Creating Pop-Up Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Pop-up wedding invitations are a creative way to make your wedding stand out. There are several types of pop-up invitations, including V-Fold, Silhouette, and Interactive Invites. You can buy them on Amazon or Etsy, or you can get them custom-made. If you want to make them yourself, you can find templates online.

Choosing a design

When choosing a design for your pop-up wedding invitations, you can opt for a simple or more intricate design, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some design options to consider:

V-Fold Pop-Up Invitations

V-Fold invitations are the most basic and cost-effective type of pop-up invitation. They offer an element of surprise as the card pops up when opened at 90 degrees. You can use any 2D photo or shape, and adding multiple layers and contour cuts can create a more stunning effect.

Silhouette Pop-Up Invitations

Silhouette pop-up invites create a 3D effect when the card is opened at 90 degrees. They are made with several cuts and folds, providing continuity in the overall design. This type of invitation allows the recipient to see the colour of the cover, giving it an elegant look.

Interactive Invites

Interactive invitations provide an extra surprise element as the recipient needs to pull tabs to uncover the pop-up. This type of card is more complex to design as it requires careful thought to create a fully 3D model that folds flat when closed.

Multiple Set/Mixed Pop-Up Elements Invites

These invitations require assembling multiple elements to complete a theme. They can combine different types of pop-up mechanisms to convey the message effectively. This option demands careful handling and patience during the assembly process.

Customized Pop-Up Invitations

If you have a specific concept in mind, you can also opt for customized pop-up invitations. You can contact companies like Pop Up Occasions or Lovepop to create unique invitations that match your wedding theme and colour choices.

When choosing a design, consider the level of complexity you are comfortable with, your budget, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. You can browse online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon for ready-made options or explore customisation services for a more personalised touch.

Customising your card

Customising your pop-up wedding invitations is a great way to make your invites extra special and memorable. Here are some tips and ideas to help you get started:

Choose a theme or concept

Decide on a theme or concept that reflects your personality and wedding style. This could be something classic and elegant, such as a chandelier design, or more playful and creative, like a pop-up card featuring a bride and groom in a car. You can also incorporate specific wedding themes, such as a beach wedding or a fantasy-themed wedding.

Colour scheme

Consider your wedding colour scheme and try to incorporate it into your invitations. You can choose cards that already feature your colours, or you can add your own touches with foil details. Foiling can be a beautiful way to enhance the elegance of your invitations, with options like gold, silver, copper, or even coloured foils like turquoise, pink, or violet.

Personalisation

Many sellers offer personalisation options, allowing you to add your own text, colour choices, and theme integrations. You can include your wedding details, a personal message, or even your love story to make the invitations truly unique. Some companies, like Lovepop, offer a concierge service to guide you through the customisation process and ensure your invitations are perfect.

Interactive elements

Interactive invitations provide an extra layer of surprise and engagement for your guests. Consider adding pull tabs or other interactive mechanisms to reveal a hidden message or design. These types of invitations are sure to delight your guests and create a memorable experience even before the wedding.

DIY touches

If you're feeling crafty, you can add your own DIY touches to your pop-up invitations. Etsy offers a range of pop-up card templates that you can customise and assemble yourself. You can also find blank greeting cards that you can decorate and personalise with your own messages and designs. This option gives you complete freedom to create invitations that truly reflect your style.

Using laser cutting

Laser cutting is a great way to create pop-up wedding invitations that are both beautiful and unique. Here are some tips and instructions for using laser cutting to make your own pop-up wedding invitations:

Design and Customization:

• Start by designing the overall layout of your invitation, including the text, graphics, and pop-up element. Consider using software or online tools specifically designed for creating laser-cut files, such as SVG or DXF formats.
• If you're not comfortable designing from scratch, look for pre-made laser-cut wedding invitation templates that you can customize. These are available on sites like Etsy and Amazon.
• When designing the pop-up element, think about the overall theme of your wedding and try to incorporate it into the design. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, you could include a pop-up of a palm tree or a wave.
• Keep in mind that laser cutting is precise, so you can include intricate details and complex designs in your invitation.

Choosing Materials:

• Select high-quality paper or card stock for your invitations. The weight and thickness of the paper will impact the final look and feel of your invitations.
• Consider the colour and finish of the paper. You can choose classic options like white or ivory, or go for something more unique like glitter or metallic finishes.
• If you want to include envelopes with your invitations, choose ones that complement the design and colour of the invitation.

Laser Cutting Process:

• Once you have your design ready, it's time to laser cut your invitations. If you have access to a laser cutter, you can cut them yourself. Otherwise, you can use a laser cutting service or a local print shop.
• Prepare your paper or card stock by placing it onto the laser cutter's bed and securing it in place. Make sure the laser cutter is set up with the correct settings for the material you're using.
• Carefully adjust the laser cutter to follow your design file. Test the laser on a scrap piece of the same material first to ensure that the settings are correct and that the cut will be clean and precise.
• After cutting, carefully remove the invitations from the laser cutter and separate any pieces that need to be assembled.

Assembly and Finishing:

• If your design includes multiple pieces, carefully assemble the pop-up element and secure it to the base of the invitation.
• If desired, add extra embellishments by hand, such as ribbons, gems, or stamps, to give your invitations a personal touch.
• Finally, proofread your invitations for any errors and make any necessary adjustments.

By following these steps and utilizing laser cutting technology, you can create stunning pop-up wedding invitations that will impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.

Adding 3D elements

Materials and Tools:

Firstly, gather your materials and tools. You will need:

• Good quality paper or card in your chosen colours and theme.
• Envelopes—ensure these are large enough to accommodate your 3D design.
• Laser cutter (optional)—for intricate and precise cuts.
• Craft knife and cutting mat.
• Ruler.
• Glue.
• Other decorative elements such as ribbon, glitter, or stickers.

Simple 3D Elements:

Adding simple 3D elements to your invitations can be achieved by cutting and layering different shapes and sizes of paper. For example, you could cut out a large heart shape and then layer smaller heart shapes on top with foam pads to add depth. This technique can be used to create a variety of designs such as flowers, stars, or even the silhouette of the happy couple.

Pop-Up Mechanisms:

For a more interactive invitation, consider creating a pop-up mechanism. This can be as simple as a basic pull-tab design or more complex with multiple moving parts. Here are some ideas:

• Create a basic pull-tab design by cutting a small tab at the top of your invitation. Score a line about halfway down the card and attach a separate 3D element, such as a heart or a flower, to the tab. When the tab is pulled, the element will pop up.
• For a more complex design, try a twist-and-pull mechanism. Cut two slits in the centre of your card and twist the paper between the slits to create a small tab. Glue a 3D element to this tab, and when the tab is pulled, the element will rise up and twist, creating a dynamic pop-up effect.
• Another option is a parallel fold, where the 3D element is attached to a strip of paper that is glued to both the front and back of the card. When the card is opened, the element pops up, and when it is closed, the element lies flat.

Laser-Cut Designs:

If you have access to a laser cutter, you can create intricate and detailed 3D designs. Laser-cut invitations are a popular choice for pop-up wedding invitations and can be customised to your theme. Some ideas for laser-cut 3D elements include:

• Cut-out silhouettes of the happy couple with an intricate background design, such as a floral pattern or a chandelier.
• Pop-up archways or monograms with the couple's initials.
• Hollow, three-dimensional designs such as champagne bottles, wedding rings, or doves.
• Intricate pocket invitations with a 3D pop-up insert.

Finishing Touches:

Once you have created your 3D elements, add some finishing touches to make your invitations truly unique:

• Add a ribbon tie or a wax seal to keep the invitation closed.
• Include a personalised message or the couple's love story inside.
• Embellish with glitter, stickers, or stamps to add extra sparkle.
• Ensure your colour choices and theme are consistent throughout.

Creating 3D pop-up wedding invitations can be a fun and creative process, and your guests will surely be impressed by your handmade designs.

Ordering samples

Etsy:

Etsy is a popular marketplace for unique and creative goods, including pop-up wedding invitations. To order a sample, follow these steps:

• Visit the Etsy website or app and search for "pop-up wedding invitations" in the search bar.
• Narrow down your options by filtering your search results based on factors like price, colour, and seller location.
• Look for listings that offer samples or individual cards. Some sellers provide samples at a discounted price to give you a sneak peek of their work.
• Read the item description carefully to understand what is included in the sample.
• If you have any questions or specific requests, use the "Add your personalisation" text box to communicate with the seller.
• Once you're happy with your selection, click "Buy it now" or "Add to cart" and proceed to checkout.

Amazon:

Amazon also offers a wide range of pop-up wedding invitation options, and some sellers provide samples for purchase:

• Go to Amazon's website or app and search for "pop-up wedding invitations" in the search bar.
• Use the filters to refine your search, such as price, colour, and average customer review.
• Look for listings that explicitly mention "sample" or "single card" in the title or description.
• Read the product details carefully to understand what is included in the package.
• Check the delivery options and estimated delivery dates to ensure they align with your timeline.
• Proceed to checkout and complete your purchase.

Pop Up Occasions:

If you're looking for custom pop-up wedding invitations, Pop Up Occasions is a company that specialises in creating unique designs. Here's how to order samples from them:

• Visit their website and browse their wedding pop-up invitation options.
• If you have a specific concept in mind, you can contact them via email at [email protected] to discuss your ideas and request a quotation.
• They offer various pop-up types, such as V-Fold, Silhouette, and Interactive Invites, so consider which style best suits your theme.
• Keep in mind that they have a minimum order of 100 pieces to cover design costs.
• Discuss any customisations you may want beyond their indicated allowed changes, as these may incur additional fees.
• Ask about their optional foiling service to add a touch of elegance to your invitations.

Frequently asked questions