Creating Gate-Fold Lace Wedding Invites With Cricut

Creating gate-fold lace wedding invitations using a Cricut machine is a fun and creative way to make your wedding invitations from scratch. Cricut machines are a type of electronic cutting machine that allows you to cut a variety of materials with precision, making it perfect for DIY wedding invitations. You can find downloadable Cricut-friendly files on Etsy, or create your own design using Cricut Design Space. When creating your own gate-fold lace invitations, you will need a few materials such as cardstock, glue dots, and envelopes. You can also add personal touches like ribbon or wax seals. With a Cricut machine, the possibilities for custom wedding invitations are endless!

Choosing a Cricut-friendly template

When choosing a Cricut-friendly template for your gate fold lace wedding invitations, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to consider the level of detail in the design. While intricate laser-cut invitations with thin lines may look beautiful, they can be challenging to cut with a Cricut machine. These detailed designs often require a more sticky mat, and the thin lines can still snag on the knife. Even with a brand new blade, you may experience snagging or tearing.

To avoid these issues, look for templates with simpler, less intricate designs. Templates that are optimised for mechanical cutting machines like the Cricut will save you time and frustration. It's also important to consider the size of the invitation. Some elaborate cards fold out beyond 12 inches, which means finding paper and envelopes in the right size can be difficult. Standard dimensions, such as 5x7 inches, are easier to work with and ensure that your invitations fit into standard envelopes.

When choosing a template, pay attention to the number of folds. Multiple folds can be tricky to work with and may require you to make custom envelopes. A simple design with one fold or no folds at all will be easier to cut, assemble, and send. Additionally, consider the weight of the cardstock you plan to use. Medium-weight cardstock (around 65 lbs) works well for most paper craft projects. However, keep in mind that while heavier cardstock is easier to cut, it can be more difficult to fold and may not lay flat.

Finally, remember to have fun with your DIY wedding invitations! Choose a template that you enjoy working with and that fits your wedding theme. You can find free and paid Cricut-friendly templates online, or you can design your own using software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.

Using the Cricut Design Space program

Once you have your design, you can upload it into the Cricut Design Space program. This program will read the file and tell your Cricut machine where and what to cut. You can then print out your invitation on the paper of your choice.

If you are looking to add intricate cuts or details to your invitation, the Cricut Design Space program offers a variety of templates to choose from. For example, the free template Cricut Design Space #M47EE6 Sophisticated Invitation can be used to create a gated sleeve for your invitation.

When using the Cricut Design Space program, it is important to choose the correct setting for your paper weight. This will ensure that your invitation cuts cleanly. Additionally, it is recommended to use a fresh mat and a new cutting blade for the best results.

Selecting the right paper weight

Printing Process

The printing process you choose will play a significant role in determining the suitable paper weight for your invitations. If you plan to print your invitations at home, you need to consider the paper weight capabilities of your home printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock, but it's essential to check your printer's specifications and do a test print to ensure optimal results.

On the other hand, if you opt for a professional print shop, you'll need to consider their equipment and capabilities. Be sure to bring samples and discuss your specific requirements with them.

Invitation Style

The style of your invitation will also influence the paper weight you choose. Flat invitation cards, which are a single sheet of cardstock, typically use heavier weight cardstock of 80lb and above. In contrast, folding invitation cards, like your gate-fold design, usually require lighter-weight paper since they will be folded. A popular weight range for folding invitations is between 65lb and 100lb.

Postage

Another important consideration is the postage cost for your invitations. Invites weighing over one ounce will require additional postage. If you want to keep postage costs down, opt for lighter-weight cardstock for your invitations.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice of paper weight is a personal one. Some people prefer the look and feel of thick, heavy cardstock, while others prefer lighter, thinner stock. Select a paper weight that aligns with your design preferences and budget.

Recommended Weights

As a general guideline, digitally printed invitations typically use 100lb to 110lb cardstock. Letterpress and foil-stamped invitations, which require a heavier weight paper, usually use cardstock ranging from 110lb to 220lb.

In summary, selecting the right paper weight for your gate-fold lace wedding invitations involves considering your printing method, invitation style, postage costs, and personal preferences. Be sure to do a test print and consult with professionals to ensure you choose the best paper weight for your Cricut wedding invitations.

Preparing the gated filigree wrap

The filigree wrap is the sleeve that cradles the wedding invitation. You can use the Cricut Design Space program to locate the free gated filigree wrap template. Adjust the size of the template to your preference, ensuring it fits the size of your invitation. For a 5.5" x 8.5" invitation, the filigree wrap should be 10.789 inches wide by 5.47 inches high.

For the paper, use a 65lb cover stock, which offers the right balance between stiffness and flexibility. Set your cutter to the setting between fabric and poster board. Place the shimmer paper onto the Light Grip mat and ensure your cutter is set to the correct setting for your paper weight. A clean cut is crucial, so the filigree wrap can be easily removed from the mat. This step may take some time, so be patient!

Once the cutting is complete, gently remove the mat by bending it with your left hand and popping off the filigree wrap with your right hand. Clean the board with a Cricut Spatula to ensure no scraps are left behind, as they could affect your next cut. Don't worry if a few filigree edges are damaged during the cutting process; you can use a pair of scissors to clean up the cuts.

Now, lay the filigree wrap on a flat surface and place the printed invitation facing up. Carefully fold the two gates of the filigree wrap around the invitation. This step can be a bit tricky due to the cut-out edges, so gently fold and use a bone folder tool to create a neat crease.

Finally, cut a 1.5" by 12" strip of glitter paper to create the centre wrap. Connect the two ends at the back of the invitation and secure with glue dots.

Assembling the invitation

Now that you've got all your materials and have cut out the pieces, it's time to assemble your gate fold lace wedding invitation! Here's a step-by-step guide to putting it all together:

Step 1: Start by laying the gate fold base on a flat surface. This will be the foundation of your invitation. If you've cut out a intricate design with a lot of swirls and cut-outs, handle it carefully to avoid tearing.

Step 2: Take your printed invitation card and place it in the centre of the gate fold base. You may need to play around with the positioning to ensure that the card is centred and evenly spaced on both sides.

Step 3: Carefully fold the two sides of the gate fold over the invitation card. This step can be a bit tricky, especially if you have a intricate cut-out design. Take your time and gently fold one side at a time, using a bone folder tool to create a crisp crease.

Step 4: To secure the invitation card in place, you can add a strip of paper or ribbon across the middle. Cut a 1.5" by 12" strip of glitter paper or ribbon and place it horizontally across the centre of the invitation, connecting the two sides of the gate fold. Secure it at the back with glue dots or a glue tape runner.

Step 5: If you want to add a personal touch, you can include a monogram or a small embellishment in the centre. Cut out a 2" square from glitter paper and attach your monogram or chosen embellishment to it. Then, use glue dots to attach the square to the centre of the invitation, over the strip of paper or ribbon.

Step 6: Finally, carefully insert your completed invitation into an envelope. You can use a standard A7 envelope for a 5" x 7" invitation. And there you have it—a beautiful, handmade gate fold lace wedding invitation!

Feel free to add your own creative touches to the assembly process. You can experiment with different types of paper, ribbons, or embellishments to make your invitations truly unique.

Frequently asked questions