Crafting Unique Scroll Wedding Invites

Scroll wedding invitations are a unique and elegant way to invite guests to your wedding. They are typically made of high-quality paper and feature a rolled or folded design that resembles a scroll. In traditional times, these invitations were used by kings and emperors, adding a touch of class to the occasion. To create your own scroll wedding invitations, start by choosing high-quality paper or cardstock. This will ensure that the invitation is sturdy and holds its shape when rolled or folded. Keep the design simple and elegant, as the scroll shape itself adds a decorative touch. Once the design is complete, roll or fold the invitation into a scroll shape by hand or with the help of a rolling tool or kit. You can then tie it with a ribbon or another decorative element to keep it secure.

Choosing high-quality paper or cardstock

When creating scroll wedding invitations, choosing high-quality paper or cardstock is essential to ensure your invitations look and feel luxurious. The paper you choose will be the first impression your guests will have of your wedding, so it's worth putting some thought into it.

The first factor to consider is the thickness of the paper. A heavier weight paper will give your invitations a more professional and luxurious look and feel. The thickness of paper is measured in pounds or "lb", with cardstock weight ranging from 45 lb to 300 lb or higher. For home printers, 80-90 lb paper is ideal as it can easily pass through most desktop printers. If you want to add a touch of luxury and heft to your invitations, opt for 110 lb cardstock, which is considered "heavyweight" and is commonly used by wedding invitation companies.

Another factor to consider is the texture of the paper. Different textures can add a unique touch to your invitations and can also help to hide imperfections or quality issues. For example, linen cardstock has a delicate woven texture that adds visual interest, while also providing a good base for printing. Cotton cardstock is relatively smooth and highly absorbent, making it suitable for both laser and inkjet printing. If you want to add a bit of sparkle to your invitations, pearlescent paper has a shimmery finish that will give your invitations an elegant glow.

When choosing the right paper for your scroll wedding invitations, it's important to consider the printing method you will be using. Some papers are better suited for certain printing techniques than others. For example, if you are using a home printer, it's important to choose a paper that is not too thick to avoid jamming issues. On the other hand, if you are using a professional printing service, you will have more options when it comes to paper thickness.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the colour of the paper. While white is the most common choice, you can also opt for coloured cardstock to add a fun and cohesive look to your wedding stationery.

By considering the thickness, texture, printing method, and colour of the paper, you can choose the perfect high-quality paper or cardstock for your scroll wedding invitations.

Deciding on the design and layout

When it comes to deciding on the design and layout of your scroll wedding invitation, it's important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, choose a simple and elegant design that complements the scroll shape, which is already decorative in itself. You can opt for quirky fonts and designs on the background to make the invites more appealing and special.

The invitation should include the names of the couple, the date, location, and any other relevant details of the wedding. If you're opting for a traditional scroll, it is customary to place the most important information at the very beginning, as this is a style that was historically used by kings and emperors.

You can also add a personal touch by including the details of all the rituals and ceremonies so that the guests are well-informed. This will make your invitation unique and informative.

Finally, consider the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. For a rustic or vintage feel, you can use burlap or lace as a wrapping for the scroll, or add a stamped or embossed design to the paper. For a more luxurious look, you can use ribbons, charms, beads, or a wax seal to secure the scroll.

Rolling or folding the invitation

Rolling or folding your invitation is the most important step in making a scroll wedding invitation. This is what will give it its distinctive shape and ensure it holds together. There are two ways to do this: by hand or with a rolling tool or scroll invitation kit.

Rolling the Invitation by Hand

To roll the invitation by hand, start by gently rolling one end of the paper. Continue rolling the paper until it is tightly rolled, making sure to keep the design and text straight and centred. This method is simple but may be time-consuming, especially if you have many invitations to create.

Assembling a Folded Scroll

For a folded scroll, start by folding the invitation in half lengthwise. Then, fold the bottom edge up to meet the top edge, forming a triangle shape. Fold the triangle in half, and continue folding until the entire invitation is folded into a compact, scroll-like shape. This method may be quicker but requires more precision in the initial design to ensure the text and design remain visible when folded.

Using a Rolling Tool or Kit

If you are making many invitations, you may wish to invest in a rolling tool or scroll invitation kit. These can be purchased online and will make the process quicker and easier. Simply follow the instructions provided with your chosen tool or kit.

Tying the Scroll

Once your invitation is rolled or folded, you can secure it with a ribbon or piece of twine tied around the middle or ends of the scroll. You can also add decorative elements, such as charms or beads, to the ribbon for an elegant touch.

Adding decorative elements

Embellishments

Embellishments can add a touch of sparkle and elegance to your invitations. Consider using rhinestones, pearls, or other decorative gems that complement your wedding colour palette. You can attach these embellishments using a strong adhesive, ensuring they stay securely in place.

Ribbons and Bows

Ribbons are a classic way to add a decorative touch to your scroll invitations. Choose a colour that coordinates with your wedding theme, and consider using a luxurious fabric such as silk or velvet for an elegant finish. You can tie the ribbon around the centre of the scroll or create a bow to secure the ends together.

Charms

Small charms can be attached to the ribbon or twine for an extra special touch. Look for charms that reflect your wedding theme or your interests as a couple. For example, you could use heart-shaped charms, miniature flowers, or even tiny replicas of your favourite animals.

Wax Seals

For a truly unique touch, consider using a wax seal to secure your scroll invitations. You can choose a seal design that reflects your wedding theme, such as a monogram of your initials or a symbol that represents your relationship. Wax seals add a touch of old-world charm and can be customised to match your wedding colours.

Stamped or Embossed Designs

If you want to create a rustic or vintage-style invitation, consider using a stamp or embossing tool to add decorative designs to your paper. You can find stamps with intricate patterns, floral motifs, or even custom designs that feature your initials. Embossing creates a raised effect on the paper, adding texture and visual interest.

Burlap or Lace Wrapping

Instead of using a ribbon, you could wrap your scroll invitations in a piece of burlap or lace fabric. This is a beautiful way to add a rustic or vintage touch to your invitations. Simply place your scroll in the centre of the fabric and wrap it around, securing it with a piece of twine or a decorative pin.

When adding decorative elements to your scroll wedding invitations, it's important to strike a balance between elegance and simplicity. Choose a few key elements that reflect your style and theme, and don't be afraid to get creative!

Sending or presenting the invitation

Sending or presenting your DIY scroll wedding invitations is the final step in this creative process. There are a few options for how to do this, depending on the level of formality you wish to convey and the overall aesthetic of your wedding.

If you want to send your invitations in the mail, you can either send the scroll on its own or enclose it in an envelope for added protection. Sending the scroll on its own will showcase the beautiful design and shape, but enclosing it in an envelope will ensure it stays securely rolled or folded during transit. You could also include other wedding stationery items in the envelope, such as RSVP cards and information cards.

For a more formal approach, you can present your invitations in person. This could be done by delivering them yourself or hiring a courier service to ensure they arrive safely and on time. Presenting the invitations in decorative boxes or containers is an elegant option, especially if you have included other items inside, such as RSVP cards. This adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to your invitations.

Another option is to hand-deliver the invitations yourself or with the help of close friends or family members. This personal approach will make your guests feel valued and appreciated. You can even explain the inspiration behind your scroll invitations and any unique design elements you've included.

No matter which method you choose, always consider the timing of your invitations. It's essential to give your guests enough notice, usually sending out invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. This will allow them to plan their schedules and make any necessary arrangements, especially if they need to travel or take time off work.

Finally, don't forget to include clear and concise information on the invitation itself. The names of the couple, the date, time, and location of the wedding, as well as any other relevant details, should be easy to find and read. You may also want to include a separate RSVP card with a stamped and addressed envelope to make it convenient for your guests to respond.

Frequently asked questions