Crafting Paper Fan Wedding Programs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding fan programs are a great way to keep your guests cool on a warm day, as well as providing them with details about your wedding. They can be easily personalised to fit the style of your event, and are simple to make. In this article, we'll take you through the steps to create your own wedding fan programs, as well as providing some tips and tricks to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Choosing paper

The type of paper you choose for your wedding fan programs will depend on the printing method, the design of your fan, and the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Here are some tips for choosing the right paper for your project:

Paper Weight and Thickness

The weight and thickness of the paper are important considerations. If you're printing double-sided fans on a home inkjet printer, choose a paper weight between 65lb and 80lb. This weight range will ensure that the paper is sturdy enough to hold its shape but not too thick that it becomes difficult to fold or feed through your printer. For single-sided fans, it's best to order from a professional printer and request a heavier paper weight of at least 110lb. This will give your fans a more luxurious feel and ensure that they hold up well during use.

Paper Finish and Texture

The finish and texture of the paper can also impact the final look and feel of your fans. If you're printing at home, make sure to select a paper finish that is compatible with your printer. Some printers may have specific requirements for the type of paper they can handle. Consider a smooth finish for a classic and elegant look, or explore textured papers for a more tactile and rustic feel. The texture can add a subtle visual and sensory element to your design.

Paper Colour and Design

The colour and design of the paper can be chosen to match your wedding theme or colour palette. Opt for neutral shades like cream, beige, or grey for a classic and elegant look. If you're having a beach wedding, consider incorporating colours like sage green, blush, or tropical leaf prints. For a rustic wedding, look for paper with a burlap or lace design. You can also choose to have your paper pre-printed with a template design, which you can then customise with your wedding details.

Paper Size

The size of the paper will depend on the size and shape of your fan design. Standard paper sizes like A9 (5.5" x 8.5") can be easily cut down to size and are readily available. Consider the size of the fan when choosing the paper size, ensuring that your design and text will fit comfortably on the paper without looking cramped. You may also need to adjust your printer settings to accommodate custom paper sizes.

Paper Type

Finally, the type of paper you choose should be durable and suitable for fan assembly. Cardstock is a popular choice as it is thick and sturdy, making it easy to assemble into fans. It also provides a smooth surface for printing or writing. Avoid thin or flimsy papers that may tear easily, especially if you're attaching handles or embellishments.

Printing the template

Once you're happy with your design, it's time to print. Check that the weight, finish, and texture of your chosen paper are compatible with your printer. For a more professional finish, consider using heavier card stock, with a weight of at least 65lb. You can also add a rustic touch by using Kraft paper.

Before printing, set the custom size in your print driver to 5.5 x 8.5 inches, and select the option to print with crop marks. Folding the paper in half along the centre crop marks will make it easier to trim the template later.

If you have a large number of wedding fans to create, you may want to use a professional printing service. This is also a good option if you want a one-sided fan, as you can ask for thicker paper, such as 110lb paper.

Folding the paper

To fold the paper for your wedding fan programs, start by folding and creasing your paper in half. This will create a centre line that will guide the rest of your folds. If you are working with thicker paper, use a bone folder to help you get a nice, sharp crease. Line up the corners of the paper and use the folder to smooth out the crease.

Next, you will want to fold the paper in half again, this time lengthwise. This will create a long, rectangular shape. If you are using a paper scoring board, now is the time to use it. Mark and score the centre of the program with the score tool, which will help you achieve a perfect fold.

Once you have your centre line and lengthwise fold, you can start to create the fan shape. Bring the two ends of the rectangle together, one on top of the other, to create a fold at the midpoint. This will give you a narrow rectangular shape with a small overlap where the two ends meet. You can then choose to round the corners of your fan with a corner paper punch, creating a soft edge, or leave them square for a more modern look.

Finally, unfold the paper and you will have a piece of paper quartered by folds. Fold the paper accordion-style along the crease lines, bringing each section together to create a small rectangular shape. This will form the base of your fan.

Adding the fan handle

Choosing the Right Adhesive:

Start by selecting a suitable adhesive for attaching the fan handle. While some prefer using glue, others recommend double-sided tape. Double-sided tape offers a neater option and prevents the risk of glue leaking through the cardstock, which can leave unsightly stains on your carefully crafted programs. Opt for strong, permanent double-sided tape to ensure a firm hold.

Preparing the Fan Handle:

Before adhering the handle, decide on the desired length. If you want a longer handle, cover less of the stick with glue or tape. Covering about half the stick is generally recommended. If using glue, apply it generously to the desired portion of the stick, ensuring it is evenly coated. If using double-sided tape, carefully lay the tape along the length of the stick, pressing down firmly to secure it in place.

Attaching the Handle:

Now, it's time to attach the handle to the fan body. Place the glued or taped portion of the stick to the inside of the fan, positioning it carefully so that it is centred and straight. Press and hold it firmly in place for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond. If using glue, be cautious to avoid any glue seeping through the cardstock.

Securing the Fan Body:

With the handle in place, it's now time to secure the two sides of the fan body together. If using glue, apply it along the edges of the fan, being careful not to use too much to prevent any unsightly glue marks. If using double-sided tape, apply it along the edges of one side of the fan and press the other side firmly against it. This will complete the fan's structure, giving it stability and ensuring the handle is securely attached.

Embellishing the Handle:

Adding embellishments to the handle can provide a stylish finishing touch. Consider tying a ribbon around the base of the handle, where it meets the fan body. Choose a ribbon that complements your wedding colour palette or theme. You can use sheer organza, burlap, or any other type of ribbon that suits your taste. Cut the ribbon to your desired length and tie it neatly around the handle, finishing it off with a bow.

Remember to allow any adhesive to dry completely before handling the fans extensively. By following these steps, you'll have elegant and functional paper fan wedding programs, ready to keep your guests informed and cool during your special day.

Finishing touches

Now that the paper fan is assembled, you can add some final flourishes to make it unique and personalised.

If you want to round the corners of the fan, use a corner paper punch to create a soft, rounded edge. There are many options for corner punches, which can add a fancier look to your programs. You could also use a bone folder to smooth out the crease of the fan.

To add a decorative touch, tie a ribbon or some twine around the handle where it meets the paper. You could use organza, burlap, or any type of ribbon that complements your wedding colours. Cut the ribbon to your desired length and tie it in a bow. You can also notch the ends of the ribbon to give it a neat, finished look.

If you want to get creative, you can add embellishments such as stamps, stickers, or other decorations to the fan. You can also experiment with different types of glue or adhesive, such as glue tape or double-sided tape dots, to ensure a strong and wrinkle-free finish.

Frequently asked questions