removed. I suggest not sealing the final envelope flap but using this band to hold it down. This way the receiver will grab that flap and it will all unravel!