If you’ve been in business for some time, perhaps you’ve heard the expression wallet check already. But what is a wallet check?

To put it simply, it’s a checkbook you keep in your wallet. True, it might be cumbersome enough to keep the entire booklet into today’s slim wallets; nevertheless, if you have a bigger trifold wallet or any other type of big wallet, wallet checks will fit in there.

Now that you know what they are, there are a few other things you should consider as well as a few questions you should ask yourself before deciding whether or not you should get one.

Do You Need A Wallet Check?

Perhaps the main question to ask yourself. Today, most companies use computerized business checks to pay for their expenses. Privates have this option too.

Should you be wealthy enough to need a check to pay for your goods or services, you can simply send an electronic check from your mobile banking or directly through your bank.

However, there are still circumstances when having a paper wallet check with you might be beneficial.

For instance, you might find yourself in a situation that asks for immediate payment of a higher amount of money. If you don’t have access to your mobile banking or the possibility to get in touch with your bank, you might lose a deal.

On these moments, having a paper wallet check at hand can save the day.

If you believe you’ll ever need a wallet check, you should learn what options you have and where to get one.

I’ll cover these aspects below, so you’ll know exactly what to ask for when going to your bank or check provider.

Types of Wallet Checks

The first thing to do once you decided you need wallet checks is to decide what kind of wallet checks you need. There are two types, single and duplicate checks.

• Single checks: Are simple checkbooks with no duplicate pages. You simply write a check, tear it out of the booklet, and give it to the merchant. That’s it. While single checks cost less than duplicate ones, they come with an important drawback. You will have to record each payment again in a different place if you want to keep your expenses under control. Otherwise, you might lose track of the cash outflow and find yourself wondering what you spent your money onto.
• Duplicate checks: Give you the possibility to record all your expenses in one go, as you’re writing the check. Indeed, these checks have the main sheet you have to hand over to the merchant and a second, carbon sheet behind each check. When you remove the printed sheet, the carbon copy stays behind. You won’t have to do double work, as everything you need for your records will be already registered on your checkbook.

Where to Get Wallet Checks From?

The next thing you might want to know is where to get your wallet checks from. The most logical answer is your financial institution. But there are other options too. Here are a few ways to get a wallet check.

From your bank

The easiest way to get wallet checks is from your financial institution. Some banks will give you wallet checks as part of your account. Others will ask you to pay a fee when ordering your checks.

Those banks that charge a fee will usually give you the possibility to choose from various colors or will let you customize your check with the company’s logo and contact information.

The only downside is that getting your checks directly from your bank can be expensive.

From a check printing company

The second – and often more affordable – option is to get your checkbook from a check printing company.

There are several companies out there that offer this kind of services.

Like you would expect, the checks will still be linked to your bank account, but you’ll be able to choose from various styles and colors banks usually don’t offer.

Most printing companies also give you the possibility to include your logo or other company information on the checks, so there are definitely a wealth of customization options you can choose from.

How to Use A Checkbook Cover?

What Information to Include On Your Wallet Checks?

If you decide to take the printing company route, you’ll usually have quite a few customization options. Make sure to tell the service provider what you want to include on your wallet check, or you might receive standard checks with no information about your business.

Here is a quick cheatsheet:

Your/Your Company’s Name and Mailing Address

Handing out a standard check with no information on it is not only unprofessional; it may leave people wondering who they should contact if there are any issues with the check.

Depending on the type of checks you have – personal or business – you must include at least your or your business’ name and mailing address. If it’s a business, you could also include your website, so you can help people find you easier.

Company Logo

Having a company logo on your checks is not necessary, but it gives them a more professional look.

Most check printing companies and even some banks give you the possibility to include the company logo for an additional charge.

Signature Requirements

One of the most important things to include. On most checks, one signature suffices. If you or your financial institution have different requirements, such as requiring two signatures, make it clear on the check.

For instance, you can leave two blank signature spots instead of one. If the design doesn’t allow it, you can always write under the blank space that two signatures are required.

If you fail to do this, vendors won’t know about this requirement and the check might be rejected. And this leads us back to the name and contact information printed on the check, so they can get in touch with you.

A Word About Design

Whether you order the wallet checks from your financial institution or from a check printing company, a thing to pay attention to is the design.

Keep in mind that every time you hand over a paper check, people will make an impression about you or your business. The selection of colors, fonts, and disposition of elements matter towards the final result.

To keep your checks professional, select a neutral color. If you believe white is too boring, pale green or light blue are two excellent options.

You must also choose a font that matches your company’s logo, but make sure it’s a standard font. Stay away from any artistic fonts. Options like Arial or Times New Roman are your best bets.

While the theme and design must be consistent with your company’s message, you must still keep the checks clean and professional.

Wrapping It All Up

A wallet check is nothing but a paper checks booklet designed to keep in your wallet. Each time you have to pay for goods or services, you can write a check, tear it off, and hand it to the vendor.

It may seem like a thing of the past, but there are circumstances when you may still need one.

So, what do you say? Would you use wallet checks or stick to the more modern payment methods?

Share your thoughts in a comment below; I’d love to hear from you.

And if you liked this article, don’t forget to share it with your friends.

Picking a men’s wallet is harder than it seems. There are dozens of models out there; if you have to use an ID pass every time you get in at work, perhaps you might have even heard your coworkers talk about a passcase wallet.

What is a passcase wallet anyway? And do you need one?

To put it simply, a passcase wallet is either a trifold or bifold wallet that has an extra flap with one or two ID windows.

At this moment, you might realize the wallet you have in your pocket is already a passcase. If it isn’t but you’d like one, here’s what you should know about them.

Types Of Passcase Wallets

There are basically three types of passcase wallets:

• Flip up: Have a flap attached to the wallet; this flap usually has a double ID window, and you can simply flip it over to scan your badge or public transit pass without actually removing it from your wallet.
• Flip outward: It’s similar to the flip-up, but the flap is attached to the side of the wallet. Some wallets even have fixed side window pockets that will require you to open the wallet to access the ID card.
• Removable: Its name is super-intuitive; this type of flap is designed to be completely removed from the wallet. This comes with advantages, as you won’t have to worry about exposing all the items you keep in your wallet. On a downside, it might be hard to shove it back into its slot when you’re done. You might forget to do so, and there are higher chances of losing your ID.

Why Buy a Passcase Wallet?

If you don’t have a passcase wallet already, there are good reasons why you should buy one.

• Durability: Most slim or minimalist wallets have ID windows too, but due to their design, these windows are placed on the outside of the wallet. Because these windows are made from transparent plastic, they might tear, dent, or puncture easily. This isn’t the case of the passcase. By placing the ID window inside the wallet, the plastic is protected by two solid flaps. Hence, it will last longer. At the same time, the passcase flap gives you the possibility to show your ID or use your pass whenever needed without exposing the contents of the wallet. And this takes us to the advantage number two.
• Privacy: Giving you the possibility to pull out the window flap whenever you need it, passcase wallets keep their contents away from the sneaky eyes. You won’t have to expose your credit cards, cash, or the photography of your beloved ones. The other way around, it keeps your identity private when you don’t have to show the ID to anyone but have to pay for goods or services. In any way you look at it, it’s a win-win.
• Convenience: Privacy apart, passcase wallets are also convenient. Such a wallet allows you to show your work badge, driver’s licence or student ID without exposing all the contents of your wallet. Pulling out a flap is often easier than opening a wallet, especially if you’re in a crowded area. At the same time, it won’t expose your embarassing ID photo to people who have no reason of seeing it. Once you’ve scanned your badge or shown your ID to those checking it, getting the window flap back into your wallet is also easy, especially if it is a removable flap.

Types and Styles of Wallets

4 Quick Tips for Choosing a Passcase Wallet

There are a few specific factors to consider when you’re shopping for a passcase wallet. Some regard the wallet as a whole. Others regard only the flap.

If you’ve never owned this type of wallet before, answer the questions below to find out which could be the right product for you.

1. Removable or Fixed Flap?

As mentioned above, there are three types of flaps, two of which are fixed – stitched to the wallet and flipping either upwards or outwards from the side – and removable flaps that are not stitched to the wallet.

The first thing you should decide is what type of flap you want.

• Fixed flaps: Are impossible to lose and keep your ID securely inside the wallet. They are also easy to pull out whenever you have to show your ID or scan a badge/transit pass. However, you might have to open the wallet to put the flap back, and this might expose its contents, such as credit cards or cash.
• Removable flaps: Allow you to pull the flap out and slide it back in without opening the wallet. Like the fixed flaps, it can be pulled out either from the top of the wallet or from its side, so you can find the model that’s more convenient for you. Removable flaps also give you the possibility to trim down your wallet’s bulkiness on those moments when you need a fancier slim wallet instead of a cumbersome bifold. The main drawback is that removable flaps are easier to lose or forget at home, especially if you tend to remove the flap during weekends and put it back in at the beginning of the week. Sliding the flap back into its slot may also be difficult at first, until the leather loosens up a bit. Furthermore, pulling the flap out and sliding it back into its slot frequently may also cause the leather to loosen up a bit too much. While you can shrink a leather wallet if you want to, it’s still better to avoid loosening it too much in the first place.

2. Flip Up or Out?

ID flaps can flip either up or out to the side. Each choice has advantages and drawbacks, and it’s ultimately all reduced to what the flap has on its back.

There are three possibilities:

• The flap has nothing on its back, just a layer of smooth leather. This design is often used when the flap closes with the clear window towards the wallet. In this way, nobody will be able to see your ID when you open the wallet.
• It has a second ID window. It is ideal if you want to carry more than one ID with you. For instance, if you need both your work badge and driver’s licence, a double window passcase could be the right choice for you.
• The flap has card slots on its back. Many manufacturers use the back of the ID flap to place one or two extra card slots. This design maximizes the capacity of your wallet, but it also exposes the cards when you show your ID. Nevertheless, this configuration is great if you want to use the extra space to keep business or supermarket cards.

With this in mind, you should choose a flip up model if there is nothing on the back of the flap or if it has two ID windows. Flip-out models are also available, so it truly is a matter of preference.

However, if you choose to go for a model with extra card slots, a flip-out to the side model is a must. Indeed, flipping the flap up would turn your cards upside down, and they could slip out if the pockets are too loose.

3. What Is Under the Flap?

When the flap is inside your wallet, it will cover something up. That “something” can determine the practicality and convenience of your passcase. Again, there are three possible options:

• There is nothing under the flap: These models only have a smooth layer of leather under the flap. You won’t expose anything when you flip the flap out of the wallet, but this style has a lower capacity.
• There is a coin or key pocket: Perhaps the best passcase model. The coin or key pockets are made of leather and are non-see thru, so you can still keep your stuff private while enjoying greater storage capacity.
• There are more card slots: A very popular option, although not the best you can get. When you flip the flap out, the cards under it will be exposed. Nevertheless, this is a great choice if you want to carry multiple cards and are not concerned about privacy.

4. Does it have RFID protection?

Though not specific to passcase wallets, an additional security measure you might want your passcase to have is RFID protection.

Almost all credit, bank, ID, key, and pass cards operate via radio frequency identification (RFID). Even store or membership cards use this technology.

RFID allows specific readers to access the information stored on your card, but the alarming news is that you don’t have to insert your card into a reader for someone to be able to retrieve your information.

Indeed, anyone with an inexpensive radio frequency scanner can obtain the information from any of your RFID devices from a distance if the radio frequencies can pass through the material of your wallet and garments.

So, what can you do to protect yourself? You can purchase a wallet with RFID protection. Passcase wallets and other wallet types that include RFID protection have a metallic mesh insert between the layers of the pockets which blocks the radio frequencies.

If you want a wallet that blocks personal and financial information, but you still want to use your key or pass cards without removing them from your wallet, get one that blocks the 13.56 MHz frequency only. If you want full protection, opt for one that also blocks the 125 kHz frequency.

Wrapping It All Up

A passcase wallet is a versatile style of wallet.

It safeguards your privacy for privacy’s sake and to keep your wallet’s contents out of the view of potential thieves.

To get the most out of your passcase wallet, think about how you will use it. Do you want the flap to be removable? What should go on the back of the flap? Should it flip up or out? Does it include RFID protection?

Answer all these questions, and you’ll surely be able to find the best passcase wallet for you.

A leather wallet is a fashionable accessory used by both men and women.

They are stylish, durable, and a staple of good taste and fashion.

The only downside is that leather stretches. Whether the wallet is too big when you bought it or the leather has stretched over the time, you’ll surely have to shrink a leather wallet sooner or later.

I remember the first time I noticed my favorite leather wallet was too loose.

I didn’t know at the time that there was a way to shrunk it.

So, I just went ahead and bought a new leather wallet.

Long story short, it has one of the dumbest decisions I made.

Because I could have saved my favorite accessory by simply following the quick steps below.

This simple method works wonders on all leather items, including loosen leather purses or shoes.

Tools and Materials

• A small bowl
• Lukewarm water
• Hair dryer (optional)
• Leather conditioner

How to Shrink A Leather Wallet

Shrinking a leather wallet is easier than you could imagine. All you have to do is follow the simple steps below.

Step 1 – Prepare Your Wallet

The first step is to make sure your wallet is completely empty. Because you will have to soak the wallet in water, leaving stuff inside could provoke irreversible damage to whatever you keep inside it. Forgetting items inside the wallet may also prevent the leather from shrinking.

Since leather and water are not exactly best friends, it is not recommended to use this method too often. Hence, getting it right the first time is important.

With this in mind, check all pockets and slots your wallet has and make sure you removed everything before proceeding.

Step 2 – Soak the wallet in lukewarm water

We all know that water can damage leather, but lukewarm water also helps shrinking it.

So, take a small bowl and fill it with lukewarm water. Soak the wallet in it and let it sit for no more than 20 minutes. In most cases, 15 minutes should suffice.

A timer can help at this stage, as it will prevent you from forgetting the wallet in water.

Remember that keeping it immersed for too long could cause irreversible damage. The leather may crack when it dries off, and nothing will be able to save it.

Step 3 – Reshape your wallet

This step is often overlooked, but it’s super important. A stretched out wallet has probably lost its original shape, and you should do your best to reshape it.

To do this, open and close the wallet a few times, then, with the wallet closed, press it together with your hands and work it around a bit to get it back in shape.

Now, take two plastic cards and place one on each side of the wallet. This will help the wallet maintain its shape during the drying process.

However, don’t use more than one card on each side. The purpose is to give the shrinking leather a little guide, not to prevent it from shrinking.

Step 4 – Dry the wallet

Soaked leather will shrink as it dries, so the next thing to do is let the wallet dry.

The best way to do this is by placing the item on a flat surface, possibly in a sunny area but avoiding the strong mid-day sunshine, and let it air dry for an hour or so.

At this stage, apply a small quantity of leather conditioner to the wallet and work it in with a smooth microfiber cloth. During this process, reshape and press the wallet with your hands to help it shrink properly.

Remember that it is essential to use only a little bit of conditioner, as too much of it can prevent the shrinking.

Once you’ve done that, let the wallet dry completely, for at least 12 hours.

If you don’t want to wait for an hour to apply the conditioner, you can speed up the process with a hair dryer. Set the appliance on the lowest temperature setting and direct the warm air jet onto the leather from a distance of at least 10 inches.

Dry it for 15-20 minutes, then apply the conditioner. You can also speed up the whole drying process by blow drying the wallet after you’ve conditioned the leather until it’s fully dry.

However, I don’t recommend it. The hot air can damage the delicate leather, causing it to crack.

Step 5 – Condition your wallet

Regardless of how you chose to dry the wallet, once it’s completely dry, you have to condition the leather to prevent it from cracking.

At this stage, you should apply an abundant quantity of leather conditioner. Work it in with a soft, microfiber cloth, while massaging and pressing the leather with your hands.

Most wallet manufacturers sell their products with conditioning instructions, so you could use those if you still have them. Otherwise, use the instructions on the conditioner.

Let the wallet sit for another 12 hours before filling it up again with your items.

How To Prevent A Leather Wallet From Stretching?

While the method above works wonders for shrinking leather in general and wallets in particular, it’s best to prevent it from shrinking in the first place.

To do that, avoid filling your wallet with junk.

Unless you really need to carry dozens of cards, receipts, vouchers and coupons, leave them at home.

Indeed, you typically don’t need more than two bank cards, some cash, and your driver’s licence or work badge. Leave anything else at home; not only you’ll keep your leather wallet in shape for longer, carrying fewer items can also prevent theft or too many headaches in case you lose the wallet.

If you’re not sure what to carry, check out the video below:

Wrapping It All Up

Shrinking a leather wallet is doable, but you could prevent it by simply avoiding overloading your wallet.

With that in mind, you can now also shrink a wallet should you ever need to.

So, what do you say?

Would you rather shrink a leather wallet or buy a new one?

Have you ever tested this method? If yes, what was the outcome?

Tell me in a comment below, I’d love to hear from you.

And don’t forget, if you liked this article, share it with your friends.

Wallet chains are nothing new. A staple of the biker’s or rocker’s style, they’ve become popular back in the 50’s.

But their functionality goes beyond style. Their purpose is to secure your bifold or trifold wallet in place.

In fact, the wallet chain concept developed a long time ago, when bikers and rockers didn’t even exist. Today, it is associated with the biker’s culture and many rock subcultures, but the purpose of this accessory has been purely functional for quite some time.

While the wallet chain’s functionality is undeniable, wearing it can be more complicated than it looks.

If you are wondering how to wear a wallet chain so it looks stylish rather than functional, this article is for you. Read on to find out more about why to use it, how to wear it, and how to choose one.

Why Use A Wallet Chain ?

Wallet chains are accessories designed to pair with the biker wallets. The main difference between this wallets and the classic bifolds or trifolds is the presence of a special grommet that allows you to attach one end of the chain to the wallet without damaging the leather.

The other end attaches either to your belt loop, creating a simple yet effective system that secures the wallet to your pants.

This effective system was majorly adopted by bikers to prevent them from losing their belongings while riding a motorcycle.

If you’re not accustomed to classic back pocket wallets or riding a bike, you might wonder why in the world does anyone worry about this.

It’s true; in a world full of minimalist wallets that go into the front pocket, how can you lose the wallet?

The answer is simple. Bikers usually use back pocket wallets – either classic bifolds or trifolds. These wallets tend to fall out when you sit down.

That’s not an issue when you sit in a room; you can simply pick up the wallet off the floor if it falls. However, if you’re sitting on a motorcycle saddle, things are slightly different.

In this hypothesis, you can lose your wallet anywhere.

This is where the wallet chain steps in. It secures the wallet to the belt, so you can ride in all peace of mind. Even if the wallet slips out, you won’t lose it. It will just remain hanging over your feet, and you’ll surely notice it sooner or later.

As I already mentioned, beyond functionality wallet chains are also fashionable.

People identifying themselves with rock subcultures often wear a wallet chain even if they don’t really need one.

How To Wear A Wallet Chain?

A wallet chain is a fashion accessory worn by rock legends since immemorial times. Once you get used to carrying this extra weight at your hip and learn how to sport a wallet chain with dignity, you will enjoy your style and the vibe you emit. The badass look and jiggling sound will speak up about your confidence and strong personality. To achieve that, though, you must know how to wear a wallet chain properly. Check out the three simple steps below and get ready to rock.

1. Attach one end of the chain to the wallet’s grommet. Make sure your bifold wallet has such a metal ring for chains, or you might damage the wallet. Most biker wallets come with grommets, so you should check this category even if you don’t have a motorcycle. Don’t be fooled by the staples. There are many biker wallet models that respect the lines, looks, and size of a classic bifold. Since the wallet chain has two hooks attached to both sides, use any hook to fasten the wallet.
2. Pick the pocket in which you wish to hold the wallet, keeping in mind that it should be on the same side of the trousers as the loop for the chain. This will provide more convenient access to your bifold. Also, keeping your wallet and chain on the same side will prevent excessive chain tension and will also prevent it from getting tangled. Choose the side based on your dominant hand, as it will be easier to access your wallet when you need it.
3. Depending on the type of belt you want to wear, attach the other clasp of the chain either to your belt loop or to one of the front loops on your trousers. If you really care about your style, I recommend investing in a special belt that comes with chain loops, as your look will seem whole. Attaching the chain to the pant’s loop might give the impression that you just wear the chain by mistake.

10 Stylish Accessories Every Man Needs

How to Choose A Wallet Chain?

It’s easy to say biker wallet chain. The truth is that this term implies a multitude of styles, models, and designs. If you don’t know which one to choose, consider the factors below.

• Length: Wallet chains come in various sizes, from short to long. When picking the right accessory for you, consider your body size rather than preference. If you’re a tall guy, you can totally rock a long, massive chain that highlights your imposing body. If you’re not very tall or skinnier, a shorter chain can be a more appropriate match. A mid-sized or shorter chain is also a great choice if you want this accessory more for its functionality than appearance. Indeed, a shorter chain will not draw unnecessary attention, whereas a massive one can make all heads turn.
• Thickness: While choosing the desired thickness is purely personal, keep in mind that this size must also match the length. A short and thick chain can look well in some contexts, but it’s more likely it’ll just look ridiculous. Long and thin chains are considered elegant by some, but they would look out of place if you intend to pair them with an all-leather, biker outfit. The rule of thumb is to stick to an average thickness that goes well with all chain lengths and outfits. It is also essential to keep in mind that both length and thickness will ultimately affect the chain’s durability. Long and thin chains are the less durable, as they have a lot of links which are not very strong. At the other end of the spectrum are the short and thick chains, which have the fewer chances of getting deformed or break.
• Material: When thinking of wallet chains, we’re tempted to imagine massive, chromed biker chains. However, this versatile accessory comes in a wealth of materials and styles. Perhaps the most common choice is stainless steel. This virtually unbreakable material also resists rust, and will look good forever, but it can be quite heavy. Silver is another popular, albeit expensive option. This noble metal demands respect and attention; it’s also sturdy and durable, and easy to clean should it turn darker. Brass wallet chains are an excellent alternative for those looking for a ligher and less expensive option. Brass can come in a variety of colors, but it’s not as durable as stainless steel or silver. Then, there are the designer wallet chains. These are not necessarily geared towards bikers or rockers, and can be made from a variety of materials including leather or paracord.

With this in mind, finding a wallet chain that suits your needs and style shouldn’t be hard. There are literally dozens of options out there, or you could make your own by repurposing an old chain. You can even make a wallet chain yourself, either from leather or other materials.

If you don’t have the skills, many brands give you the possibility to order a bespoke accessory.

Down to You

You now know how to wear a wallet chain. You also found out more about their styles and why you should use one. Now, it’s down to you.

What style would you choose?

What material do you like?

Share your thoughts in a comment below, I’d love to hear from you.

And if you liked this article, don’t forget to share it with your friends. They might also learn how to wear a wallet chain.

Men’s wallets are indispensable accessories; all men pair with their everyday wear. There are dozens of models on the market, but if you aim for something original, you should learn how to make an origami wallet.

This useful accessory is an ideal gift for you or the man in your life, be it your father, partner, best friend, or son.

Indeed, an origami men’s wallet is a great alternative to a traditional one. You can customize it in any way you want, and can even use various tutorials to create a simpler or more complex accessory.

What Are The Advantages Of An Origami Wallet?

It may seem improbable, but origami wallets come with a host of advantages. If you’re not yet sure why you should read this tutorial, find out why you should make one:

• Original: Nothing screams original more than an origami wallet. It doesn’t matter how many people use the same tutorial to create their own versions. Made by hand and with various types of paper, each piece will be absolutely unique.
• Customizable: Whether you want to write down a love or empowering message, decorate the wallet with unique art, or maybe change its size, it’s all doable. You’re the master of this artwork, and you can do whatever you want to make your creation different from all other.
• Expandable: The beauty of paper wallets, including the popular Mighty wallets, is that they are expandable. You can keep anything you want in it, from paper cash to receipts, vouchers, coupons, bank cards, and anything else you might want to carry with you.
• Cheap: Obviously, making an origami wallet requires some skills. However, it’s way cheaper than any other type of wallet you might find on the market. All you have to buy is some paper, or you could use newspapers for an even more original design.
• Easy to replace: Undoubtedly, an origami wallet is super easy to replace. Once it wears out, all you have to do is make another; you can have a brand new wallet each time you walk out the door if you want to.

With this in mind, let’s see how to make an origami wallet.

Tools and Materials

Making origami is extremely easy, and for this project, you will only need the following two items:

• Paper
• Glue (optional)

How to Make An Origami Wallet

In this origami wallet, you will learn to make in this tutorial; you’ll be able to put real money, cards, and other useful items. The wallet is expandable and resistant.

All you need is a sheet of rectangular paper; you should use Tyvek paper for enhanced durability. This origami model is quick and easy to learn; a great choice for both kids and adults.

If you don’t have Tyvek paper, use some thick paper, such as a newspaper or another type of thick paper of larger size, such as A3.

Alternatively, you could stick two sheets of A4 size or letter paper together. Just put them side by side and overlap with a bit of glue. This size is perfect for carrying banknotes, receipts, vouchers, and coupons. With the same instructions but a smaller piece of paper, you can create a shorter wallet, which would be great for credit cards.

Now, let’s check out these DIY origami wallet instructions so you can create your masterpiece.

1. Place your rectangular piece of paper in landscape position, then fold the bottom up to the top. Make a crease in the middle of the paper and unfold. This central fold shouldn’t be over creased, but it will determine the place where your wallet folds in half.
2. Take a banknote and use it as a guide. Fold the bottom edge upwards and leave a gap where it ends; the precise distance will depend on the size of your currency.
3. Now, fold the bottom upwards along the central fold, then fold the top down over the front layer, using the crease as a guide. This will ensure that each fold is equal on each side so that your wallet will be symmetrical.
4. At this stage, unfold the entire piece of paper until you get the rectangular sheet back. Fold the bottom flap up of about half an inch; this will reinforce the outside pockets, making them more durable.
5. It is now time to refold the paper along the central fold. Once folded, also fold the top edge downwards, over the front layer, using it as a guide. Unfold the paper again.
6. Your origami wallet is almost ready, but there are still a few steps you should follow. Now, fold the bottom right and top right corner diagonally inwards, along the creases indicated previously. Refold all the creases, then flip the paper over from top to bottom.
7. Keep the flaps you just folded on the right side and fold the right end to the left. At this stage, you can customize the size of your front pockets on the inside of the wallet, and fold as much or as little as you want to make the pockets.
8. Now, fold the left end to the right and inside the two pockets. Depending on the size of your currency notes, you might have to leave a small gap. Now, straighten out the folds, making sure they are all lined up. Fold your wallet in half.

That’s it! Your origami wallet is now complete and ready to use.

Wrapping It All Up

Making an origami wallet is uncomplicated. All you need is a piece of paper and some glue if you want to stick two or more pieces of paper together.

With this technique, you can create as many origami wallets as you want, using the type of paper you like best. Happy crafting!

Life as we know it changes fast and along with it, our habits change too.

One of the things that changed dramatically in the past decades is the way we pay for goods or services.

Using a credit or debit card has become the norm. It’s rare to see cash nowadays.

With the advent of electronic money, including dozens of apps, and the NFC phones that allow us to pay without using a card at all, carrying cash is now a thing of the past.

Yet, there are moments when using the good old method of paying in cash could come handy.

What are you supposed to do if you’re waiting to pay your bill at the restaurant and your card gets declined? Live with the embarrassment or pull out some cash?

Tipping is also simpler in cash.

And this leaves us with the question: how much money should I have in my wallet?

How Much Cash Should I Have In My Wallet?

Paying everything with your credit card is surely nice. However, there are still moments in life when you have to pay with solid cash.

When those moments arrive, you can either wonder with anxiety if you have enough money with you or sit back and relax, knowing that you do.

The secret is knowing how much cash to carry with you at all times.

Due to a myriad of contradictory information online, though, figuring out what’s the golden number can be daunting.

Bill Gates, for instance, carries no cash. Users on Reddit swear by an infinite number of amounts, from $10 to $500. To make things even more complicated, in a recent survey made by a popular US bank, over three quarters of the respondents affirmed that they never keep more than $50 in their wallet. Part of the participants even stated that they wouldn’t carry more than $10 in cash.

However $50 is not a reasonable amount to have with you in case of emergency, let alone $10. On the other hand, $500 is quite a lot to lose if your wallet gets stolen or lost.

That’s how experts came to the conclusion that you should always have $200 in your wallet.

Why This Amount?

If you’re the kind of guy who questions everything, you might wonder why $200 and not more or less.

The reason is simple. Two hundred dollars is enough money to handle most emergency situations in those circumstances when paying with a credit or debit card is not possible.

For instance, if your car breaks in the middle of nowhere or you run out of gas, $200 is enough to call out the tow truck to get you to a car repair or gas station.

If you’re in the restaurant and your card gets declined, $200 can save you from an embarrassing situation in which you try to contact your card provider to see what happened.

Indeed, it seems that a pair of Benjamins is enough to cover pretty much any standard emergency.

Money Saving Lifehacks

Cash Carrying Tips & Tricks

Knowing how much cash you should have in your wallet at any given time is just part of the picture. How to keep your money is equally important.

These tips and tricks should help you manage most situations in the best way possible.

• Keep your cash in mostly twenties: Sure, having two $100 bills might be less cumbersome, but carrying such big bills could turn out to be a bad idea. For instance, if you need some extra cash to thank a good Samaritan for having towed you out of a ditch while you were blocked in the middle of a desert road, pulling out a couple of the twenties is less embarrassing than asking if they could give you change from a hundred.
• Have at least $20 in bills of five: Tips are a nice way of showing your gratitude for a service; whether it’s your barber or barista, having a few five dollar bills in your wallet can come in handy in many situations. Indeed, according to Business Insider, standard tipping for pretty much anything except of your restaurant bill is between $5 and $10.
• Avoid one dollar bills: You don’t need them. In the modern world, these bills are mostly used to give out to the exotic dancers or homeless people. It’s very unlikely to pay for anything else with them. Money is generally infected with bacteria, but researchers in Ohio showed that the $1 bills are even filthier than all other bills. And in the end, you won’t have any benefit for carrying them.

Wrapping It All Up

With all this in mind, it’s easy to understand why $200 is enough to keep in your wallet. Whether you find yourself in an emergency situation or decide to pay for your groceries in cash, that amount should help you handle most circumstances.

Carrying cash could also be a great idea if you’re on a low budget and try to save as much as you can.

Indeed, a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology shows that we tend to spend more when paying with a credit card instead of cash.

In the world we live in, perhaps you’ll never need to have $200 in your wallet. On the other hand, having them can help you rest assured that whatever happens, you won’t have to deal with any embarrassing situations.

In the end, the decision is yours. Whether you decide to keep $200, $50, or no cash at all is down to you. Just remember that having that amount in your wallet could come with a wealth of advantages.

What do you think about it? How much cash do you usually carry? Tell me in a comment below, I’d love to hear from you.

And if you don’t have the right wallet just yet, don’t forget to check our selection of the best wallets on the market.

Paper wallets have become surprisingly popular after the launch of the Mighty wallets.

Made from Tyvek paper, these accessories are known for their slim profile that becomes expandable to accommodate all your essentials.

However, most paper wallets on the market are rather expensive.

Luckily, if you have a bit of DIY creativity, you can learn how to make a wallet out of paper and brag with your one-of-a-kind accessory.

Tools and Materials

Making a wallet out of paper might seem complicated, but it’s easier than you might think. You will need:

• One sheet of paper with a size of 8.5 by 11 inches.
• Duct tape
• Scissors

How to Make a Wallet Out of Paper

Following the instructions below and with minimal cutting you can create a durable, usable, and beautiful minimalist wallet you can personalize in any way you like.

• Take your 8.5 x 11 inches sheet of paper and fold it in half. Open it and fold the two flaps into the middle; you should now have a piece of paper folded in four.
• Holding the paper horizontally, fold it in half again (you should fold it perpendicular to the other folds). Now, crease the paper from the folds you just made. You’ll notice the paper already has a tendency to stay closed. While this is the basic wallet shape, you should now unfold the paper and take out the scissors.
• Holding the paper vertically, you should cut about half an inch from one end of the paper to its middle, on both sides of the middle line. When you’re done, cut about one inch on both sides of the sheet along each horizontal folding line.
• Keeping the paper vertically and with the median cut towards you, count from top to bottom and fold the second and fourth flaps on either side of the paper.
• Now, tape the bottom panel of the paper (the cut you’ve done in the middle of the sheet), but leave the second panel from the bottom untapped.
• Neatly fold your wallet starting from the back to the edges and following the folding lines you have already made. At this stage, you should have two flaps sticking out at each end of the wallet.
• You should now lock the ends of the wallet, and the easiest way to do it is by locking each end separately. Start from the inside of the wallet towards the outside, you should have a flap, a pocket, another flap, and another pocket. Numbering them from 1 to 4 from inside out, proceed with folding the inner flap number 3 into the inner pocket number 2. Do the same with the outer flap 1, folding it into the outer pocket number 4. Switch the wallet and do the same thing at the other end. If you want the wallet to hold up better, you could even tape the flap 3 into the pocket.
• That’s it! Your paper wallet is now ready to decorate and use.

Very similar to the Mighty wallet, this type of wallet can hold everything from four easily accessible bank cards to up to four additional locked credit cards, tons of cash, receipts, coupons, and other essentials.

While you can make it from any kind of paper, Tyveck will surely hold more than other types, or you could even use fabric if you have it.

Another nice thing is that this type of wallet is fully customizable. You can print any pattern you want on the paper before folding up your wallet or draw on it once it’s ready. The only limit is your imagination.

An Alternative Method

If you don’t want to use tape, you can make a very similar wallet following the instructions in the video below:

Why Make A Wallet Out Of Paper?

There are so many wallets on the market, that making a wallet out of paper could seem strange.

However, there are many reasons why you should:

• Uniqueness: Making a wallet out of paper gives you the chance to enjoy a unique accessory. You can use any type of paper you like and decorate it to your liking.
• Budget-friendly: Making this type of wallet wouldn’t cost you more that a few bucks. If you already have duct tape and use recycled paper, you can even make a new wallet for free. Not to mention that it can be extremely stylish.
• Quality family time: Okay. Perhaps you don’t want to give up your fancy leather wallet. Nevertheless, learning how to make a wallet out of paper can help you spend quality time with your kids. Just make sure to supervise the youngsters while they are using the scissors.
• Unwinding: Even if you don’t have kids, arts and crafts can help you unwind after a long day at work. Definitely something worth trying.
• Original gift: As long as you use high-quality paper or paper-like fabric, you can use either of the methods above to create original gifts. They cost little and will surely be priceless for the recipients.

Down to You

A paper wallet is undoubtedly an original yet stylish accessory. Sleek and minimalist, it can easily compete with any slim wallet on the market.

There are many brands that manufacture paper wallets, so whether you want to make your own or buy one is down to you.

Whatever your choice, know that with the right care, such an accessory can be your trustworthy ally for the years to come. No doubt, a great choice for all modern men looking for the perfect wallet, as well as a great gift or creative project for the youngsters.

If maintained well, a leather wallet is made to stay with you forever. Strong, durable, and above all, good looking, this timeless accessory is a must each time you have to wear formal attire.

The only thing is how to clean a leather wallet?

Daily wear can easily get dirty, even the highest quality leather. Then, there are stains. Keeping it in your pocket could cause unsightly sweat stains that are hard to remove.

If you leave it on the counter, a moment of distraction could mean an array of different stains on your classy accessory.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered. We know how to clean a leather wallet in 7 easy steps.

Check them out below and learn how to care for your wallet like a pro.

How to Clean a Leather Wallet: 7-Step Routine

With this proven method, you can remove dirt and grime from all types of leather wallets, purses, and other accessories. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1 – Learn what not to use

Every brand that respects itself provides care instructions alongside their leather accessories. It is always advisable to keep these in a safe place for future use.

When the time comes to clean your wallet, take out those instructions, and read them.

The manufacturer should not only give you tips for cleaning the wallet; it should also tell you what products to avoid using.

If the wallet comes with no instructions whatsoever, know that you should stay away from alkaline cleaners, such as baby wipes or sanitizing wipes.

Leather oils and waxes are great for conditioning your wallet, but they won’t clean it.

On the contrary, these products might cause dirt and grime to enter deeper into the leather, making it harder to clean.

Step 2 – Empty your wallet

Take out all cash, bank cards, ID cards, and any other items you keep in your wallet before starting the cleaning process.

Step 3 – Pre-clean your wallet

If you’re dealing with a fresh stain, use a dry paper towel to remove as much of it as possible. You can also try removing a dry stain by rubbing it with a few drops of alcohol. If it’s an oil or grease stain, use a damp paper towel and talcum powder to try and remove as much as you can.

Once you have dealt with the stains – or if the wallet has no stains – wipe with a dry cloth.

Step 4 – Hand wash your wallet

One thing to keep in mind is that you should never wash your wallet in the washing machine. Full immersion in water can bring irreversible damage to the leather.

The easiest way to wash it is by hand, with a damp cloth and a little saddle soap.

If you don’t have saddle soap, you can replace it with mild shampoo or baby soap; apply a small quantity of soap to a damp cloth and dab the wallet with it.

With a gentle sweeping motion, remove the dust and grime from the wallet. You might have to pass a few times over stubborn stains, but you should be able to clean the accessory quite easily.

Step 5 – Rinse the soap away

While you could wipe off the soap with a clean damp cloth, you can also immerse the wallet in clean water to remove all soap residues.

The process should be quick, as prolonged exposure can damage the delicate material.

While rinsing, wipe away any remaining suds, then pat the wallet dry to remove any excess water.

Step 6 – Dry the wallet

Your wallet might be nice and clean, but there are still a few steps to take before using it again. The first is to dry your wallet.

At this stage, you might be tempted to put it near a heat source or in hang in direct sunlight. As tempting as it may be, don’t do it.

Direct heat or sunlight can stiffen the leather, making your wallet unusable.

Place your accessory in a ventilated, shadowed area and let it air dry for as long as necessary.

Step 7 – Conditioning

There is only one way to avoid the leather going stiff – you must apply a generous amount of leather conditioner and massage it into the leather.

Indeed, leather conditioner replaces the natural oils in leather, maintaining it beautiful for longer.

More often than not, you’ll have to condition the leather every six months, whether you wash the wallet or not.

Alternative Wallet Cleaning Method

The method above involves household products, such as soap, rubbing alcohol, and water. However, you can also clean a leather wallet with a specific leather cleaner.

There are many products on the market, from cleaning creams to lotions and aerosols.

If you decide to use such a product, you’ll only need the product, a cloth for cleaning the wallet, a dry clean cloth for removing the excess cleaner, and leather conditioner.

Apply a small quantity of cleaner to a dry cloth and dub it on the wallet; gently remove all dirt and grime, then wipe the wallet with a dry, clean cloth.

Moisturize the leather with a conditioner, and your accessory is ready to use again.

Wrapping It All Up

Whether it’s stained or just dirty from wear, I hope this article has helped you learn how to clean a leather wallet.

From easily accessible products such as soap or shampoo to leather cleaners, there is a myriad of products you can use.

All you must do is try your favorite cleaning method; follow the steps above, and your leather wallet will shine as new in no time.

When it comes to wallets, the market spoils you with choices.

From old school bifolds to biker wallets and sleek, minimalist models for the metrosexual guy, there are plenty of options to consider.

Yet, none will guarantee the uniqueness of the model.

If you want to stand out and have some craftsman skills, you can make your own leather wallet.

It sounds scary, doesn’t it? Well, the truth is that it’s simpler than it may seem. Wondering how to do it?

Here’s how to make a leather wallet in 15 easy steps.

Step 1: Gather All Necessary Tools and Supplies

Every good project starts with a bit of preparation work. In our case, you’ll have to gather all the necessary tools and supplies.

The materials below suffice for a small, minimalist wallet that’s still big enough to hold plenty of cards and cash.

If you want to make a bigger wallet, a quick browse will reveal dozens of templates and quantity of supplies you might need.

Getting back to our wallet, you’ll need:

• Leather – preferably vegetable tanned, 4oz weight
• Leather knife
• Stitching groover
• Stitching pony
• Sewing awl
• Waxed thread
• Edge slicker
• Rubber mallet
• Ruler
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Spray bottle
• Leather oil
• Leather cement
• Thin cardboard
• Clamps
• Cutting mat
• Needle
• Thread

Step 2: Cut Your Pattern

I already told you that there are dozens of wallet templates and patterns you can choose from, but this unisex angled card holder is easy to make by both inexperienced and advanced users. It measures 9.5 by 4 inches and can hold up to 8 cards.

To cut your pattern, print the template first.

Lay the leather on the cutting mat and place the template on top of it.

Use the ruler to keep the lines straight and a sharp knife or cutter to cut the shape of the wallet. You could technically use a scissor too, but it’s simpler to cut the template with a leather knife.

Pour a few drops of leather oil onto a clean cloth and lightly oil the side of the leather once you’ve cut it, to prevent it from drying.

At this stage, you should also smoothen out the short edges with a bit of gum tragacanth and a slicker, until the edges have become slightly dark, smooth and sleek.

Step 3: Make Side and Middle Folds

Like any wallet, this DIY leather wallet will have fold lines. The easiest way to make them is by dampening the lines with a little warm water before folding over.

Clamp the folds in place to shape the leather in place and let dry.

Because the 4 oz. leather shows off any imperfections quite quickly, it is essential to fold the side lines perfectly from the first time.

Do the same for the middle line, clamp in place, and wait for the leather to dry.

Keep in mind that you can correct any imperfections by dampening the leather again and stretching it with a rubber mallet. However, the process is laborious.

Once all edges line up nicely and the leather is dry, remove the clamps and continue with the following step.

Step 4: Make the Inside Pockets

This wallet template features two inside pockets, marked out on the template above.

To make them, you will first have to groove the stitching lines with a groover on the side folds.

You can achieve excellent results if you’re working with dry leather and don’t speed up the process.

Once you’ve marked the grooves, glue down the pockets.

To ensure the accuracy of the results, use a piece of paper or tape as a guide for the glue, and only apply it along the edge of the inside pocket. Otherwise, it could be hard to make punching holes and sew the wallet.

Make sure to clamp the pockets until the glue is dry, then use a diamond chisel to punch the sewing holes, but don’t sew the pockets yet.

Step 5: Groove and Punch the Rest of the Wallet

Now that you have the inside holes place the wallet on a piece of cardboard with the inside holes up and use a sharp awl to punch all the way through the leather.

Pay attention to the angle, and make sure all punches are straight, or the stitch will look awful.

Once you’ve punched all the edges, switch to a grooving tool.

Use the holes you made with the awl as a guide and groove the outside of the wallet, making sure this groove matches the one you already made in the inside.

While the best results are achieved on dry leather, you can damp it a little to ease up the process if you want to.

Once you’ve made the grooves, switch back to the awl and punch the holes again, so you can speed up sewing.

Step 6: Stitch the Wallet

With all the grooves done, stitching the wallet shouldn’t be complicated.

However, you should oil the leather first to make sure it’s manageable enough to obtain flawless stitches.

To do this, use a clean cloth soaked in leather oil and pass it over the leather.

Make sure you applied sufficient oil to the stitching grooves, then pass to the stitching needle and thread.

Stitch the interior pockets first, then the edges, making sure that the needle goes through both sides. For the best results, it is ideal to double stitch your wallet.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

The wallet is almost finished, but you should still take care of the finishing touches.

With fine grit sandpaper, sand down the long sides of the wallet, making sure they are as smooth as possible.

Continue sanding until the edges are perfectly parallel with the pockets’ line, then burnish the long edges just like you did with the short ones.

Now, your wallet should be all nice and smooth.

Treat the leather with a generous layer of oil and enjoy your creation!

Wrapping It All Up

Now that you know how to make a leather wallet, all you have to do is pick the model you like best, gather all the materials, and engage in your creative project.

Remember that leather becomes much more manageable if you damp it with warm water while working.

Nevertheless, you should pay attention during the process and try to get everything right from the start.

With that in mind, anyone should be able to make a beautiful leather wallet.

With the advent of minimalist wallets, photo slots have started to disappear from this accessory.

But what if you’re an old school guy and want to carry your partner’s or family photo in your wallet? What size is a wallet photo?

Because wallet photos are so rare nowadays, what size a wallet photo should be seems shrouded in mystery.

In this article, I try to shed some light on the question; then learn whether or not you should keep a photo in your wallet in the first place.

What Size is A Wallet Photo?

While many people believe the wallet photo size is universal, the truth is that there are two dimensions.

The original one is 2.5 by 3.5 inches.

This was the size of a wallet photo on those times when wallets were bulky purse-size accessories to keep in your rear pocket.

Nowadays, even the rear pocket wallets are slimmer and sleeker. Such a large photo won’t fit in a newer accessory unless you want to carry a biker-style trifold.

So, if you have a modern bifold, your wallet photos should measure 2 by 3 inches.

Since the difference isn’t enormous, you could even crop older wallet photos to fit in your new accessory if you really want to.

With all this in mind, though, there comes the question:

Should You Keep a Photo In Your Wallet?

Long story short, you shouldn’t. Walking around with a bulky wallet filled with junk isn’t fashionable anymore.

Unless you want to look outdated, ditch the wallet photo, and keep images of your beloved ones in an album or on your phone.

So,

What Should You Keep In Your Wallet?

There is only one acceptable answer: the essentials. A contemporary gentleman would never pull out of the pocket a “nerd” wallet.

Go for a minimalist style. Even if you like the classic bifold or trifold lines, there are plentiful options that don’t look like they belong to the 80s.

In a minimalist wallet, there is no room for junk. Therefore, limit yourself to the following stuff:

• Cash: Having a bill or two is essential, but don’t keep too many notes in the wallet. While you can block your card if your wallet is lost or stolen, you won’t be able to do the same with liquid cash you might happen to carry with you.
• Bank cards: Whether it’s a debit or credit card, always carry a bank card with you. This should compensate for the lack of actual cash, and you should be able to use it in most places.
• ID: Even if you have a minimalist wallet, make sure you can fit in it at least your driving license or another form of photo ID.
• Work badge/public transit card: These items should also stay in your wallet. Most wallets are now RFID protected, to prevent data theft from your badge.

Apart from the items above, there is nothing else you should keep in your wallet. Some items to always keep elsewhere include:

• Receipts
• Coupons
• Business cards
• Condoms
• Photos
• Notes
• Other small items you may be tempted to tuck in there

How to Print A Wallet Sized Photo?

Now, if you really want to have a photo of your beloved ones with you at all times, you should print one that you like.

You have two options. Take a photo you like to a printing shop and have them print the image for you.

Or you could learn to do it yourself.

The process isn’t complicated and all you need is a good color laser printer and high-quality photographic paper.

Then, check out the video below to learn how to do it!

Why Do They Say I Should Keep a Baby Photo in My Wallet?

I’m not sure if you’re aware or not, but there is this theory going on that you should keep a baby photo in your wallet at all times – whether you have a baby or not, that is.

I couldn’t disagree more with this statement, but there is some science behind it.

Indeed, according to research, people are most likely to return a lost wallet if there are photos in it. Chances that you’ll also get your cash back grow even more if the photo is that of a baby.

Now, while it is quite nice to have your wallet returned in case you lose it, this idea might actually come with more downsides than benefits. At least if you don’t have a baby and decide to keep a random photo in your wallet.

In fact, just imagine how embarrassing it would be to explain to your date that the baby in your wallet isn’t actually yours.

She might either not believe you, or believe you’re paranoid.

Or what if your family or friends spot that photo even though they know you don’t have children.

Since all bank cards can be blocked and since you shouldn’t keep too much cash in your wallet anyway, it makes more sense to ditch the photo and worry less about what happens if you lose the wallet or someone robs you.

To Wrap It All Up

If you really want to keep a photo in your modern wallet, the ideal wallet photo size is 2 by 3 inches.

If you still walk around with your granddad’s wallet, print the image on 2.5 by 3.5 inches paper.

Whether you want to keep a photo in your wallet is up to you. What’s certain though, is that you would look more stylish, organized, and elegant with a slim wallet in your pocket.

Nevertheless, I hope you now know what size of a photo you should have in your accessory if you really want to.