Creating Pocket Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding can be expensive, so it's no surprise that many people turn to DIY solutions to save some money. One way to do this is by making your own pocket wedding invitations. This can be a complex and time-consuming task, but with the right supplies and a bit of creativity, you can create beautiful, high-quality invitations on a budget. In this article, we will discuss the steps involved in creating pocket wedding invitations, from designing the invitation to assembling the final product. We will also provide tips and tricks for a professional-looking finish. So, whether you're a crafty bride or just looking to save some money, read on to learn how to make your own pocket wedding invitations.

Choosing your design and paper

When choosing your design and paper for DIY pocket wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a design that reflects the style and theme of your wedding. This could be rustic, vintage, country, elegant, or romantic. You can browse through free wedding invitation templates online and customise them to match your colour scheme and personal taste. If you're feeling creative, you can even design your own invitation from scratch using software like Microsoft Publisher, Photoshop, or InDesign.

Once you've decided on a design, it's time to choose the right paper. Cardstock is a popular choice for wedding invitations as it is sturdy and comes in a variety of colours. When selecting cardstock, consider the weight and thickness to ensure it fits within your desired envelope size. You can also opt for a contrasting cardstock for the inside of your invitation to make it stand out. If you want to add a decorative edge to your invitation, consider using an edge punch or paper cutter to create a unique finish.

In addition to the invitation card itself, you'll need to choose paper for the RSVP cards, accommodation cards, and reception cards. These can be made from the same cardstock as your invitation or mixed and matched to create a unique suite. When printing your designs, it's recommended to use a high-quality printer or seek professional printing services to ensure clear and crisp text and images.

Finally, don't forget to select envelopes that complement your invitation design and paper choices. You'll need both mailing envelopes and RSVP envelopes, and you may also want to consider adding envelope liners for a fun surprise when your guests open their invitations. Choosing the right design and paper for your DIY pocket wedding invitations will set the tone for your special day and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Trimming and cutting the card stock

Firstly, decide on the size of your invitations. If you are creating 5" by 7" invitations, trim the card stock to around 7.5”. For square invitations, adjust the height accordingly, ensuring the card stock is slightly taller than the invitation.

Next, use a paper cutter or scissors to trim the card stock to size. If using scissors, it is helpful to first create a pattern by cutting the template on 11 x 17 cardstock with a ruler and craft knife. Lay this pattern on top of your card stock and trace it with your scissors or craft knife.

For die-cutting machine users, download the appropriate template file and adjust the settings to accommodate the large size. Ensure your machine settings are suitable for the thickness of your paper before cutting.

After cutting, score the edges that will be folded. You can use a variety of tools for scoring, such as a bone folder, ruler, or the end of a chopstick. Score the tabs at the far edge of the pocket and then make additional score marks to define the pocket area. For a 5" by 7" invitation, measure 4 7/8" from the first score mark and create another. Then, from the second mark, measure 5 1/4" and make a final mark.

Finally, fold the card stock along the score marks and smooth out the folds with a flat tool, such as a bone folder or ruler. This will create crisp, neat edges for your pocket invitations.

Scoring and folding the paper

Tools for Scoring and Folding:

You'll need a few tools to achieve precise scoring and folding. Here are some options:

• Bone folder: This tool helps create crisp creases and is recommended for best results.
• Ruler: Use a ruler as a guide to ensure straight scoring lines.
• Cutting mat: A cutting mat with grid lines can also help you score straight lines.
• Other scoring tools: Alternatively, you can use the end of a chopstick or the blunt side of an X-Acto knife for scoring.

Step-by-Step Guide to Scoring and Folding:

• Scoring the "tabs": Start by using your bone folder and ruler to score the "tabs" that will form the pocket. These are the sections that jut out at the far edge of the paper.
• Scoring for the invitation size: The next step is to score the paper to create a pocket that fits your invitation. For a 5" x 7" invitation, measure 4 7/8" from the edge of the paper and create a score mark. Then, from that mark, measure 5 1/4" and make another score mark. This will be the width of your invitation when folded.
• Folding the score marks: Once you've made all the necessary score marks, it's time to fold. Fold the paper along the score lines, creating crisp creases with your bone folder or the flat edge of a ruler.
• Creating the pockets: To form the pockets, apply adhesive to the underside of the pocket tabs. You can use a glue runner, double-sided tape, or quick-dry adhesive. Fold the tabs over and press them against the inside of the paper. Hold the paper shut for a bit to allow the glue to dry, or use paper clips to hold it in place until the glue sets.
• Smoothing the folds: After adhering the pocket tabs, use your bone folder or ruler to smooth out the folds and ensure sharp creases.
• Optional decoration: If you want to add a decorative touch to your pocket, you can use an edge punch to create a vintage doily effect or any other design of your choice along the open edge of the pocket.

By following these steps and taking your time to ensure precise scoring and folding, you'll be well on your way to creating elegant and unique pocket wedding invitations.

Mounting the invitation

Preparing the Materials:

Before you begin, gather the necessary materials: your invitation design, card stock for the invitation and RSVP cards, envelopes, and adhesive. It is recommended to use Zip Dry Glue as your adhesive for a secure hold.

Take your invitation card and apply a thin line of glue along the edges, approximately a quarter of an inch away. Additionally, create a large "X" with the glue in the centre of the card. Be careful not to use too much glue, as you don't want it to squeeze out from under the card.

Attaching the Invitation to the Mat:

Carefully centre the invitation card on the invitation mat and gently press down along the edges. Don't worry if it's not perfectly centred on your first try—it takes a bit of practice to get it just right!

Gluing the Mounted Invite to the Pocket:

Repeat a similar process for attaching the mounted invitation to the centre section of your pocket. Apply glue along the edges and in the centre, then carefully position the invitation in the desired location.

Inserting the RSVP Card and Envelope:

Now, take your pre-printed RSVP card and RSVP envelope. Stack them neatly on top of each other, or you can choose to tuck the RSVP card under the flap of the envelope. This adds a neat and organised touch to your invitation suite.

Adding Additional Inserts:

If you have other inserts, such as directions or accommodations cards, you'll want to include those as well. Stack them neatly behind the RSVP card before tucking them into the pocket. This ensures that all the necessary information is included in your invitation.

By following these steps, you will have successfully mounted your invitation and assembled the pocket wedding invitation. Now, your guests will be impressed by your creativity and attention to detail!

Adding the finishing touches

Now that you've assembled your pocket wedding invitation, it's time to add the finishing touches! Here are some ideas to make your invitations even more special:

Embellishments

Add a personal touch with embellishments such as bellybands, envelope liners, double envelopes, laser-cut elements or ribbons. For example, using a bellyband—a thin strip of paper or ribbon that wraps around your invitation—can add a touch of elegance and help keep the contents of your invitation securely tucked inside. Envelope liners in a contrasting colour or pattern can also create a fun surprise for your guests when they open the envelope.

Customise the envelope

You can also customise the envelope itself. For example, consider using a vintage doily edge punch to create a decorative finish, or sealing the envelope with a personalised sticker. If you want to add a rustic touch, try using a "Pen-touch" white paint marker to address the envelopes.

Add stamps

Don't forget to add the appropriate postage stamps to your envelopes! The number of stamps needed will depend on the weight of your invitation, so be sure to weigh your invitation before mailing. You can also include a stamped RSVP return envelope, or give your guests the option to RSVP online to save on postage costs.

Assembly line

Finally, assembling your invitations can be made easier by enlisting the help of your bridal party or friends. Set up an assembly line and have each person take on a specific task, such as stuffing envelopes or applying adhesive. This will make the process more efficient and enjoyable!

Frequently asked questions