Crafting Exploding Box Invites For Your Big Day

An exploding box wedding invitation is a creative way to invite guests to your wedding. These boxes can be made from recycled card and decorated with lace, glitter, and rhinestones. They can also be personalised with photos, messages, poems, and small gifts. You can make your own using templates available online, or you can buy handmade or customisable options from sites like Etsy.

Choosing a template

When choosing a template for your DIY exploding box wedding invitation, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the overall theme or style you want to achieve. This could be influenced by your wedding theme, colour palette, or personal preferences.

Etsy offers a wide range of exploding box templates with various designs, including butterfly, heart, and cake themes. Some templates are specifically designed as wedding invitations, while others can be customised with your choice of colours, photos, and text. You can also find templates with different shapes, such as hexagon, octagon, or pyramid.

If you're looking for a more personalised approach, consider downloading a free or premium template from online template libraries. These templates are usually scalable and can be printed in any size to fit your needs. You can then customise the template with your chosen paper, decorations, and text to create a unique invitation.

Another option is to purchase a digital cutting file, which can be used with cutting machines like Cricut, Silhouette, or ScanNcut. These files provide the instructions and measurements needed to cut and assemble your exploding box invitation. This allows for more intricate designs, such as a 3D cake or a baby carriage.

When selecting a template, consider the level of difficulty and the materials required. Some templates may be more complex to assemble, requiring additional tools like a bone folder for scoring lines. Ensure you have all the necessary materials, such as card stock, adhesive tape, and decorations, before starting the project.

Printing and cutting

To make an exploding box wedding invitation, you will need to print and cut out templates. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

First, download the desired exploding box template. You can find free and premium templates online, which are scalable and customisable to your required size. Once you have selected your template, print it out. If you are using a pre-made template, it may come with additional decorations, such as hanging hearts or butterflies, which you can also print out.

Next, cut out the printed templates. Carefully cut along the outlines of each shape. You will now have a collection of paper templates. Take these and place them onto a piece of recycled card. Secure them in place, then cut around the templates again, this time cutting out the card. You should now have a selection of card shapes.

This card cutting forms the basis of your exploding box. You can now move on to the next steps of scoring and folding the card, before decorating your invitation.

Scoring and folding

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a paper scoring tool, or you can use a bone folder, or even a pen with no ink. You will also need your chosen cardstock, a ruler, and a pencil.

Now, take your cardstock and lay the pieces pattern-side down on your work surface. Using your ruler and pencil, measure 4 inches from the edges of the cardstock and create a grid pattern. This grid will guide your scoring.

Next, use your scoring tool, bone folder, or pen to score along the lines you have drawn. This technique will create a crisp fold and a neat finish. Go over each line a few times to ensure a clear indentation.

Once you have scored all the lines, you can begin to fold along the scored lines, creating a three-dimensional shape. Take your time with this step to ensure a precise finish.

For the lid of the box, repeat a similar process. Measure and draw diagonal lines connecting opposite corners of the cardstock square. Score along these lines and fold to create a neat lid.

By following these steps for scoring and folding, you will create a sturdy base for your exploding box invitation. This technique will ensure your invitation not only looks beautiful but also has a functional structure.

Now that you have mastered the art of scoring and folding, you can continue to decorate your invitation with lace, glitter, ribbons, stickers, or any other embellishments that suit your style.

Decorating the outside

Once you have cut out your recycled card and folded it along the score lines, it's time to decorate the outside. Cut lace-patterned card to fit the outer sides of the box and attach with double-sided adhesive tape. You could also use glitter design paper, or recycled card in a different colour to create a contrasting border.

If you want to add a luxurious touch, try gluing small rhinestones or pearls to the corners of the box, or in a pattern across the lid. You could also thread gold thread through the holes of the card and secure with tape, adding a touch of glamour.

For a more natural look, consider threading thin twine through the holes and tying small sprigs of lavender or rosemary to the box. You could also use small silk flowers, or dried flowers, to add a delicate, romantic feel.

Finally, add a bow to the top of the box, tying it around the lid. You could use a thin, silky ribbon, or a rustic raffia, depending on your theme.

Adding surprises inside

There are endless possibilities for what you can include inside your DIY exploding box wedding invitation. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Photos

Add photos of the happy couple to give guests a glimpse into the lives of the bride and groom. You can include pictures from the engagement, special vacations, or other memorable moments. This is a great way to make the invitation more personal and exciting.

Small Gifts

Surprise your guests with small gifts inside the box. You can include items like candy, small candles, or novelties. Not only will this delight your guests, but it also adds a special touch to the invitation.

Poems or Messages

Write a heartfelt poem or message for your guests. This could be a romantic poem for your partner or a message expressing your joy and gratitude for the people who will be sharing your special day.

Wedding Details

Include details about the wedding, such as the date, location, and any other important information your guests may need. You can also add fun elements like a small map of the wedding venue or a creative way to RSVP.

Decorative Elements

Enhance the visual appeal of your invitation by adding decorative elements inside the box. Consider using items like glitter, rhinestones, lace, or other craft materials that complement your wedding theme.

Music

Add a musical element to your invitation by including a small paper with a song lyric that is meaningful to you and your partner. Alternatively, you could include a link or QR code to a song that guests can listen to, creating an interactive and engaging experience.

Remember, the key is to be creative and personalise the invitation to reflect the style and theme of your wedding. Your guests will surely be impressed and delighted by your unique exploding box invitation.

Frequently asked questions