Creating Wedding Fans: A Guide To Diy Programs

Wedding fan programs are a fun and functional DIY project that can add a special touch to your big day. Not only do they help guide your guests through the ceremony, but they can also be a creative way to introduce your wedding party and provide a unique keepsake for your loved ones. With a few basic supplies and easy-to-follow steps, you can make elegant and classic fan programs that will impress your guests and keep them cool during the festivities. In this article, we will explore the steps to create your own wedding fan programs, from designing and printing to assembling and embellishing. We will also discuss the benefits of using a wedding ceremony program template and how to personalize it to fit your style and theme. So, get your craft supplies ready, and let's dive into the world of DIY wedding fan programs!

Printing the design

Printing on the correct paper is essential to achieving the desired result. For a one-sided fan, use a professional printer and ask for at least 110lb paper. For a two-sided fan, use 65lb-80lb paper, especially if printing on a home inkjet printer. If you are printing at home, a 65-weight paper is usually the easiest to run through a home printer.

If you are printing a large quantity, it may be worth taking your design to a local print shop. One source recommends Alphagraphics for printing, as they produce a high-quality print with true colours that are unlikely to smudge. Another source recommends taking a test print of your design before ordering a large quantity. This source also suggests asking the printer to score the paper for you, which will make it easier to fold.

Folding the card stock

Firstly, prepare your card stock by printing your chosen design. You can do this at home or use a professional printing service. It is recommended to use card stock that is not too thick, as this will make it easier to fold. A weight of 65 or 100 is usually suitable for home printers.

Once you have your printed design, use a paper scoring board and a scoring tool to mark and score a line down the centre of the card. This step will help you create a precise fold. Line up the corners of the card stock and use the scoring tool or a bone folder to create a neat crease.

If you are working with thicker paper, a bone folder can be especially useful in achieving a crisp fold. Bone folders are available at most craft stores for a low price, usually under $5.

After scoring and folding your card stock, the next step is to round the corners. You can use a corner paper punch to create a soft, rounded edge. There are various options available for corner punches, allowing you to choose a classic round corner or a more decorative option, depending on your preference.

If you are happy with sharp corners, you can skip this step and move directly to attaching the fan handle.

Remember to be careful when handling your folded card stock, as even a small amount of grease from your fingers can leave marks on the paper. It is recommended to use clean hands or a clean bone folder when working with the card stock.

Now you are ready to move on to the next steps of assembling your wedding fan programs!

Rounding the corners

Once you've printed out your wedding fan programs on cardstock, you'll need to fold them in half. Then, using a corner paper punch, round off the corners of the folded cardstock to create a soft, rounded edge. There are many different corner paper punches available, so you can choose the style of rounded corner that best suits your wedding theme. If you're going for a classic look, a simple round corner is a perfect choice. However, if you want something more decorative, you can opt for a fancier corner punch design.

When rounding corners, it's important to use a paper punch that is specifically designed for this purpose. This will ensure that you get a clean, precise cut. You can find corner paper punches at craft stores or online. They are usually inexpensive and can add a unique touch to your DIY fan programs.

In addition to rounding the corners, you can further embellish your fan programs with ribbon, twine, or other decorative elements. Get creative and add your personal touch to make your wedding fans truly unique!

Attaching the fan handle

Firstly, decide on the type of adhesive you want to use. You can opt for double-sided tape or a strong glue such as the ZIG 2-Way Glue Pen. Tape is a safer option as glue may leak through the cardstock and leave stains on your program. However, if you use glue, be sure to use a generous amount to ensure a strong hold.

Next, prepare your fan by folding and creasing the paper. If you are using thicker paper, a bone folder can help you achieve a nice, neat crease. Simply line up the corners and use the bone folder to smooth out the crease.

Now it's time to attach the handle. Lay your fan on a flat surface and apply your chosen adhesive to one side of the fan where the stick will go. Press the handle firmly into place, ensuring it is straight. If using glue, remember to be generous with the amount you apply where the stick will be placed.

Finally, fold your fan and press the edges firmly together to seal it shut. Make sure to use clean fingers or a clean bone folder to avoid leaving any marks or grease on your beautiful program design.

And that's it! You've successfully attached the fan handle. You can now move on to adding any finishing touches, such as ribbon or twine, to personalise your wedding fan programs.

Adding finishing touches

Adding the finishing touches to your wedding fan programs is a great way to personalise them and make them extra special. Here are some ideas to elevate your fan programs and make them shine:

Embellishments

Add some extra flair to your fan programs with embellishments such as ribbons, twine, or stamps. You can wrap a ribbon or twine around the handle of the fan, or get creative and use a small hole punch to cut half-circles and attach them to the fan with twine. Stamps are also a fun way to personalise your fan sticks.

Colour

Choose a colour scheme that complements your wedding theme. If you're having a beachfront ceremony, you might opt for soft blues and sandy neutrals, while a fall wedding could feature rich, warm tones. You could also use coloured sticks to match your colour palette.

Shape

Play around with different shapes for your fan programs. Circular, rectangular, paddle, or heart-shaped fans are all unique options that will add interest and variety to your wedding decor.

Assembly

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the idea of assembling a large number of fan programs, why not make it a fun group activity? Gather your friends or bridal party for a fan assembly party. Give each person a specific task and create an assembly line while enjoying snacks and a movie.

Customisation

Make your fan programs truly yours by customising the text and design. Include a special note or message to your guests, or even a poem. You can also edit the headings and remove or add sections to suit your needs.

Extras

Consider adding some extra special touches to your fan programs, such as a small favour or gift attached to the handle. This could be something themed with your wedding, or a small treat for your guests to enjoy during the ceremony.

Remember, your wedding fan programs are a great way to keep your guests informed and involved in your special day, while also providing a functional way to stay cool if your wedding is in a warm climate or indoor venue.

Frequently asked questions