Choosing The Perfect Paper For Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are an important part of the planning process, as they set the tone for the event and give guests an idea of what to expect. There are many options when it comes to choosing the right paper for wedding invitations, and the decision will depend on factors such as budget, style, and printing method.

For those looking for an eco-friendly option, seed paper is a great choice. It is made from recycled paper waste that has been turned into pulp and embedded with seeds. Cotton paper is another popular option, known for its softness and durability, but it is one of the more expensive choices. Linen paper is also a favourite for its elegant, textured finish.

The weight of the paper is an important consideration, as this will impact the cost of postage. Generally, the heavier the paper, the higher the postage costs. Couples should also consider the thickness of the paper and whether their printer can handle it. Most home printers can manage 80-100lb cardstock, but it is always a good idea to test it out first.

Finally, the printing method will also influence the type of paper chosen. For example, thermography uses slow-drying ink and embossing powder to create a raised effect, while letterpress printing uses plates, type, and ink to press a design into the paper.

Paper weight and thickness

The weight and thickness of your wedding invitation paper will depend on several factors, including your printing process, invitation style, postage, and personal preference.

Printing Process

The printing process is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the weight and thickness of your wedding invitation paper. If you plan to print your invitations at home, you need to consider the paper weight capabilities of your home printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock, but it's important to check your printer manual for specific recommendations.

If you plan to use a professional print shop, you should contact them beforehand to understand their equipment, print processes, and capabilities. Be sure to choose a paper weight and thickness that they can accommodate. Some printing methods, such as letterpress and thermography, may have specific weight requirements.

Invitation Style

The style and composition of your invitations will also influence the weight and thickness of the paper. Flat invitation cards, for example, are typically made with heavy cardstock of 80lb or more. In contrast, folding invitation cards are usually made with lighter stock, as they will be twice as thick after folding. A common weight range for folding invitations is between 65lb and 100lb.

If you plan to have layered invitations or use pockets or wraps, you can vary the weights of each layer. It's recommended to keep the top layer light (80lb or less) and attach it to a heavier card. The backer or pocket can be as heavy as you like since it won't be printed on.

Postage

Another consideration is the postage cost, as invitations weighing over one ounce will require additional postage. If you want to keep postage costs down, opt for lighter-weight paper.

Personal Preference

Finally, don't forget about your personal preference. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others prefer lighter, thinner stock. Choose the weight and thickness that you like and that aligns with your design and budget.

In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the weight and thickness of wedding invitation paper. By considering the printing process, invitation style, postage costs, and your personal preferences, you can select the best paper weight and thickness for your special day.

Paper finish

When it comes to paper finishes for wedding invitations, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:

Matte Finish

Matte finish paper has a smooth, flat surface with no shine. It is often considered a more modern and elegant option for wedding invitations. Matte finish paper is usually paired with letterpress printing, which gives a soft and romantic feel to the invitation. This type of paper is also a good choice if you want to print your invitations at home, as it is compatible with most home printers.

Linen Finish

Linen finish paper has a delicate woven texture that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to wedding invitations. It is usually made from a cotton blend and has a slightly crosshatched surface that resembles linen fabric. This type of paper is well-suited for invitations with a simple design, as the texture adds visual interest. Linen finish paper is also a good choice for hiding imperfections or quality issues that may occur during printing.

Cotton Finish

Cotton finish paper is known for its softness, durability, and timelessness. It is one of the more expensive options and is often chosen by couples who want their invitations to feel luxurious and stand the test of time. Cotton paper is also a good choice for printing as it absorbs ink well, resulting in rich and vibrant colours.

Pearlescent Finish

Pearlescent paper has a subtle shimmer or sheen on the surface, adding a touch of elegance and sparkle to wedding invitations. This type of paper is especially popular for invitations that include photographs, as it adds a soft glow to the image. Pearlescent paper is also a good choice if you want to add a bit of sparkle to your invitation without going overboard.

Vellum Finish

Vellum paper is made from a blend of cotton and wood pulp, and it resembles tracing paper. It is sheer, frosted, and often used as an overlay on top of an opaque sheet of paper. Vellum paper can be printed on and used as the main invitation paper, or it can be used as an accent, such as an envelope or belly band. This type of paper is a good choice for creating a sleek and modern effect.

When choosing the finish for your wedding invitation paper, it's important to consider the printing method, your budget, and the overall style you want to achieve. Each type of paper finish has its own unique characteristics and will contribute to the overall impression your invitation makes on your guests.

Printing process

The printing process is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing your wedding invitation paper. Whether you are printing your invitations at home or using a professional print shop, it is essential to select the right paper for your printer to ensure the best results.

Printing Invitations at Home

If you plan to print your invitations at home, it is crucial to consider the paper weight capabilities of your printer. Most home printers are typically used for lightweight copy paper, so they may have limitations when it comes to handling thicker cardstock. While most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock, it is important to consult your printer manual for specific card stock printing information and recommendations. Experiment with different print quality settings to achieve the sharpest prints, and consider using textured cardstock to hide any imperfections.

Using a Professional Print Shop

When opting for a professional print shop, it is important to remember that different print shops have different printing equipment and capabilities. Be sure to contact multiple print shops to understand their processes and accommodate your chosen paper's weight, thickness, and texture. Some popular printing methods used by professionals include:

• Offset printing: Uses metal plates to transfer ink onto paper via rubber rollers. This method offers consistent quality and can print on a variety of paper surfaces and weights. However, it may add time and cost due to plate and machine setup for each design.
• Thermography: Produces raised prints with a unique tactile and visual appeal. After printing with slow-drying ink, embossing powder is applied, excess powder is removed, and the paper is heated to raise the design. This method is elegant but requires machine setup and has limitations in colour and design detail.
• Letterpress printing: Utilises plates, hand-set type, and ink to press designs onto or into paper. This method provides consistent quality and can handle a range of paper surfaces, weights, and unique tactile elements. However, it requires plate creation and machine setup for each design and colour.
• Digital printing: Uses ink or toner to recreate designs on paper without plates or rollers. This method is fast, economical, and suitable for small invitation runs, offering the ability to print on various paper weights and colours with ease.

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to the printing process, here are some other factors to keep in mind when choosing your wedding invitation paper:

• Invitation style: Flat invitation cards typically use heavier cardstock, while folding invitation cards use lighter stock as they become thicker when folded.
• Postage: Invites weighing over 1 ounce require additional postage, so consider keeping the weight of your invitation cardstock down to minimise postage costs.
• Personal preference: Ultimately, it is your wedding, and you can choose the paper that suits your preferences, design, and budget.

Invitation style

The style of your wedding invitation is a very personal choice and will depend on your budget, preferences, and the overall tone you want to set for your wedding. Here are some popular options to consider:

Flat Invitation Card: This is a single sheet of cardstock, typically made with heavy-weight cardstock of 80lb cover and above. You can choose from a variety of colours and weights, making it a good option for printing at home. If you want to add a luxurious feel to your invitations, consider using cardstock with a weight of 110lb or higher.

Folding Invitation Card: These invitations are made with lighter cardstock, usually between 65lb and 100lb cover. This is because the paper is folded in half, resulting in a double thickness. If you want to include additional information or details, a folding invitation card can be a good choice as it provides more space.

Layered Card: Layered invitations can be created using a variety of weights, but it's recommended to keep the top layer light (80lb cover or less) and attach it to a heavier card (80lb cover or more). The backer or pocket of the invitation can be as heavy as you like since it doesn't require printing. If you plan to have three or more layers, consider keeping the individual layers on the lighter side to avoid bulkiness.

Recycled Paper: For eco-friendly or rustic-style weddings, recycled paper is a great option. Seed paper, for example, is made from recycled paper waste that is turned into pulp and embedded with seeds. After your guests receive the invitation, they can plant it and grow beautiful flowers or plants. Recycled paper is not only environmentally conscious but also unique and memorable.

Cotton Paper: Cotton paper is known for its softness, durability, and timeless elegance. It is one of the more expensive options, so it may not be suitable for couples on a tight budget. However, if you're willing to invest in invitations that feel luxurious and will last for years to come, cotton paper is an excellent choice.

Vellum Paper: Vellum paper is traditionally made from calfskin, but today it is mostly made from a blend of cotton fibres. It comes in a range of thicknesses, allowing for creative and modern invitation designs. You can use extra-thick vellum as the main invitation paper, or you can layer it over an abstract design for a unique effect. Transparent vellum can also be used as an envelope or belly band, adding texture and elegance to your invitations.

Linen Paper: Linen paper is textured, elegant, and luxurious. It features eye-catching details, so it pairs well with a simple design that allows the paper to shine. Linen cardstock is also a good choice for inkjet printing as the textured surface can help hide imperfections or quality issues.

Acrylic: If you want to stand out from the crowd, consider using acrylic for your invitations. Acrylic invitations are unique, stylish, and will surely get your guests excited about the upcoming ceremony. However, printing on acrylic may have some limitations, and certain techniques like standard foil stamping or thermography may not be suitable.

When choosing the style of your wedding invitation, it's important to consider the printing process, invitation design, postage weight, and your personal preferences. You can also get creative and combine different papers, weights, and printing techniques to achieve the desired look and feel for your special day.

Postage

When it comes to wedding invitations, postage is a crucial consideration. The weight of your invitation suite will determine how much postage you need to attach. Here are some tips and guidelines to ensure your invitations reach their destination without any issues:

• Weight Matters: The general rule is that the heavier your invitation card stock, the more postage you will need. Any invite weighing over 1 ounce (28.3495 grams) requires additional postage. Standard letter rates typically cover up to 1 ounce, so heavier invitations will incur extra charges.
• Know Your Options: Familiarize yourself with the various postage options available. The United States Postal Service (USPS), for example, offers different postage rates and services such as First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Priority Mail Express, each with its own weight and size restrictions. Choose the option that best suits your invitation's weight and dimensions.
• Research International Rates: If you're sending invitations internationally, research the postage rates for each country. International postage can be more expensive, especially for heavier invitations.
• Consider Dimensions: Not only weight but also the dimensions of your invitation suite can impact postage. Oversized or unusually shaped invitations may require additional postage, so be sure to check with your local post office.
• Bulk Rates: If you have a large number of invitations to send, look into bulk postage rates or consider using a mailing service that offers discounted rates. This can help reduce the overall cost of postage.
• Postage Stamps: Add a touch of elegance to your invitations by choosing decorative postage stamps that match your wedding theme or color scheme. Customized stamps with your initials or a monogram can also add a personal touch.
• Postage Meters: If you're sending out a large number of invitations, consider renting a postage meter, which can save you time and money. Postage meters imprint the exact amount of postage onto your envelopes, eliminating the need for stamps.
• Test and Weigh: Before finalizing your invitation design and paper choice, create a mock-up and take it to your local post office to have it weighed. This will help you determine the exact postage required and avoid any last-minute surprises.
• RSVP Postage: Don't forget to include postage for your RSVP cards. Pre-stamping your response envelopes will make it easier for your guests to reply, ensuring a higher response rate.
• Timing: Keep in mind that postage rates can change over time. Check the current rates before sending out your invitations to ensure you're attaching the correct amount of postage.
• Online Postage: Explore online services that offer discounted postage rates and allow you to print postage directly onto your envelopes. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option.

Remember, it's always better to slightly overestimate the postage than to risk having your invitations returned due to insufficient postage. Happy planning!

Frequently asked questions