Crafting And Selling Wedding Invitations: A Diy Guide

Planning a wedding can be a stressful and expensive task. One way to save money is to make your own wedding invitations. There are many DIY wedding invitation kits available for purchase in different colours and styles. These kits can often be bought on sale or with coupons, making them even more affordable.

If you're looking to add a personal touch to your wedding, creating your own invitations is a great way to do it. You can find kits at craft stores or online, and with a little time and effort, you can make invitations that are unique and special.

There are also several online platforms that offer design-your-own options, such as Shutterfly, Vistaprint, Canva, and MagnetStreet. These platforms often have sales and allow you to print your designs at a low cost.

So, if you're feeling crafty and want to save some money, DIY wedding invitations might be the way to go!

DIY invitation kits

Etsy DIY Invitation Kits

Etsy offers a wide range of DIY invitation kits, with various options to choose from. You can find kits with different themes, such as vintage floral, minimalist, or luxury designs. Some kits include pre-printed invitations and envelopes, while others offer digital templates that you can print at home. Etsy also provides additional items like wax seals, envelope liners, belly bands, and thank-you cards to complete your wedding stationery.

Cards & Pockets DIY Invitation Kits

Cards & Pockets offers DIY invitation kits that allow you to mix and match from over 85 colour options in their premium cardstock selection. Their kits include printable invitations that can be tailored with your personal information, wedding date, and other details. They also offer additional products like response cards and thank-you cards for a cohesive wedding stationery suite.

Amazon DIY Invitation Kits

Amazon has a vast selection of DIY invitation kits to choose from. You can find simple kits that include invitations, envelopes, and RSVP cards, as well as more elaborate kits with vellum wraps, wax seal stickers, dried flowers, and ribbon. Amazon also offers blank invitations and envelopes for those who want to design and print their own.

Paper Source DIY Wedding Invitations

Paper Source provides all the materials and resources you need to create beautiful, personalised DIY wedding invitations. They offer a range of high-quality cover weight cards and envelopes in an exclusive colour palette, allowing you to mix and match. Paper Source also has a collection of embossed printable invitations that create a luxurious raised image. They provide online resources and tips for designing, printing, and assembling your invitations, including templates, font suggestions, and paper cutting tools.

Printing options

Printing your DIY wedding invitations can be done in a variety of ways, depending on your budget, time, and desired level of customisation. Here are some printing options to consider:

Home Printing

Printing your wedding invitations at home is a good option if you want full control over the process and are working with a tight budget. This method allows you to customise your invitations as much as you like without incurring additional costs. However, it can be time-consuming and may require a significant amount of printer ink. Ensure your printer can handle the weight and size of your chosen paper—most standard printers can accommodate cardstock up to 80 pounds. It is recommended to run a few tests before printing your final design, as home printers often display images that are slightly darker than the digital version. Adjust the settings until you are satisfied with the colour balance.

Online Printing Services

If you would like to outsource your wedding invitation printing, there are many online print services that offer affordable and high-quality printing options. These services typically provide digital printing on various types of paper stock in standard sizes. Some popular options include:

• Prints of Love: Offers a wide range of sizes and orientations, including invitations, RSVP cards, menus, thank you cards, signs, and posters. They also offer customisations like rounded edges and linen paper for a small additional fee.
• Vistaprint: An inexpensive and popular option among small stationery companies on Etsy. They provide quality paper goods and often have sales or coupon codes available.
• Zazzle: Features thousands of wedding invitation templates that can be customised and ordered online. They also offer coordinating pieces like table numbers, signage, and menus.
• Overnight Prints: An environmentally-conscious option that uses recycled paper and waterless printing. They offer high-quality printing services for save-the-dates, invitations, day-of stationery, and thank-you notes.
• Canva: A DIY design tool and online printer that allows you to design and print your invitations in one place. They offer free templates and the option to upload your custom design.

In-Store Printing

If you prefer a more hands-on approach or need your invitations urgently, you can visit a specialty stationery store or print shop to print your designs. These stores often have a variety of paper options to choose from and can provide guidance on selecting the best size and weight for your project. Some popular options include:

• Staples: Offers professionally designed wedding invitation cards with many customisable templates.
• Amazon: Sells DIY wedding invitation kits in various colours and styles, often including envelopes and RSVP cards.

Combination of Methods

You can also combine different printing methods to create a semi-handmade invitation suite. For example, you could print your designs at home or through an online service and then take them to a craft store to add embellishments like stamps, wax seals, pressed flowers, or ribbons.

Remember to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to design, print, and assemble your invitations. It is recommended to send out your invitations six to eight weeks before your wedding.

Design tips

There are many different approaches to DIY wedding invitation design. You could personalise a template, create your own design from scratch, or even hand-calligraph the text. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful DIY wedding invitation:

• Know your vision: Before you start, it's important to have a clear idea of what you want your invitations to look like. Consider your wedding theme and colour scheme, and think about the materials and tools you will need to bring your vision to life.
• Be realistic about your skillset: While it's great to be inspired by professional wedding invitations, remember that you are not a professional stationer. Be realistic about what you can achieve with your skillset, and consider opting for a semi-DIY approach if you don't feel confident going fully handmade.
• Practise: Don't commit to a final design without practising first. Take the time to experiment and tweak your design until you're happy with it.
• Don't assume DIY is cheaper: DIY wedding invitations can be a great way to save money, but that's not always the case. By the time you've bought all the materials and tools you need, the cost can add up. So, if you're opting for DIY to save money, be sure to shop around and compare prices before you start.
• Set aside enough time: DIY-ing your wedding invitations will take time, especially if you're making a large number. Give yourself a deadline and work backwards, allowing plenty of buffer time in case of mistakes or delays.
• Proofread: When you work with a professional stationer, they will proofread your invitations for errors. When you're doing it yourself, it's up to you to spot any mistakes. Be sure to enlist a few friends to help you proofread before you print.
• Consider how they will travel: If you're planning to post your invitations, choose a design that will travel well. Avoid bulky embellishments that could get squashed or damaged in the mail.
• Understand layout styles: When designing your invitations, consider using a layout style that will make your text easy to read and visually appealing.
• Choose the right paper: There are many different types of paper to choose from for your DIY wedding invitations. Uncoated cardstock is a popular choice for its luxurious look and durable feel. If you want a more textured look, you could opt for paper with a cotton, linen, or felt finish.
• Add embellishments: To elevate your invitations, consider adding embellishments such as ribbons, wax seals, or envelope liners. Just be sure to keep the weight of your invitations in mind to avoid extra postage fees.

Paper choices

When it comes to paper choices for your DIY wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider, from colour to weight and texture. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect paper for your special day.

Paper Colour

The colour of your paper sets the tone and style of your invitations. Paper Source offers an exclusive colour palette, allowing you to mix and match shades that complement each other. They offer a range of whites, from Pure White, the brightest option, to Superfine Soft White, a creamy ivory shade.

For a vibrant pop of colour, consider brands like Colorplan, which offers over 50 hues, or Pop-tone, with bold shades inspired by pop culture. If you want a touch of shimmer, Stardream's pearlescent finish adds elegance and flair to your invitations.

Paper Weight and Texture

The weight and texture of your paper contribute to its overall look and feel. Uncoated cardstock is a popular choice for wedding invitations due to its luxurious appearance and durable feel. For a more textured, natural look, you can select paper with a cotton, linen, or felt finish.

Paper Source's Luxe Fino papers, recycled with 30% post-consumer waste and 20% cotton, offer an eco-friendly option. Their Eco-White paper is also an excellent choice, made from 100% recycled content.

Paper Samples

It's essential to see and feel the paper in person before making a decision. Visit specialty stationery stores or print shops to browse their selection and ask for samples. Take these samples home to test on your printer, ensuring the paper works with your equipment.

Ordering Paper

When ordering paper for your DIY wedding invitations, it's recommended to order slightly more than you need to account for mistakes and practice. For instance, if you require 100 invitations, order 120-125 flat cards to be on the safe side.

Enclosures and Envelopes

In addition to the invitation itself, you may want to include enclosures, such as response cards and reception cards. Paper Source offers six enclosure styles in three size categories: 5" square, A7, and A9.

When choosing envelopes, consider using both inner and outer envelopes. The outer envelope protects the inner envelope and its contents from damage during postal service handling. It also allows for a neat presentation, especially if you're using a dark-coloured inner envelope.

Don't forget to order envelopes for your RSVP cards, and consider adding envelope liners for a special touch. You can create your own using an envelope liner template kit or purchase pre-made liners.

Assembly and Adhesives

For a seamless assembly process, use tools like a paper cutter, adhesive applicators, sharp scissors, and a bone folder for precise creases and smooth layers. A Xyron machine is also recommended for applying adhesive to invitations and paper sashes.

Final Thoughts

When choosing paper for your DIY wedding invitations, consider colour, weight, texture, and the overall style you wish to achieve. Order samples, test on your printer, and don't forget to account for enclosures and envelopes. With careful planning and the right tools, you can create elegant and personalised invitations for your big day.

Putting it all together

Now that you've chosen your design, paper, printing method, and embellishments, it's time to put your DIY wedding invitations together. Here are some tips to help you create beautiful and professional-looking invitations:

• Paper cutting: Consider ordering paper that is already cut to size to save time and effort. If you have a lot of invitations to cut, investing in a paper cutter can be useful. However, it's not necessary, and you can skip this step by ordering pre-cut paper.
• Embellishments: Add ribbons, twine, tags, or wax seals to your invitations for a creative touch. These elements can also be used to keep all the components of your invitation suite together, such as RSVP cards and travel information.
• Addressing: You can choose to address your invitations by hand or print labels. Calligraphy can add a beautiful and elegant touch to your envelopes. There are many online tutorials and classes that can help you improve your calligraphy skills.
• RSVP options: Decide on your preferred RSVP method and include this information in your invitation suite. Options include including an RSVP card, providing a phone number or email address, or directing guests to a wedding website.
• Postage: Before sending out your invitations, check the weight of your invitation suite to ensure you have the correct postage. Square envelopes and heavier invitations may require additional postage.
• Assembly: Take your time when assembling your invitations to ensure they look neat and professional. Pay attention to details such as alignment and spacing. Always do a test print on plain paper before printing on your final invitation paper.
• Proofreading: Carefully proofread your invitations for any errors or typos. Ask a friend or family member to review your invitations as well to catch any mistakes you may have missed.
• Printing: If you are printing your invitations at home, test your printer and paper beforehand to ensure compatibility. Use the highest-quality print settings for the best results.
• Envelopes: Consider adding envelope liners or embossing for a subtle and elegant touch. You can find DIY tutorials online for creating your own envelope liners.

Frequently asked questions