Assembling Pocketfold Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Pocketfold wedding invitations are a traditional and classic way to present your wedding invitation, RSVP card, and other inserts. They are a convenient and elegant option for couples seeking style and functionality. This type of invitation is also known as a pocket invitation, pocket envelope invitation, or jacket invitation. Creating your own pocketfold invitations allows you to save money and achieve a professional and elegant look. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of assembling your own pocketfold wedding invitations, from choosing the right materials to the final assembly.

Choosing materials

When it comes to choosing materials for your pocketfold wedding invitations, there are several options to consider. Here are some detailed tips to help you select the best materials for your invitations:

Cardstock:

The foundation of your invitation suite is high-quality cardstock. It provides a sturdy base and a sophisticated feel. Cardstock is available in various colours, weights, and textures, allowing you to set the tone for your wedding. You can opt for classic shades like ivory and cream or choose colours that match your wedding theme. Cardstock also serves as the perfect backdrop for any graphics, fonts, or ink colours you wish to use.

Paperweights:

Selecting the appropriate paperweight is critical for achieving a luxurious feel. A heavier paperweight, such as a premium cardstock, conveys elegance and quality. It also ensures that your invitations are durable and less likely to become damaged during mailing. If you're looking for something more lightweight and airy, opt for a lower paperweight.

Textures:

Textures play a significant role in enhancing the visual appeal of your invitations. You can choose from a variety of textures, such as smooth, linen, or hammered cardstock. Adding a touch of texture can elevate the overall design and create a sensory experience for your guests. Whether it's a subtle embossed pattern or a more pronounced texture, it will surely make an impression.

Envelopes:

Envelopes are an essential component of your invitation suite. They set the initial impression and create a sense of anticipation. Choose envelopes that complement your wedding theme and colour palette. Consider adding a liner to your envelopes, such as a contrasting colour or a patterned paper, for a stylish surprise when your guests open them. Don't forget to select envelopes that are the appropriate size for your pocketfold invitations and any additional inserts you may include.

Ribbons or Twine:

Ribbons or twine can be used to add a decorative touch to your pocketfold invitations. They help secure the contents and create a neat presentation. Opt for ribbons made from materials like satin or grosgrain, or go for a more rustic look with twine. You can choose colours that match your wedding palette or opt for something more neutral.

Embellishments:

Embellishments like wax seals, stickers, or gem decals can elevate the sophistication of your invitations. A wax seal, for instance, adds a touch of old-world charm and can be customised with your initials or a symbol that reflects your wedding theme. Stickers can be used to seal envelopes or as decorative accents, while gem decals provide a hint of sparkle.

Printing Options:

The printing technique you choose will impact the overall appearance of your invitations. You can select from various options, including high-resolution digital printing, letterpress printing, or foil stamping. Each method offers a unique look and feel. For instance, foil stamping creates a luxurious and elegant appearance, while letterpress printing leaves a subtle impression on the paper for a timeless and tactile appeal.

Eco-Friendly Materials:

If sustainability is important to you, opt for eco-friendly materials. Many companies now offer invitation suites crafted from recycled paper or sustainable sources. By choosing eco-friendly materials, you can reduce the environmental impact of your wedding and showcase your commitment to eco-conscious practices.

Invitation design

Pocketfold wedding invitations are a traditional and classic way to present your wedding invitation. They are elegant, convenient, and multifaceted, offering organised space for all your essential details. They can be customised to seamlessly align with any wedding theme, from vintage to modern, boho-chic to rustic.

The design process begins with choosing your pocketfold and colour options. You can select from a wide range of custom colours, from midnight blue to sunshine yellow, to suit your wedding theme. You can also opt for pre-designed themes that come in tasteful colour combinations.

The next step is to place your order. You can purchase each element separately or as a kit. This includes the pocketfold itself, a text mat for printing the wedding details, a backing mat in a complementary colour, inserts for additional information, and a belly band or ribbon to hold it all together.

After receiving your order, you can download the templates for the inner parts of your invitation. These can be customised using software like Word, and adorned with your chosen text, font, and colour.

Finally, it's time to print and assemble your invitations. You can use ribbons and other embellishments to create something truly unique. The assembly process is quick and easy, and you can find many online tutorials and templates to guide you through the process.

Cutting out pieces

Cutting Out the Pieces

The first step in assembling your pocketfold wedding invitations is to cut out all the pieces with text. This step is very time-consuming, so don't be hard on yourself if you can't get it done in a day! After printing the invitation and the three card inserts, cut them out using an X-acto knife or a paper cutter.

Printing your cards with guides will make this process much easier. If you don't do this, you will have to manually measure out each card, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. For example, you can fit four cards to a page for the dinner and dancing and RSVP cards, and two to a page for the accommodations insert and the main invitation.

After cutting out the cards, you will need to cut out the main invitation enclosure, which will hold the invitation and all the cards. Cut two pieces of card stock as follows:

• 1st (large) piece: 11" x 6.25"
• 2nd (smaller) piece: 6.75" x 6.25"

Next, cut out the pocket. Make a template out of card stock that fits inside the smaller section of the enclosure where you will be scoring. Place your template on the small enclosure piece and make a dot in the middle with your pen or pencil. Use a ruler to connect the dot to the edge and cut along this line with your X-Acto knife. Repeat this process for the other side, ensuring that the triangle you cut is facing the correct direction.

Now, cut out the invitation contrast piece and the monograms. For the contrasting card stock that goes behind the main invitation to make it stand out, cut out 4 1/8" X 5 3/4" rectangles. You can choose a colour that relates to your wedding theme. The monograms should be punched out with a 1.5" hole puncher, and the contrasting background for the monogram with a 2" hole puncher.

Folding and taping

Folding:

Firstly, ensure you have accurately scored the enclosure pieces with a scoring board or ruler. The folding process will be much easier and more precise if the scoring is done correctly. Next, fold the pieces along the scored lines. For a neat finish, use a bone folder to sharpen the creases. This will also help to ensure that your invitation fits snugly into its envelope.

Taping:

Double-sided tape is your best friend when assembling pocketfold invitations. Start by taping the pocketfold section shut. Apply tape to each side of the pocket, ensuring you only tape the very edges so that the insert cards will fit. Use your bone folder to press down on the tape, securing it firmly to the paper.

Next, merge the pocketfold piece with the larger piece of card stock. Tape along every edge of the pocketfold piece, ensuring there are no gaps. Align the pocketfold piece with the edge of the larger piece, being careful not to attach it to the crease. Again, use your bone folder to press down on the tape, creating a strong bond.

To add depth and a handmade touch, adhere the contrasting card to the inside of the invitation. Form an 'X' with tape on the back of the card, leaving a 1/4" margin on each side. Finally, use tape to secure the main invitation to the contrasting card.

By carefully following these folding and taping steps, you will create elegant and professional-looking pocketfold wedding invitations.

Final assembly

Now that you have all the individual components of your pocketfold wedding invitation, it's time to put them all together!

Start by placing the backing mat at the back of the pocketfold. This will serve as a colourful backdrop for your invitation. Secure it in place with a strong adhesive.

Next, attach the text mat to the centre of the backing mat. This is where you will include all the important details of your wedding, such as the date, time, and location. Again, use a strong adhesive to ensure it stays in place.

Once the text mat is in place, you can start adding your inserts. These might include an RSVP card, accommodation information, or any other relevant details for your guests. Place them inside the pocket of the pocketfold, ensuring they are neatly arranged and easy to remove.

Finally, add the finishing touch with a belly band. This is a paper ribbon that wraps around the entire invitation, holding it together and giving it a classy, polished look. Tie it securely, but not too tightly, so that your guests can easily open and close the invitation.

And there you have it! Your pocketfold wedding invitation is now fully assembled and ready to be sent out. Remember to allow plenty of time for assembly, as creating these invitations can be time-consuming, especially if you have a large guest list. It's a labour of love, but the end result will be worth it!

Frequently asked questions