Handmade Wedding Invitations: Crafting Your Special Day

Planning a wedding can be an expensive and stressful endeavour. One way to save money is to make your own wedding invitations. This can be a fun and creative process, but it can also be time-consuming and potentially costly if not done right. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of making your own wedding invitations and offer some tips and tricks to help you create beautiful invitations that perfectly embody your unique relationship.

Choose your paper type and weight

When it comes to making your own wedding invitations, the paper type and weight are important factors to consider. The right paper weight and thickness will ensure your invitations not only look good but are also durable and easy to work with. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the paper type and weight for your handmade wedding invitations:

Paper Weight and Thickness:

The weight of the paper is typically measured in pounds or grams per square metre (gsm). The higher the number, the thicker and heavier the paper. For wedding invitations, you'll typically want to use cardstock paper, which has a weight range of 45# to 300# or higher. For a sturdier and more luxurious feel, go for a higher weight, such as 110# or above. This will give your invitations a professional and elegant look.

Printer Compatibility:

Not all printers can handle the same paper weight and thickness. Before choosing your paper, it's important to consider the printing method you'll be using. If you plan to print your invitations at home, check your printer's specifications to determine the maximum paper weight it can handle. Most home printers can accommodate weights between 80# and 120#, but it's always good to test it out first. If you're using a professional printing service, consult with them to ensure your chosen paper weight is compatible with their equipment.

Invitation Design:

The design of your invitation can also influence your paper choice. If you plan to have a lot of text or intricate details, a smoother paper surface will ensure the best print quality. On the other hand, if you want a more rustic or handmade look, textured paper such as linen or felt cardstock can add a unique touch to your invitations. Additionally, consider the colour of your paper. White cardstock is a popular choice, but you can also explore coloured cardstock to match your wedding theme.

Mailing Considerations:

Don't forget to consider the mailing requirements when choosing your paper weight. Invitations that are too thick or heavy may require additional postage. Check with your local post office to determine the correct postage for your invitations, and remember to include RSVP envelopes as well. It's also a good idea to bring a finished invitation to the post office to ensure it fits within their size and weight guidelines.

Trial and Error:

Choosing the right paper type and weight for your wedding invitations may involve some trial and error. Order a few samples of different papers and test them out by printing your invitation design. This will help you see how the paper handles the ink and how your design looks on different surfaces. It's also a good idea to let your ink dry completely to ensure it doesn't smudge, as this can vary depending on the paper type.

Select your design and layout

Selecting a design and layout for your wedding invitations is a crucial step in the process of creating your dream invitations. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the perfect design and layout for your handmade wedding invitations:

Know Your Options:

Before settling on a design, it's essential to explore the various options available. Online platforms like Etsy, Canva, and VistaPrint offer a wide range of wedding invitation templates to choose from. These templates can be easily customised and are often categorised by style, size, colour, and layout. Take advantage of these resources to browse through different designs and find inspiration.

Define Your Wedding Theme:

The design and layout of your wedding invitations should complement your wedding theme. Are you going for a rustic, whimsical, elegant, or modern style? Choose a design that reflects the overall aesthetic of your wedding. For example, if you're having a rustic wedding, consider using recycled brown paper for your invitations. If your wedding has a floral theme, incorporate floral patterns, pressed botanicals, or lush greenery into your invitation design.

Consider Colour Schemes:

Colour plays a significant role in setting the tone and atmosphere of your wedding. Choose a colour scheme that aligns with your wedding colours. This could be a simple monochrome design, pastel colours for a soft and delicate look, or bold and vibrant colours for a fun and modern feel. Play around with different colour combinations and see which ones resonate with your wedding vision.

Focus on Layout and Text:

The layout of your wedding invitations should be clear and easy to read. Consider the placement of text, images, and other design elements. Leave enough white space to ensure the information is not cluttered. Traditionally, the bride's name appears first, followed by the groom's, but for same-sex couples or those who prefer a different order, choose the option that looks best with your design.

Add Personal Touches:

Your wedding invitations should reflect your personality and style as a couple. Consider adding personal touches such as a photo of you and your partner on the invite, a custom wax seal with your initials, or a watercolour background if you're artistically inclined. These unique elements will make your invitations stand out and feel extra special.

Customise and Proofread:

Most online platforms allow you to customise your chosen template by uploading your own photos, changing colour schemes, and editing text. Take advantage of this to make your invitations truly yours. However, remember to proofread your text multiple times and have others review it as well to catch any errors or mistakes.

Remember, the design and layout of your wedding invitations set the tone for your special day. Take your time to explore different options, be creative, and don't be afraid to add personal touches that reflect your unique love story.

Consider printing options

When it comes to printing your own wedding invitations, there are a few different routes you can take. Firstly, you'll need to decide whether you want to print them at home or use a printing service. If you're set on printing them yourself, you'll need to make sure you have the right equipment and supplies. This includes a good-quality printer, ink, paper, and envelopes. If you don't have access to a printer or feel that printing at home won't give you the finish you're looking for, you can use an online printing service or a local print shop.

There are plenty of downloadable templates available online, or you can create your own design from scratch. If you're comfortable using design software, you can create your design in programs such as Adobe InDesign or Canva. When creating your design, consider the style you want to go for. Do you want something simple and elegant, or bold and colourful? It's helpful to create a mood board on a platform like Pinterest to identify your style and gather inspiration.

Once you have your design, you'll need to choose the right paper. This is an important decision as it will impact the overall look and feel of your invitations. There are a few different types of paper to choose from, including card stock, cotton fibre, kraft, wood-grain, glassine, and clear vellum. Card stock is a popular choice for wedding invitations as it gives a luxurious feel. Cotton fibre is the most costly option but offers a super soft, durable paper that responds well to ink. Kraft and wood-grain paper add a rustic, intimate touch, while glassine and clear vellum provide a translucent, cloudy white material that can be used to create depth and interest.

When it comes to printing, you have several options, including digital printing, offset printing, letterpress, thermography, engraving, and foil stamping. Digital printing is the most budget-friendly and fastest option, while letterpress, thermography, engraving, and foil stamping are more expensive and time-consuming but offer a more luxurious finish. Consider your budget, timeline, and the desired look and feel when choosing a printing method.

Add embellishments

Embellishments can make all the difference when it comes to wedding invitations, and there are many ways to elevate your DIY invites without breaking the bank.

One way to add a special touch to your wedding invitations is to use a personalised stamp. You can use a custom rubber stamp to make your wedding invitations or add a return address to the envelopes. You can find a wide range of styles on Etsy.

Another idea is to add a ribbon to your wedding invite. This not only looks beautiful but is also a perfect way to keep all the other elements together, such as travel information and RSVP cards. You could even add a little tag for an extra-special touch.

Creative edging with punches or stamp cutters is another way to add a unique element to your invitations. These are available in a variety of sizes and designs from craft stores and online. All you need is a steady hand and a good table to work on.

If you want to add a luxurious feel to your invitations, consider using gold foil. Gold foil is inexpensive and can be added anywhere on the invitation for an elegant, sparse touch.

For a natural, rustic feel, you could try using twine and eucalyptus to wrap your invitations. This is a great option for outdoor or rustic weddings and adds a beautiful element of greenery.

Finally, you could add an envelope liner. There are lots of DIY tutorials online for creating your own, and they will certainly make your guests smile when they open the envelope.

Plan your postage

Planning your postage is a crucial step in the process of making your own wedding invitations. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right:

Weigh and Measure Your Invitations

The cost of postage depends on the weight and size of your invitations. Most standard wedding invitations weigh between one and two ounces. Anything over one ounce will require additional postage. The thickness of the paper, the number of cards, and any embellishments like ribbons or wax seals will impact the weight. Standard wedding invitation sizes, such as 5" x 7" or 5.5" x 8.5", do not require extra postage. However, square envelopes are considered irregular and will cost more to mail. Take one of your completed invitations to the post office to have it weighed and measured. They can advise you on the correct amount of postage required.

Choose Your Stamps Wisely

Forever stamps, which currently cost $0.55 each, are suitable for invitations weighing one ounce or less. Invitations with multiple pieces will likely weigh between one and two ounces and require a $0.70 stamp. If your invitation has a square envelope or any non-machinable features, such as a wax seal or thick ribbon, you'll need to add $0.46 to the standard rate. Consider using vintage stamps to add a unique touch to your invitations, but be aware that these will be more expensive than standard stamps.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Don't forget to include postage on your RSVP card envelopes. Your guests shouldn't have to pay to respond to your invitation. Also, ensure you have the correct postage before sending out your invitations. If you don't, they may be returned to you, or your guests may have to pay the difference at the post office.

Budget Accordingly

Postage can be a significant expense, especially if you have a large guest list. Be sure to factor in the cost of postage when budgeting for your wedding invitations. It's easy to overlook, but it can add up quickly, especially if your invitations are heavier or larger than standard.

Ask for Help if Needed

If you're unsure about the correct postage or have any questions, don't hesitate to ask for help. Visit your local post office or check the USPS website for more detailed information and guidance.

Frequently asked questions