Crafting Wedding Cards At Home: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding can be an expensive affair, so making your own wedding cards is a great way to save some money. You can create beautiful, personalised wedding cards at home with just a few simple steps. Whether you're looking for a rustic, elegant, or modern design, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can even add your own photos and customise the colour schemes to match your wedding theme. In this article, we'll explore different ways to make wedding cards at home, from stamping and quilling to using online tools like Canva. We'll also provide some creative ideas to inspire your designs. So get ready to flex your creative muscles and let's dive into the world of DIY wedding cards!

Choosing a theme and colour scheme

A good rule of thumb is to choose one or two colours as the main hues, then select one or two secondary colours, one of which should be neutral, to support the main colours. Finish it off with a fun accent shade, such as gold or silver, that you can use sparingly throughout.

If you're looking for a classic, elegant look, you might want to opt for a neutral colour palette with soft accents like blush or peach. Alternatively, you could go for a bolder scheme with bright colours like orange or raspberry. You could also draw inspiration from nature and the changing seasons. For example, a summer wedding could feature bright shades of magenta and berry, while a fall wedding might include colours like maroon and cream.

When it comes to the card design, you can use colours to create a specific mood or feeling. For example, perky tones of pink and blue can brighten up any design, while deep reds and analogous tones can give a sleek, contemporary look. If you want to add a touch of luxury, gold and silver are always a classic combination.

Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different colours and themes. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a colour scheme that reflects your personality and the vision you have for your wedding day.

Using online tools and templates

To get started, simply choose a platform that offers templates that align with your wedding theme and style. Once you've selected a platform, browse through their collection of wedding card templates to find one that speaks to you and your partner's love story. You can filter your search by colour, theme, and style to find the perfect template. After selecting a template, launch the platform's online editor to begin customizing your card.

Most online card creators will allow you to personalize your wedding card by uploading your own photos, logos, or monograms. You can also edit the text to include names, dates, and custom messages. Play around with different fonts, colours, and layouts until you achieve your desired look. Some platforms even offer special text effects, such as glitter and foil, to make your card truly stand out.

Once you're happy with your design, it's time to save and share your creation. Download your wedding card to your device and print it at home or through a professional printing service. You can also share your card digitally via email, social media, or messaging apps. Some platforms may even allow you to create an online event page to collect RSVPs and manage your guest list.

Adding personal touches

Custom Illustrations or Photos

Include a hand-drawn illustration of the venue on your wedding card. This adds a personal touch as it gives your guests a sneak peek at the location they will be sharing your special day with you. Alternatively, you could use a custom couple portrait, either as the main design or as a rubber stamp, for an extra special touch.

Personalised Text and Colours

Add your own text and customise the colour scheme to make the card more meaningful. You could include your wedding vows, a favourite quote or song lyrics, or even a personal message to each guest.

Monograms and Stamps

Create a unique monogram or stamp with your initials or a custom design. This can be used on everything from the card itself to the envelope and even the napkins and drinks stirrers at the reception!

DIY Techniques

Try your hand at different DIY techniques such as quilling, origami, or paper flowers to create a one-of-a-kind card. You can also use stamps and gold embossing powder with watercolour paint to create a stunning metallic effect.

Matching Stationery

Consider creating matching stationery for a cohesive look. This could include RSVP cards, envelopes, and even your wedding programme or menu. This adds a sense of continuity and makes your wedding card even more special.

Remember, your wedding card is a reflection of you and your partner, so feel free to get creative and think outside the box!

Printing and sharing

Once you've designed your wedding card, it's time to print and share it with your loved ones. Canva offers a convenient printing service, Canva Print, which delivers your invitations directly to your doorstep. This option is perfect for those who want to place their beautiful wedding invitations in the hands of their family and friends.

If you prefer a digital approach, you can opt for electronic sharing. With a simple click of the "Share" button, you can send your invitations via email or post them directly to your social media accounts. This method ensures a quick and efficient way to spread the word about your upcoming nuptials.

Another option is to download your customised wedding invitation and then email it to your guests. This provides you with the flexibility to choose your desired email platform and personally address each guest. This method combines the personal touch of a printed invitation with the convenience of digital sharing.

Additionally, you can explore printing your invitations on unique paper choices, such as recycled brown paper for a rustic theme or premium paper options for a more luxurious feel. The choice is yours, and you can select the option that best reflects your wedding theme and personal style.

Selecting paper type and size

Selecting the right paper type and size is crucial when creating your wedding card. The paper you choose will set the tone and style of your card, so it's important to consider the overall aesthetic you're aiming for. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect paper for your handmade wedding card:

Paper Type:

• Cardstock: This is a thick and durable paper that is commonly used for handmade cards. It comes in various colours and textures, making it a versatile option. Cardstock is easy to fold and cut, and it provides a sturdy base for your design.
• Embossing Paper: If you want to add a touch of elegance and dimension to your card, consider using embossing paper. This type of paper has a raised pattern or design that can be enhanced with ink or paint. Embossing adds a luxurious feel to your wedding card.
• Watercolour Paper: For a unique and artistic touch, watercolour paper is a great choice. You can create soft and romantic backgrounds or floral designs using watercolour paints. This type of paper is perfect for a handmade card with a delicate and whimsical feel.
• Kraft Paper: Kraft paper has a natural, earthy tone and a textured finish. It is perfect for creating a rustic or simple wedding card. Pair it with washi tape or embossed designs for a chic and effortless look.
• Recycled Brown Paper: Using recycled paper is an excellent option for an eco-friendly wedding. It adds a rustic charm to your card and is perfect for a simple and minimalist design.

Paper Size:

• Classic Size: The standard size for wedding invitations is 5 x 7 inches. This size provides enough space for all the necessary information while maintaining a classic and elegant look.
• Custom Sizes: You can also customise the size of your card to make it more unique and tailored to your preferences. Smaller sizes, such as 4.25 x 6 inches, create a petite and intimate feel, while long, thin cards (4 x 9.5 inches) offer a unique and modern alternative.

Remember, the paper type and size you choose should complement your design and the overall theme of your wedding. Whether you opt for a classic or creative approach, selecting the right paper will ensure your handmade wedding card is truly special and memorable.

Frequently asked questions