Invitation Paper: Choosing The Perfect Wedding Card Material

Choosing the right paper for your wedding invitations can be a daunting task, with hundreds of thousands of types of paper available in different colours, materials, weights, textures, and finishes. The type of paper you choose will depend on your budget, the style of your wedding, and the printing technique you want to use. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect paper for your big day:

- Consider the weight of the paper. The weight is usually expressed in pounds (#) and refers to the weight of a stack of 500 pieces of paper. So, the higher the number, the heavier the paper. For wedding invitations, you typically want a heavier paper that feels more luxurious and expensive.

- Choose the right finish. The main options for paper finishes are glossy (like a shiny photo print), metallic or shimmer (with a subtle shine), or matte (no shine). Metallic papers are great for envelope liners or belly bands, while matte papers are perfect for a more elegant or sophisticated look.

- Think about the colour. While wedding invitations are typically white or off-white, coloured papers can add a unique touch. Just make sure that the colour you choose complements the printing technique and design of your invitation.

- Select the right material. Paper can be made from trees, recycled materials, or natural cotton fibres. Cotton paper is a popular choice for wedding invitations as it is soft, durable, and absorbs ink well, resulting in richer colours.

- Don't forget to sample. The best way to choose the right paper for your wedding invitations is to order samples and see how they look and feel in person. This will help you decide which paper best suits your style and budget.

Paper weight and thickness

The weight and thickness of your wedding invitation paper will depend on several factors, including your budget, your desired look and feel, and the type of printer you will be using.

Paper Weight

Paper weight is usually expressed in pounds (#) and refers to the weight of a stack of 500 pieces of that paper. So, the higher the number, the heavier the paper. In the US, cardstock weight ranges from 45# to 300# or higher. A good rule of thumb is that the higher the weight, the thicker the cardstock, and the more luxurious your invitations will feel.

For home printing, 80# to 90# cardstock is ideal as it can go through most desktop printers without any issues. 100# cardstock can also work for some home printers, but it may cause problems with others. If you're looking for a more professional look, 110# to 130# cardstock will give you the best results, but you may need to use an industrial printer. Anything 150# and above should be reserved for professional printers and letterpress printing.

Thickness and Printer Compatibility

The thickness of the cardstock also depends on the type of printer you will be using. Desktop printers are often limited in the paper thickness they can handle, so it's important to review your printer's instructions and do a test print to determine the maximum weight it can handle.

If you're using a local print shop, keep in mind that not all printers or locations will provide the same print quality. Laser printers, for example, apply a layer of ink that can flake off on certain types of paper. Additionally, most print shops require you to print on standard-sized sheets and may refuse to print on envelopes or small, oddly-shaped cardstock.

Cost Considerations

The cost of your wedding invitations will also depend on the weight and thickness of the paper. Thicker, heavier cardstock will generally be more expensive, and special printing techniques like foil stamping or letterpress will also increase the cost. If you're on a budget, opt for a smaller invitation suite with limited embellishments and materials.

Recommendations

For a luxurious and couture feel, graphic designer and stationer Joy Scott Montgomery recommends using thick, heavy paper with a smooth matte finish. Cotton paper, which is incredibly durable and absorbs ink well, is another popular option, but it is the costliest. If you're looking for something more affordable, cardstock in the 80# to 100# range will work for most home printers and give your invitations a nice, professional look.

Paper finish

The finish of your wedding invitation paper is an important consideration, as it can add a certain personality to your invites and make them stand out. Here are some popular paper finishes to consider:

Linen Finish

A linen finish gives wedding invitations an elegant look and feel. This type of paper is a high-quality cotton blend with a textured, slightly cross-hatched surface that mimics the fabric it is named after. Linen cardstock is perfect for hiding imperfections or quality issues that may occur during printing at home. It adds visual interest to simple invitations and gives them a sophisticated look.

Cotton Fiber

Cotton fiber paper is the costliest option, typically made with 100% cotton, giving it a super soft feel. This type of paper has no imperfections, and its strong fibers make it highly absorbent, resulting in richer-looking ink. Cotton paper is incredibly durable and works well with printing techniques like letterpress. It is a popular choice for wedding invitation companies and is considered "photo safe", making it ideal for scrapbooking.

Kraft and Wood-Grain Paper

Kraft and wood-grain paper are perfect for rustic or outdoor-themed weddings. They convey a DIY touch and add a sense of personalized intimacy to your invitations. These papers have a rustic, on-trend look that resembles coarse brown grocery bags but with a more polished finish.

Pearlescent Paper

Pearlescent paper adds a bit of sparkle and shine to your wedding invitations. It has a shimmery finish that gives your invitations an elegant look. If you're using a photograph, this paper adds a soft glow to your image.

Parchment

Parchment is a thin, semi-translucent paper with a slight marbled look. It is subtle and soft, perfect for spring or small, intimate weddings. While it is not very thick, it layers nicely with other types of paper, such as vellum or cotton cardstock, to add depth to your invitations.

Vellum

Vellum is a flexible, translucent, and smooth material that is commonly used in layered invitations to create depth and interest. It can be used as an accent, such as belly bands, or printed on directly. However, keep in mind that glue may be visible, so layers will need to be adhered with a grommet or ribbon.

Glassine and Clear Vellum Paper

Glassine and clear vellum paper are non-opaque options that provide negative space and depth to your invitations. They are commonly used in layered invitations and can be used to create borders or mute underlying stock or graphics. Like vellum, these papers can also be used as accents or belly bands.

Acrylic

Acrylic invitations are clear, rigid, and dramatic, drawing attention to your wedding invites. However, they come with limitations and a higher cost. Printing on acrylic requires different techniques, such as digital printing or screen printing, and certain printing methods like foil stamping or thermography cannot be used as they may warp the material.

The choice of paper finish depends on your personal preference, budget, and the overall tone you want to set for your wedding. Each finish offers a unique look and feel, enhancing the visual appeal of your wedding invitations.

Cardstock vs. cover stock

When choosing paper for wedding invitations, you'll likely come across two terms: cardstock and cover stock. While these two types of paper are similar, there are some differences to note.

Both cardstock and cover stock are thicker and more durable than regular printer paper, but they differ in appearance and measurement. Cardstock typically has a smooth surface and is measured by caliper, or thickness in points. On the other hand, cover stock is often coated and textured, with a protective finish, and is measured by basis weight. Cover stock is also generally classified by paper basis weight rather than caliper.

In terms of weight, cardstock is classified by pound weight (#) and inches, while cover stock is measured in points. Cardstock weight ranges from 45# to 300# or higher, with the higher the weight, the thicker the cardstock. Cover stock, meanwhile, typically comes in at 120 pounds and can have various finishes, such as satin, silk, or glossy.

When it comes to printing wedding invitations, cardstock is the recommended choice. It is better suited for printing due to its smooth surface, which absorbs ink well. Cover stock, with its texture and finish, may not yield the same high-quality results.

However, both types of paper have their advantages and can be used interchangeably in crafting projects. Cardstock is ideal if you want a smooth, generic finish, while cover stock adds a decorative touch with its variety of colours, finishes, and textures.

Printing method

Printing your wedding invitations at home is a quick, easy, and affordable option. However, desktop printers are often limited in the paper thickness, or weight, they can handle. The best way to determine the maximum weight of paper your printer can handle is by reviewing your printer's instructions and then doing a test print. Start with 80# cardstock and increase the weight until you start having issues like smudging or jamming.

If you're printing at home, consider using textured cardstock as inkjet printing can sometimes look a little "fuzzy". A linen stock is a great option for hiding some of the imperfections.

If you're looking to outsource your printing, a local print shop like Kinko's or FedEx Office can provide professional-quality prints at a fraction of the cost of boutique printing. However, keep in mind that not all printers or locations print the same. Laser printers apply a layer of ink (toner) on top of the paper, which can sometimes flake off on certain types of paper (like shimmery cotton or vellum). Additionally, most print shops require you to print on standard 8.5" x 11" sheets and trim them down, and they may refuse to print on envelopes or small, oddly-sized cardstock.

If you're printing at a local print shop, save your invitations on a thumb drive as a high-res PDF. Use cardstock with a smooth texture and start with 100# cardstock, working your way up.

When it comes to printing methods, there are several options to choose from, including:

• Engraving: A high-end technique where paper is pressed between an inked plate and a metal plate to create raised letters and images. Each color requires its own plate, which can increase the cost.
• Embossing: Similar to engraving, but without ink. The paper is pressed upwards to create a raised, colorless design, typically reserved for monograms, borders, and other graphics.
• Foil stamping: Requires made-to-order metal dies that can stand the heat required to impress the image onto the paper. This method results in clean, sharp edges and crisp colors with a high-polish, metallic effect.
• Letterpress: A custom die format that uses a plastic die instead of metal, making it slightly more affordable than foil stamping. The soft, romantic feel of letterpress is achieved by stamping ink into a soft cotton stock, creating a bit of bleed and blur around indented edges.
• UV and Thermographic printing: Heat-based methods that create a slight plasticine shine on raised lettering. Thermography is a great option if you want a metallic aesthetic without the high cost of foil stamping.
• Flat digital printing: A budget-friendly option that offers freedom, flexibility, and affordability. While this style doesn't add tactile dimension, a skilled designer can add visual effects, and embellishments like rhinestones or wax seals can be added.

No matter which printing method you choose, selecting the right wedding invitation paper involves a bit of trial and error.

Paper colour

When it comes to paper colour, there are many options to choose from. Here are some popular choices:

White Cardstock

This is a medium to heavyweight paper made from tree pulp with a smooth, matte finish. It is perfect for printing at home and is relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for couples on a budget. The weight ranges from 80# to 100#, with the heavier weight giving a more professional look.

Linen Cardstock

Linen cardstock has a delicate woven texture and a matte finish, giving it the look and feel of linen fabric. It is perfect for hiding imperfections and adding visual interest to simple invitations. It comes in a variety of colours and weights, including white and natural linen.

Cotton Cardstock

Cotton cardstock is smooth, durable, and highly absorbent, making it suitable for both laser and inkjet printing. It gives invitations a clean, modern look and is considered "photo safe", making it ideal for scrapbooks and wedding albums. It comes in a variety of weights and colours, including white and natural cotton.

Kraft Cardstock

Kraft cardstock, also known as recycled cardstock, has a rustic look and feel. It resembles coarse brown grocery bags but is thicker and more polished. It is a great option for vintage or outdoorsy weddings.

Coloured Cardstock

Coloured cardstock resembles thick craft paper and is incredibly smooth, without any texture or grain. It comes in a variety of colours and weights, making it perfect for creating a fun and cohesive look for your wedding invitations and envelopes.

Stardream Metallic Paper

If you want to add a touch of shimmer and elegance to your invitations, Stardream metallic paper is an ideal choice. Its pearlescent finish and smooth texture will make your invitations shine.

When choosing the colour of your wedding invitation paper, consider your wedding theme, style, and budget. You can also mix and match different colours and textures to create a unique and personalised look.

Frequently asked questions