Creating Wedding Invites: Diy Home Studio Guide

Creating your own wedding invitations is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your big day. While it may seem daunting, there are plenty of resources and tips available to help you create beautiful, professional-looking invitations at home. From choosing the right paper and printing methods to adding special details like wax seals and envelope liners, with careful planning and attention to detail, you can design and create invitations that perfectly reflect your wedding vision.

Choosing the right paper

When making your own wedding invitations, choosing the right paper is essential to achieving the desired look and feel. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the paper for your DIY wedding invitations:

Paper Weight

The weight of the paper is a crucial factor to consider. It is usually expressed in pounds, indicating the weight of a stack of 500 sheets of that particular paper type. The higher the number, the heavier the paper. Most cardstocks that can be used with a home printer weigh 80 lbs or less. If you're looking for something sturdier, consider upgrading to 110- or 120-lb cardstock, which will feel more substantial without breaking your budget. For an even more luxurious feel, you can opt for 220- or 240-lb paper, which is often described as "double thick" and will elevate the look and feel of your invitations.

Paper Texture

The texture of the paper can add a subtle touch of sophistication to your invitations. Linen paper, for example, has a light, woven texture that looks and feels elegant, making it ideal for sophisticated invitations. Eggshell paper, with its softer and more luxurious texture, is perfect for formal events. If you're considering letterpress or foil stamping, 100% cotton paper is an excellent choice as its soft and supple texture enhances the impression of these printing techniques.

Paper Finish

Paper can come in a variety of finishes, but the two primary options are matte and shimmery. The choice between these is largely a matter of personal preference, as both can work well for formal or rustic invitations. If you're looking to add a touch of glamour, consider glitter paper, which comes in various colours and grades of glitter.

Paper Colour

The colour of your paper sets the tone for your wedding. While most invitations use shades of white, you can also opt for coloured paper to match your wedding theme. For a fall wedding, consider burgundy, while a summer wedding might call for nudes and light pinks. If your wedding is black-tie, a combination of white letterpress paper with crisp, burgundy lettering can be sophisticated and chic.

Paper Size

When selecting your paper, don't forget to consider the size of your invitations. You'll want to ensure that your chosen paper is large enough to accommodate your design, including any margins or bleed allowance. Additionally, if you're adding multiple layers of paper, such as a backing or a belly band, you'll need to choose sizes that complement each other and fit well within your chosen envelope size.

In conclusion, choosing the right paper for your DIY wedding invitations involves considering weight, texture, finish, colour, and size. By taking the time to select the perfect paper, you'll be able to create invitations that truly reflect the style and tone of your special day.

Selecting a printer

Types of Printer

Firstly, you need to decide whether you want a laser printer or an inkjet printer. Laser printers use toner powder and heat to set the ink into the paper, while inkjet printers use liquid ink deposited onto the paper. Laser printers are generally faster, crisper, and cheaper than inkjet printers, and they are better suited for printing on metallic cardstock and simpler designs. However, they usually cannot handle thicker papers and may jam if the paper weight is above 100#. On the other hand, inkjet printers can handle thicker papers but are typically slower and less crisp. They are also more suitable for printing on handmade paper and envelopes with open flaps.

Printing Needs

Before selecting a printer, consider the types of invitations you will be printing, the paper you will be using, the sizes you need to print, and whether you need to print full-bleed. If you are printing on luxury, thick papers for wedding invitations, a laser printer might be a better option. However, if you are printing on thinner paper for party invitations or personal stationery, an inkjet printer might be more suitable. If you need to print full-bleed designs, you will need to understand the printing and trimming process and have the appropriate equipment.

Time and Convenience

If you have tight timelines, printing in-house on an inkjet or laser printer gives you more control and avoids waiting for a print shop to finish your orders. However, printing in-house also means more print adjustments, which can be time-consuming. Outsourcing to a print shop can save you time and allow you to focus on designing. Additionally, print shops can offer finishing services like hole drilling, scoring, and die-cutting, which can enhance the look of your invitations.

Cost

When considering the cost, don't forget to factor in the price of ink or toner, as well as paper. Inkjet printers typically cost more per print than laser printers. Outsourcing to a print shop might seem more expensive at first glance, but it can save you money in the long run by avoiding the cost of ink, paper, and troubleshooting. It also gives you access to high-quality printing and paper options that may not be available with in-house printers.

Paper Thickness

Most home printers can handle paper weights up to 80 lbs, and some can go up to 100 lbs. However, if you want to use thicker paper, you may need to consider a heavier cardstock and take your design to a local printer. Laser printers generally struggle with paper weights above 100#, while inkjet printers can handle thicker papers. Commercial printing machines can manage thicker papers but are more expensive and may not be suitable for beginners.

Print Shops

If you decide to outsource your printing, there are many print shops available, both locally and online. Local printers are a good option if you need a quick turnaround. Online print shops, such as PrintsWell Fulfillment, offer various printing options, including gold foil stamping and white ink printing, which cannot be easily done in-house. They also allow you to order smaller quantities and custom sizes without the need for cutting.

File Format

Before selecting a printer, ensure you know the required file format for printing. Different printers and print shops may have specific file type requirements, such as PDF or JPEG. Additionally, check that your template resolution quality is 300 DPI or higher for a crisp, clean print.

In conclusion, selecting a printer for your wedding invitations depends on various factors, including the type of invitations you will be printing, the paper thickness, the time and convenience, cost, and the capabilities of different printers. Both in-house and outsourced printing have their advantages, and it is essential to consider your specific needs and requirements before making a decision.

Buying ink in bulk

If you're printing your wedding invitations at home, you'll need to make sure you have enough ink. Ink can be expensive, so buying in bulk is a good way to save money. Here are some tips for buying ink in bulk for your wedding invitations:

• Calculate your ink usage: Consider the number of invitations you need to print and the complexity of the design. If you choose a design with a colourful background or large areas of solid colour, you will use more ink.
• Choose the right printer: Different printers use different types of ink. The two most common types are laser printers, which use toner powder and heat to set the ink, and inkjet printers, which use liquid ink.
• Shop around for the best price: Compare prices at different retailers, both online and offline. Look for sales and discounts, especially on Amazon and at stores like Staples.
• Buy in bulk: Look for options to buy ink in larger quantities, such as in packs of multiple cartridges or bottles. Buying in bulk can often result in a lower cost per unit.
• Consider compatible or remanufactured ink: Compatible or remanufactured ink products are often cheaper than official brand-name ink products. Just make sure they are compatible with your specific printer model.
• Read reviews: Before purchasing ink in bulk, check online reviews to ensure that the product is of good quality and has worked well for other customers.
• Plan ahead: Make sure you have enough ink, plus some extra, to allow for test prints and any mistakes. It's better to have too much ink than to run out halfway through your printing project.
• Store ink properly: Ink can dry out over time, so make sure to store it in a cool, dry place and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper storage.

By following these tips, you can save money and ensure you have enough ink to print your wedding invitations at home.

Using online templates

To get started, simply select a template that reflects your wedding theme and style. You can then customise the template by uploading your own photos, changing the fonts and colours, and adding your wedding details. Once you're happy with the design, you can download the invitation and print it at home or send it to a professional printer.

When creating your own wedding invitations, it's important to consider the cost of materials, such as paper, envelopes, and ink, as well as the time and effort required for printing and assembly. It's also a good idea to proofread your invitations carefully and seek feedback from others to ensure there are no errors.

Overall, using online templates is a cost-effective and flexible option for creating personalised wedding invitations that reflect your unique style and story.

Adding personal touches

Photos and Visuals

Add a personal touch by including engagement photos or a custom couple portrait on your invitations. You could also adorn your walk down the aisle with photos of you and your spouse-to-be, from childhood to adulthood. This is a sweet way to showcase your journey of finding each other.

Stamps and Wax Seals

Create your own stamp when sending out invitations, or opt for a custom wax seal with a sticker backing. This adds a unique and elegant touch to your invites.

Colours and Themes

If your invitation template allows, play around with colours and themes. Keep the colours consistent with your wedding day palette, and don't be afraid to make bold design choices that speak to you.

Monograms and Hashtags

Add a monogram to your invitations or create a unique hashtag for your special day. This is a fun way to involve your social media-savvy guests and make your wedding stand out.

Personalised Stationery

Consider using a custom couple portrait rubber stamp, or illustrate your venue with a watercolour version of the space. You could also include a beloved quote or book excerpt that is meaningful to you and your partner.

Signature Cocktails

Offer a signature cocktail that reflects your relationship. Put a twist on a classic or create something new with your favourite ingredients. You could even choose a drink native to your hometowns.

Customised Textures and Materials

Use textured paper, such as linen or felt, to add a luxurious feel to your invitations. You could also include lace details or copper leafing for a unique, handcrafted touch.

These ideas will help you create wedding invitations that are truly yours, setting the tone for a celebration that reflects you and your partner's personalities and interests.

Frequently asked questions