Creating Wedding Fans: A Personalized Diy Guide

Wedding fan programs are a fun and creative way to keep your guests cool and informed during an outdoor summer wedding. They can be easily personalized to match the style of your event and are simple to make. All you need is some paper, fan handles, glue or tape, and decorations like ribbon or twine. You can even print graphics or messages on the paper before assembling the fans. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of creating your own wedding fan programs, from designing your template to adding the finishing touches.

Choosing the right paper

When making your own wedding fans, choosing the right paper is crucial to ensuring your fans are sturdy and functional. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your paper:

Weight

The weight of the paper will determine how durable and easy to work with it is. For two-sided fans, a heavier paper weight is recommended, such as 65lb-80lb paper. This weight provides enough strength to hold the fan together without being too difficult to fold. If you're only making one-sided fans, opt for an even heavier weight, such as 110lb paper, which can be ordered from a professional printer.

Type

Cardstock is a popular choice for wedding fan projects due to its thickness and sturdiness. It can be easily printed on and folded without tearing. Index paper is another option that works well for fans, especially if you want to print designs or messages on your fans. It feeds easily through most printers, or you can take it to a local copy shop. For a more rustic look, consider Kraft paper, which has a unique texture and appearance.

Colour

White cardstock is a classic choice for wedding fans, providing a clean and elegant look. However, you can also choose coloured paper to match your wedding theme or add a pop of colour. Coloured cardstock or index paper is available in a variety of shades, allowing you to customize your fans to your liking.

Folding

If you plan to fold your paper to create the fan shape, you'll want to select a lightweight paper that folds easily without tearing. Wrapping paper or scrapbook paper are good options for this technique. You can also try a simple accordion fold with lightweight paper and secure the base of the folds with string for a unique fan design.

Pre-printed Designs

If you want to include a pre-printed design or message on your fans, make sure to choose a paper that is compatible with your printer. Cardstock and index paper are usually safe choices for most printers. You can also take your paper to a local print shop if you're concerned about ink smudging or the paper getting jammed in your printer.

Folding and gluing

Folding:

First, decide on the design of your fan. You can either create your own design or use a template. If you're printing a one-page design, fold and crease your paper before adding any glue. This ensures that you don't have to worry about the glue drying before you've lined up the edges. For thicker paper, use a bone folder to smooth out the crease.

Gluing:

Now, it's time to attach the fan handle. Lay your fan on a flat surface. Apply a generous amount of glue to one side of the fan, where the stick will go. You can use a ZIG 2-Way Glue Pen or glue tape for a neater finish. Place the stick on the glued area and press firmly, making sure it's straight.

Next, apply glue around the edges of the fan and fold immediately. Again, be generous with the glue where the stick will be placed. Press each edge firmly to ensure all edges are sealed. Use clean fingers or a clean bone folder to avoid leaving marks on your design.

Additional Tips:

• If using glue, be careful not to overuse it, as it may leak through the cardstock and cause stains.
• For a stronger hold, consider using permanent double-sided tape instead of glue.
• Let the glue dry completely before handling the fans or adding any additional decorations.
• If you're making a large number of fans, consider assembling them in a production line with each person in charge of a specific step.

By following these steps and paying attention to the details, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful and functional wedding fans for your special day.

Attaching handles

Attaching the handles to your wedding fans is a straightforward process, but it's important to do it right to ensure your fans are sturdy and secure. Here are some detailed instructions to help you attach the handles effectively:

Preparing the Handles:

Before you begin, decide on the type of handles you want to use. Wooden fan handles are a popular choice and can be found at most craft stores. You can choose from a variety of colours and styles, such as wavy or straight handles, to match your wedding theme. If you're feeling creative, you can even decorate the handles with paint, ribbon, or other embellishments.

Attaching the Handles:

There are a few methods you can use to attach the handles to your fan base securely:

• Tape Method: Using double-sided tape is a quick and easy way to attach the handles. Apply a generous amount of strong, permanent double-sided tape to the inside of the fan, where the handle will be placed. Press the handle firmly into the tape, ensuring it is centred and straight. This method is recommended by some crafters as it avoids the risk of glue stains.
• Glue Method: If you prefer using glue, apply a generous amount of glue to one side of the fan, where the stick will be placed. Zig 2-Way Glue Pens or glue tape are recommended for a mess-free application. Place the handle on the glue and press firmly, making sure it is straight. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding.
• Spray Adhesive Method: For this method, you will need to apply a spray adhesive, such as Spray 77, to one half of the fan base. Let it set for a couple of minutes until it becomes tacky. Then, place the stick on the glued area and fold the paper over, using a hard rubber brayer to press the paper together securely.

Securing the Handles:

Once the handles are attached, you will need to secure them in place:

• Fold the fan base in half, ensuring the handle is centred and straight.
• Use additional double-sided tape or glue along the edges of the fan base to seal it shut. Press the edges firmly together, being careful not to smudge any glue or leave fingerprints.

By following these steps, you should now have securely attached handles to your wedding fans. Remember to allow any glue or spray adhesive to dry completely before handling the fans extensively.

Rounding corners

To round the corners of your wedding fans, you will need a corner rounder or corner paper punch. You can find these at craft stores or online.

If you are rounding the corners of a large number of fans, or if your cardstock is particularly thick, you may want to consider investing in a Crop-a-dile Corner Chomper. This tool is more durable than a standard corner rounder and can handle thicker cardstock.

Once you have your tool, the process is simple. Fold your fan in half and use your corner rounder or corner paper punch on all four corners of the folded cardstock to create a soft, rounded edge.

There are many different options for corner paper punches, so you can choose a style that suits your wedding theme. For a classic look, a simple round corner is perfect. But if you want something fancier, there are plenty of decorative options available.

Adding decorations

Ribbons and Twine

Add a touch of elegance to your fans by tying a ribbon or twine around the handle. You can choose a colour that complements your wedding theme, such as sheer organza ribbon in silver or gold. Burlap ribbon is also a great option for a rustic look. Cut the ribbon to your desired length and tie it in a bow around the paddle stick, just above where it meets the paper.

Corner Punches

Rounding the corners of your fans gives them a soft, elegant finish. You can use a corner rounder or a corner chomper to create this look. If you want something a little more decorative, try a corner paper punch with a fancier design. You can find these tools at your local craft store or online.

Stamps and Embellishments

Get creative and add some extra embellishments to your fans! You can use stamps to personalize the fan sticks with designs, initials, or even have guests write their names on them. Try adding ribbon and embellishments, not just to the stick but also to the fan itself. Use a small hole punch to cut half-circles and attach twine or ribbon for a unique look.

Crayons and Colour

If you're having children at your wedding, consider leaving your fans plain and providing crayons so they can decorate their own fans. This can be a fun activity to keep them entertained during the event. You can also add colour to your fans by choosing coloured paper or printing graphics and messages on the paper before assembling the fans.

Notching the Ribbon

If you've added a ribbon to your fans, consider notching the ends to give them a nice, finished look. Simply cut the ends of the ribbon at an angle or in a curved shape to add a little extra detail.

Engraving and Personalization

For a truly unique touch, consider engraving your fans or adding personalized details. You can find personalized bulk wooden fans online, or you can engrave them yourself if you have the right tools. You can also print your wedding program or a timeline of the day's events on the fans to make them both functional and decorative.

Remember, the key is to have fun and be creative! These decorations can really make your wedding fans stand out and reflect your personal style.

Frequently asked questions