Creating A Wedding Card Scrapbook: Cherishing Memories Forever

Creating a scrapbook from your wedding cards is a fun way to preserve your special day. You can use a binder, cover it with paper in your wedding colours, and decorate it with embellishments, stickers, or leftover details from your wedding. This is a great way to showcase your wedding cards, but also to include other mementos such as photos, quotes, and decorations. You can even add a special touch by using satin or sheer ribbons, or by including a sketch of your wedding dress.

Choosing a binder

When choosing a binder for your wedding card scrapbook, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a size that will fit your cards. A mini-binder is a good option as it's the perfect size for standard cards and is easy to customise. However, keep in mind that a mini-binder can only hold a limited number of cards, so depending on the size of your collection, you may need to opt for a larger binder.

Another factor to consider is the colour and design of the binder. You can choose a binder that matches your wedding colours or one that coordinates with your wedding theme. If you can't find a binder that suits your taste, you can always decorate it yourself. Cover the binder with decorative paper, adding embellishments or decorations to the cover. This is a fun way to personalise your scrapbook and make it truly unique.

When selecting a binder, it's also important to think about the number of cards you plan to include. As mentioned earlier, a mini-binder might not be sufficient if you have a large number of cards. Consider the thickness of the binder and whether it will be able to accommodate all your cards. You may need to purchase multiple binders or opt for a larger size to ensure you have enough space.

Additionally, you might want to think about the type of binder and how it will function. A binder with a ring mechanism allows for easy customisation and the addition of extra pages if needed. This can be useful if you plan to add more cards or other memorabilia to your scrapbook over time.

Lastly, consider the quality and durability of the binder. You'll want something that will protect your cards and withstand the test of time. Look for a binder made from sturdy materials, with strong rings or bindings that will keep your cards secure. By considering these factors, you can choose a binder that not only suits your aesthetic but also functions well and provides adequate protection for your precious wedding cards.

Covering the binder

Step One: Cover the Top of the Binder

Start by choosing two complementary sheets of paper, one with a solid colour and one with a pattern. Cut the solid-coloured paper so that it measures 5/8" larger than the binder on all three sides. Trace around the binder cover with a pencil. Wrap the extra paper around the binder and mitre the corners for a neat finish. Mark 1.25" from the top and bottom of the paper on the outside edge, then draw a diagonal line connecting your marks to the corner of the cover. Cut along this line and score the paper along the edges. Gently fold and glue the paper to the binder, starting with the top and bottom edges, then the outer edge.

Step Two: Cover the Rest of the Binder

Use the patterned paper to cover the remainder of the binder, cutting it so that it wraps around and shows 1.75" on the top. Ensure that any pattern is facing the right direction. Start by gluing the edge that will show on the top, then move on to the three outer edges, gluing them down in the same way. Close the binder while the glue is still wet to allow the paper to shift if needed.

Step Three: Add a Decorative Ribbon

Use a piece of ribbon to cover the join between the two papers on the cover. Choose a ribbon that coordinates with your paper, such as a sweet wedding-themed ribbon.

Step Four: Add Lining to the Inside

Measure and cut the lining paper for the inside of the binder. Slide the inner edge under the metal binder rings and mark where the binder folds. Score and fold the lining along this line. Create the lining to show a small amount of the cover paper along the edges, then glue it down carefully, pushing the lining into the fold line as you press it down.

Step Five: Decorate the Cover

Now for the fun part! Decorate the cover of your binder with scrapbook paper, stickers, ephemera, or anything else you choose. You could even use leftover decorations from your wedding, such as cupcake toppers. Get creative and make it unique to you.

Adding decorations

Cover Decorations

If you are using a binder, you can cover it with decorative paper that matches your wedding colours or theme. You can also add embellishments, such as decorative ribbon, scrapbook ephemera, stickers, or leftover decorations from your wedding like cupcake toppers.

3D Elements

Add depth to your scrapbook by including 3D elements such as foam mounting materials for quotes, dried flowers, or ribbons. You can also create pockets or envelopes to keep special items safe, such as charms, notes, or small papers.

Ribbons and Bows

If your wedding featured ribbons and bows, you can incorporate them into your scrapbook design by using them to line the edges of pages, frame photos, or decorate the cover.

Paper Flowers

Paper or fabric flowers are always an elegant touch and can be matched to the colour scheme of the wedding. You can create bunches of flowers, add sequins, and floral wire to adorn the cover or place at the corners of each photo.

Quotes

Add a bit of poetry or a quote about love and marriage to elevate your design. You can also include a passage from your favourite book or a meaningful song lyric. Use foam mounting materials to add quotes for a 3D effect.

Photos and Props

Include photos and paper props from your wedding photo booth, as well as engagement photo props and shots. You can also pair images of your guests with paper table numbers or images of the table decor.

These are just a few ideas to get you started on decorating your wedding card scrapbook. Feel free to personalise and adapt these ideas to match your unique style and wedding theme.

Hole-punching cards

Firstly, decide whether you will use a single hole punch or an adjustable three-hole punch. A single hole punch offers more precision and control over the placement of the hole, but it can be tedious and time-consuming, especially with a large number of cards. On the other hand, an adjustable three-hole punch is faster and more efficient but may require some trial and error to get the hole placement right.

Once you've selected your hole punch, create a template on a piece of cardstock that marks the exact spot where the holes should be punched. This template will ensure consistency across all your cards. Place the template on each card and use your hole punch to create the holes. Ensure the holes are punched about 1/8" inch from the fold of the card. This placement will ensure the cards lie flat within the scrapbook.

If your wedding cards have multiple layers or are made of heavy cardstock, you may need to apply extra force when using the hole punch. Take your time and be careful not to tear the cards. It's also a good idea to test the hole punch on a piece of scrap paper first to ensure you have the right pressure and placement.

After hole-punching all your cards, you can begin assembling them into your scrapbook. Use binder rings or ribbons that match your wedding colours to secure the cards in place. The hole-punching process may be tedious, but it will ensure your wedding card scrapbook is sturdy and well-put-together.

Arranging cards

Arranging the cards is a fun and creative process. Firstly, decide on the order of the cards. You might want to group them by friends and family, or perhaps you want to arrange them chronologically, from the oldest to the newest. Another idea is to arrange the cards by colour, creating a rainbow effect.

Next, you can add decorative elements to the pages. Consider using scrapbooking paper, faux flowers, stickers, and other embellishments to frame each card. You could also add a layer of watercolour and additional glitz to make it unique. If you want to include quotes or messages, purchase foam mounting materials to add a 3D effect to the design.

Finally, secure the cards in place. You can use glue, double-sided tape, or even a paper gift bag glued to the page to create a pocket for the cards. This will ensure that they stay in place and are protected.

Frequently asked questions