Choosing The Perfect Paper For Your Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are an important part of the wedding planning process, as they give guests a glimpse into what to expect from the big day. There are many options available when it comes to printing styles and paper types for wedding invitations. Couples can choose from a range of printing techniques, including letterpress, hot foil stamping, digital printing, and laser cutting, each offering unique advantages and limitations. The choice of paper type is equally important, with options ranging from card and cover stock to kraft, wood-grain, glassine, and clear vellum paper. The weight, finish, and cost of the paper are also key considerations. Ultimately, the printing style and paper type chosen will depend on the couple's budget, desired level of customisation, and the overall aesthetic they wish to achieve for their wedding invitations.

Card and Cover Stock

The standard weight for card stock is 120 pounds, and it can come in a variety of treatments, including unfinished, satin, silk, and glossy. Smooth matte paper is the most common choice, and couples can add textures like linen or eggshell. The weight and finish of the paper can be traded off to create a fun and personality-filled invitation while remaining tasteful. A pearlescent sheen, for example, lends sparkle, shine, and dimension for only a little more than standard finishes.

Cotton fibre is the costliest option for card stock. This type of paper is incredibly soft and durable, and it responds well to ink techniques like letterpress. While more expensive, cotton fibre ages well and gives invitations a timeless feel.

Cotton Fibre

When choosing cotton fibre paper for wedding invitations, it is important to consider the printing method. While cotton paper is suitable for most printing styles, it is not recommended for digital printing. Letterpress, foil stamping and thermography are popular printing choices for cotton paper invitations, as they create a luxurious and elegant finish.

Kraft and Wood-Grain Paper

Kraft paper is a type of cardstock, which is a thick, heavy paper that gives a luxurious feeling. It often has a textured finish, such as cotton, linen, or felt, which adds a tactile element to the invitation. Kraft paper is also a popular choice for envelopes, giving the invitation suite a cohesive look.

Wood-grain paper, on the other hand, has a deeply embossed, lifelike wood grain texture that captures all the knots, grooves, and characteristics of real wood. It usually comes in a neutral colour palette, ranging from bright white to deep chocolate brown, complementing the wood grain texture and any design you choose.

When creating wedding invitations with kraft or wood-grain paper, you can opt for a single card or a folded design. These papers are also suitable for printing at home, as most standard printers can accommodate cardstock up to 80 pounds. However, it's important to test the printer beforehand, as the images may appear darker than the digital design.

Embellishments such as ribbons, wax seals, or envelope liners can also be added to elevate the invitations and make them more unique.

Overall, kraft and wood-grain paper are excellent choices for wedding invitations, offering a rustic and intimate feel that will set the tone for your special day.

Glassine and Clear Vellum Paper

Vellum paper is a great alternative to acrylic invites, as it is not too much more expensive and allows more DIY options. Vellum paper is also ideal for winter weddings, as the frosted translucent white space represents the colour of romantic snow and ice crystals.

Vellum paper is extremely versatile and can be used in many ways, such as showcasing translucent vellum as save-the-date cards, the invites, the RSVP, or even the belly bands. You can also use vellum paper as envelopes, envelope liners, overlays, pouches, and other invitation suite accents.

Glassine paper can be used in a similar way to vellum paper, but as it is see-through, it can also be used as an envelope with the invitation printed on it and filled with confetti.

Laser-Cut Paper

Laser-cut wedding invitations are created using a laser to cut out specific designs and patterns from paper or card stock. This technique results in delicate and intricate details that are visually appealing and create a three-dimensional effect. The laser cutting process can be applied to a variety of paper types, including card and cover stock, cotton fibre, kraft and wood-grain paper, and translucent vellum or glassine paper.

When choosing laser-cut paper for your wedding invitations, consider the weight and finish of the paper. Thicker paper, such as card stock, gives a more luxurious and expensive feel. You can also add textures like linen or a pearlescent sheen for a touch of sparkle and shine. Cotton fibre paper, while more costly, offers a soft feel and responds well to printing techniques, resulting in rich colours.

Laser-cut wedding invitations can be designed in a variety of styles, from modern and minimalist to bold and colourful. They can also be customised to include meaningful symbols, such as illustrations, monograms, or borders. Embellishments such as ribbons, wax seals, or envelope liners can further enhance the invitations and make them more reflective of your wedding theme.

When creating laser-cut wedding invitations, it is important to consider the printing method. Flat printing is the most cost-effective option and is suitable for showcasing a wide range of artwork, including watercolour designs. Letterpress, foil stamping, and toner transfer foil are other popular printing methods that can add a luxurious or tactile element to the invitations.

Overall, laser-cut paper for wedding invitations offers a unique and elegant way to invite guests to your wedding, with endless customisation options to make your invitations truly reflective of your special day.

Frequently asked questions