Creating Wedding Program Fans: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding program fans are a creative and practical addition to any wedding ceremony. They are a great way to keep guests cool, offer a unique keepsake, and personalise your special day. In this article, we will take you through the steps to make your own wedding program fans, from designing the layout to assembling the final product. So, whether you're looking to save money or just want to add a personal touch to your wedding, read on to find out how to make wedding program fans!

Choosing the right paper

When making wedding program fans, choosing the right paper is crucial to ensuring your fans are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your paper:

Type of Paper

The type of paper you choose will impact the overall look and durability of your fans. Cardstock is a popular choice for wedding program fans as it is thick and sturdy, making it easy to assemble and able to hold its shape. If you want a more luxurious feel, you can opt for shimmer cardstock, which adds a touch of elegance to your fans. However, if you're using an inkjet printer, be cautious as ink tends to smear easily on shimmer cardstock. In this case, a laser printer would be a better option. For double-sided fans, a paper weight between 65lb and 80lb is recommended, especially when using a home inkjet printer. For single-sided fans, it is best to order from a professional printer and request a paper weight of at least 110lb.

Printer Compatibility

Before finalizing your paper choice, it is essential to ensure compatibility with your printer. If you are using an older printer, it is recommended to opt for lower-end cover weights and smooth finishes to avoid any issues. Ordering sample sheets of various kinds of paper and performing test prints can help you determine which type works best with your printer. This is especially important if you plan to use a unique finish like shimmer cardstock.

Paper Source

There are numerous brands and finishes of cardstock available, and you can find them at various vendors, including LCI Paper, Cards and Pockets, Paper and More, and Staples. Additionally, Zazzle and Etsy offer a range of DIY printable fan options. When choosing your paper source, consider the weight, finish, and compatibility with your printer. It is always a good idea to test the paper before committing to a large order.

Cutting and Folding

If your wedding program fan design requires cutting or folding, ensure that the paper you choose is suitable for these tasks. Thicker paper may be more challenging to fold, so consider using a bone folder to help create a neat crease. For cutting, you have several options, including a guillotine cutter, rotary trimmer, or scissors. Keep in mind that scissors may not produce the straightest cut, so opt for a different cutting tool if precision is important to you.

Printing the design

Now that you have your design ready, it's time to print it out. You can use Microsoft Word, Canva, or Adobe Photoshop to create your design. If you're happy with a simple design, Microsoft Word will be sufficient. However, if you want to get more creative and add more design elements, you can use Canva or Adobe Photoshop.

Once your design is ready, decide whether you want to print it at home or use a professional printing service. Printing at home is a good option if you have a small number of fans to make, but for larger quantities, a professional service will be more efficient and may produce higher-quality results.

If printing at home, use a regular home printer and print on white card stock. Card stock is thicker and sturdier than regular paper, which is important for the fan structure. Make sure your printer can handle the thickness of the card stock; most printers can manage 80-pound to 100-pound cover weight. If you're unsure, do a test print first.

When it comes to paper type, a simple classic or elegant look can be achieved with plain and script fonts on white card stock. However, if you want to get more creative, consider using shimmer cardstock, but be aware that inkjet printers may smear on this type of paper. In this case, a laser printer is a better option. Again, it's a good idea to do a test print to ensure the paper and printer are compatible.

If you're happy with a one-sided fan, you can order your print from a professional printer and ask for at least 110-pound paper. This will give your fans a more professional and sturdy feel.

Now that you have your design and paper choices sorted, it's time to print! Give yourself enough time before your event for any unforeseen circumstances, such as printer mishaps or the need to reprint due to mistakes.

Cutting the paper

Before you start cutting, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a good quality paper trimmer or cutter, such as a guillotine arm cutter or a rotary trimmer. You can also use scissors, but they may not give you the straightest cut. A metal ruler, self-healing cutting mat, and sharp X-acto knife can also be useful.

Now, let's move on to the cutting process. If you are using a template, follow the provided guidelines to cut along the outside of the wedding program. For a full sheet program, similar to a silhouette fan, you would cut directly down the middle to a final size of 5.5" x 8.5". Cut the paper slowly and carefully to ensure straight and precise lines. Take your time and be cautious to avoid any accidents or mistakes.

If you are making multiple fans, cut the paper one sheet at a time to ensure accuracy. It is also a good idea to do a test cut on scrap paper first to get a feel for the cutting tool and ensure your cuts are straight and even. Take your time and be precise to ensure your wedding program fans look neat and professional.

After cutting, you may want to use a corner paper punch to round the corners of your fans. This step is optional but can add a nice finishing touch to your design. You can choose from different options, including a classic round corner or a more decorative corner design. Remember to consider the overall style of your wedding when making your choice.

Finally, once you have cut and rounded the corners of your paper, it's time to move on to the next step of assembling and gluing your fans together. Remember to give yourself enough time for this process, as it may take longer than expected, especially if you are creating a large number of fans.

Attaching the handle

Firstly, select an appropriate adhesive for your project. While some sources recommend using glue, others suggest that double-sided tape is a better option. Glue, especially paper glue, can provide a strong bond, but it is crucial to be cautious as glue may leak through the cardstock and leave unsightly stains. On the other hand, double-sided tape is a safer option and ensures a mess-free attachment.

If you decide to use glue, apply a generous amount to one side of the fan stick. Place the stick on the fan, ensuring it is straight and firmly pressed down. You can use a bone folder to smooth out any creases and ensure a secure bond. This tool can be found in craft sections and stores for a reasonable price, typically under $5.

For those opting for double-sided tape, apply the tape to the inside of the program, and then carefully attach the fan stick. This method provides a neater alternative to glue and eliminates the risk of stains.

Once the fan stick is securely attached, it's time to adhere both sides of the folded program together. Again, use your chosen adhesive method – either glue or double-sided tape – to create a strong bond. Ensure that the fan stick is securely sandwiched between the two sides of the program.

Finally, finish off your wedding program fan by adding a ribbon or twine to the handle. This step not only adds a decorative touch but also provides a comfortable grip for your guests. Choose a ribbon or twine that complements your wedding colours.

By following these steps, you can effectively attach the handles to your wedding program fans, creating a functional and elegant addition to your special day.

Adding finishing touches

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

Ribbons and Twine

Add a length of ribbon or twine to the handle of your fan. Sheer organza ribbon in silver or gold is an elegant choice, but you can also choose a colour that complements your wedding colour palette. If you're feeling creative, try using a small hole punch to cut half-circles and then threading the twine through. This will give your fan a unique, decorative look.

Corner Punches

Using a corner paper punch to round off the corners of your fan will give it a soft, classic look. If you prefer a fancier finish, you can opt for a decorative corner punch instead.

Monogram Tags

Tie a monogram tag with the initials of the happy couple onto the fan's handle using a ribbon. This is a lovely, personalised touch.

Sparkle Spray

If you're feeling crafty, add a light mist of sparkle spray to your fan for a touch of glamour. Just be careful not to go overboard, or you might end up with ruined programs!

Embellishments

The sky's the limit when it comes to embellishments. You can add flowers, seashells, or even burlap to decorate your fans and make them truly unique.

Frequently asked questions