Choosing The Perfect Wedding Invitation Paper

Wedding invitations are a key part of wedding planning. The type of paper chosen for wedding invitations is important, as it can affect the overall look and feel of the invite. There are several options to choose from, including card and cover stock, cotton fibre, kraft and wood-grain paper, glassine and clear vellum paper, and pearlescent paper. Each type of paper has its own unique characteristics and can be paired with different printing styles to create a variety of effects. When choosing a paper type, it is important to consider factors such as budget, desired level of luxury and formality, and the printing method that will be used.

Cardstock

When it comes to choosing cardstock for wedding invitations, there are a few options to consider:

• Solid White Cardstock: This is medium to heavyweight paper made from tree pulp with a smooth, matte finish. It is perfect for printing at home and comes in various colours and weights.
• Linen Cardstock: This type of cardstock has a delicate woven texture and a matte finish, giving it a linen fabric look and feel.
• Cotton Cardstock: This cardstock is relatively smooth but highly absorbent, making it great for both laser and inkjet printing. It gives wedding invitations a clean, modern look and is considered "photo safe".
• Parchment: Parchment is a thin, semi-translucent paper with a slight marble effect. It layers nicely with other types of cardstock, such as vellum or cotton.
• Felt: Felt is a unique cardstock with a texture that falls between cotton and canvas—smooth yet coarse. It gives invitations a sophisticated feel.
• Kraft or Recycled Cardstock: This cardstock has a rustic look and feel, resembling the coarse paper used for brown grocery bags. It is perfect for vintage or outdoorsy weddings.
• Vellum: Vellum is a translucent paper that can be used as an overlay or layered with other papers to add depth to the invitation.

When choosing cardstock for wedding invitations, it is important to consider the weight of the paper. Cardstock that is too heavy may not be suitable for home printers, and it is also more expensive to mail. A good option for wedding invitations is 80# to 100# cardstock, which can go through most home printers and will only require one stamp to mail.

In addition to the weight, the finish of the cardstock is also important. Some popular finishes for wedding invitations include:

• Smooth matte: This is a classic finish that adds a luxurious feel to the invitations.
• Linen: The textured finish of linen cardstock adds visual interest and can hide imperfections in the printing.
• Cotton: Cotton cardstock is soft and durable, absorbing ink well and giving a rich colour.
• Pearlescent: This finish adds a bit of shimmer and elegance to the invitations, especially if a photograph is included.

When choosing cardstock for wedding invitations, it is also important to consider the printing method. Some printing techniques, such as letterpress or foil stamping, may require thicker cardstock to achieve the desired effect.

Printing techniques

Letterpress

Letterpress is the oldest traditional printing technique, dating back to the 15th century. It has become the go-to printing option for high-end stationery, with an indented design that is felt below the surface of the paper. This classic style conveys tradition, sophistication, and opulence. Letterpress is a specialised and costly technique, requiring soft, thick card stock like cotton fibre or bamboo. It is also a time-consuming process, with a turnaround time of two weeks to two months.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping is a unique process that uses solid, metallic colours to create a slight impression on the paper. It is considered a "dry" printing technique as it does not use ink. The paper quality needs to be slightly heavier to withstand the indentation of the print. Foil stamping is a costly and time-consuming process, perfect for couples who want to impress their guests with luxury and elegance.

Digital Printing

Digital printing is the most common and cost-effective technique, producing a flat image. It offers a massive selection of colours and designs, and is ideal for imaginative and artistic wedding invitations. The turnaround time is quick, usually only taking a few days for production and shipping. However, there is no interesting texture to a digital print, and it is limited to thinner paper.

Laser-Cut

Laser-cut wedding invitations are a popular trend, featuring intricate motifs cut into the paper without ink. This technique can also be applied to other materials such as wood, offering a natural and earthy style. Laser-cut invitations are delicate and may require special casing or packaging. They are costly, making them more suitable for intimate weddings. The turnaround time is slow due to the length of time it takes to create a cut from scratch.

Engraving

Engraving is one of the oldest, most formal, and expensive printing methods. The letters are raised on the front and indented on the back of the invitation, achieved by pressing paper onto an inked metal plate. It generally works best on thick paper, like cotton fibre, and can be used on coloured paper. The turnaround time can take anywhere from two to six weeks.

Thermography

Thermography is a budget-friendly alternative to engraving, creating a slightly raised text effect. Ink is mixed with a special powder and applied with heat to achieve a painted-on look. It is best suited for small graphics and patterns, as full-colour images won't come out well. This technique is usually done on cotton fibre paper and has a quick turnaround time of a few days.

Offset Printing (aka Lithography)

Offset printing is similar to digital printing but offers higher quality and is slightly more expensive. It uses a rubber stamp-like cylinder to press ink onto the paper, resulting in a flat image. This method offers more paper options, such as textured papers like cotton or bamboo, and allows for more vibrant designs and lettering. The turnaround time is slightly longer, usually a few days to a week.

Paper weight

The weight of paper for wedding invitations is an important consideration, as it can affect the overall impression of the invite and its printing process. The weight of the paper is typically measured in pounds or 'lbs' in the US system, and in grams per square metre or 'gsm' in the European system.

When it comes to paper weight, there are two main types: text paper and cover/cardstock paper. Text paper is the standard type of paper found in home printers, typically weighing between 20 lbs and 80 lbs. On the other hand, cardstock paper is sturdier and used for items like postcards or business cards. It usually ranges from 45 lbs to 200 lbs or higher. It's important to note that the weight of 80 lb text paper is significantly different from 80 lb cardstock paper.

For wedding invitations, cardstock paper is generally recommended as it gives a more elegant and formal feel. The recommended weight for cardstock invitations ranges from 65 lb to 222 lb or higher. A good rule of thumb is that heavier paper weights tend to be preferred for flat invitations, while lighter weights are chosen for folded invitations. Additionally, thicker paper is often associated with a more impressive and luxurious feel.

If you're printing your invitations at home, it's important to consider the limitations of your printer. Most home printers can handle weights up to 80 lbs, but it's always a good idea to consult your printer manual for specific card stock printing information and recommendations. On the other hand, professional printing services like offset printing can handle weights up to 120 lb cover (325 gsm) and offer various finishes such as letterpress, thermography, and digital printing.

In summary, choosing the right paper weight for your wedding invitations depends on factors such as your printing method, invitation style, and personal preference. Heavier weights tend to be preferred for a more luxurious feel, while it's important to ensure your printing method can accommodate the chosen weight.

Paper finish

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your style and give your guests a glimpse of what to expect on the big day. The type of paper finish you choose can add a unique touch to your invitations and elevate the overall look and feel. Here are some popular paper finish options for wedding invitations:

Matte Finish

Matte finish paper is a popular choice for wedding invitations as it offers a smooth, elegant surface without any shine. It is often chosen for its versatility, as it pairs well with various printing techniques such as letterpress or foil stamping. A premium matte finish on thick cardstock, such as 16 pt or 180 lb paper, will give your invitations a luxurious feel.

Linen Finish

Linen finish paper has a subtle woven texture that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your invitations. This finish is perfect for creating a refined, fabric-like effect. Linen finish paper is also great for hiding imperfections or printing flaws, making it an excellent choice for home printing.

Cotton Finish

Cotton finish paper, made from 100% cotton, offers a soft, luxurious feel. This finish is highly absorbent, making it ideal for inkjet or laser printing. Cotton paper is also very durable and ages well, ensuring your invitations maintain their rich colour and timeless appeal.

Pearlescent Finish

If you want to add a subtle shimmer to your invitations, pearlescent paper is an excellent choice. This finish has a pearly sheen that reflects light beautifully and adds a touch of elegance. Pearlescent paper is especially stunning when paired with photographs, as it gives a soft glow to the images.

Kraft Finish

Kraft paper is a rustic, eco-friendly option that resembles coarse brown grocery bags. It has a textured, fibrous look that is perfect for outdoor or vintage-themed weddings. Kraft paper is usually thick and sturdy, ensuring your invitations arrive in your guests' mailboxes without bending.

Recycled Finish

For an environmentally conscious choice, consider recycled paper. This finish offers a smooth, thick surface with a nice matte finish. Recycled paper has become increasingly popular, and many couples opt for this finish to showcase their commitment to sustainability.

Invitation design

When it comes to wedding invitation design, there are endless possibilities. The design process can be exciting, but with so many options, it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips and ideas to help you create elegant and impressive wedding invitations:

Paper Type and Weight

The first step in designing your wedding invitations is selecting the right paper. The paper you choose will depend on various factors, such as your desired look, feel, and printing method. Here are some popular options:

• Card and Cover Stock: This is the most common choice for wedding invitations as it gives a luxurious feel. The standard weight for cover stock is 120 pounds, but thicker options are available. It comes in various finishes, including satin, silk, glossy, and smooth matte.
• Cotton Fiber: Cotton paper is the most expensive option, known for its softness and durability. It absorbs ink beautifully, making it ideal for techniques like letterpress.
• Kraft and Wood-Grain Paper: These options offer a rustic, on-trend look, perfect for outdoor or DIY-themed weddings.
• Vellum: Made from cotton and wood pulp, vellum has a sheer, frosted look. It is often used as an overlay or accent rather than the main invitation.
• Pearlescent Paper: This paper adds a subtle shimmer to your invitations, giving them an elegant glow, especially when paired with photographs.

When choosing paper, consider the weight, which is measured in pounds or grams per square meter. The heavier the weight, the thicker the paper. For a more premium feel, opt for paper weighing at least 100 pounds.

Printing Techniques

Once you've selected your paper, it's time to decide on a printing technique. Each method offers a unique look and feel:

• Engraving and Embossing: These techniques create raised designs on the paper, adding a touch of luxury. They are more expensive due to the use of custom metal plates.
• Foil Stamping: This method uses metallic foil to add shine and glamour to your invitations. It can be combined with other printing techniques for a unique look.
• Letterpress: Letterpress uses a plastic die to create a soft, romantic, and slightly vintage feel at a more affordable cost than foil stamping.
• Thermography: This technique creates a slightly raised text effect without the high price of engraving. It is a great option for adding texture and shine to your invitations.
• Flat Digital Printing: This budget-friendly option uses high-quality printers to create beautiful invitations quickly. It offers flexibility in paper textures and finishes.

Design and Customization

Now for the fun part—customizing the design of your wedding invitations! Here are some tips to make them stand out:

• Reflect Your Wedding Theme: Your invitations can be a sneak peek into the theme and style of your wedding. For example, a rustic wedding might use recycled paper or a simple design printed on brown paper. A modern wedding could feature minimalist designs, while a botanical-themed wedding might incorporate floral elements.
• Incorporate Personal Touches: Include personal photos or illustrations to make your invitations unique. You can also choose a design that matches your wedding colors or add special touches like wax seals or ribbon.
• Play with Paper Texture and Finish: Different paper textures and finishes can enhance the look of your invitations. For instance, a linen finish adds a subtle crosshatch texture, while pearlescent paper gives a hint of sparkle.
• Consider the Layout and Font: The layout and font choice are essential to ensuring your invitations are easy to read. Play around with different fonts and text sizes to create a design that is both visually appealing and clear.
• Include All the Necessary Information: Don't forget to include the essential details such as the full names of the couple, the date, time, and locations of the ceremony and reception, and RSVP information.

DIY or Professional Printing

You have the option to print your wedding invitations yourself or use a professional printing service. Here are some things to consider:

• DIY Printing: Home printing is a cost-effective option, but keep in mind that desktop printers have limitations on paper thickness. You'll need to experiment with different paper weights and print settings to find the best results.
• Professional Printing: Using a local print shop or online service can provide a higher-quality finish and access to thicker papers. However, it may be more expensive and have limitations on paper size and envelope printing.

Designing your own wedding invitations allows you to express your creativity and personalize every detail. Whether you opt for elegant simplicity or extravagant luxury, your invitations will set the tone for your special day.

Frequently asked questions