Creating Wedding Fan Programs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding fan programs are a fun and functional way to keep your guests cool during your wedding ceremony, especially if your wedding is outdoors or in a warm climate. They can also add a personal touch and be a beautiful keepsake for your guests. You can make them yourself or purchase pre-made options, and they can be customised to fit the style of your event. This introduction will cover how to make fan programs for a wedding, including the supplies you will need and step-by-step instructions for assembly.

Choosing paper type and weight

When making fan programs for a wedding, choosing the right paper type and weight is crucial to ensuring your fans are sturdy, easy to work with, and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some factors to consider:

Paper Type:

• Cardstock: Cardstock is a good choice for fan programs as it is thick and sturdy, making it easy to fold and assemble into fans. It also provides a nice, elegant finish.
• Matte or Glossy: You can choose between matte or glossy cardstock, depending on your preference. Matte cardstock has a more subtle, elegant finish, while glossy cardstock can make colours appear brighter and more vibrant.
• Pre-Printed or Print-at-Home: You can opt for pre-printed paper, where you send your design to a printing service, or print the design yourself at home. Pre-printed paper may be a better option for more complex designs or if you want a professional finish.

Paper Weight:

• For single-sided fans: If you are creating single-sided fans, it is recommended to use thicker paper, such as 110lb paper. This will provide a sturdy base for your fan and ensure that it holds its shape.
• For double-sided fans: If your design is double-sided, a slightly lighter weight paper is recommended, such as 65lb-80lb paper. This will make it easier to fold and glue the paper without it becoming too bulky.
• Home printing: If you are using a home inkjet printer, it is best to use the lighter weight paper (65lb-80lb) even for single-sided designs, as thicker paper may be difficult for your printer to handle.

Remember to consider the climate and season of your wedding when choosing paper weight. If your wedding is in a hot climate, a thicker paper weight may be more durable and less likely to bend or become damaged during your event.

Folding and sticking

Folding:

• If you have a one-page design, fold your paper in half before gluing. This ensures that the glue doesn't stick or dry before lining up.
• Use a bone folder to create a neat crease, especially when working with thicker paper. Line up the corners and use the bone folder to smooth out the crease.
• For a perfect centre fold, use a paper scoring board to mark and score the centre of the paper before folding.
• Once folded, use a corner paper punch to create a soft-rounded edge. You can also use a fancier corner punch if you prefer a more decorative finish.

Sticking:

• When sticking the fan handle, use double-sided tape instead of glue. Glue may leak through the cardstock and leave stains.
• Apply a generous amount of glue or double-sided tape to one side of the folded paper where the stick will go.
• Place the stick on the glued area and press firmly to ensure it is straight and secure.
• Apply glue or tape around the edges of the folded paper and press each edge firmly to seal. Ensure you use clean fingers or a clean tool to avoid leaving marks on the paper.
• Finish off by adding ribbon or twine to the handle. You can also add embellishments to personalise your fans.

Adding a handle

For a wedding fan program, a wavy wooden handle is a popular choice and can be purchased from craft stores or online retailers. Once you have your handles, it's time to attach them to the fan. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare your fan: If you have a single-page design, fold and crease your paper before adding any adhesive. This ensures that the glue doesn't stick or dry before you've lined up the handle.
• Apply adhesive: Use a strong adhesive like double-sided tape or glue. If using glue, apply a generous amount to one side of the fan where the handle will go. Be careful not to use too much glue as it may leak through the cardstock and leave stains.
• Attach the handle: Firmly press the handle onto the glued area, making sure it is straight and secure.
• Fold and seal: If your fan has two sides, apply glue around the edges and fold immediately. Again, be generous with the glue where the handle is placed. Press each edge firmly to ensure all edges are sealed.
• Finishing touches: You can add ribbon or twine to the handle for a decorative touch. This will also help to cover up any glue stains that may have occurred.

By following these steps, you can easily add handles to your wedding fan programs, creating a functional and elegant accessory for your special day.

Embellishments

Ribbons and Twine

Add a delicate ribbon or twine to the handle of your fan. This can be a great way to incorporate your wedding colours or theme. For example, if you're having a rustic-themed wedding, consider using twine or burlap ribbon. Or, for a more elegant affair, opt for a sheer organza ribbon in a soft shade of gold or silver.

Flowers and Greenery

Flowers and greenery are always a beautiful choice for wedding embellishments. You could use real or artificial flowers, or even print a floral design on your fan. A floral print adds a whimsical and romantic touch to your wedding fan programs, especially if paired with soft colours.

Seashells and Starfish

If you're having a beach wedding, consider using seashells or starfish as embellishments. These can be glued or attached to the fan with twine or ribbon. Not only will they add a unique and thematic touch, but they can also weigh down the fan, making it easier to handle.

Corner Punches

Using a corner paper punch is a simple way to add interest and elegance to your fan programs. You can create a soft, rounded edge or choose from a variety of fancier corner designs. This is a great way to add a subtle embellishment without taking away from the overall design of the fan.

Stamps and Chalk

Get creative and use stamps or chalk to add designs, initials, or even have your guests write their names on the fan sticks. This is a wonderful way to involve your guests and create a unique keepsake for them to take home.

Bows

A simple bow can be a lovely finishing touch to your fan programs. Choose a colour or material that complements your wedding theme and ties in with the other embellishments you've chosen.

Printing

When it comes to the design, you can create it using software like Microsoft Word, or you can purchase a template online. Include key details such as your names, event date, location, ceremony schedule, and wedding party. Don't forget to proofread your design before printing!

If you are printing at home, use a regular home printer and print on white card stock. This will give your fans a sturdy base. Choose a combination of plain and script fonts for an elegant look. After printing, gather your supplies and find a clean space to work on.

Frequently asked questions