Creative Wedding Signage: A Guide To Making Your Own

Wedding signage is an important part of your big day. It's a great way to announce the event and welcome your guests, as well as guide them to where they need to be. You can also use signage to communicate other important information, such as your wedding hashtag, the itinerary for the day, or a request for an unplugged ceremony.

There are many ways to make your own wedding signage, from printing a design and transferring it onto a board to painting a design with stencils or creating a chalkboard sign. You can also get creative and use alternative materials, such as an upcycled mirror or window frame, or even balloons!

Printed design transfer

Firstly, design and print your desired sign onto regular paper. Flip the paper over and colour the back with a pencil, chalk, or transfer paper. Turn the design back over and centre it on your chosen surface. If you are using transfer paper, place the matte side down underneath your printed design. Using a pencil, firmly trace over your printed design. This will transfer the chalk or graphite onto the surface. You can then trace over your design with a paint pen, gold leaf pen, or Sharpie.

This technique can be used to create a hand-lettered effect, and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, poster board, and cardboard.

Paint over stickers

This is a simple and genius way to create wedding signage. All you need is paint and cute letter and number stickers.

Firstly, paint your sign the colour you want your letters to be. You could use spray paint or regular paint. White is a popular choice, but you can choose any colour you like.

Next, arrange your saying using the stickers, pressing them firmly into the wood. You can use fun-shaped stickers, or cut your own with a Cricut machine.

Now, simply paint over the stickers. Once the paint is dry, remove the stickers to reveal your design.

There are endless ways to customise this technique. You could leave the letters the natural wood colour, or create an ombre effect. You could also use different types of stickers, including shapes.

To make your stickers stay put, or to glue other items to your sign, use decoupage glue. Apply one to three coats, leaving at least an hour of drying time between coats.

Use a stencil or make one

Using a stencil is a great way to make a wedding sign, especially if you don't trust your handwriting or painting skills! You can buy a stencil or make your own.

Using a Stencil

First, paint the surface of your sign, or don't—it's up to you! Then, arrange your stencils and firmly adhere them to the wood. Adhesive stencils are the easiest to use. With gentle pressure and a small amount of paint, gently dab paint through the stencil. As soon as all stencilled areas have been painted, quickly remove the stencils to reveal your design. Wash the stencils with warm soapy water immediately unless you plan to throw them away.

Making Your Own Stencil

If you can't find a stencil design you like, you can always make your own stencils using stencil paper and a craft knife or a Cricut machine. However, this method limits you design-wise to whatever you can find online or at your local craft retailer.

Paint your own chalkboard

Painting your own chalkboard is a great way to create wedding signage that is both unique and budget-friendly. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Choose Your Surface

You can use a variety of surfaces to create a chalkboard, such as wood, glass, metal, or plastic. If you're using wood, it's a good idea to sand it with medium and then fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface. For other materials like glass, metal, or plastic, sanding is not necessary.

Step 2: Select Your Paint

It's important to use legit chalkboard paint to ensure the best results. There are many great options available, including well-known brands like Martha Stewart Crafts. You can find these paints at craft stores or online.

Step 3: Apply the Paint

Using a roller to apply the chalkboard paint will give you the perfect texture. Roll the paint onto your surface, aiming for 2-5 coats depending on the surface. The more coats you do, the better! Remember to store your roller in a plastic bag between coats to prevent it from drying out.

Step 4: Sand and Prime

After your final coat, gently sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any burs and impurities. This step will give you a smooth and professional-looking chalkboard. Once you're happy with the finish, let the paint dry for 72 hours. Then, "prime" your chalkboard by rubbing chalk all over it and wiping away the excess with a rag. This step will ensure your chalkboard lasts a long time and is easy to write on.

Step 5: Design and Decorate

Now for the fun part! Use chalk, a chalk pencil, or chalk ink markers to create your design. You can write out your wedding menu, directions for guests, or a special message. If you make a mistake, don't worry – you can easily erase it and start again! To add a little extra something, adorn your chalkboard with illustrations, greenery, or floral accents.

Step 6: Display

Your chalkboard wedding signage is now ready to be displayed! You can use an easel to prop it up, or hang it at the entrance to your wedding, the reception venue, or even at the bar to display your drinks menu.

Creating a pointed sign

Gather Your Materials:

You will need some essential supplies to create your pointed sign. These include:

• Wood pallets or pre-cut wooden arrows
• Paint and paintbrushes in your choice of colours
• Sandpaper (optional)
• Stencils or vinyl letters/designs
• Pencil and paper for designing
• Clear coat sealer or acrylic spray paint
• Screws, hammer, and other tools for installation

Design Your Sign:

Before you begin painting, take some time to plan out the design of your sign. Decide on the text, font style, and any additional decorations you want to include. You can sketch out your ideas on paper or use a computer program to create a digital design. Consider using stencils or vinyl letters for a uniform and neat appearance.

Prepare Your Wood:

Start by cutting your wood pallets to the desired size and shape. If you're creating a pointed arrow sign, cut the wood accordingly. You can also sand the wood to smooth out any rough edges and create a more polished look.

Paint Your Sign:

Once your design is finalised, it's time to start painting! Paint the base colour of your sign, and if desired, add a coat of primer for a cleaner surface. Then, carefully paint your chosen text and designs. You can freehand the text or use stencils/vinyl letters for a more precise look. Feel free to get creative and use different colours, accents, or even add natural elements like flowers or leaves.

Add a Clear Coat:

After your paint has dried, apply a clear coat sealer or acrylic spray paint to protect your sign and give it a finished look. This step will ensure that your sign is weather-resistant and long-lasting.

Install Your Sign:

Finally, it's time to install your beautiful wedding sign! Depending on where you plan to place it, you can bury a portion of the sign in the ground for stability, or use screws to attach it to a post or wall. Ensure that your sign is securely installed and angled correctly.

With these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating a one-of-a-kind pointed sign for your wedding. Get creative, and don't be afraid to add your personal touch to make it truly unique!

Frequently asked questions