Creative Ways To Tie Your Wedding Invites Together

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of the wedding planning process, setting the tone and style for the big day. While the process of assembling these invitations can be overwhelming, it is a chance to showcase your signature style. One way to add a touch of elegance to your invitations is by tying them with a ribbon. This process can be tricky, but with the right steps and tools, you can achieve a beautiful result. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of tying wedding invitations with ribbon, ensuring that your invitations look flawless.

How to tie a silk ribbon

Tying silk ribbons around wedding invitations is a great way to add a romantic and charming touch to your special day. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tie silk ribbons like a pro:

Prepare the Ribbon:

• Cut the ribbon: For portrait-oriented invitations, cut the ribbon to a length of 22 inches. For landscape-oriented invitations, cut it to 31 inches. This ensures the ribbon is long enough to comfortably wrap around your invitation suite.
• Place the ribbon: Lay the cut ribbon on a table with the matte side facing up. This will ensure that the shiny side is visible on the outside of the bow.

Tie the Ribbon:

• Centre the invitation: Place your invitation suite in the middle of the ribbon.
• Cross the ends: Fold both ends of the ribbon across the front of the invitation, creating an 'X'. Tuck the left end under the right end to form a neat cross.
• Secure the middle: Pull both ends tight and use your right middle finger to hold the centre in place, preventing the tie from coming loose.
• Create the loop: With your left hand, fold the bottom piece of ribbon upwards, so it is parallel to the other end.
• Tie the knot: Fold the left end over the right end and tuck it through the hole in the middle, similar to tying your shoelace.
• Adjust and tighten: Continue applying pressure to the centre while pulling the two ends tight. Finesse the bow by gently pulling on the loops and tails until you are happy with the overall look.

Additional Tips:

• Ribbon length: The length of the ribbon will depend on the orientation of your invitation. For portrait invitations, a 13-inch ribbon is recommended for a band, 22 inches for a simple knot, and 30 inches for a bow. For landscape invitations, use 16 inches for a band, 31 inches for a knot, and 39 inches for a bow.
• Cutting the ribbon: When cutting the ribbon, use fabric shears or scissors to ensure a clean, straight cut. Avoid cutting the ribbon with tools that have previously been used for paper, as this can create a jagged edge.
• Protect the ribbon: Silk ribbons are delicate, so handle them with care. If you need to remove wrinkles, use a low-heat iron or quickly pass the ribbon through a heated hair curling or straightening iron. You can also lightly dampen the ribbon with a sponge, but ensure it is thoroughly dry before continuing.
• Double envelopes: When using silk ribbons, consider using double envelopes to better protect your invitations during mailing. Place the beautifully tied invitation inside the inner envelope, which is then inserted into the outer envelope.

Belly bands

• Source your materials: You can find belly bands online or at your local craft or office supply store. If you want to print your own, opt for thinner paper, around 60-70# text weight (90-100 gsm). This type of paper can easily wrap around your invitations. You can also purchase pre-made belly bands that match your invitation set or make your own with decorative paper.
• Determine the size: For a standard 5 x 7-inch invitation, the belly band should measure 11 x 2 inches. If you're cutting your own for a custom size, double the width of your card and add an extra inch for overlap.
• Printing and trimming: When printing, ensure your printer settings are at "No Scaling / 100%" and select the accurate paper size. Cut out the individual bands using a paper cutter or an X-acto knife. If printing at home, consider the ink heaviness and quantity, as this can impact costs.
• Assembly:

• Stack your invitation cards from largest to smallest, with the main invitation at the bottom.
• Tuck the RSVP card into its envelope (if applicable).
• Center the belly band on top of the stack.
• Fold one flap of the belly band around the invitation. You can use a bone folder to create a defined crease, if desired.
• Apply glue or double-sided tape to the end of the folded flap.
• Fold the other flap on top, so the two ends overlap. Press and hold for a few seconds until the glue dries.
• Flip the entire stack over so that the invitation is face down, ensuring the belly band design is centered.

Mailing: Place your assembled invitation into an envelope, with the cards facing up. Seal the envelope and address it to your guests.

With these steps, you'll have elegant and neatly bundled wedding invitations ready to be mailed to your guests!

Vellum jackets and wax seals

Step 1: Prepare the Vellum Jackets

Your vellum jackets will arrive flat, ready for assembly. Start by folding the left side of the jacket along the pre-scored line. This will make it easier to slide your assembled invitation suite into the jacket.

Step 2: Insert the Invitation Suite

Once you have folded the left side of the vellum jacket, carefully slide your invitation suite into the folded area. Pinch the jacket and invitation suite together with your left hand to keep them securely in place.

Step 3: Complete the Folds

After centring your invitation suite within the vellum jacket, proceed to fold the right side of the jacket along the other pre-scored line. Ensure that the jacket slightly overlaps on the front of your invitation.

Step 4: Apply the Wax Seal

Now it's time to add the finishing touch – the wax seal! Place your wax seal on the front of the invitation, holding the flaps of the vellum jacket closed. Before placing the wax seal, remember to expose the adhesive on its back to ensure it stays in place.

Tips and Tricks:

• Consider the size of your invitations when choosing vellum jackets and wax seals. Standard sizes such as 5" x 7" or A6/A5 are readily available.
• If you want to include additional enclosure cards, maps, or accommodation details, adjust the size of your vellum jacket accordingly. Custom sizes are available from many vendors.
• Enhance the elegance of your invitations by combining vellum jackets and wax seals with belly bands, ribbons, or other embellishments.
• Plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the production and assembly of your invitations. Wax seals, in particular, can take up to three weeks to produce.
• If you prefer a more simplified process, consider purchasing pre-folded vellum jackets, which are also available from select vendors.

Double envelopes

When you purchase double envelopes, you will receive both an inner and outer envelope for your wedding invitation cards. The envelope colour will match the paper colour selected for your suite. The return address is printed on the back flap, and the guests' names are printed on the front of the inner envelope. You may match the ink colour of your printed pieces or select black ink.

If you order envelope liners, these will be installed inside the inner envelope. To assemble, open the inner envelope so that it lays semi-flat on the table. Stuff the envelope liner into the inner envelope, with the tape strip side towards the top. Before peeling off the glossy paper protectant, slide the liner into place (about a quarter of an inch from the top). Once in place, peel off the backing of the adhesive, press firmly, and fold the flap over to crease the liner.

Now that your inner envelopes are assembled, you can put the finishing touches on your suite and get them ready for mailing. Make separate piles of all the things you need: invitation suites, assembled inner envelopes, and outer envelopes. Rotate one of your suites to the left and place it into an inner envelope. Once the suite is placed all the way to the bottom of the inner envelope, fold the flap closed. This is where the names of the guests invited to the wedding will be printed.

Next, place the inner envelope into the outer envelope. Each outer envelope will have a gumming strip at the edge of the flap for sealing. Slide the inner envelope all the way to the bottom of the outer envelope and fold over the flap to seal it for mailing.

Using fabric shears for a clean cut

• Choose the Right Shears: Select a pair of sharp fabric shears that are specifically designed for cutting fabric. Avoid using regular scissors, as they may not provide the same level of precision and clean cut.
• Measure and Mark: Before cutting, measure the required length for your ribbon. For portrait-oriented invitations, a ribbon length of 22 inches is recommended, while for landscape-oriented invitations, 31 inches is suggested. Mark the ribbon at the desired length.
• Cut the Ribbon: Using the fabric shears, carefully cut the ribbon along the marked line. Try to make the cut as straight as possible to ensure a clean finish.
• Prepare the Invitation Suite: Gather your invitation suite, which typically includes the main invitation card, response card, enclosure cards, and any other inserts. Arrange them in the correct order, with the largest card at the bottom and all cards facing up.
• Place the Ribbon: Take the cut ribbon and place it on your work surface, matte side up. Position the invitation suite in the centre of the ribbon.
• Fold and Tuck: Fold both ends of the ribbon across the front of the invitation suite. Tuck the left end under the right end to create a neat overlap.
• Secure the Middle: Pull both ends tight and use your right middle finger to apply pressure in the middle of the twist, preventing the tie from coming loose. Hold this position while continuing to the next step.
• Create a Parallel Fold: With your left hand, fold the bottom piece of ribbon upward, so it becomes parallel to the other end piece. This will create a crisp, clean line.
• Tie a Knot: Now, take the left end of the ribbon and bring it over the right end, tucking it through the hole in the middle, similar to tying a shoelace.
• Adjust and Tighten: Continue applying pressure to the twist while pulling the two ends tight. Adjust the ribbon as needed to ensure a neat and secure knot.
• Final Checks: Check that the invitation suite is securely bound and that the ribbon is not too tight, allowing the cards to move around slightly.
• Double Envelopes: When using ribbon to tie your wedding invites, it is recommended to use double envelopes for added protection during mailing. Place the beautifully tied invitation inside the inner envelope, and then insert it into the outer envelope.

By following these steps and using fabric shears for a clean cut, you can create elegant and professionally tied wedding invites that will impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.

Frequently asked questions