Choosing the type of paper sets the mood and can help to inspire ideas for the rest of the wedding invitation. Consider multiple layers to create a mounted effect with tissue paper, card stock or even gold leafed paper. The top layer can be customized by cutting with pattern edged scissors (which can make scalloped, curved or jagged edges).
The paper itself can have a variety of embellishes, such as stamps, stencils, seals and cut-outs (which can be done with a pair of scissors, a craft knife or die-cut stamps). Even flower petals, buttons, seashells and other tangibles can be used to express the wedding occasion while adding decoration to the actual paper used to tell friends and families about the event.
Color is one of the most important aspects of a wedding invitation. Traditionally, wedding invitations come on white, ivory or other off-white paper but custom invitations typically have a wider color palette available. Be sure to collect colors that complement each other (and any patterns used) before sitting down to create a DIY wedding invitation.
Handmade Invitations Take Time
The best way to decide what direction to go when making custom invitations is to look at a variety of handmade invitations with several different paper types. A couple can take inventory of the various techniques and details they like and determine what could be done with their current level of creative expertise.
Custom handmade invitations require a significant time investment, so couples should make sure they have plenty of time to complete the project before the wedding. According to Letitia Baldrige's New Manners for New Times (Simon & Schuster, 2003), invitations should be sent at least six weeks in advance.
Designing, creating and sending out the invitations, announcements and other wedding paper can become overwhelming, unless the couple researchers how to minimize the amount of stationary sent out before the wedding. |
