Creating Ribbon-Tied Gatefold Wedding Invites

Gatefold wedding invitations are a unique way to invite your guests to your wedding. The card opens with two side panels that swing open towards you, revealing the contents inside. This style of invitation can be closed with a paper belly band or a length of ribbon. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to make your own gatefold wedding invitations with ribbon, from designing your invitation to assembling the final product. We will also provide tips on how to adapt this technique to suit your wedding theme.

Choosing the right paper and printing options

When it comes to choosing the right paper and printing options for your gatefold wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the type of paper you want to use. Some popular options include:

• Cardstock: This is a thick and sturdy option that gives your invitations a luxurious feel. The weight of cardstock can vary, with heavier paper often feeling more expensive and elegant.
• Cotton paper: Cotton paper is known for its strength, durability, and soft feel. It absorbs ink well, resulting in richer-looking colours.
• Linen finish paper: This type of paper has a textured, crosshatched surface that resembles linen fabric, giving your invitations an elegant appearance.
• Vellum: Made from a blend of cotton and wood pulp, vellum has a sheer and frosted look, perfect for layering on top of opaque paper.
• Pearlescent paper: This paper adds a subtle shimmer to your invitations, enhancing any photographs included in the design.

Once you've selected the type of paper, you can explore printing options. Here are some popular printing techniques to consider:

• Thermography: This budget-friendly technique creates a slightly raised text effect without the high cost of engraving or embossing.
• Engraving: A classic technique where paper is pressed between an inked plate and a metal plate, resulting in raised letters with texture.
• Embossing: Similar to engraving, embossing creates a textured effect, but the pressed text or graphics remain uncoloured.
• Foil stamping: This method adds shine to your invitations by pressing metallic foil onto the paper, creating a luxurious look.
• Letterpress: This technique uses a custom die to create a soft, romantic feel. It's slightly more affordable than foil stamping as it allows for the use of plastic dies instead of metal.
• UV and thermographic printing: These heat-based methods add a slight shine to raised lettering, and they work well with various types of paper and colours, including metallic hues.
• Flat digital printing: This cost-effective option offers flexibility and a quick turnaround time, making it ideal for invitations with images or intricate designs.

When choosing a printing technique, consider your budget, the desired level of customisation, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Additionally, don't forget to explore local printing options, as many print shops can accommodate custom gatefold invitations.

Creating the invitation text

The text for your gatefold wedding invitation should be created using a computer so that you can easily edit and format the wording, font style, colour, size and placement. The text should be centred and placed on the middle panel of the card.

The wording of the invitation is entirely up to you but typically includes the names of the couple getting married, the date, time and location of the wedding, and details of the reception. You may also wish to include an RSVP request, and information about dress code or gifts.

Once you are happy with the text, print a test page to ensure that the measurements are correct and that the text fits on the card with a margin of at least 1/8th of an inch on all sides. You should also proofread the invitation carefully to check for any spelling or grammar errors.

When you are satisfied with the text and formatting, cut the inserts to size and adhere them to the centre panel of the gatefold card using tape or glue. Make sure that the inserts are centred neatly.

If you are using a template, simply edit the text as desired and then save and download the file before printing.

Assembly and adhering the insert

Now that you have your insert ready, it's time to assemble your gatefold wedding invitation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Take your 8" x 8¼" card stock, which you have already scored and folded 2" in from each side. This will be the base of your gatefold invitation.
• Create the text and wording for your invitation using a computer. Make sure the text fits onto the 3¾" x 8" insert with a margin of at least 1/8" on all sides. You can print two invitations on one sheet of A4 paper.
• Proofread your text and print a test page to ensure the measurements are correct. Create a mock invitation with all the separate pieces to make sure everything fits together.
• Once you are happy with the layout, cut the inserts to size.
• Take the insert and adhere it to the centre panel of the gatefold card using tape or glue. Ensure it is centred neatly.
• At this point, you can choose to add a belly band or ribbon tie closure to keep the invitation closed.
• For a belly band, take a strip of coordinating paper and wrap it loosely around your closed invitation, with the two ends meeting at the back in the centre. Remove the strip from the invitation and glue the ends together, letting one end overlap the other. Once dry, slip it back over the closed invitation.
• For a ribbon tie closure, cut two vertical slits at the centre of the gatefold card, making sure the slits are the width of your ribbon.
• Take a length of ribbon, approximately 20" long, and thread it through the slits. Centre the ribbon and secure it with double-sided tape.
• Adhere the insert onto the centre panel, on top of the ribbon.
• Finally, tie the invitation closed with the ribbon and finish with a bow.

Your gatefold wedding invitation with a ribbon tie closure is now complete!

Belly band or ribbon closure

To make a belly band closure, take a strip of coordinating paper and wrap it loosely around your closed invitation, with the two ends meeting at the back in the centre. Remove the invitation and glue the ends of the paper strip together, with one end overlapping the other. Once the glue is dry, slip the belly band back over the closed invitation.

To make a ribbon tie closure, cut two vertical slits in the centre of the gatefold card. The slits should be the width of your chosen ribbon. Take a length of ribbon, approximately 20 inches long, and thread it through the slits. Centre the ribbon and secure it with double-sided tape. Adhere the insert onto the centre panel, on top of the ribbon. Finally, tie the invitation closed with the ribbon and finish with a bow.

Final checks and adjustments

Now that you have assembled your gatefold wedding invitation, it's time to do some final checks and adjustments to ensure it looks perfect. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

Proofreading and Testing

Before finalising your invitations, carefully proofread the text for any spelling or grammatical errors. It is easy to miss small mistakes, so consider asking a friend or family member to read through it as well. Additionally, print a test page to ensure that all the measurements and alignments are correct. Make any necessary adjustments to the text size, margins, or positioning to achieve a neat and balanced layout.

Consistency and Uniformity

Check that all the invitations are consistent and uniform. Ensure that the folds are crisp and precise, with no creases or uneven edges. Verify that the ribbon closures are all centred and securely attached, creating a neat bow or knot. Consistency in the placement of inserts and any additional decorations is also crucial.

Colour and Print Quality

Pay close attention to the colour accuracy and print quality of your invitations. Colours may vary depending on your printer and paper choice, so it is essential to print a colour check before finalising. Utilise the highest print quality settings to ensure that the text and any images are sharp and clear.

Paper Choice and Weight

The choice of paper can significantly impact the overall appearance of your invitations. Opt for thick cardstock with a weight of at least 100 lb/270 gsm. This will ensure your invitations feel sturdy and luxurious. Additionally, consider the finish of the paper; a matte or uncoated smooth finish is often recommended to preserve the design and colour.

Postage Requirements

Finally, if you plan to mail your invitations, ensure that they meet the postage requirements. Check the weight of your completed invitation, including any ribbons or additional decorations, to calculate the correct postage. Some postal services may also have specific requirements or restrictions on size or thickness, so it is worth verifying this to avoid any issues.

Frequently asked questions