Choosing The Perfect Paper For Your Wedding Invites

Wedding invitations are a guest's first glimpse into what a wedding will be like. The paper and printing style chosen for wedding invitations can set the tone and give guests an idea of what to expect from the wedding. There are many options to choose from when it comes to paper type, ranging from high-end to cost-effective. The most popular paper types include card and cover stock, cotton fibre, kraft and wood-grain paper, glassine and clear vellum paper, and recycled paper. The choice of paper depends on factors such as budget, desired thickness, finish, and printing technique.

Cardstock

When choosing cardstock for your wedding invitations, it is important to consider the weight of the paper. The weight of cardstock is measured in pounds or grams per square metre (gsm). For most home printers, 80# to 90# cardstock is ideal. This weight is thin enough to feed through most desktop printers without any issues. However, if you want your invitations to look more professional, you can opt for a heavier weight cardstock, such as 100# or 110#. Keep in mind that the heavier the cardstock, the more likely it is to jam in your printer. So be sure to test out a few different weights before making your final decision.

In addition to weight, the texture of cardstock is also an important consideration. Smooth matte paper is a popular choice for wedding invitations, as it can be easily printed on and adds a touch of elegance. However, if you want to hide any imperfections or quality issues, a textured cardstock such as linen or cotton may be a better option. These types of cardstock have a slightly woven texture that can add visual interest to your invitations.

When choosing cardstock for your wedding invitations, it is also important to consider the printing method you plan to use. Some printing techniques, such as foil stamping or letterpress, may require thicker cardstock to achieve the desired effect. Engraving and embossing, on the other hand, can be done on thinner cardstock but will add texture and dimension to your invitations.

Overall, cardstock is a versatile and affordable option for wedding invitations. With a variety of colours, weights, and textures to choose from, you can create elegant and professional-looking invitations that set the tone for your special day.

Cotton paper

When choosing cotton paper for your wedding invitations, consider the printing method you plan to use. Cotton paper is suitable for both laser and inkjet printing, but it's important to test the paper with your specific printer to ensure compatibility. You may also want to explore printing services that specialise in wedding invitations and can guide you through the process.

Etsy, for example, offers a wide range of cotton paper options for wedding invitations, with weights ranging from 8.5" x 11" to A3 sizes. FeathersandStone is another vendor that provides handmade cotton rag paper with a gorgeous deckle edge finish, perfect for high-end wedding invitations. They also offer digital printing services on their cotton paper.

The cost of cotton paper can vary depending on the vendor, weight, and customisation options. It is generally considered the most expensive option for wedding invitation paper, so be sure to factor that into your budget. However, the elegance and durability of cotton paper make it a worthwhile investment for your special day.

Kraft and wood-grain paper

Wood-grain paper is also having a moment. This paper has a subtle wood-grain texture embossed onto it. It's more decorative than other papers and is great for accents like belly bands and tags, as well as for enclosure cards and vellum underlays. The white wood-grain paper is perfect for weddings, but it also comes in a variety of other colours.

Pearlescent paper

When choosing pearlescent paper for your wedding invitations, consider the weight of the paper. Heavier cardstock, such as 110-130# paper, will give your invitations a more professional look and feel, especially if you are printing them yourself. If you are printing at home, it is important to note that desktop printers may be limited in the paper thickness they can handle, so be sure to review your printer's instructions and do a test print before purchasing your paper.

Some couples may prefer to outsource their printing to a local print shop or online vendor to achieve a higher-quality result. When choosing a local printer, keep in mind that not all printers or locations provide the same print quality, and some may not print on envelopes or oddly-sized cardstock.

Overall, pearlescent paper is a beautiful and elegant choice for wedding invitations, adding a touch of sparkle and sophistication to your special day.

Linen paper

When it comes to printing on linen paper, it is essential to consider the ink and printing technique. Linen paper's absorbent nature makes it ideal for inkjet printing, as it can hide some of the imperfections that may occur with this printing method. Additionally, the textured surface can make illustrations pop, making it a great choice for image-driven invitations. However, if you plan to use a lot of text or intricate details, a smoother paper surface may be more suitable, as highly detailed designs may appear fuzzy on linen paper.

Overall, linen paper is an excellent choice for wedding invitations, offering a blend of elegance, sophistication, and versatility. Its unique texture and high-quality finish will surely impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.

Frequently asked questions