You can only ship "flexible, flat items like papers, photographs, and thin
documents" as a First Class flat envelope. So, you could use an envelope
for things like capes or thin instruction manuals- but no parts. Envelopes
are run through a sorting maching, so if it isn't thin enough and flexible
the machine will most likely destroy the parts.
Also, keep in mind, shipping anything in First Class Envelope will not have tracking-
so there is no proof of delivery.
Can I ship as a flat envelope USPS First Class Mail?
As long as it doesn't contain any 'rigid' objects. Such as a plastic
Lego part. Lego parts in a bubble mailer have to be mailed by Ground Advantage
or Priority mail including for International.
If you are looking for a cheaper international method, look into the Simple Export
Rate from Pirateship.com.