Creating Wedding Invitation Pockets: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding can be expensive, and it's often the small things that add up, like wedding invitations. If you're looking to save some money, you can make your own pocket wedding invitations. It can be time-consuming, but it's a great option if you're only making a small number of invites and want to add a personal, crafty touch to your big day.

Hack an envelope into a pocket invitation

Planning a wedding can be expensive, so it's a good idea to save money where you can. One way to do this is by making your own pocketfold wedding invitations. This simple hack will allow you to create elegant invitations for just pennies.

What You'll Need:

• 4-bar envelopes (also called RSVP envelopes) and card stock in the same colour
• Coordinating 12 x 12 card stock
• Edge punch (optional)
• Paper cutter or scissors
• Invitation suite of your choice
• Bone folder or another blunt but pointy tool
• Double-sided tape, glue stick, or another type of adhesive

Steps to Make a Pocket Invitation:

• Trim the flap off a 4-bar envelope using scissors or a paper cutter.
• Trim the card stock: Cut it just taller than your invitation. For a 5 x 7 invitation, trim the card stock to about 7.5". Adjust the height accordingly if using a square invitation.
• Punch the pocket (optional): If you want a decorative edge on the pocket, use an edge punch along the open edge.
• Adhere the pocket: Attach the pocket to the lower right corner of the cardstock using double-sided tape, glue, or another adhesive.
• Make the first fold: Use a bone folder or a similar tool to create a crisp crease along the inner edge of the pocket. Then, fold the card stock over the pocket.
• Mount the invitation: Use double-sided tape to mount the invitation next to the crease, leaving even spacing on each side.
• Finish the flap: Create another crease on the opposite side of the invitation and fold the flap across. You can also punch along the edge of the flap to add a decorative finish (optional).

Now you have a personalised, elegant, and budget-friendly pocket invitation!

Use a template to cut and fold card stock

The first step is to choose a template that suits your invitation size and style. You can find templates online or create your own. If you're using an online template, download and print it onto card stock paper. Ensure the paper is thick enough to hold the invitation and any inserts securely, but not so thick that it becomes difficult to fold.

Once you've selected your template, carefully cut out the shape using a craft knife or scissors. Take your time with this step to ensure a precise cut, as the accuracy will make the folding process easier. After cutting, score the paper along the fold lines. This step is crucial as it creates a crisp, clean fold. Use a bone folder or the back of a spoon to create a clear indentation along the scoring lines.

Now, it's time to fold your card stock. Start by folding in the sides and then the bottom, creating a pocket. Use a strong adhesive to secure the sides and bottom, ensuring that the pocket is sturdy and can hold the weight of the invitation. It's important to use a dry adhesive that won't warp or wrinkle your paper, such as a glue stick or double-sided tape.

Embellish the pocket as desired. You can add a decorative touch by attaching a ribbon, a small flower, or a gem to the front of the pocket. This adds a personal and elegant touch to your invitation suite. Remember to allow any adhesive to dry completely before inserting your invitation and enclosures.

By using a template, you can create a polished and professional-looking pocket for your wedding invitation. This method ensures uniformity and makes the assembly process more efficient. With careful cutting, scoring, and folding, your card stock pocket will beautifully showcase your invitation, setting the tone for your special day.

Score edges that will be folded

Scoring the edges that will be folded is an important step in creating a neat and precise pocket for your wedding invitation. Here's a detailed guide to help you achieve crisp and precise folds:

Firstly, gather the necessary tools. You can use a bone folder and a ruler to score the paper effectively. A bone folder is an inexpensive tool that helps create crisp creases, and it is highly recommended. Alternatively, you can use other tools with a pointed (but not sharp) edge, such as the end of a chopstick or the blunt side of an X-Acto knife.

Now, let's determine the placement of the score lines. If you are creating a 5" by 7" invitation, you will need to make the pocket area slightly smaller to fit inside the invite when folded. Start by measuring 4 7/8" from the edge of the paper, and create a score mark. From this first score mark, measure 5 1/4" and make another score mark. It is important to ensure that your score marks are straight, so consider using a cutting mat or the grid on your paper cutter as a guide.

Once you have your score marks in place, it's time to fold the paper. Start by folding the paper along the score marks, creating crisp creases with your bone folder or the flat edge of a ruler. Run the tool of your choice along the folds to smooth them out and create a clean, precise edge.

After scoring and folding the paper, you can proceed to create the pockets. Apply adhesive to the underside of the pocket tabs, fold them over, and press the pocket to the inside of the paper. You can use permanent adhesive glue, double-sided tape, or quick-dry adhesive. If you choose to use quick-dry adhesive, you will need to hold the paper shut for about 30 seconds to a minute until the glue dries. Alternatively, you can use paper clips to hold the folds in place while the glue dries, removing them afterward.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you will create a beautifully crafted pocket for your wedding invitation, adding a touch of elegance to your special day.

Use adhesive to stick pocket tabs

To make a pocket for a wedding invitation, you can follow these simple steps. First, trim the flap off a 4-bar envelope using scissors or a paper cutter. For the card stock, trim it to be slightly taller than the invitation—if you're using a 5 x 7 invitation, for example, trim the card stock to about 7.5 inches.

Now, it's time to adhere the pocket to the card stock. You can use double-sided tape, a glue stick, or another adhesive of your choice. If you want instant gratification and less mess, double-sided tape is a good option. However, if you prefer glue, you can go with that instead.

Place the pocket in the lower right corner of the card stock and secure it with your chosen adhesive. Make sure you put enough adhesive to ensure that the pocket holds the invitation securely. You don't want your carefully crafted invitation falling out!

Once the pocket is adhered, you can proceed with the rest of the steps to complete your DIY wedding invitation.

Mount the invitation with double-sided tape

Once you have your pocket ready, it's time to mount the invitation. Using double-sided tape, you can secure the invitation in place, ensuring even spacing on each side. Four pieces of tape should be enough to keep it in place. Start by placing two strips of tape along the top edge of the invitation, then press it down firmly onto the card stock. Next, add two more strips of tape along the bottom edge and position the invitation next to the crease you made earlier. This will ensure your invitation is secure and won't move around inside the pocket.

Double-sided tape is a great option for this project as it is less messy than glue and provides instant gratification, without the wait for glue to dry. It also allows for easy adjustments if you need to reposition the invitation. You can find double-sided tape at most craft stores or online. It often comes in a dispenser, making it easy to apply and cut to the desired length.

When selecting double-sided tape, consider the weight of your invitation. If you have a bulkier invitation with additional inserts, you may need a stronger tape to hold the weight. Look for a tape with a stronger adhesive or a wider width to provide more support. Test the tape on a small area first to ensure it doesn't damage the paper when removed.

If you prefer a more traditional approach or want to use supplies you already have on hand, you can also use a glue stick or another adhesive. However, keep in mind that glue may cause the paper to warp slightly and will require a longer drying time.

Frequently asked questions