Crafting A Wedding Card Book: Creative Ways To Get Started

Wedding cards are a precious keepsake, and a wonderful way to remember your special day. But what do you do with them after the event? One option is to turn them into a book, which can be done via a DIY project or by sending them off to a company to do the work for you. Here's a look at how to make a wedding card book.

Choosing a book-binding method: ribbon, bookbinding rings, or single-sheet book binding

When it comes to choosing a book-binding method for your wedding card book, there are several options to consider: ribbon, bookbinding rings, or single-sheet book binding. Each method has its own advantages and can add a unique touch to your project.

Ribbon Book Binding:

Ribbon bookbinding uses decorative ribbon to secure the pages of your book together. This method can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wedding card book. Ribbons come in various colours, patterns, and materials, allowing you to choose one that complements your wedding colours or theme. Ribbon bookbinding is a relatively simple technique that involves punching holes in the pages and tying the ribbon through them. This method creates a secure bind while also adding a decorative element to your book.

Bookbinding Rings:

Bookbinding rings offer a more mechanical approach to binding your wedding card book. They are available in a wide range of sizes, colours, shapes, and materials, such as metal or plastic. Bookbinding rings are ideal for projects that require frequent editing, as they allow for easy insertion and removal of pages. You can choose from various options, including snap-lock rings, screw-lock rings, or overlap rings, depending on the level of security and ease of use you prefer.

Single-Sheet Book Binding:

Single-sheet bookbinding is a traditional method that involves binding individual sheets of paper together to create a book. This technique can be more time-consuming but results in a sturdy and long-lasting book. There are different variations of this method, such as stab binding or using an adhesive to bind the sheets together. With single-sheet bookbinding, you can create a seamless spine and a professional-looking book.

When deciding on a book-binding method, consider the number of cards you want to include, the ease of editing, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. Ribbon bookbinding adds a decorative touch, bookbinding rings offer flexibility, and single-sheet bookbinding provides a traditional and durable option. Choose the method that best suits your personal preferences and the style of your wedding card book.

Organising and arranging cards: by size, date, or alphabetically

There are several ways to organise and arrange your wedding cards when making a wedding card book. Here are some ideas to get you started:

By Size

One option is to arrange the cards by size, from smallest to largest or vice versa. This can create a neat, uniform look to your book. However, some people prefer a more random arrangement in terms of card size, as it creates a more interesting and varied layout.

Date

If you want your wedding card book to tell a story or follow the timeline of your wedding journey, consider arranging the cards by date. This could mean placing cards from the earliest wedding showers and parties first, followed by cards from the wedding day itself. This approach can make it feel like you're reliving the entire experience as you flip through the book.

Alphabetically

Arranging the cards alphabetically by the senders' names can be a good option if you want to easily find and refer to cards from specific people. It also ensures that no card overshadows another, giving each sender an equal presence in the book.

Other Considerations

When organising your cards, you might also want to consider any unusual or unique cards you received. For example, if you have postcards, accordion-style cards, or cards with multiple folds, you may need to trim or fold them to fit your book. Additionally, if you have tiny cards, you could create an envelope or sleeve attached to the back cover for safekeeping.

The key is to be creative and flexible. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions or come up with your own system that suits your preferences and the types of cards you have received.

Creating a template for hole punching

To create a template for hole punching, follow these steps:

Step 1: Measure the smallest card

Measure the width of the smallest card you have. This will be the basis for your template.

Step 2: Draw the template

Take a piece of scrap cardstock and draw out your template. Mark the centre of the card and make two sets of lines, each set 1/4" from either end of the card. The sets of lines should be 1" wide. Number these lines 1-4. These lines will mark where you will punch holes in each card for sewing.

Step 3: Adjust the template for different card sizes

For flat or vertically folding cards, you only need 3 holes. Punch holes 1 and 4, and then the middle hole, or adjust as needed for each individual card. For larger cards, use a ruler to ensure your template is centred correctly.

Step 4: Trim cards as needed

Some cards may have an extra layer of paper on the front panel that is longer than the rest of the card. This will get in the way when the card is opened, so use a ruler and a blade to trim down the length of the paper. Be careful not to cut the fold of the card, as this will weaken it and may cause it to rip.

Step 5: Adjust the template for die-cut cards

For die-cut cards, centre the template on the fold of the card, rather than on the card itself, to ensure the card does not stick out above the others. You can also shift the template to keep the two sets of holes 1" apart, and 1/4" from either end, making the distance between the two sets of holes smaller.

Step 6: Punch holes in cards

Using your template, punch four holes into the fold of each card using an awl. If you don't have an awl, use a very pointy object to punch small holes—the hole only needs to be big enough for a regular needle.

Covering the book: using decorative paper, fabric, or wrapping paper

The first step in covering your wedding card book is to select the material you want to use. You can use decorative paper, fabric, or wrapping paper. If you're looking for something more unique, consider using vintage maps, sheet music, or wallpaper samples. Thicker paper is generally easier to work with and will provide more protection for your book.

Once you have your materials, follow these general steps:

• Place your book flat on the paper and trace around it, adding about 0.6 cm (or 0.25 inches) to each side. This will give you some extra paper to wrap around the edges of the book.
• Cut the paper along the traced lines.
• Crease the paper along the top and bottom edges of the book. You can then create folds along these creases, ensuring the paper is folded to the exact size of your book.
• For the front cover, fold the left side of the paper with a 1.25 cm (or 1.5-inch) fold. Insert the front cover of the book into this fold.
• Now, for the back cover, it's important to hold the book at a 90-degree angle. This will ensure that the spine of the book has enough space within the cover.
• Crease the paper along the right side and insert the back cover into the fold.
• You can use a small piece of tape at each corner to secure the cover and make it more durable.

If you're using fabric, the process is similar. Cut the fabric to size, allowing for some extra fabric to wrap around the edges. Use fabric glue or a spray adhesive to attach the fabric to the book cover, working in small sections at a time. Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles as you go.

For a more personalised touch, consider adding decorations to your book cover. This could include ribbons, stickers, or even leftover decorations from your wedding.

Adding decorations: using stickers, leftover wedding decorations, or ribbons

Now that you've covered your binder, it's time to decorate it! You can use scrapbook paper, stickers, scrapbook ephemera, or something leftover from your wedding. For example, you could use leftover wedding decorations like ribbons, flowers, or butterflies. If you're attaching ribbons, bows, or other lightweight items, be sure to use a lightweight glue to avoid damaging the binder. If you're using stickers, be sure to position them carefully as they can be difficult to remove without damaging the binder.

If you're feeling creative, you can use ribbons to create bows, bouquets, or patterns. You can also combine ribbons with flowers, bows, and butterflies to decorate the binder's cover. If you have leftover wedding stickers, you can use those to decorate the binder as well.

Another option is to use scrapbook paper to create a decorative cover. You can cut and glue the paper to fit the binder, adding your own creative touches with stickers, stamps, or drawings. This is a great way to personalise your wedding card book and make it truly unique.

Don't be afraid to mix and match different decorations and get creative! The key is to have fun and enjoy the process of transforming your binder into a beautiful wedding card book that you can cherish for years to come.

Frequently asked questions