Folding Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide To Perfection

Wedding invitations are often the first glimpse guests will have of your special day, so it's important to get them right. One way to make your invites stand out is to create a pocketfold design. This complex style is time-consuming and requires precision, but the end result is a professional-looking, handmade invitation. To create a pocketfold invitation, you'll need specific materials, including card stock, ribbon, and envelopes. You'll also need to carefully measure, cut, and score the card to create a neat pocket for your invitation and any additional inserts. Once you've folded and secured the pocket, you can add your chosen decorations, such as monograms, stickers, or a wax seal. Finally, seal the envelope and send your invitations on their way!

Pocketfold invites

Pocketfold invitations are a stylish and traditional way to hold all your wedding information in one place. They are a popular choice for couples who want to include an RSVP card and additional information inside their wedding invitation. The pocket can be used to store a map, RSVP card, or gift card.

To make your own pocketfold invitations, you will need the following materials:

• Card stock
• Ribbon
• Paper cutter
• X-Acto knife
• Contrasting card stock for the inside and monogram background
• Circle paper punchers
• Scoreboard
• Bone folder
• Double-sided tape
• Envelopes
• Address labels
• Stamps
• Pinking shears
• Pencil or pen
• Ruler
• Paper clips
• Sticker paper

First, design your invitation and any additional inserts, such as an accommodations card, reception card, or RSVP card. Cut out all the pieces with text using an X-Acto knife or paper cutter.

Next, cut out the invitation enclosure. You will need two pieces of card stock: one larger piece and one smaller piece that will create the pocket. Score the enclosure pieces precisely to ensure they fit together correctly and fold neatly. Cut out the pocket using a template made from card stock.

Then, assemble the invitation by adhering the contrasting card to the inside of the enclosure, followed by the main invitation. Cut the ribbon and adhere it to the inside of the pocket. Insert any additional cards into the pocket.

Finally, close the invitation by folding in the sides and adhering the monogram to the front. Your pocketfold invitation is now ready to be placed into its envelope and sent to your guests.

Tri-fold invites

Tri-fold wedding invites are a unique and creative way to invite guests to your special day. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create and assemble elegant trifold wedding invitations:

Design and Materials

Start by designing your invitation suite on a computer using software such as Microsoft Publisher or other design programs like Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, or InDesign. Consider the overall aesthetic and colour scheme of your wedding and try to incorporate those elements into your design. Once you're happy with the design, print your invitations and cut them out using a paper cutter or an X-Acto knife. Ensure you have all the necessary materials, including card stock, envelopes, ribbons, and any additional decorations you wish to include.

Cutting and Scoring

For a trifold invitation, you will need to cut and score your card stock accurately. Cut your card stock to the desired size, typically around 8.5" x 11". Then, using a scoring board and a bone folder, score the paper at precise measurements to create the folds. The first fold, which will create the pocket, should be scored at the 4" mark. For the second fold, score the paper at 3/8" and 7". Make sure to test on a single invitation first to ensure it fits perfectly into the envelope.

Creating the Pocket

Using the smaller piece of card stock, cut out a triangle-shaped pocket by making a dot in the middle with your pen or pencil and then connecting it to the edge with a ruler. Cut along this line with your X-Acto knife, and then repeat on the other side, ensuring the triangle is facing the correct way. This pocket will hold any additional inserts, such as RSVP cards.

Assembly

Now, it's time to assemble your invitations. First, fold the card stock along the scored lines, using the bone folder to create crisp edges. Use double-sided tape to secure the pocket shut and attach it to the larger piece of card stock, ensuring you only tape along the very edges so that the inserts fit comfortably. Decorate the inside of the invitation with a contrasting card stock for added depth and a handmade touch. Finally, adhere the main invitation and any additional inserts, such as accommodation and reception details, into the designated spaces.

Final Touches

To finish your trifold invitation, cut a ribbon to your desired length and attach it to the inside of the invitation with double-sided tape. The ribbon will add a elegant touch and can be used to secure any inserts in place. Once everything is in place, carefully fold the invitation, creating a neat trifold. You can also add a monogram or a seal to the outside for a personalised touch. Finally, place your completed invitation into an envelope, and don't forget to include a RSVP return envelope and any necessary stamps!

Creating trifold wedding invitations can be a time-consuming but rewarding process. Enjoy crafting these beautiful invitations and don't be afraid to enlist the help of your bridal party!

Concertina fold invites

Concertina fold wedding invites, also known as accordion fold invitations, are a unique and playful way to invite your guests to your wedding. This style of invitation is perfect for those who want to stray from the traditional invitation style without compromising elegance and formality.

The concertina fold invites are a sophisticated design with a playful pop-out for the main invitation. The invitation is usually paired with a mini envelope and fold-out accordion invitation, reply and direction cards, and an outer envelope. The entire suite can be tied together with a silk ribbon, adding a whimsical touch.

When creating concertina fold invites, you can choose to have some text elements custom-made by a local calligrapher to add a whimsical and formal touch. You can also opt for letterpress printing in a single colour, embellished with gorgeous calligraphy.

In terms of pricing, concertina fold invites can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the number of panels included. For example, a single day/evening invitation with twine can range from £10, while a more intricate design with up to eight panels can start at a higher price.

Overall, concertina fold invites are a creative way to showcase your wedding's tone and style, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to your special day.

Gate fold invites

Gatefold wedding invitations are a unique and efficient alternative to traditional wedding suites. They are a gorgeous way to present your wedding details, with side flaps that meet in the middle of the card, slightly overlapping to create a sense of intrigue.

To create your own gatefold wedding invitations, you will need blank gatefold invitation paper, which is shipped flat with two score lines for easy folding. You can then design and print your invitation details, ensuring that the text is placed correctly so that it isn't revealed before the invitation is opened. This style of invitation allows for creativity and flexibility, as you can include photos, timelines, maps, and more.

When it comes to paper choices, you have a variety of options. You can choose from different weights and sizes, such as the 5" x 7" folded size. For a luxurious look, consider the pearlescent shimmer stock, which adds a delicate, shimmery effect. If you prefer a more subtle approach, the signature stock offers a matte finish with a subtle eggshell texture.

Finally, don't forget to add the finishing touches. You can enhance the elegance of your gatefold invitations by using invitation wraps, belly bands, or even adding a wax seal for a truly timeless look.

Z-fold invites

To make Z-fold invites, start by choosing a high-quality paper stock in your desired colour. The paper should be scored twice to create the zig-zag effect. You can do this with a scoring board or a ruler. Be very precise with your measurements to ensure a perfect fit when folded.

Once you've made the scores, fold the paper along the scored lines to create three equal panels. You can use a bone folder to create crisp edges. With the basic Z-fold structure ready, you can now design and decorate your invites.

Use the three panels to your advantage by creating a layered design or adding text and images. You can also add matching layer cards for a more elaborate invitation. Remember to position your invitation text and any additional cards correctly so that they're visible when the invite is folded.

Finally, seal your Z-fold invites with envelopes, or add a simple return address and stamps for a more informal approach.

Frequently asked questions