Planning a wedding can be overwhelming and expensive, but making your own invitations is an easy way to save money and add a personal touch to your special day. With a little creativity and some DIY inspiration, you can create beautiful invitations that are unique to your style and wedding theme.
Using wedding invitation templates can also help make the process easier and more efficient. These templates provide a starting point for your design and allow you to customize the colors, fonts, and wording to fit your preferences.
In this article, we’ll share tips and tricks for creating your own wedding invitations using templates, as well as provide inspiration for DIY designs. Whether you’re looking to save money or just want to add a personal touch to your invitations, this guide has everything you need to get started.
Ready to make your own DIY wedding invitations? Keep reading for our step-by-step guide and free templates to help you create beautiful invitations on a budget.
Create Beautiful Invitations on a Budget
Wedding invitations can be one of the most expensive parts of planning your big day, but with a little creativity, you can make beautiful invitations that won’t break the bank. To start, consider using digital templates, which can be customized to fit your wedding theme and colors. There are countless websites where you can find free or affordable invitation templates to download and edit to your liking.
Another budget-friendly option is to create your own invitations from scratch. While this may sound intimidating, there are plenty of tutorials available online to help guide you through the process. You can use materials such as cardstock, ribbon, and decorative paper to make your invitations stand out. And don’t forget to add a personal touch, such as a special message or photo.
Finally, consider enlisting the help of friends and family. Invite them over for a DIY invitation-making party and make an event out of it. This not only saves you money, but it also adds a fun and personal touch to your wedding invitations. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can create beautiful wedding invitations that won’t break the bank.
Paper Choices That Look Expensive But Aren’t
| Paper Type | Cost per sheet | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mulberry Paper | $0.50 | Handmade paper made from the bark of the Mulberry tree. It has a unique texture and is perfect for rustic or boho-style invitations. |
| Vellum Paper | $0.30 | A translucent paper that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any invitation. It is versatile and can be used for overlays, belly bands, and more. |
| Linen Paper | $0.20 | A textured paper that mimics the look and feel of linen fabric. It is a classic choice for traditional or formal invitations. |
There are many other affordable paper options available, such as kraft paper, cardstock, and even recycled paper. Don’t be afraid to mix and match textures and colors to create a unique and personalized invitation suite.
When choosing paper, consider the weight and thickness of the paper. A heavier weight paper will give your invitations a more substantial feel and look more expensive than a thinner paper. Look for paper with a weight of at least 80lb or 220 gsm.
Lastly, consider purchasing paper in bulk. Buying paper in bulk can save you money in the long run and give you more options when it comes to customization.
Unique Embellishments That Won’t Break the Bank
- Ribbon: Adding a simple ribbon to your invitation can give it an elegant touch without costing a lot of money. Choose a ribbon that complements the colors of your invitation and tie it in a bow or knot.
- Stamps: Look for unique stamps that match the theme of your wedding. Whether it’s a floral design or a vintage postcard stamp, it’s an easy way to add interest to your invitations.
- Wax seals: Wax seals are an old-fashioned touch that can make your invitations feel special. You can find inexpensive wax seal kits online and use them to seal the envelopes or add them as an embellishment to the invitation itself.
- Embossing: Embossing can add texture and dimension to your invitations without breaking the bank. You can buy an embossing tool and use it to create designs on your invitation, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
- Envelope liners: Envelope liners are an unexpected detail that can add a pop of color or pattern to your invitations. You can make your own liners using scrapbook paper or buy pre-made liners online.
Adding unique embellishments to your DIY wedding invitations is a great way to make them stand out without spending a lot of money. Whether you choose to add ribbon, stamps, wax seals, embossing, or envelope liners, these details will give your invitations a personalized touch and make your guests feel special.
Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Wedding Invitations
Are you ready to tackle DIY wedding invitations but don’t know where to start? Follow these simple steps and create the perfect invitations for your special day:
Plan Ahead: Start early and decide on your theme, color scheme, and design before you begin.
Gather Your Supplies: Purchase high-quality cardstock, envelopes, and any other embellishments you want to add, like ribbon or rhinestones.
Design and Print: Use a free online template or design your own invitations using software like Adobe Photoshop or Canva. Print a test run to ensure everything looks perfect.
Assemble: Cut your invitations to size, add any embellishments, and glue everything together. Don’t forget to include a separate insert with RSVP information and any other details your guests need to know.
Send Them Out: Double-check everything, including addresses, postage, and mailing deadlines, before sending out your beautiful DIY wedding invitations.
Planning Your Invitation Design
Before you start creating your DIY wedding invitations, it’s essential to plan your invitation design. Think about the theme and colors of your wedding and how you want to incorporate them into your invitations. Consider incorporating unique design elements, such as hand-drawn illustrations or custom monograms, to make your invitations stand out.
When planning your design, also think about the size and shape of your invitations. Standard sizes are 5×7 inches or 4.5×6.25 inches, but you can also create square or even circular invitations. Just make sure that your chosen size and shape fit well with your design and are easy to mail.
Another important aspect to consider when planning your design is typography. Choose fonts that are easy to read and complement your overall design. Consider using script fonts for a romantic feel or bold sans-serif fonts for a modern look. Just make sure that your chosen fonts are legible and don’t clash with each other.
Choosing the Right Paper and Printing Method
Once you have your design finalized, it’s time to choose the perfect paper to print your invitations on. First, consider the weight and texture of the paper. You want to choose a paper that will give your invitations a high-end feel without breaking the bank. Look for options like linen, vellum, or metallic finishes to add some extra flair.
When it comes to printing, you have a few options. If you have a high-quality printer at home, you can print them yourself. But keep in mind that some papers may not work well with certain types of printers. Another option is to take your design to a local print shop, where they can help you choose the best paper and printing method for your budget.
If you want to add some extra detail to your invitations, consider using a foil printing technique. Foil printing adds a metallic finish to your text or design, and can give your invitations a luxurious look without the high cost. You can also experiment with different printing methods, like letterpress or screen printing, to create a unique and personalized invitation.
Assembling Your Invitations Like a Pro
Once you have your printed invitations and all the necessary materials, it’s time to assemble them. Here are some tips for a professional-looking finish:Organize your materials: Set up a work station with all the materials you’ll need including the invitations, envelopes, liners, adhesive, and any embellishments you’re using.
Follow a template: Use a template to help you position everything correctly. This will make sure your invitations are consistent and look professional.
Double-check everything: Before you start gluing or sticking anything down, double-check that everything is in the right place and facing the right way.
Use adhesive carefully: Use a glue roller or glue dots to attach embellishments and liners. These are less messy and more precise than liquid glue.
Be patient: Take your time and work slowly to avoid mistakes. Assembling invitations can be time-consuming, but the result is worth it.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your invitations look polished and professional. With a little bit of effort, you can create beautiful DIY wedding invitations that will impress your guests.Free Wedding Invitation Templates for Your Big Day
One of the best ways to save money on your wedding invitations is to use a free template. There are many beautiful options available online that you can customize to fit your unique style and theme.
Some popular sources for free wedding invitation templates include websites like Canva, Adobe Spark, and Etsy. You can choose from a variety of designs, from elegant and classic to modern and trendy.
When selecting a template, be sure to consider your printing options. Some templates may require a specific type of paper or printer, so make sure you have access to the necessary materials before making your final selection.
Once you’ve chosen your template and customized it to your liking, it’s time to print and assemble your invitations. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create beautiful, personalized invitations that will impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.
So don’t hesitate to take advantage of the many free wedding invitation templates available online. With a little bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can create stunning invitations that will make your big day even more memorable.
Flourishing Script: This classic and timeless design features elegant flourishes and a beautiful script font, perfect for a traditional wedding.
Formal Elegance: With its sophisticated border and formal font, this template is a perfect fit for a black-tie affair.
Regal Monogram: Add a touch of royalty to your wedding with this regal monogram design, featuring a classic crest and formal font.
Traditional Border: This simple yet elegant design features a classic border and a clean, easy-to-read font, making it a great choice for a traditional wedding.
Romantic Script: The delicate script font and floral embellishments on this template add a touch of romance and sophistication to your wedding invitations.
Modern and Chic Templates for Contemporary Weddings
If you’re planning a contemporary wedding, you’ll want an invitation that reflects your style. Check out these modern and chic templates:
- Geometric Glam: This template features bold, geometric shapes and metallic accents for a modern and sophisticated look.
- Watercolor Wonder: Soft, flowing watercolors in a modern abstract design give this template a chic and artistic feel.
- Minimalist Marvel: For a sleek and simple invitation, this template is perfect. With minimalistic fonts and a bold monochromatic color scheme, it’s sure to make an impact.
- Boho Beauty: This template is perfect for a bohemian or rustic-chic wedding. It features hand-drawn florals and a playful, modern layout.
- Contemporary Calligraphy: This template combines modern typography with classic calligraphy for a unique and trendy look. Perfect for a modern romantic wedding.
No matter your style, these modern and chic templates are sure to impress your guests and set the tone for your contemporary wedding celebration.
Tips for Printing Your DIY Wedding Invitations
If you’ve decided to print your own wedding invitations, you may be wondering where to start. Here are some tips to make the process as smooth as possible:
Choose the right printer: Invest in a good quality printer that can handle different types of paper and produce high-quality prints.
Test your design: Before printing your entire batch of invitations, print a few samples to make sure everything looks good and there are no errors.
Use the right paper: Make sure to use paper that is compatible with your printer and matches the look and feel you want for your invitations.
Consider professional printing: If you’re struggling to get the results you want, consider having your invitations professionally printed by a local print shop or online service.
Printing at Home vs. Professional Printing
When it comes to printing your DIY wedding invitations, you have two options: printing at home or hiring a professional printing service.
Cost: Printing at home is generally less expensive than professional printing, especially if you have a good quality printer and paper on hand.
Quality: Professional printing services use high-end printers and paper, resulting in a higher quality finished product. However, with the right equipment and attention to detail, you can achieve professional-looking results at home.
Convenience: Printing at home allows you to have more control over the printing process and timeline. However, professional printing services can save you time and effort, as they handle all aspects of printing and delivery.
Quantity: If you only need a small number of invitations, printing at home may be the more cost-effective option. However, for larger quantities, professional printing services can offer bulk discounts and save you money in the long run.
DIY Wedding Invitation Inspiration and Ideas
Get Creative with Colors: Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors that represent your wedding theme. Try to incorporate bold and bright hues to make your invitation stand out.
Play with Typography: Explore different typography styles to add a unique touch to your invitation. You can mix different fonts to create a modern or vintage feel, or stick to one font for a minimalist look.
Add Some Texture: Adding texture to your invitation can make it look more luxurious and high-end. Consider using paper with a linen, matte, or metallic finish, or add some embellishments like ribbon, lace, or crystals.
Incorporate Personal Touches: Make your invitation more personal by adding elements that represent you and your partner’s interests. This can be anything from your favorite quote to a picture of your pet.
Use Non-Traditional Materials: Why limit yourself to paper? Consider using non-traditional materials like acrylic, wood, or even fabric to make your invitation stand out and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Creative Color Schemes and Themes
If you want your DIY wedding invitations to stand out, consider choosing a creative color scheme or theme. Some popular options include:
- Bohemian: Incorporate bright and bold colors, floral patterns, and natural textures like wood and lace.
- Minimalist: Keep it simple with black and white or neutral colors, clean lines, and modern typography.
- Rustic: Use earthy tones like brown, green, and beige, and add elements like burlap, twine, and vintage illustrations.
- Tropical: Embrace a beachy vibe with bright colors like turquoise and coral, tropical foliage, and beach-inspired graphics.
- Art Deco: Go for a vintage-inspired look with bold geometric shapes, metallic colors, and elegant typography.
When choosing your color scheme or theme, be sure to consider your wedding venue and overall wedding style for a cohesive look.
Calligraphy: Use calligraphy to add a personalized touch to your invitations. You can either hire a professional calligrapher or learn how to do it yourself using online tutorials or calligraphy books.
Watercolors: Incorporate watercolors into your invitations by painting floral or abstract designs. You can either use watercolor paper or print your design on regular paper and then paint over it.
Handwritten text: Instead of printing the text on your invitations, consider writing it by hand using calligraphy or your own handwriting. This adds a personal and unique touch to your invitations.
Embellishments: Add embellishments to your invitations, such as ribbons, lace, or dried flowers, to give them a more rustic and handmade feel.
Custom stamps: Create your own custom stamps to use on your invitations. This is a fun and easy way to add a unique design element and make your invitations stand out.
Adding Personal Touches with Custom Monograms and Photos
If you want to make your wedding invitations truly unique, consider adding custom monograms or photos. A monogram is a decorative design made up of letters, usually the initials of a couple’s names. You can create your own monogram or use one from a template. Adding a photo of you and your fiancé can also make your invitations special and personal.
There are many ways to incorporate these personalized touches into your invitations. You can have a custom stamp made with your monogram or use an online printing service to create photo cards. Another option is to print your monogram or photo onto vellum paper and layer it over your invitation.
When designing your invitations with these personal touches, be sure to keep the overall style of your wedding in mind. A monogram or photo that doesn’t match your wedding’s theme or color scheme can look out of place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using DIY wedding invitation templates?
DIY wedding invitation templates can be a cost-effective way to create beautiful and personalized invitations without breaking the bank. They also offer the flexibility to customize the design to match your wedding theme and color scheme, and allow you to add your personal touch to the invitations.
Where can I find DIY wedding invitation templates?
There are many websites that offer free and paid DIY wedding invitation templates, including Etsy, Creative Market, and Canva. You can also find templates on wedding blogs, Pinterest, and social media.
What materials do I need to print DIY wedding invitations?
You will need a printer, high-quality paper or cardstock, and ink cartridges. It’s also recommended to use a paper cutter, ruler, and bone folder to achieve clean and crisp edges. You may also want to consider adding embellishments such as ribbons, lace, or glitter to enhance the design.
How do I customize a DIY wedding invitation template?
To customize a DIY wedding invitation template, you will need to have access to editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Canva. You can then edit the text, font, color, and images to match your desired design. You can also add or remove elements, adjust the layout, and resize the template to fit your preferred size.
What tips do you have for printing DIY wedding invitations at home?
Some tips for printing DIY wedding invitations at home include using a high-quality printer with a high resolution, choosing the right paper or cardstock that is compatible with your printer, and doing a test print before printing a large batch. It’s also recommended to print a few extra copies in case of mistakes or errors, and to give yourself enough time to complete the printing process before the wedding day.