Crafting Wedding Table Numbers: A Simple Diy Guide

Planning a wedding is no easy feat, and the devil is in the details. Table numbers are often the first thing your guests will look for when they get their place cards, so it's important to make that moment count. While they are a practical part of your wedding planning, they can also be an opportunity to have fun and add a little personality to your design and layout.

There are endless ways to make creative DIY table numbers that are both inexpensive and easy to make. From using pressed flowers to gold frames, acrylic holders, and even wine bottles, the options are endless. You can also incorporate your wedding theme, colour scheme, or shared hobbies with your partner.

Whatever you decide, just remember to make sure your table numbers are easy to read and well-positioned so your guests can find them.

Using pressed flowers and gold frames

Wedding table numbers are a chance to showcase your personal style and add unique charm to your big day. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating elegant and affordable table numbers using pressed flowers and gold frames:

Materials:

• Gold picture frames (with glass inserts)
• Pressed flowers
• Gold vinyl or gold sticker decals (letters/numbers)
• Craft glue
• Tweezers
• Glass cleaner
• Scrapbook paper (optional)

Step 1: Press Flowers

The first step is to press your chosen flowers. You can select flowers with special meanings or sentiments, such as flowers from the site of your first date or the place you met. Using a flower press, such as the Microfleur flower press, will help retain the flowers' original colour and save time. Lighter-coloured flowers may darken when pressed, so keep this in mind when making your selection.

Step 2: Apply Gold Letters/Numbers

Remove the backing of your gold frames and set it aside for later. If you're using pre-cut vinyl decals, you can apply the numbers directly to the glass insert. If you plan to cut your own letters, use a Silhouette Cameo or Cricut machine to cut the numbers, then weed any excess vinyl to expose the number. Cover the number with transfer tape, smoothing out any bubbles, before placing it on the glass insert.

Step 3: Arrange and Apply Pressed Flowers

Experiment with arranging your pressed flowers on the glass insert until you find a composition you like. Then, carefully attach the flowers to the glass using a small amount of craft glue. Use tweezers if needed to gently arrange the petals and stems, starting with the layer closest to the glass. If you make a mistake, you can use glass cleaner to wipe off any excess glue.

Step 4: Secure the Back of the Frame

Finally, secure the back of the frame. If your frame has prongs, push them forward to keep the glass insert in place. Alternatively, you can use a piece of scrapbook paper as backing or hot glue the glass insert into the frame. If you've created backless frames, you can prop them against centrepieces to keep them stable.

After the Wedding:

Your pressed flower table numbers can be reused or repurposed after the wedding. You can remove the vinyl numbers and add a short chain to turn them into suncatchers, or keep them as wall decor. They can also be given to your wedding party as keepsakes.

Nestling table numbers inside a terrarium

Choosing the Right Terrarium

Select a terrarium that complements your wedding theme and colours. Consider the size, shape, and style of the terrarium to match your overall decor. For instance, vintage-inspired teardrop-shaped terrariums may suit a romantic garden wedding, while geometric terrariums can add a modern touch to a contemporary celebration. Ensure the colours of the plants inside harmonise with your chosen wedding palette.

Designing the Terrarium

You can design your terrarium with various plants and decorative elements. Succulents, with their vibrant colours and textures, are a popular choice. You can also try air plants, which require no soil and create an ethereal atmosphere. Pair them with elements like driftwood, seashells, or stones for a captivating display. If you want a natural, fairytale-inspired feel, consider moss terrariums with figurines or miniatures.

Adding Table Numbers

Integrate your table numbers seamlessly into the terrarium. You can attach numbers to the outside of the terrarium or nestle a small card with the table number inside the terrarium among the plants. Ensure the numbers are easy to read and visible to your guests. Consider using calligraphy or a clear font for the table numbers, and perhaps add some glitter or gold edging to make them stand out.

Enhancing the Display

To elevate your terrarium table numbers, consider adding some fairy lights. String them around the glass container or weave them through the plants to create a romantic and enchanting ambiance. You can also experiment with different lighting techniques, such as twinkling or dimmed lights, to set the desired mood.

Maintenance

Terrariums are low-maintenance, but proper care will ensure their longevity. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. Place your terrariums in a location with the right amount of sunlight for the plants. Address any issues, such as yellowing leaves or pests, promptly to preserve the health and beauty of your table number terrariums.

Painting numbers onto agate slabs

Once you have gathered your materials, start by choosing agate slices that will fit well within your chosen frames. Before writing on the agate, wipe each stone with a towel to ensure any dirt or oils are removed. Then, use the metallic Sharpie to carefully write the table numbers in a calligraphy style on the surface of the agate. If you make a mistake, don't worry! You can easily correct errors by wiping the ink with a cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover. Allow the Sharpie ink to dry for a few minutes, then use a toothpick or the Crystal Katana tool to place small dots of Gem-Tac glue in accent spots on the agate. Gently place the Swarovski crystals onto the glue dots, adding a hint of sparkle to your table numbers.

Let the glue dry for about an hour, then clip the finished agate slabs into your chosen frames. Place the framed agate table numbers in the centre of your tables for a colourful, sparkling, and bohemian touch that your guests will surely admire.

Using vintage books as table number holders

Choosing the Right Books

First, you'll need to source vintage books that fit your wedding aesthetic. Look for books with beautiful covers, interesting titles, or ornate details such as gold edging or intricate spines. Consider books in similar colour families to create a cohesive look, or opt for a variety of colours if you prefer a more eclectic style.

Preparing the Books

Once you've selected your books, you'll need to assign table numbers to them. You can do this by simply writing the table number on a small card and placing it on the book, or you could get creative and stamp or print the number onto an old book page. If you want to get really crafty, you could even carve the numbers out of the book covers themselves! When placing your books on the tables, stack them on top of vintage silver trays to create a truly elegant display.

Adding Extra Details

To make your vintage book table numbers even more special, consider adding some extra decorative touches. Fairy lights, fresh or faux flowers, and greenery are all great options for adding a romantic and whimsical feel. If you want to incorporate more personal elements, try using childhood photos or fun facts related to the number of each table as part of the display.

Other Vintage Ideas

If you love the idea of using vintage items for your table numbers but books aren't quite your style, there are plenty of other options to explore. Vintage picture frames, antique growlers, or even old candle luminaries can all be used to creatively display your table numbers and add a unique, rustic feel to your wedding décor.

Remember, when creating your table number displays, it's important to ensure that the numbers are easy to read and not hidden by other décor. With a bit of creativity and attention to detail, your vintage book table numbers are sure to be a memorable part of your special day!

Making table numbers from clay

Wedding table numbers are an opportunity to add a creative and personal touch to your big day. If you enjoy crafting with clay, this could be a fun DIY project for you. Here is a step-by-step guide to making table numbers from clay:

Materials:

• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Toothpicks
• Clay of your choice (air-dry or oven-bake)
• Acrylic paint or paint markers
• Varnish (optional)
• Small paintbrush (optional)

Instructions:

• Prepare your clay: Take a small amount of clay and use the rolling pin to roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. You can use any type of clay you prefer, such as air-dry or oven-bake polymer clay.
• Cut out the shapes: Use the cookie cutters to cut out the desired shape for your table numbers. Common shapes include circles, ovals, or rectangles, but you can get creative and choose something that fits your wedding theme.
• Add the numbers: Use a toothpick to gently write the table numbers on each clay shape. If you want to get creative, you can also use number-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the numbers from a contrasting colour of clay and attach them to the base.
• Customise your design: You can further decorate your table numbers with additional clay shapes, such as flowers, leaves, or other motifs that match your wedding theme. Use a toothpick to add small details and textures to the clay.
• Let it dry: If you're using air-dry clay, place the cut-out numbers on a flat surface and let them air-dry completely, which can take 24-48 hours. If you're using oven-bake clay, follow the package instructions for baking and allow them to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
• Paint your table numbers: Once the clay is dry, you can paint the numbers and any additional designs using acrylic paint or paint markers. Choose paint colours that complement your wedding colour palette. Let the paint dry completely.
• Add varnish (optional): If you want to give your table numbers a glossy finish or protect the paint, apply a coat of varnish with a small paintbrush. Allow the varnish to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Your clay table numbers are now ready to be displayed at your wedding! You can place them on the tables as-is or attach them to small stands or holders. These handmade table numbers will surely add a unique and personal touch to your special day.

Frequently asked questions