Creating Paper Fan Wedding Programs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding fan programs are a great way to keep your guests cool on a hot day, and they can be personalised to fit the style of your event. They can be made with just a few basic supplies, including wavy jumbo fan sticks, glue, ribbon, pre-printed programs, and cardstock. You can design your own program using Microsoft Word or purchase a template from sites like Etsy. Once you have your design, simply fold and crease the paper, add glue to one side, attach the fan stick, and finish with any embellishments you desire.

Choosing the right paper

When making paper fan wedding programs, it's important to choose the right paper to ensure your fans are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the paper for your DIY fan programs:

Paper Weight

The weight of the paper will impact the durability and ease of assembly of your fans. For two-sided fans, especially if you're printing on a home inkjet printer, it is recommended to use 65lb-80lb paper. This weight provides a balance between strength and foldability. If you're only doing single-sided fans, it is advisable to order from a professional printer and request at least 110lb paper for added durability.

Printer Compatibility

If you're printing at home, ensure that the paper you choose is compatible with your printer. Paperweight plays a role in compatibility, as heavier papers may have issues feeding through your printer. Uncoated cotton paper generally takes ink well, while a smooth, coated paper can give a more elegant look but may not work with all printers.

Paper Finish

The finish of the paper can impact the overall appearance of your fans. A smooth, coated paper can give a more refined and polished look to your fans. However, if you want to achieve a rustic aesthetic, consider using brown kraft paper, which lends a natural and earthy tone to your designs.

Paper Size

The size of the paper will depend on the design and amount of information you want to include. If you have a one-page design, you can print it on 8.5" x 11" paper and fold it in half without making any cuts. This size provides ample space for your program details while also allowing for a comfortable fan size.

Paper Colour

The colour of the paper sets the tone and style of your fans. White or cream-coloured cardstock is a versatile choice, allowing your designs and text to stand out. However, if you're aiming for a specific colour scheme or theme, explore specialty paper stores to find colours that match your wedding palette.

Paper Samples

Before finalizing your paper choice, it's advisable to obtain paper samples to ensure the paper meets your requirements. Testing the paper with your printer will help you determine if it feeds correctly and yields the desired print quality.

By considering these factors and planning ahead, you can choose the right paper for your paper fan wedding programs, ensuring they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing for your special day.

Printing the design

Firstly, decide on the software you want to use to create your design. Microsoft Word is a popular option, as it offers customisation options such as changing colours, fonts, and sample wording. You can also use Microsoft Word to edit the decorative dividing lines in the template by double-clicking on the line and changing the line colour, weight, and style. However, other software like Canva can be used to create more intricate designs.

Next, finalise your document by reviewing the design and ensuring it looks exactly how you want it to. Check that all the information is correct and that you are happy with the layout and formatting. This step is important as it will be more challenging to make changes after printing.

Then, set up your printer to ensure it is compatible with the paper you will be using. Check that your printer can handle the weight, finish, and texture of your chosen paper. If printing at home, set the custom size in your print driver to 5.5 x 8.5 inches, which is the standard size for paper fan wedding programs.

Now, you are ready to print your design! If you are printing a large quantity, consider using a local print/copy shop. This option may provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution.

Finally, once your design is printed, gather all the necessary supplies for the next steps, such as a paper scoring board, corner paper punch, adhesive, and fan handles.

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to creating beautiful and functional paper fan wedding programs for your special day!

Folding the card

Firstly, gather your printed card stock. You should have printed your desired design on white card stock to ensure the paper is thick and sturdy enough for the fan. Once you have your printed cards, the next step is to create a precise centre fold. You can use a paper scoring board to help with this. A paper scoring board will make an indented straight line down the centre of your card, ensuring a perfect fold. If you don't have access to a paper scoring board, you can simply fold the card in half by hand, ensuring the corners line up.

After you have created the fold, you may want to use a bone folder to smooth out the crease. A bone folder is a handy tool that you can purchase for under $5 at craft stores or art supply stores. Simply run the bone folder along the fold to create a crisp, neat crease.

If you are happy with the fold and crease of your card, you can move on to the next step of rounding the corners. However, if you would like to add any additional design elements to the card, now is the time to do so. You could try adding some calligraphy, illustrations, or a simple border to the card to give it a unique and personalised touch.

Remember to take your time and work on a clean, flat surface to avoid any mistakes. Happy crafting!

Adding the handle

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a fan handle, also known as a stick, which can be made of wood and is often wavy in shape. You will also require an adhesive, such as double-sided tape or glue. If you opt for glue, a glue pen is recommended.

Next, decide on the placement of the handle. For a neat finish, ensure the handle is centred and straight. You may want to measure and mark the centre point of your fan before attaching the handle.

Now it's time to adhere the handle to the fan. If using double-sided tape, cut a piece to size and firmly press it onto the inside of the fan, taking care to cover the entire tape surface. Then, attach the handle to the tape, pressing down firmly. Finally, secure the other side of the fan to the tape.

If using glue, apply a generous amount to one side of the fan, where the stick will be placed. Then, immediately place the stick onto the glue, ensuring it is straight, and press down firmly.

That's the handle attached! You could finish the fan by adding a ribbon to the handle, or perhaps some twine.

Finishing touches

Now that you've assembled your fan, it's time to add some final flourishes. Here are some ideas for the finishing touches to your paper fan wedding program:

Ribbon or Twine

Adding a ribbon or twine to the handle is a great way to elevate the design and add a touch of elegance. Choose a colour that complements your wedding colour palette or opt for a sheer organza ribbon in silver or gold for a classic look.

Corner Punches

Using a corner punch to round the edges of your fan can give it a softer, more refined appearance. You can also opt for a fancier corner punch design if you prefer, adding a unique detail to your program.

Embellishments

Get creative and add some personal touches to your fans. You can use stamps, small hole punches, or twine to decorate the fan sticks. You can even spray some coating on the sticks if you're worried about sweaty hands affecting the colour.

Assembly

If you're making a large number of fans, consider making it a fun group activity. Gather your friends or family members and create an assembly line to speed up the process. It'll be a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Proofreading

Before finalising your design and printing, be sure to proofread all the information on your wedding program. Check for any typos, errors, or inconsistencies. You can also ask a friend or family member to review it for a fresh pair of eyes.

Test Print

Before printing all your programs, do a test print on a single sheet of paper to ensure that the layout, colours, and text are correct. This will help you catch any last-minute errors or adjustments needed.

Frequently asked questions