Choosing The Perfect Ribbon For Handcrafted Wedding Invitations

Adding a ribbon to your handcrafted wedding invitations is a clever way to incorporate your wedding colour scheme or theme. There are many types of ribbons to choose from, each giving a different effect. For instance, a shimmer satin ribbon is often used for a classic invitation type, while light chiffon ribbons are favoured by a romantic and vintage theme. You can also try different styles of bows, such as a simple bow style knot, a Dior bow, or a double bow.

Bow-tying techniques

There are several ways to make ribbon bows, and the finished effect will depend on the ribbon you choose and the way the bows are made.

The Dior Bow

Dior bows are frequently used on laser-cut wedding invitation wraps, adding a sense of elegance. You can also add a small pearl or crystal embellishment for the perfect finishing touch.

The Traditional Bow

The traditional option is a classic satin bow. The width of the ribbon you use will depend on your wedding style. For a formal and luxurious look, choose a wider ribbon, around 25mm. For a more casual feel, go for a skinnier ribbon, such as 10mm.

The Double Bow

The double bow is an update of the classic single bow. It is fun and easy to make with your fingers.

The Simple Bow-Style Knot

If you don't like big bows, try a simple bow-style knot. This gives an impression of true luxury but takes only seconds to produce.

The Bunny Ears Technique

This technique is mentioned as a way to tie a neat bow when using ribbon to tie a scroll.

Using a Bow Maker or Fork

Using a bow maker or a fork is a good way to make a bow with narrow or thin ribbon. A bow maker tool will help you to make perfect bows every time, and for thin ribbon, you can use a fork in exactly the same way.

Wax seals

Types of Wax Seals

• Traditional Wax Seals: This involves melting a stick of wax and allowing it to drip directly onto the parchment. An engraved metal stamp is then pressed into the cooling wax, leaving an imprint of your chosen design.
• Self-Adhesive Wax Seals: These are handmade by professional stationers or calligraphers and are easy to use. They are perfect if you don't have much time to assemble your invitations. You can customise them with your initials or other details.
• Metal Wax Seal Stamps: If you want to personalise your invitations further, you can work with a professional stationer to create a custom metal stamp featuring your monogram, wedding date, or any other design that reflects your wedding theme.

Choosing Wax and Colours

When creating your own wax seals, you'll need to select the type of wax and the colour you want. Here are some options:

• Wax Furnace: Use a wax furnace to melt small wax beads into a liquid that can be poured onto paper.
• Traditional Wax Sticks: You can use traditional wax sticks with wicks, similar to birthday candles. Light the wick and let the melting wax drip onto the paper.
• Glue Gun and Wax Sticks: This is a beginner-friendly method where you use a glue gun and round wax sticks to dispense melted wax onto the paper.

For colours, you can choose from traditional options like metallic gold and silver or explore an assortment of colours to match your wedding theme. You can also create your own marbled wax by mixing different colours.

Where to Use Wax Seals

• Invitation Envelopes: The most popular use of wax seals is to close the flaps of your invitation envelopes, adding an antique-inspired touch.
• Escort and Place Cards: Add a wax seal to your escort and place cards for a cohesive look throughout your wedding stationery.
• Table Numbers and Favour Boxes: Wax seals can also be used on table numbers and favour boxes, providing a decorative and elegant touch.
• Non-Paper Items: Get creative and use your wax seal stamp on non-paper items like champagne flutes, wine bottles, or even handmade desserts (using chocolate instead of wax!).

Mailing Tips

If you're planning to mail your wedding invitations with wax seals, here are some tips to ensure they arrive safely:

• Outer Envelopes: Use outer envelopes to protect the wax seals from potential damage during mailing.
• Hand-Sorting at the Post Office: Ask your local post office about hand-sorting, where a postal worker will manually inspect and approve each invitation, ensuring the seals remain intact. This option may require additional postage and time.
• Self-Adhesive Wax Seals: If using self-adhesive wax seals, it's recommended to use a protective outer envelope as the adhesive may be less permanent.

Different ribbon materials

When it comes to choosing the perfect ribbon for your handcrafted wedding invitations, the type of material you select can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your invites. Here are some different ribbon materials to consider:

Satin

A classic and elegant choice, satin ribbon is often used for formal and luxurious wedding invitations. It comes in a variety of widths and colours, from white to blush pink to black, so you can find the perfect match for your wedding style. A thin satin ribbon can also be a good option for a simple and elegant look.

Silk

Silk ribbon is a popular choice for wedding invitations, as it adds a touch of luxury and elegance. It comes in a variety of colours and widths, including hand-dyed options for a unique look. Silk chiffon ribbon, in particular, is a good choice for a modern and glamorous invitation suite.

Chiffon

Chiffon ribbon is perfect for romantic and vintage-themed wedding invitations. It has a soft, airy feel that adds a touch of whimsy to your invites. Like silk, chiffon ribbon can be hand-dyed in a variety of colours to match your wedding colour scheme.

Cotton

Cotton ribbon is a great option for a more casual, rustic, or eco-friendly wedding invitation suite. It has a natural, earthy feel and can be found in a variety of colours and patterns, including floral prints. Cotton ribbon is also easy to work with, making it a good choice for DIY wedding invitations.

Paper

While not technically a ribbon, paper is another option for creating bows for your wedding invitations. Paper bows can be a clever way to incorporate your wedding colour scheme, and they can be made in any colour or pattern to match your invites.

When choosing a ribbon material for your handcrafted wedding invitations, consider the overall style and theme of your wedding, as well as the impression you want to give your guests. The right ribbon can add a touch of elegance, luxury, or whimsy to your invites, setting the tone for your special day.

Using multiple ribbons

Combine Different Materials

Combining two or three ribbons made from different materials is a great way to achieve a traditional vintage look. For example, you could pair a silk ribbon with a glitter paper band. This combination will give your invitations a luxurious and elegant feel.

Mix and Match Colours and Patterns

Vary the Widths of the Ribbons

Using ribbons of varying widths can create a sense of depth and dimension. Try pairing a thin satin ribbon with a thicker velvet ribbon for an elegant and luxurious look. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for your invitation design.

Create Intricate Details

Layer Ribbons for a 3D Effect

Layering ribbons on top of each other can give your invitations a three-dimensional effect. Try using ribbons of different textures and colours to create a unique and eye-catching design. Experiment with different layering techniques to find the most visually appealing combination.

Matching ribbon to your wedding theme

Ribbons are a great way to add a touch of elegance to your wedding invitations. The type of ribbon you choose can also help to incorporate your wedding colour scheme or theme. Here are some tips to help you match the perfect ribbon to your wedding theme:

Colour

The colour of the ribbon is an important consideration when trying to match it to your wedding theme. You can choose a colour that complements your wedding colour palette or opt for a neutral shade like ivory, white, or blush. If you're having a seasonal wedding, you can also choose colours that reflect the time of year, such as sage green for a spring wedding or deep ocean blue for a summer wedding.

Width

The width of the ribbon can also help to convey the style of your wedding. For a formal and luxurious look, go for a wider ribbon, around 25mm. If you're having a more casual affair, a skinnier ribbon, like 10mm, will be a better choice.

Material

The material of the ribbon can also help to convey a certain style or theme. For example, satin ribbons are classic and elegant, while silk ribbons have a more luxurious and glamorous feel. If you're going for a romantic or vintage theme, light chiffon ribbons are a great choice. You can also mix and match different materials to create a unique look.

Style

There are many different styles of ribbon to choose from, including simple bows, double bows, and Dior bows. If you're having a traditional wedding, a classic satin bow is a pretty option. For a modern twist, try a double bow or add a small pearl or crystal embellishment.

Positioning

Don't forget to consider the positioning of the ribbon on your invitation. You can place it horizontally across the middle, tie it into a bow at the top, or even use it to create a belly band. Playing around with the position of the ribbon can help you create a unique and eye-catching invitation design.

Frequently asked questions