Folding Wedding Invitation Envelopes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding invitation envelopes can be a costly affair, but with a few DIY tricks, you can save money and still achieve a professional look. The type of envelope you choose will depend on the style of your invitation. Flat or single-fold cards typically require larger envelopes, with insertions placed on top, while multiple-fold cards allow for insertions within the first fold. When assembling your invitations, it's helpful to work in a cleared-out space and prepare all your materials beforehand. The order of insertions and the use of tissue are also important considerations. For a more elaborate presentation, you can use double envelopes, placing the inner envelope, with the guest's name facing out, into the outer mailing envelope. Finally, sealing your envelopes can be made easier with envelope sealer or glue, or a simple moist sponge.

How to fold a pocketfold wedding invitation

Creating your own pocketfold wedding invitations can be a complex process, but it is worth the effort for a unique and handmade look. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fold a pocketfold wedding invitation:

Materials Needed

• 8.5" x 11" Card stock
• 7/8" Ribbon
• Paper Cutter
• X-Acto Knife
• Contrasting card stock for monogram
• Circle Paper Punchers (1.5" and 2")
• Score Board
• Bone Folder
• Permanent Double-Sided Tape
• Envelopes in two sizes: 4.75" X 6.5" (main) and 3 5/8" X 5 1/8" (RSVP)
• Microsoft Publisher or similar design program
• Address Labels
• Stamps
• Pinking Shears
• Pencil or Pen
• Ruler
• Paper Clips
• Sticker Paper

Design and Cut Out the Pieces

First, design the pieces for your invitation, including the main invitation, accommodation card, reception card, and RSVP card. Cut out all the pieces using a paper cutter or X-Acto knife.

Cut Out the Invitation Enclosure

For the invitation enclosure, cut two pieces of card stock:

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

Score the Enclosure Pieces

Using a scoring board and a bone folder, score the enclosure pieces at precise measurements. For the smaller piece, score at the 4" mark. For the larger piece, score at 3/8" and 7". This will ensure a perfect fit into the envelope.

Cut Out the Pocket

Create a template for the pocket and place it on the smaller enclosure piece. Mark the centre with a dot, then use a ruler to connect the dot to the edge and cut with an X-Acto knife. Repeat for the other side, ensuring the triangle you cut faces the correct direction.

Cut and Adhere the Contrasting Card and Monograms

Cut out 4 1/8" X 5 3/4" rectangles from contrasting card stock to place behind the main invitation. Punch out the monograms with the 1.5" hole puncher, and the contrasting background with the 2" hole puncher.

Fold the Invitations

Fold the enclosure pieces along the scored lines. Use the bone folder to create crisp edges.

Tape the Pocketfold and Attach Pieces

Use double-sided tape to secure the pocketfold shut. Then, attach the contrasting card to the inside of the pocketfold with an X of tape. Adhere the main invitation on top of the contrasting card.

Cut and Adhere the Ribbon

Cut the ribbon to 14 inches with pinking shears to prevent fraying. Attach one end of the ribbon to the inside top of the pocket with double-sided tape, then wrap it around the outside of the invitation and secure the other end inside.

Insert Cards and Close the Invitation

Insert the card into the pocket, then close the invitation by folding the sides in. Your pocketfold wedding invitation is now complete!

This process takes time and precision, but with care and attention, you can create beautiful and personalised invitations for your special day.

How to trim card stock for a wedding invitation envelope

When it comes to wedding invitations, cardstock is a popular choice. The right paper for your wedding invitations will depend on your printer, as different printers have different print quality settings and limitations on the thickness of paper they can handle.

If you're printing at home, it's recommended to start with 80# cardstock and increase the weight until you encounter issues like smudging or jamming. If you're printing at a local print shop, you can go with a heavier cardstock, starting at 100# and working your way up.

Now, let's get into the steps on how to trim cardstock for a wedding invitation envelope:

• Choose the Right Cardstock: Select a cardstock that is compatible with your printer and suits your desired thickness and finish. Some common types of cardstock include solid white cardstock, linen cardstock, cotton cardstock, and kraft cardstock.
• Determine the Envelope Size: Before trimming the cardstock, ensure you know the size of your envelopes. The most common size for wedding invitation envelopes is A7 (5" x 7").
• Design Your Invitation: Use software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop to design your invitation. You can also purchase digital designs or templates online and customize them according to your preferences.
• Test Print: Before printing on your final cardstock, it's a good idea to do a test print on regular paper. This will allow you to make any necessary adjustments to your design and ensure that it fits within the trim lines.
• Trim Marks: Include trim marks on your design file to indicate where the cardstock needs to be cut. These marks will serve as a guide during the trimming process.
• Print Your Design: Once you are happy with your test prints, print your final design on the cardstock of your choice. Ensure your printer settings are set to "borderless" or at 100% scale to ensure accurate sizing.
• Gather Tools: You will need a sharp paper cutter or X-Acto knife and a ruler for precise trimming.
• Trim the Cardstock: Using your trim marks as a guide, carefully cut the cardstock to the desired size. If you are making multiple invitations, cut them in batches to save time and ensure consistency.
• Test Fit: After trimming, insert your invitation into the envelope to ensure a snug fit. If needed, make slight adjustments to your trimming process.
• Assemble Your Invitations: Once you are happy with the trimming and testing, proceed to assemble your invitations by inserting any additional cards, enclosures, or decorations.

Remember to allow for some trial and error, especially if this is your first time creating wedding invitations. It's always a good idea to print a few extra copies in case of mistakes.

How to mount a wedding invitation

Wedding invitation assembly can be a confusing process for many couples, but it's not too difficult. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to mount a wedding invitation:

Step 1: Get the Main Invitation Card

For the most part, wedding invitations are assembled in size order, with each card placed face up and the largest card at the bottom. Start with the invitation card on the bottom, with the printed side facing up.

Step 2: Add Vellum Liners (Optional)

If your wedding invitation includes a thin sheet of vellum, it's your choice whether to include it or not. Traditionally, this was used to prevent ink smudges during mailing. If you choose to include it, place the vellum on top of the invitation card.

Step 3: Stack the Reception Card

If you are using a separate reception card, place it face up on top of the wedding invitation.

Step 4: Stack Other Enclosure Cards

Place any remaining enclosure cards, such as direction or detail cards, map cards, or hotel accommodation cards, face up on top of the reception card.

If you have a wedding website, include the website address and password on one of these enclosure cards. Consider including a QR code that guests can easily scan to visit the site. Ensure your website is updated before sending out the invitations.

Step 5: Add RSVP Card and Envelope

Place the RSVP envelope, printed side down, on top of the enclosure cards, with the envelope flap on the left. Insert the reply card under the envelope flap, face up, so that the printed side is visible. Don't forget to pre-stamp the reply envelope.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

If you've chosen to include a belly band, ribbon, or vellum wrap, assemble this now. Belly bands are narrow strips of paper that are designed to wrap around your invitation suite and can be personalised with names, the wedding date, or a meaningful message.

Step 7: Addressing

While more formal invitations may include inner and outer envelopes, a shift towards sustainability has led to the use of just a single outer envelope. Traditionally, calligraphy was used to address envelopes, but printing names and addresses directly on the envelopes is more efficient and polished.

Step 8: Insert into Envelope

Insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the envelope, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation, or the folded edge first for a folded invitation. It should be inserted so that when the envelope flap is opened, guests can immediately read the invitation.

Step 9: Seal the Envelope

Use a bottled envelope moistener to wet the gummed edge of the envelope, being careful not to use too much to avoid a soggy, puckered envelope. Place a heavy book on top of the stack of sealed envelopes to ensure they are securely sealed.

Step 10: Return Address

Ensure your envelopes have address labels. You can use a SkinnyWrap, rubber stamp, or another type of address label.

Step 11: Mail

Before mailing your wedding invitations, bring a fully assembled set to the post office to be weighed so you know how much postage is required. Then, bring your stamped invitations to the post office to be hand-cancelled, which will ensure they are handled with care.

How to assemble wedding invitations with double envelopes

Wedding invitation assembly can be a confusing process for many couples, but it isn't rocket science. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to assemble wedding invitations with double envelopes:

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Materials

Before you begin, clear out a large space to work in and lay out all your materials, including envelopes, invitations, tissue paper, response items, stamps, etc. Make sure you have the correct amounts of invitations and envelopes. Pre-stamp your response envelopes and invest in a small bottle of envelope sealer or glue.

Step 2: Assemble Your Invitation Materials

Gather all your wedding invitations, folding them if necessary. The order of insertions can vary depending on the type of invitation you’re using.

• Flat and Single-Fold Cards: Place any additional materials, such as protective tissue paper and response cards, on top.
• Multiple-Fold Cards: Place any insertions within the first fold.
• Order of Insertion: Typically, additional insert cards such as directions, reception, and reply cards go in size order from largest to smallest, with the largest card on top of the invitation.
• Tissue Paper: If using protective tissue, place it directly over the printed words on the invitation.

Step 3: Place the Invitation Ensemble Inside the Inner Envelope

Place the complete invitation, including the response card/envelope and enclosures, printed side up, within your inner mailing envelope. Slide them in so that the flap of the inner envelope opens away from you. Traditionally, the inner envelope is left unsealed for courtesy.

Step 4: Place the Inner Envelope Inside the Outer Envelope

Flip the loaded inner envelope so that the guest's name is facing out. Slide the inner envelope into the outer mailing envelope, seal it, and you're done!

The purpose of this process is to ensure that your guests receive a professional-looking invitation, with all the information presented in a logical and manageable manner.

How to prepare wedding invitation materials for an envelope

Preparing wedding invitation materials for an envelope is a detailed process that requires careful attention to ensure a polished final product. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your wedding invitation materials for an envelope:

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials

Before you begin, ensure you have all the required materials, including envelopes, invitations, tissue paper, response cards or RSVP envelopes, stamps, and any other enclosures. It is also helpful to have a clear and spacious work area to organize your materials and reduce confusion during the assembly process.

Step 2: Design and Print Your Invitations

Use a design program such as Microsoft Publisher or online tools like Photoshop, paint shop pro, or InDesign to create your invitations. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve and any specific information you need to include, such as the date, time, and location of the wedding. Don't forget to include RSVP information and a deadline for responses.

Step 3: Cut and Fold the Invitations

After printing your invitations, it's time to cut and fold them. Use a paper cutter or an X-Acto knife for a precise cut. If your invitation has multiple folds, follow these steps:

• For a precise fit, score the enclosure pieces with a scoring board before folding.
• The first fold should be made at the 4" mark on the smaller piece of card stock.
• Score the larger piece of card stock at 3/8" and 7".
• Fold the pieces along the scored lines for crisp edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Invitation Ensemble

Now, you can start assembling the invitation package. The order of insertion depends on the type of invitation you have:

• For flat or single-fold invitations: Place any additional materials, such as tissue paper and response cards, on top of the invitation.
• For multiple-fold invitations: Insert the additional materials inside the first fold.
• Typically, insert cards like direction and reception cards in size order, from largest to smallest.
• If using tissue paper, place it directly over the printed invitation wording.

Step 5: Insert the Invitation Ensemble into the Inner Envelope

Place the complete invitation ensemble, printed side up, into the inner envelope. Ensure the flap of the inner envelope opens away from you as you slide in the contents. Traditionally, the inner envelope is left unsealed as a courtesy.

Step 6: Insert the Inner Envelope into the Outer Envelope

Flip the loaded inner envelope so that the guest's name and address are visible. Slide this inner envelope into the outer mailing envelope and seal it securely.

Your wedding invitation is now ready to be mailed! This process ensures that your guests receive a well-organized and professionally presented invitation, making it easier for them to access all the relevant information about your special day.

Frequently asked questions