Creating Wedding Charm: Diy Pocket Envelopes For Invites

Planning a wedding can be expensive, and it's no secret that costs can quickly add up. If you're looking for ways to save money, one option is to make your own pocket envelopes for your wedding invitations. This can be a simple DIY project that will not only save you money but also allow you to add a personal touch to your invitations. All you need are some envelopes, card stock, and a few other basic craft supplies. You can even get creative and decorate your envelopes with punches, stamps, or stickers to match your wedding theme. So, if you're feeling crafty and want to save some money, making your own pocket envelopes for wedding invitations is definitely worth considering.

Choosing the right paper and card stock

When it comes to choosing the right paper and card stock for your wedding invitations, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the printing process is important. If you're printing at home, most consumer-grade printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock, but it's important to check your printer's specifications before purchasing paper. If you're using a professional print shop, consider the printing method you want, as this will impact the type of paper you can use. For example, offset printing can handle weights up to 120lb cover, while letterpress printing typically uses thicker cardstock ranging from 111lb to 222lb.

The style of your invitation is another factor to consider. If you're creating a flat invitation card, a heavier weight cardstock of 80lb or more is recommended. For folding invitation cards, a lighter stock is usually used, with a popular weight range of 65lb to 100lb. If you're creating a layered invitation or using pockets, it's recommended to keep the top layer light (80lb or under) and attach it to a heavier card.

The weight of your cardstock will also impact the postage cost, so it's important to keep this in mind if you're trying to keep costs down. Finally, personal preference plays a role too. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others prefer lighter, thinner stock.

In terms of specific types of paper, cotton cardstock is a popular choice due to its strength, durability, and soft feel. It also absorbs ink well, making colours appear richer. Linen cardstock, made from a cotton blend, has a textured, slightly crosshatched surface that resembles linen fabric and provides an elegant look. Recycled paper, such as kraft cardstock, is another option that gives a rustic, vintage feel to your invitations. For a modern look, pearlescent paper adds a bit of shimmer, while board wedding invitations provide a sturdy, cotton-textured option that won't bend in the mail.

Trimming the card stock to size

Firstly, it's important to select the right size of card stock for your project. Standard sizes such as A7 (5x7 inches) or A2 (4.25 x 5.5 inches) are commonly used for invitations and envelopes. Choose a size that allows your invitation to fit comfortably inside the envelope with some room to spare.

Once you've determined the size, gather your materials. You'll need a paper trimmer, scissors, or a rotary trimmer to cut the card stock, and a scoring tool like a bone folder to create crisp fold lines. A ruler can also be useful to ensure straight cuts and folds.

Now, let's begin trimming! If you're creating a standard-sized envelope, follow these steps:

• Cut your card stock sheet to the desired size. For example, for an A7 envelope, cut your card stock to 5x7 inches.
• If you're creating a square envelope, adjust the height accordingly. For a 6x6-inch square envelope, cut your card stock to size.
• Score the card stock to create the envelope flaps. For the A7 envelope, score at 3 inches from the bottom edge and 3 5/8 inches from the top edge.
• Trim away the small triangles formed along the straight edges of the base to reduce bulk.
• Use the scoring tool to create crisp fold lines along the scored marks.
• Fold the card stock along the scored lines to form the envelope shape.

If you're creating a custom-sized envelope, follow these steps:

• Measure your invitation and determine the desired envelope size, allowing for some extra space.
• Cut your card stock to the desired size, adding an additional 1/8 inch to each side for the envelope flaps.
• Score the card stock at the appropriate locations for the envelope flaps. The flaps should be approximately 3/4 of the width of the envelope.
• Trim away any excess card stock along the flaps to create a uniform edge.
• Use the scoring tool to create crisp fold lines along the scored marks.
• Fold the card stock along the scored lines to form the envelope shape.

Remember to measure twice and cut once to ensure accuracy. It's always better to have a little extra card stock that can be trimmed down than to cut too much off and start again.

By carefully trimming and scoring your card stock, you'll be able to create elegant and professional-looking pocket envelopes for your wedding invitations.

Adding a decorative edge

Edge Punch or Stamps

Using an edge punch or a special stamp cutter, you can create fancy corners or edges on your envelopes. These tools are available in various sizes and designs from craft stores or online. It is recommended to have a steady hand and a good work table when using these tools to ensure precise and consistent patterns.

Gilded Edge

For a luxurious look, consider adding a gilded edge to your invitations. You can achieve this by using a gold leaf paint pen or a gold ink pad. First, trim your invitations and cut a rectangle of chipboard and decorative paper slightly larger than the invitation. Spray adhesive on the back of the invitation and adhere it to the chipboard. Then, glue the decorative paper to the other side of the chipboard. Finally, use your chosen method to apply gold along the edges.

Hand-Torn Edges

For a timeless and elegant look, consider hand-tearing the edges of your invitation cards and envelopes. This technique creates a deckled edge, giving your invitations a unique and rustic charm.

Embossing

Embossing is a subtle and elegant way to add a decorative edge to your envelopes. It is a subtle and elegant touch that will impress your guests. You can find custom monogram embossers online or at specialty stores.

Ribbon or Twine

Adding a ribbon or twine to your invitation is both functional and decorative. It helps keep all the elements together, and you can choose a colour or material that complements your wedding theme.

With these simple techniques, you can easily add a decorative edge to your wedding invitation pocket envelopes, creating a beautiful and personalized touch for your special day.

Attaching the pocket to the card stock

Now that you've trimmed your card stock and punched the edge of the pocket (if you want to add a decorative finish), it's time to attach the pocket to the card stock. Using double-sided tape is the best option as it's less messy and gives instant results without having to wait for glue to dry. However, you can use a glue stick or another adhesive if you prefer.

Place the pocket in the lower right corner of the card stock and secure it with your chosen adhesive. If you're using double-sided tape, apply it to the back of the pocket and press it down onto the card stock.

Once the pocket is attached, you can mount the invitation using double-sided tape. Place the invitation next to the crease you made when folding over the card stock, using four pieces of tape to keep it in place. You can eyeball the placement to ensure even spacing on each side of the invitation.

Finally, make another crease on the opposite side of the invitation and fold the flap across. You can add a decorative finish to the edge of the flap by punching along it with your edge punch. This step is optional, but it gives a custom look to your invitation without the custom price tag!

Making the first fold

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a bone folder, a ruler, and the card stock you have prepared. The card stock should be trimmed to a height that is slightly taller than your invitation card. If you are using a 5 x 7-inch invitation, for instance, trim the card stock to around 7.5 inches.

Now, you are ready to begin the folding process. Using your bone folder and ruler, start by creating a crease along the inner edge of the pocket. Carefully align the ruler with the edge of the pocket and use the bone folder to press a sharp crease into the card stock. This first crease will act as a guide for the rest of the fold.

Next, continue to use the bone folder to fold the card stock neatly and precisely over the pocket. Take your time with this step to ensure a straight and crisp fold. The bone folder will help you achieve a professional-looking result.

Once you have completed the first fold, you can move on to the next step of mounting your invitation card. The precise folding you have achieved will provide a neat and elegant base for the rest of your invitation suite.

By following these steps, you will be able to create a beautifully crafted and customized wedding invitation pocket that will impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.

Frequently asked questions