Coating Wedding Invites: The Printer's Guide To A Perfect Finish

Wedding invitations are a special type of stationery that often require a specific type of printing. The type of printing chosen can depend on the formality of the wedding, the budget, and the desired paper type and design. Couples can choose to print their invitations at home or use an online or in-store printing service.

Printing wedding invitations at home can be a good option for those on a tight budget or with a lot of time and creativity. However, it is important to consider the type of printer and ink used, as well as the paper weight and design. Home printers may not be able to handle thick paper or large ink coverage.

Online and in-store printing services offer a wide range of options for wedding invitations, from inexpensive digital printing to more luxurious foil stamping and letterpress. These services can provide high-quality prints on various paper types and sizes, often with faster turnaround times and at a lower cost than home printing.

Some popular online printing services for wedding invitations include Prints of Love, Vistaprint, Zazzle, and Overnight Prints. Couples can also opt for in-store printing at places like Staples, Walmart, or local print shops, which may offer more personalized service and faster turnaround times.

Paper weight and thickness

The weight and thickness of paper are important considerations when printing wedding invitations. These factors not only influence the durability and aesthetic appeal of the invitations but also the printing process and cost.

• Pounds (lb): This measurement refers to the weight of 500 sheets (a ream) of paper in its basic size. The basic size varies depending on the type of paper. Pounds are commonly used in the United States and Canada. For wedding invitations, a general rule of thumb is to use paper weighing at least 100 lb or 250 gsm. For a more luxurious feel, some opt for 120 lb, which is approximately 300 gsm.
• Grams per Square Meter (gsm): GSM is a universal measurement that applies to all paper types, making it a more consistent indicator of paper weight. It measures the weight of a single square meter of paper in grams. For wedding invitations, a minimum of 250 gsm is recommended, with 300 gsm being preferred for a more premium feel.
• Points (pt): Points measure the thickness of paper in thousandths of an inch. This measurement is commonly used for cover stock, business cards, and other thicker paper types. While there is not a direct correlation between weight and thickness, heavier papers tend to be thicker.

Choosing the Right Paper Weight and Thickness:

When selecting the weight and thickness of paper for wedding invitations, it is essential to consider the desired look and feel, as well as practical factors such as printing compatibility and cost. Thicker papers, such as cardstocks, convey a sense of luxury and are often used for wedding invitations to create a sophisticated and substantial impression. However, it is important to ensure that the chosen paper weight is compatible with your printing method. Some printing techniques, such as letterpress, require softer and bulkier papers, while others, like laser printing, may struggle with thicker papers.

Additionally, heavier papers often come at a higher cost, so it is essential to balance quality with budget constraints. If you are printing a large number of invitations, the cost difference can be significant.

In summary, when choosing the weight and thickness of paper for wedding invitations, opt for a weight of at least 100 lb or 250 gsm, with thicker options like 120 lb or 300 gsm for a more luxurious feel. Consider the printing method you intend to use and select a paper weight that is compatible with your chosen technique. Lastly, keep in mind your budget and the number of invitations you need to print, as these will influence your final decision.

Printer type

When it comes to choosing a printer for wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider, and a variety of options available. Here are the key details to help you select the right printer type:

• Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers are suitable for printing on thicker paper, such as cardstock, which is commonly used for wedding invitations. They feed the paper directly through the printer without rotating it, making them a good choice for thicker stocks. However, inkjet printers tend to be slower and less crisp in print quality compared to laser printers, and the cost per print is usually higher. An example of an inkjet printer is the Canon Pixma Pro 100.
• Laser Printers: Laser printers are known for their speed, crisp print quality, and cost-effectiveness. They are ideal for printing on thinner papers and can handle a variety of paper types. However, they typically struggle with thicker papers and may not be able to accommodate luxury paper weights often used for wedding invitations. An example of a laser printer is the HP m452dw.
• Commercial Printers: For those who require thicker papers and more specialized printing needs, commercial printers are an option. These machines, such as those by OKI, can handle thicker papers and offer higher-quality results. However, they come with a higher price tag, often in the $8,000 to $10,000 range, which may not be feasible for smaller businesses or those just starting.
• Print Shops: Outsourcing your printing needs to a print shop is another option. This can be especially beneficial if you require luxury or thicker papers, as print shops often have the equipment to handle these stocks better than in-house printers. It also saves you the hassle of investing in and maintaining your own printing equipment.

Factors to Consider:

When choosing a printer for wedding invitations, here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Paper Type and Thickness: The type and thickness of the paper you plan to use will play a significant role in your printer selection. Thicker papers, such as luxury or cardstock options, may require a printer that can handle heavier weights, like an inkjet printer or a commercial printer.
• Print Quality: The print quality you desire will also influence your choice. If you want crisp, high-quality text and images, a laser printer might be preferable. However, if you're printing photos or intricate designs, an inkjet printer may provide better results.
• Turnaround Time: Consider the time you have available for printing. If you're working with tight deadlines, an in-house printer like an inkjet or laser printer might be best, as you won't have to wait for a print shop to finish your order.
• Cost: Evaluate the upfront cost of the printer and the ongoing cost of cartridges or toner. Some printers may offer more cost-effective printing solutions, depending on the volume and frequency of your printing needs.
• Special Features: Look for features like rear paper feed, which is essential for feeding specialty papers and preventing curling or jamming issues. Additionally, consider whether you need a printer that can handle envelopes or custom paper sizes.

Paper coating

There are several types of paper coatings available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is an overview of some common paper coatings used for wedding invitations:

Semi-gloss, gloss, matte, resin, or polymer coating: These coatings are typically used when printing with dye-based ink. They help to reduce ink bleeding and runoff, resulting in sharper images and text. This type of coating is a good choice for invitations with photos or other graphic elements.

Swell-able papers: These papers have a coated surface that "swells" when it absorbs dye-based ink, resulting in rich and vibrant colours.

Linen, feltweave card stocks, and cotton rag: These types of textured paper are commonly used with pigment-based ink, which is known for its longevity. This combination can create a sophisticated and elegant look for wedding invitations.

When choosing a paper coating, it is important to consider the type of printer and ink being used, as well as the desired aesthetic and durability of the invitation. Some coatings may be too heavy for certain printers, so it is always a good idea to check the printer's specifications before making a decision.

In addition, the paper weight and thickness should also be taken into account. For wedding invitations, a paper weight of at least 80 pounds or 12-point stock is recommended to achieve the desired heft and feel. Thicker papers may require a commercial-grade printer or outsourcing to a print shop.

Ultimately, the choice of paper coating depends on the specific requirements and budget of the couple. By considering the various options available, couples can create wedding invitations that truly reflect their style and personality.

Printing methods

There are several printing methods to choose from when it comes to wedding invitations. The right method for you will depend on your budget, the formality of your wedding, and the amount of time you have before your wedding. Here is a rundown of some of the most popular printing methods:

Engraving

This is one of the most expensive printing methods and is ideal for ultra-formal weddings. An image is etched into a metal plate, which is then filled with ink. The paper is then pressed onto the plate to receive the ink, creating a raised type on the front and an indentation on the back. This method generally works best on thick paper, like cotton fiber, and the turnaround time can be anywhere from two to six weeks.

Thermography

Thermography has a similar look to engraving but without the hefty price tag. It is a heat-based process that fuses ink and resinous powder to create raised lettering. It is best to use cotton fiber paper and stick to light-colored paper with darker ink. This process can be completed in just a few days.

Letterpress

Letterpress is a labor-intensive method that creates a textural and sophisticated look. Text or an image is etched in reverse on a raised surface and coated with ink to produce a physical impression on the paper. This method requires soft, bulky paper, so you are limited to thick card stock like cotton fiber or bamboo paper. It is also one of the priciest printing methods and the turnaround time can range from two weeks to two months.

Digital Printing

Digital printing is ideal for casual or funky wedding styles and couples on a tight timeline or budget. It is typically done on thinner paper that can be sent through a printer and you can choose any ink color you like. It is the least expensive and fastest printing option, requiring just a few days for production and shipping.

Offset Printing (aka Lithography)

Offset printing is similar to digital printing but with a higher quality and a slightly higher price. A rubber stamp-like cylinder is used to press ink onto the paper. This method offers more paper options than digital printing and the designs and lettering will look more vibrant. The turnaround time is usually a few days to a week.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping leaves a metallic design on the paper and can complement a luxe, romantic wedding, as well as whimsical and casual invites. A heated copper plate is used to push the foil into the paper, leaving an impression. Lighter foils on darker papers create a dramatic effect. Foil stamping is the most expensive printing process and is often outsourced, with a turnaround time of around 10 business days to two months.

Embossing

Embossing is a non-ink technique where letters and images appear raised but colorless, perfect for monograms and bordering. It is typically done on thicker paper stock like cotton fiber. Inkless embossing (or blind embossing) is a popular choice for a delicate touch. The turnaround time is generally about the same as letterpress and engraving, around three to five weeks.

Design considerations

When designing your wedding invites, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they look their best. Here are some design considerations to remember:

• "Bleeds": This is a printing term for when images or design elements extend beyond the trim edge to avoid unwanted white spaces on the finished product. This is especially important for invites with photos. It will also make cutting your invites easier.
• Colour calibration: Modern screens do a good job of replicating colours, but there is still often a disconnect between the screen and printed colours. Calibrate your screen for colour balance before printing to ensure the colours on your invites are true-to-life.
• Foil lettering and accents: Applying foil lettering or accents at home is easier than you might expect and can make your invites stand out. While you can't print foil accents directly from your printer, you can get creative and add some DIY magic.
• DIY extras: Want to include letterpress, embossing, or die-cutting for an extra special touch? There are affordable DIY solutions available, such as the Cricut Cuttlebug machine or a laminator for foil printing.
• Cutting: When it's time to cut your invites, avoid using scissors to ensure clean, even cuts. Invest in a paper cutter or use an X-Acto knife for the best results. Cut each invite individually to ensure precision.
• Adjustments: One benefit of printing your own invites is the ability to make adjustments as you go. Be prepared to make test prints and adjustments until you get the perfect result.

By keeping these design considerations in mind, you can create beautiful, professional-looking wedding invites that will impress your guests.

Frequently asked questions