The Evolution Of Wedding Invitation Card Materials

Wedding invitations are usually made of card or cover stock, with the weight of the paper adding a sense of luxury. The most common weight for cover stock is 120 pounds, which can come in a variety of finishes, including satin, silk, glossy, and smooth matte. Cotton fibre paper is the most expensive option, while kraft and wood-grain paper are more rustic choices. Couples can also opt for clear vellum paper or acrylic invitations for a modern look. The printing style can vary from flat digital printing to more expensive methods such as letterpress, engraving, and foil stamping.

Card and Cover Stock

Montgomery recommends using a cover stock with a weight of 120 pounds, which can come in a variety of treatments, including unfinished, satin, silk, and glossy. Smooth matte paper is a popular choice among brides, who often add textures like linen or eggshell to give the invitation a more tactile feel. Metallic finishes are also an option for couples who want to add a bit of sparkle and shine to their invitations.

For those who want the ultimate in luxury, cotton fiber paper is the most expensive option. This paper is incredibly soft, durable, and free of imperfections, making it a popular choice for letterpress printing. However, it comes at a premium cost, so it may not be suitable for couples on a tight budget.

Cotton Paper

One of the benefits of cotton paper is its durability. It is a strong and long-lasting material, ensuring your invitations remain in pristine condition. Additionally, cotton paper is highly responsive to ink, making it ideal for letterpress printing. The ink is absorbed into the paper, creating a rich and vibrant colour that will stand the test of time.

When it comes to the environment, cotton paper is a more sustainable option than traditional wood-based paper. It is often made from recycled cotton fibres, reducing waste and conserving resources. This makes cotton paper an eco-friendly choice for couples who are conscious of their impact on the planet.

Kraft and Wood-Grain Paper

The Look and Feel

Printing and Customisation

When it comes to customisation, kraft and wood-grain paper invitations can be embellished with items like belly bands, wax seals, ribbons, and deckled edges. These additions can enhance the rustic look and feel of the invitation.

Cost

The cost of kraft and wood-grain paper invitations can vary depending on the customisations and printing method chosen. However, these invitations are generally considered more affordable than high-end options like cotton fibre paper. Couples can further reduce costs by opting for a smaller invitation suite with limited embellishments.

Where to Buy

Glassine and Clear Vellum Paper

When using glassine or clear vellum paper, it is important to consider the assembly process and the potential impact on postage costs. The layers will need to be securely adhered, and the use of grommets or ribbons may add to the overall weight and size of the invitation. Couples should also be mindful of the visibility of the glue when designing their invitations.

Acrylic

Firstly, acrylic invitations may be more expensive than traditional paper invitations due to the specialised printing techniques required. While digital printing is possible, certain methods like standard foil stamping or thermography cannot be used on acrylic as they can warp the material. Engraving or etching are popular choices for acrylic invitations, but these techniques can increase the cost.

Secondly, the weight and thickness of acrylic invitations can impact the postage required. Thicker or heavier invitations may require additional postage, which can add up quickly, especially for larger guest lists. It's important to consider the potential extra cost when budgeting for acrylic invitations.

Another factor to consider is the practicality of acrylic invitations for guests. They cannot be easily hung on a fridge like traditional paper invitations, and some guests may be unsure of what to do with them. Additionally, acrylic invitations can be hard to read, especially for older guests, depending on the font and writing size chosen.

Lastly, the environmental impact of acrylic invitations is a significant consideration. As a form of single-use plastic, they are difficult to recycle and will not break down in a landfill. This wastefulness may be off-putting to environmentally conscious couples or guests.

Despite these drawbacks, acrylic invitations can be a beautiful and memorable choice, especially for couples who want their invitations to make a statement. Some couples may choose to order a few acrylic invitations for photos or keepsakes, while opting for more traditional invitations for their guests. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use acrylic invitations depends on the couple's personal preferences, budget, and the specific needs of their wedding.

Frequently asked questions