Creating Hardcover Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Creating hardcover wedding invitations is a fun DIY project that can save you money. Hardcover invitations are a unique way to give your guests a memorable first impression of your wedding. In this article, we will discuss the steps to making your own hardcover wedding invitations, from choosing the right paper and printing methods to adding personal touches that reflect your wedding theme and style. We will also explore the benefits of DIY invitations and provide tips for a professional-looking finish. By the end, you should feel confident in designing and crafting elegant invitations that will set the tone for your special day.

Choosing a hardcover template

When choosing a hardcover template for your wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a design that reflects your wedding's theme and style. Do you want something simple and elegant, or bold and colourful? Perhaps you'd like to incorporate a watercolour motif or a rustic, natural look?

Another important consideration is the shape and dimensions of your invitations. Traditional wedding invitations are rectangular, with dimensions of 4.5 inches by 6.25 inches. This classic option can also help keep printing costs down. However, if you want to break with tradition, horizontal rectangles and scalloped designs have also gained popularity in recent years.

The location of your wedding can also guide your template choice. For instance, a church wedding might call for a more traditional and romantic aesthetic, while a country or farm setting might inspire a rustic and natural design.

Font choice is another key element. Cursive or calligraphy fonts are excellent choices for wedding invitations as they are soft, romantic, and elegant. These pair well with a serif font for the body text.

You may also want to include romantic imagery or even a photo of the happy couple to give your invitations a personal touch and make them a keepsake for your loved ones.

• White Luxury Folio Wedding Invitations by InvitationsByKhan on Etsy: These invitations feature a velvet hardcover with a custom monogram.
• Silk Hardcover Folio Invitation by InvitationsByKhan on Etsy: This option includes a silk hardcover and a wedding invitation box.
• BONNIE – HARDCOVER WEDDING INVITATION by Ooh-Aah Invitations: A hardcover invitation with a signature pocket and insert cards.
• CARLA – HARDCOVER WEDDING INVITATION by Ooh-Aah Invitations: Another elegant hardcover option from Ooh-Aah Invitations.

Customising the design

Choose your theme and colours:

Decide on a theme that reflects your wedding style and personality as a couple. Are you going for a rustic, elegant, whimsical, or playful theme? Choose a colour scheme that complements your theme. For example, green is a popular choice for outdoor weddings, and you can pair it with shades of rust or gold for a luxe look.

Select your fonts:

Choose romantic and elegant fonts that reflect the style of your wedding. Cursive or calligraphy fonts are excellent choices for wedding invites, especially for the names of the couple. Pair these with a serif font for the rest of the text. Avoid bold and blocky fonts, as they can appear too harsh.

Add imagery and personal touches:

Consider adding a photo of you and your fiancé(e) to your invites for a personal touch. You can also include illustrations, such as cute drawings or a timeline of your relationship. Incorporate personal jokes or references to your shared hobbies and interests to make your invites unique.

Pick your shape and dimensions:

Traditional wedding invitations are rectangular, with dimensions of 4.5 inches by 6.25 inches. This classic option can also help keep printing costs down. However, feel free to get creative and choose a different shape, such as a horizontal rectangle or a scalloped design.

Plan your wording:

The language you use should suit your style as a couple and the theme of your wedding. Decide on a traditional or contemporary tone and edit your text for grammar and spelling mistakes. Be sure to include all the necessary information, such as the time, location, dress code, and RSVP details.

Select your paper and printing options:

Choose a thick cardstock, such as a 120 lb. uncoated cardstock, for a luxurious feel. Consider adding texture with linen or felt paper. Test different paper options on your printer to ensure the best results. Decide whether to print at home or use a professional printing service, keeping in mind that some designs are better suited for at-home printing.

Embellishments and assembly:

Consider adding embellishments such as belly bands, envelope liners, or wax seals to dress up your invitations. Use glue dots or double-stick tape for easy assembly and a neat finish.

Remember to plan ahead, giving yourself enough time to customise, print, and assemble your invitations. Enjoy the process of designing your hardcover wedding invitations, and don't be afraid to add your unique touches!

Selecting paper and envelopes

Paper Type and Weight:

• Thicker paper generally gives a more luxurious feel to your invitations. Consider using cardstock with a weight of 120 lb. or more for a sturdy and elegant invitation.
• Add texture to your invitations by choosing paper with a linen or felt finish. This can enhance the tactile experience for your guests.
• Visit a specialty stationery store or a print shop to explore different paper options. Feel free to ask for samples so you can test how different papers work with your printer at home.

Envelope Selection:

• Choose envelopes that complement your invitation's style and colour scheme. Consider the overall theme of your wedding and select envelopes that match the aesthetic.
• Ensure the envelopes are slightly larger than your invitations to allow for easy insertion and removal.
• Don't forget to select envelopes for any RSVP cards or other inserts you plan to include with your invitations.
• Add a pop of colour with your envelopes, but be sure the address can still be clearly seen. Envelope liners can also dress up your invitations and add a touch of elegance.

Printing Considerations:

• When selecting paper, consider the printing method you plan to use. Different methods, such as foil printing, UV printing, or digital printing, may work better with specific types of paper. Consult with a print shop professional to choose the best option.
• Think about the ink usage for your design. Colourful backgrounds and designs can use a lot of ink, increasing the overall cost. Opt for designs that allow the paper to show through, or use coloured paper with white or minimal printing to reduce ink usage.
• Test print your design on different papers to see how it looks and ensure your printer can handle the job. This will help you make the right paper choice and avoid any last-minute surprises.

Final Thoughts:

• Remember to factor in the cost of paper and envelopes when creating your wedding invitation budget.
• Take your time to browse different options and don't be afraid to ask for help from stationery experts or print shop professionals.
• Consider the overall theme and style of your wedding when making your selections to create a cohesive and elegant invitation suite.

Printing and assembling

Printing:

• Choose a Template: Select a template that suits your wedding theme and style. You can find downloadable templates online or on platforms like Etsy, Canva, or from stationery shops like West + Pine.
• Customization: Customize the template with your wedding details, such as the date, time, location, and any other relevant information. You can do this yourself using online editing tools, or you can request the designer to make the changes for you.
• Paper Selection: Opt for thicker cardstock or specialty paper, such as linen or felt texture, for a luxurious feel. Visit a stationery or print shop to feel and select the right paper for your invitations.
• File Type: Ensure you have the correct file type for printing. PDF files tend to have higher quality than JPEGs, but check with your chosen printing method, as different options may have specific requirements.
• Ink Usage: Consider the ink usage, especially if you choose a design with a colorful background. Printing at home may be more cost-effective for simpler designs, as home printers may not handle full-color jobs well.
• Test Prints: Print tests on different paper samples to ensure the colors and quality meet your expectations. Adjust your printer settings as needed.

Assembling:

• Envelopes: Select envelopes that fit your invitation size and match your wedding theme. Consider adding envelope liners for a dressy touch.
• Cutting: Use a paper cutter with a sharp blade to achieve clean cuts for your invitations.
• Adhesives: For assembling layers or adding envelope liners, use glue dots or double-stick tape. These are also recommended for sealing the envelopes neatly.
• Weight and Postage: Take a complete invitation to the post office to have it weighed and to calculate the correct postage. Consider requesting "Hand Cancel" on the envelopes to avoid potential ripping or damage during processing.

Remember to plan ahead and give yourself enough time for printing and assembling. Enjoy creating your beautiful hardcover wedding invitations!

Sending the invitations

Once you have designed and crafted your hardcover wedding invitations, it's time to send them out to your guests. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth process:

• Timing is key: Aim to mail your invitations eight weeks before your wedding date. This gives your guests ample time to plan and RSVP. For destination weddings, it is customary to send out invitations eight to twelve months in advance, while four months is generally sufficient for local weddings.
• Plan and organize: Before sending, ensure you have all the necessary components, including RSVP cards, envelopes, and any other inserts. Give yourself extra time in case of any mistakes or the need to reprint. It's a good idea to have about 10% more supplies than you think you'll need.
• Consider printing services: Online platforms like Minted, Shutterfly, and Zazzle offer affordable printing services with beautiful templates. Alternatively, local print shops can provide a more personalized experience and help you choose the best paper and trim cards to size.
• Finalize the details: Double-check all the information on the invitation, including dates, times, locations, and any additional instructions for guests. Have a third party review the wording for any errors or spelling mistakes.
• Select the right envelopes: Choose envelopes that fit your invitation size and match the theme and aesthetic of your invites. Consider adding envelope liners for a touch of elegance. Ensure the address can be clearly seen, and don't forget envelopes for RSVP cards.
• Assembly and postage: Use glue dots or double-stick tape for easy assembly and a neat finish. Once your invitations are assembled, take a complete set to the post office to have it weighed and to calculate the correct postage. You may also request hand-canceling to avoid potential ripping or damage during mail processing.
• Digital alternatives: Instead of physical invitations, consider creating a mini website for your wedding invitations. This can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly option that still allows you to design and personalize your invites.

Remember to give yourself enough time and enjoy the process of creating and sending your hardcover wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions