Cricut Wedding Invites: Diy Or Don't Bother?

Wedding invitations can be expensive, but a Cricut machine can help you save money and add a personal touch to your special day. With a Cricut, you can design and create elegant, customised invitations with endless options for versatility and precision cutting. However, it's important to consider the time and effort that goes into crafting your own invitations, as well as the cost of materials and whether you plan to use the machine beyond your wedding.

Design tips

• You can create and design everything within the Cricut Design Space app. Alternatively, you can also do this with any editor like Google Docs, Slides, Microsoft Word or PowerPoint.
• If you want to use graphics, Transparent PNG graphics are great for designing your own invitations. They are bitmap format images with the background already removed, making it easier to lay out and overlap images and text.
• When uploading a transparent PNG, select 'complex' to preserve the details of the design.
• Save the image as 'Save as a Print Then Cut Image'.
• Once the graphic has been uploaded to the canvas, you can duplicate, rotate, resize, etc. as you see fit.
• If you want to create a rectangle, use the square shape tool and size it to your preferred dimensions using the dimensions tool in the top panel.
• Select 'Print' as the fill for the rectangle and colour it white. Place the rectangle over the graphics and slice two elements at a time. Delete the extra pieces outside the rectangle.
• Select all the internal white pieces of the rectangle from the right panel and weld them back together. Then, rearrange the graphics layers by selecting the rectangle and 'Send to Back' using the Arrange function in the top panel. Now flatten the graphics together.
• Use the text tool to create the text overlay. When you are done creating the text, make sure everything is attached and set the Fill = Print. Select your preferred colour for the text.
• Do not forget to select all the text and 'Flatten'. If you skip this step, the Cricut will attempt to slice all the letters. Be sure to attach the text and graphics together and then Flatten.
• The default bleed setting for Print and Cut on the Cricut is on. They add extra coloured padding around the cut line in case the cutting doesn’t happen perfectly.
• If you are using vellum, different brands have different levels of opacity. Each printer is different and may have trouble with vellum print and cut projects.
• If you are designing your own invitations, a common cutting file is called an SVG, and this is essentially a template for you to cut out with your Cricut machine. You can find these SVG files for Cricut on Etsy and DIY craft blogs or websites.
• If you have a Cricut Maker, you can use Cricut's engraving tip and quick swap housing and etch onto acrylic sheets for a modern look.
• If you are skipping the whole "make your own wedding invitations" thing but want to make your own wedding place cards instead, you can get away with using a Cricut Joy machine, the smallest, but mighty cutting machine in the Cricut family.
• If you want to use the print-then-cut feature, keep in mind that you’ll need access to an inkjet printer.
• If you want to use the foil transfer kit, Cricut makes two different foil transfer kits, one that is compatible with the Maker and Explore models and one that is compatible with the Joy.
• If you want to use the pen tool, there is a lot to consider when making invitations. To learn more about which fonts work best with this operation type, read our article on Single Line Fonts.

Cost considerations

The Cricut machine is an electronic cutting machine that allows you to cut a variety of materials with precision. It can be used to create wedding invitations, signage, and decor. However, there are some cost considerations to keep in mind when using a Cricut machine for your wedding invitations.

Firstly, the machine itself is an investment. The Cricut machine is not cheap, and it may take some time to learn how to use it effectively. There are also additional costs for tools, accessories, and replacement mats. The accessories can add up, especially if you are using the machine for intricate cutting or stencilling. It is important to consider the opportunity cost of investing in a Cricut machine and the time spent learning how to use it effectively.

Secondly, there are costs associated with the materials used for the wedding invitations. This includes the cost of cardstock or specialty paper, envelopes, ribbons, and embellishments. These costs can vary depending on the quality and quantity of materials required. It is important to consider the cost per invitation, especially if you are creating a large number of invitations.

Thirdly, there may be hidden costs associated with the design software and fonts. The Cricut Design Space software is required to create and import designs, and there may be costs associated with purchasing additional fonts or images. Alternatively, you can use other design software such as Adobe Illustrator, but you will need to convert your files to SVG format to be compatible with the Cricut machine.

Lastly, it is important to consider the cost of your time and effort. Creating wedding invitations with a Cricut machine can be time-consuming, especially if you are creating intricate designs or a large number of invitations. It may take several hours to design, cut, and assemble each invitation. It is important to factor in the value of your time and decide if it is worth the investment or if you would rather purchase pre-made invitations.

Overall, using a Cricut machine for your wedding invitations can be a cost-effective option, especially if you plan to use the machine for other crafting projects. However, it is important to consider the initial investment, material costs, hidden costs, and the value of your time when making your decision.

Pros and cons

Pros

• You can save money by making your own wedding invitations.
• You can create and design everything within the Cricut Design Space app or any other editor like Google Docs, Slides, Microsoft Word or PowerPoint.
• You can use Cricut to address your wedding envelopes using Cricut pens.
• Cricut machines are a type of electronic cutting machine that allows you to cut a variety of materials with precision.
• You can use Cricut machines to engrave clear or mirrored acrylic for a unique look.
• You can use the Foil Transfer Kit to add a metallic touch to your paper invites for some glimmery details.
• You can unleash your creativity and make wedding invitations that truly reflect your style and vision.

Cons

• Cricut machines are expensive.
• The paper/mat can be fussy. It can rip if the mat is too heavy for the paper.
• It can be time-consuming and frustrating to remove the cut paper from the mat, especially if you need to make a large number of invites.
• The Cricut Design Space software is not very user-friendly.
• There may be hidden costs associated with the Cricut machine, such as the need to purchase additional tools, mats, and vinyl.
• It can take time to learn how to use the Cricut machine effectively.
• The cutting process may not always be precise, and you may need to make adjustments manually.

Cricut machine types

There are three types of Cricut machines on the market: Cricut Explore 3, Cricut Maker, and Cricut Joy. The Cricut Maker is the most advanced machine and can cut more than 300 materials, including cardboard, fabric, metal, and balsa wood. The Cricut Explore 3 is a less powerful but still capable machine that can handle over 100 materials. The Cricut Joy is the smallest and most portable option, perfect for quick, everyday projects. It can cut one image up to 5 inches wide and 4 feet long or repeated cuts up to 20 feet long.

All Cricut machines come with the free Design Space software, which allows users to create their own designs or choose from a library of pre-made designs. The software can be used with a PC, Mac, smartphone, or tablet, and connects to the Cricut machine via Bluetooth or USB.

The Cricut Maker 3 is the latest model in the Cricut Maker line and offers improved speed and performance over its predecessor. It can cut, score, and engrave using Smart Materials, and is compatible with a wide range of attachments. The Cricut Explore 3 is a more affordable option that also works with Smart Materials and can be used for writing, drawing, foiling, and scoring, in addition to cutting.

The type of Cricut machine that is best for a user will depend on their specific needs and projects. Those looking for a machine with a wide range of capabilities and compatibility with various materials may prefer the Cricut Maker or Cricut Maker 3. For those who want a more affordable option that still offers a lot of functionality, the Cricut Explore 3 is a great choice. And for users who prioritises portability and ease of use, the Cricut Joy could be the ideal option.

Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Design the invitation

First, you need to create your wedding invitation design using software such as Adobe Illustrator or Cricut's Design Space. Within these programmes, you can choose from a variety of fonts, graphics, and templates or create your own unique design.

Step 2: Gather materials

Once you have your design ready, gather the materials you will need for your invitations. This typically includes cardstock or specialty paper for the invitation itself, as well as any additional elements like envelopes, ribbons, or embellishments.

Step 3: Prepare your Cricut machine

Set up your Cricut machine and ensure it is connected to your computer or mobile device. Load the appropriate cutting mat based on the materials you are using.

Step 4: Load the design and adjust settings

Import your invitation design into Cricut's Design Space. Adjust the settings to match the type of paper or cardstock you are using. This ensures the Cricut machine cuts accurately without damaging the material.

Step 5: Place the cardstock and start the cutting process

Place the cardstock or paper onto the cutting mat and load it into the Cricut machine. Follow the prompts on the Design Space to start the cutting process. The Cricut machine will precisely cut out your invitation design, including intricate details and shapes.

Step 6: Add additional elements

Once the main invitation is cut, you can further enhance it with additional elements. This may include adding decorative layers, embossing, or using the Cricut machine to cut out accompanying pieces like RSVP cards, information inserts, or belly bands.

Step 7: Assemble the invitations

Carefully assemble all the components of your invitation, adhering them together using glue, double-sided tape, or other adhesives. This is where you can add embellishments like ribbons, bows, or gemstones.

Step 8: Quality check

Before finalising your wedding invitations, give them a thorough quality check. Ensure that all the elements are securely attached, the design is aligned properly, and there are no visible flaws or imperfections.

Step 9: Repeat for multiple invitations

If you are creating multiple invitations, simply repeat the above process for each one. The Cricut machine ensures consistent results for a cohesive look across all your wedding invitations.

Step 10: Finalise and send

Once your invitations are ready, it's time to finalise and send them out! Prepare the envelopes, address them, and add any final touches before mailing them or handing them out in person.

Frequently asked questions