Creating Wedding Pocket Cards: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding can be a costly affair, so it's no surprise that many people are looking for ways to save money where they can. One way to do this is by making your own wedding invitations and one popular style is the pocket card. This style of invitation is a great way to keep all the information together in one place, including RSVP cards and additional inserts such as directions or accommodation options for guests. In this paragraph, we will explore the steps to create your own wedding pocket cards, offering a unique and personal touch to your big day without breaking the bank.

Choosing the right paper and card stock

When it comes to choosing the right paper and card stock for your wedding pocket cards, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the weight of the paper will determine how your invitation feels in your hand. A weight of 80-90 lb is ideal for most home printers, although it might feel a little thin. If you want something that feels more luxurious, go for a weight of 100 lb or more. This will give your invitations a professional and elegant look.

Another thing to keep in mind is the type of printer you will be using. Desktop printers often have limits on the thickness of paper they can handle, so it's important to check your printer's instructions and do a test print. You can start with 80 lb cardstock and gradually increase the weight until you find the perfect balance for your invitations.

If you're looking to add a touch of texture to your invitations, linen cardstock is a great option. It has a delicate woven texture that can hide any imperfections or quality issues that may occur during the printing process. Kraft cardstock is another option that will give your invitations a rustic look and feel. This type of cardstock resembles coarse paper used for brown grocery bags but with a smoother and more polished finish.

When choosing paper and card stock, it's also important to consider the theme of your wedding. For a modern and elegant wedding, metallics might be a good choice. If you're going for a rustic theme, look for cardstock in earthy tones and textures. For a classic and traditional look, you can opt for a simple white cardstock.

Lastly, don't forget to purchase a few extra sheets of paper and cardstock when you find the right one. This will allow you to do a few test prints and ensure that your invitations look exactly as you envisioned.

Using a template

• Choose a template: Pick a template that aligns with your wedding theme and desired aesthetic. Many websites offer a range of free templates with different designs, such as rustic, vintage, elegant, or minimalist styles.
• Customise the template: Customise the template to match your wedding colours and overall tone. You can change text sizes, fonts, colours, and even add pictures or graphics. Include key details such as the date, time, and venue of your wedding.
• Select your paper: Choose a cardstock or paper that complements your wedding theme and colour scheme. Consider the weight and texture of the paper, ensuring it is suitable for printing or writing.
• Print the template: Print the template onto your chosen paper. Ensure that your printer can accommodate the paper size, or alternatively, send the template to a printing service or copy shop.
• Cut and score the paper: Cut the paper along the guidelines provided in the template. Use a ruler and a craft knife or paper trimmer to ensure straight and precise cuts. Score the paper along the indicated fold lines using a scoring tool, such as a bone folder, or the flat edge of a ruler.
• Fold and create pockets: Fold the paper along the scored lines and use a scoring tool to smooth out the creases. Apply adhesive to the designated areas, such as the underside of pocket tabs, and fold them over to create the pockets.
• Mount the invitation card: Mount the invitation card to an invitation mat, if desired. Use a thin line of glue near the edges of the card and press it down lightly onto the mat. Centre the mounted invite in the centre section of the pocket.
• Insert RSVP cards and envelopes: Stack or tuck the RSVP cards and envelopes behind or under the invitation card within the pocket. If you have other inserts, such as direction or accommodation cards, neatly stack them before tucking them into the pocket.
• Assemble the invitation suite: Fold up the pocket invitation and slide it into a mailing envelope. Seal the envelope using an envelope moistener with adhesive or stamps.

By following these steps and using a template, you can create elegant and personalised wedding pocket cards while saving time and money.

Cutting and scoring the card stock

The first step in creating your own pocketfolds is to select an 11 x 17 card stock. Choose from an extensive variety of colours, finishes, and textures to find the stock you prefer.

Once you have chosen your card stock, download a template to work from. Templates are provided for both pointed and rounded flap pocket designs. Print the template onto an 11 x 17 piece of paper or lightweight card stock and cut it out so that it may be traced onto your card stock.

Now, keeping the template firmly in place, trace the shape of the pocket template onto the card stock that you are making your pockets with. It is recommended that you trace very lightly in pencil, so that you can erase any lines that remain after the pocket is finished.

After tracing the pocket shape, cut it out using your preferred cutting tool(s). The tools you use will be a matter of preference and comfort. If you are not familiar with your cutting tools, you may want to experiment with them before cutting into your good stock.

In order for your finished pocket to properly align, fold, and close, your cuts and scores must be straight and adhere strictly to the measurements noted on the template. After some experimenting with various cutting tools, you may find that large paper trimmers work best for yielding straight, accurate lines for the long portions of the pocket shape, and exact knives/scissors work for the intricate portions of the pocket such as the v-shaped pocket and outer flap.

Once you have the shape of your pocket cut out, you are ready to score the card stock in the locations where it will be folded. Scoring tools will also be a matter of preference. To ensure your lines are accurate and straight, simply align the template to the card stock pocket and lightly mark the places to score.

Creating the Pocket

To create the pocket, simply bend the two flaps in towards each other, and fold upward toward the back panel. You can adhere the flaps to the back panel with glue or highly tacky double-sided tape. If using glue, dab it in the top and bottom corners only, to ensure that the glue does not run. You do not want the pocket to get stuck to the back panel.

Folding and gluing the pocket

Now that you have your materials and design ready, it's time to start assembling your wedding pocket card. Here's a step-by-step guide to folding and gluing the pocket:

• Cut and Score Cardstock: Using your chosen cardstock, cut and score the paper according to the template you've selected. This will create the base for your pocket card. Be precise with your measurements to ensure a neat finish.
• Trace the Template: Lightly trace the template onto your cardstock using a pencil. This will make it easier to cut and fold the paper accurately.
• Cut Out the Pocket Shape: Carefully cut out the pocket shape from the cardstock using a cutting tool of your choice, such as a paper trimmer, rotary trimmer, or scissors. Take your time with this step to ensure straight and clean cuts.
• Score the Cardstock: Once you have the pocket shape cut out, score the cardstock along the indicated lines. These scores will serve as guidelines for folding the paper. You can use a bone folder or a scoring blade for this step.
• Create the Pocket: Now, it's time to form the pocket. Fold the flaps towards each other and then fold them upward toward the back panel. Secure the flaps to the back panel using glue or double-sided tape. Be careful not to use too much glue, as it may spread onto the pocket.
• Insert Cards: Before securing the flaps, insert your invitation card, RSVP card, and any other enclosures, such as accommodation details or directions. Ensure that your RSVP envelope is addressed and stamped before placing it into the pocket.
• Mount the Invitation: Using Zip Dry Glue or a similar adhesive, mount the invitation card to the invitation mat. Apply a thin line of glue along the edges and a big "X" in the centre to ensure a secure hold. Carefully centre the invitation on the mat and press down lightly.
• Final Assembly: Once the glue is dry, place the mounted invitation into the centre section of your pocket. Your wedding pocket card is now ready for insertion into the mailing envelope.

By following these steps, you'll be able to create elegant and professional-looking wedding pocket cards. Remember to take your time, work in a neat space, and have fun with the creative process!

Decorating the pocket card

Once you've assembled your pocket card, it's time for the fun part: decorating! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose a Colour Scheme

Select colours that match your wedding theme or the season of your wedding. For example, if you're having a rustic-themed wedding, you might choose earthy tones like browns, greens, and creams. If your wedding is in the spring, you could opt for pastel colours like pale pinks, yellows, and blues.

Add Some Sparkle

Consider using glitter, sequins, or metallic paper to give your pocket cards a luxurious feel. You could also use paper with a shimmery finish or add some gold or silver embossing.

Get Creative with Stamps

Rubber stamps are a great way to add interest to your pocket cards. You can use them to create patterns, write out your wedding details, or even just to decorate the pockets or inserts. If you're feeling extra creative, you could try heat embossing – this technique gives a raised, glossy effect to your stamped design.

Play with Patterns

Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns. Combining different patterned papers can add a fun, whimsical touch to your pocket cards. Just be sure to choose patterns that complement each other and don't clash.

Embellish with Extras

Ribbons, bellybands, envelope liners, and laser-cut elements can all be used to dress up your pocket cards. You could even try using double-sided paper to create a unique effect when your card is opened.

Add a Personal Touch

Incorporate a meaningful quote, a favourite poem, or even just a personal message to your guests. This will make your pocket cards feel extra special and give your guests a sneak peek into your big day.

Remember, the key to decorating your pocket cards is to have fun and get creative! Don't be afraid to experiment with different ideas until you find something that feels right for your wedding. Happy crafting!

Frequently asked questions