There are a number of different types of packets that can be used to store seeds.  Here are some of them.

Many bills you get in the mail come with a self addressed envelopes that aren't always used.  These envelopes make useful packets for storing your seeds in and are probably the most environmentally friendly way to store them.  Their main drawback is that the are not the same size as commercial seed packets, so if you mix them up together they can be awkward to access.  Especially if you store a lot of seeds.

Seeds sealed in airtight plastic bags keep for longer than those stored in paper envelopes.  They are also much cheaper than paper envelopes. 

However they have some drawbacks.  They are very floppy, which makes them awkward to handle and they are harder to write on than paper envelopes.  But the main problem with them is that you only have to leave the packets in direct sunlight for a few minutes and they act like micro greenhouses and start to cook the seeds.  Perhaps the best use for resealable plastic bags is for storing large or bulk seeds.

Paper envelopes that are exactly the same size as commercial seed packets are readily available from stationary suppliers.  The stiffness of paper envelopes and the fact that they are the same size as commercial seed packets means that they can be sorted like  index cards and easily rifled through to find the seeds that you are looking for.  These envelopes are ideal if you store a lot of seeds.



It's important that you store your seed packets in a dry place away from direct sunlight and in a position that can't be accessed by rodents. 

The simplest way to store them is in something like an old shoe box.  However, as I have a lot of seeds, I have built a purpose made seed box that has a carry handle and is divided into nine compartments.  Two of the compartments hold plastic labels, pencils and scissors while the other seven compartments are for storing the seeds, which are sorted into different categories.  The handle means I can easily transport the seeds. 

Rodents will eat your seeds if they get a chance.  To prevent this I suspend my seed box on hooks so rodents can't get at the seeds in the box.  I also set mice and rat traps in the room that the seed box is stored in.

Seeds that you have harvested yourself may have insect eggs attached to them.  I have had a number of infestations of weevil beetles on stored bean and pea seeds.  If you sprinkle a small amount of Derris dust into the seed packets this will prevent pests such as weevils from damaging your seeds.  You will not have to do this for commercial seed packets as most of their seeds have already been treated with an insecticide.