Crafting Large Wedding Letter Décor: A Step-By-Step Guide

Giant letters are a fun and increasingly popular trend at weddings. They can be used to spell out names, initials, or creative words, and they make for great photo ops. While they can be purchased or rented, they are often expensive, so many couples opt to make them themselves. DIY giant letters can be made from various materials, such as foam, cardboard, wood, or metal, and can be decorated with lights, paint, or other embellishments. With some time, creativity, and basic tools, you can create impressive giant letters that will wow your wedding guests and make your special day even more memorable.

Using foam or cardboard

Choosing the Right Material

You can choose between foam or cardboard for your big wedding letters. Foam letters are typically made from polystyrene or Styrofoam, which is lightweight and easy to work with. Cardboard letters, on the other hand, can be made from thick, high-quality cardboard that is still lightweight enough for easy transportation and hanging.

Sizing and Customization

When it comes to sizing, most letter heights are based on the uppercase letter "A" of the chosen font. However, keep in mind that different fonts will result in varying heights for different letters. If you order lowercase letters only, they will still be scaled to the height of an uppercase "A," making most of the letters smaller than expected. To avoid this, you can contact the seller or craft store and request custom sizing for your lettering.

Display Options

Foam letters can be customized for different display options. They can either be cut flat at the bottom to stand upright, which is a great option for rounded letters. Alternatively, they can be left as they are, which is better for wall mounting. If you choose the flat bottom standing option, be aware that the letter height may be slightly reduced, depending on the font selected. Thicker letters will have an easier time standing on their own.

Painting and Decorating

When it comes to painting and decorating your big wedding letters, it's important to use the right type of paint. Basic acrylic paint is recommended, as harsh solvents found in spray paint can melt the foam material. You can also add embellishments like flowers, rope, twine, ribbon, lace, or glitter to make your letters shine. If you're using cardboard letters, you can paint them with acrylic paint as well, or even cover them with decorative paper or fabric for a unique look.

Mounting and Stability

To secure your lightweight letters to a surface, use double-sided mounting tape. A paper mounting template will help you with spacing and alignment. If you're using cardboard letters, you can also use command strips or putty to attach them to walls or other surfaces without causing damage. For standing letters made of foam, such as J, P, and F, you may need additional support, such as double-sided tape or plastic bases, to keep them stable.

Buying Options

You can find big foam or cardboard letters for your wedding through various online retailers, such as Etsy and Amazon. Some sellers offer customizable options, allowing you to choose the size, font, and colour of your letters. You can also explore local craft stores or event supply shops in your area to find similar products and get inspiration for your wedding decorations.

Adding lights

If you are using wood, you can add string lights to your letters by drilling holes for the lights. You can space the lights however you like, but make sure the holes you drill are the correct diameter for your light sockets. For example, if using 7/8" diameter lights, you will need to drill 7/8" diameter holes. You can use a drill and spade bit for this purpose. The string light wiring can be connected in parallel, so the lights will work even if not all the light bulbs are in the sockets. You can use the excess string light wire as an extension cord to a power strip/surge protector.

Another option for wooden letters is to use lamp holders and lightbulbs. You will need to drill holes for the lamp holders and connect the wiring accordingly, taking care to ensure that all wires are properly insulated. You will also need to use the correct type of fuse to avoid blowing a fuse when turning the lights on.

If you are using foam board, you can add white Christmas lights by cutting small crosses in the board with a utility knife and then squeezing the lights into the holes. This method may be more challenging to undo, so it is important to be sure of your placement before adding the lights.

For a more modern look, you can use neon lights or LED lights, which can be purchased from various online retailers and custom-made to fit your letters. These lights are often battery-operated and come in a variety of colours.

Painting and decorating

Now that you have your giant letters, it's time to start decorating! Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect finish.

Before you start painting, it's important to prepare your work area. Cover your work surface with a drop cloth or plastic sheet to protect it from paint splatters. Gather all the necessary supplies, such as paintbrushes, rollers, paint trays, and sandpaper. It's also a good idea to wear protective clothing, such as an apron or old clothes, and gloves to avoid getting paint on your skin.

If you're working with wooden letters, start by lightly sanding the surface to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and sand in the direction of the wood grain. Remove any dust with a tack cloth or a damp cloth before moving on to the next step.

Prime your letters if needed. Some wooden letters may require a coat of primer, especially if they will be painted a light colour or if the wood is porous. Choose a primer that is suitable for the type of wood you are working with and apply it evenly to the surface. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.

Choose the right paint for the job. Select a paint that is suitable for the material of your letters and the finish you desire. For wooden letters, you can use acrylic paint, latex paint, or chalk paint. If you're painting on foam board, choose a paint that adheres well to foam, such as spray paint or acrylic paint. Consider the colour and finish you want for your letters, whether it's a classic white, a bold colour, or a rustic distressed look.

Apply the paint carefully. Start by painting the edges and hard-to-reach areas with a small brush. Then, use a roller or a larger brush to paint the rest of the letter. Work in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. It's generally best to apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to avoid drips and ensure a smooth finish.

Add extra details if desired. Once the base colour is dry, you can enhance your letters with additional decorative touches. Consider adding glitter, stencilled designs, or hand-painted details. You can also experiment with different painting techniques, such as dry brushing or sponging, to create unique textures and effects.

Protect your work with a sealant. After the paint is completely dry, apply a clear sealant to protect the finish and extend the longevity of your letters. Choose a sealant that is suitable for the type of paint you have used, such as a clear spray sealant or a brush-on sealer. Follow the instructions on the product for proper application and drying times.

Display your letters with pride! Once your letters are fully decorated and sealed, they are ready to be displayed at your wedding. Position them as a backdrop for your head table, as a photo zone for guests, or as a welcoming sign at the entrance of your venue. Enjoy the personalised touch they bring to your special day!

Using wooden letters

When using wooden letters for your wedding, consider the size of the letters and how they will fit into your venue. Letters can range from 6 to 40 inches in height, so choose a size that is visible but not overwhelming. If you plan to hang the letters, ensure they are light enough to be supported by your chosen hanging method. If you want the letters to stand on the ground, opt for a thicker and heavier option that won't be blown over by the wind.

You can find wooden letters for your wedding on sites like Etsy and Amazon. Etsy offers a wide range of options, including custom orders, and Amazon also has customisable options. When ordering, be sure to specify the quantity of letters you need and the desired size.

Wooden letters can be a beautiful addition to your wedding, creating a romantic atmosphere and providing a perfect photo backdrop for you and your guests.

Sizing and placement

The size of your letters will depend on a few factors. Firstly, consider where you want to place them and ensure you have the space to fit them. If you're planning to hang them, make sure you have the right equipment to do so safely and securely. If you want to place them on the ground, perhaps framing a dance floor or photo area, ensure they're not so big that they get in the way of guests moving around.

Another factor to consider is the number of letters you want to include. If you opt for your initials or a short word like "LOVE", you can afford to make each letter quite large. If you want to spell out a longer word or phrase, you may need to reduce the size of each letter so that they all fit in your chosen space.

The height of your letters will also depend on their stability. If you're making them out of a lightweight material like foam, you can probably get away with a taller letter that won't topple over. If you're using a heavier material like wood, consider making the letters shorter to prevent accidents.

When it comes to placement, you have a few options. As mentioned, you can hang the letters or place them on the ground. You could also lean them against a wall, perhaps framing the entrance to the wedding venue or the dance floor. If you're using light-up letters, ensure they're placed near a power source or have access to a safe extension cord.

If you're using the letters as a backdrop for photos, ensure they're placed in a well-lit area, and consider adding some decorative elements around them, like flowers or balloons. If you're hanging the letters, ensure they're securely attached and won't fall on your guests.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your letter placement. You could use them to frame a particular area, like the cake table or gift table, or create a fun photo op area by adding some fun props near the letters.

Frequently asked questions