Can a store-bought wedding invitation be changed up for ten different looks? And can it be accomplished on a budget? You bet!
Using simple and inexpensive ideas, a standard invitation package was transformed into ten unique, stylish versions. This DIY invitation comes to us from Shelly and Megan, the creative mother/daughter team who founded online retailer, Paper Mojo.
For this makeover, Shelly used a classic Rossi patterned decorative sheet from the Flowers collection (TSC 027).
Here are Shelly’s simple instructions:
#1 Add an envelope liner. Our invitation came with a square flap envelope. All it takes is one square of cut paper and double-sided tape to secure the liner. With the extra paper, we added a wide belly band, holding all the pieces together, neat and tidy.
#2 Add a Fuscia backer card. The purchased invitation is actually a little smaller than 5” x 7” (4.875” x 6.878”), making it easy to add a standard size backer card.
#3 Add drama with black. Adding black backer sheets provides a thicker border and focuses the eye on the invite copy.
#4 Create a package by laminating to the Rossi paper. Add a black cord tie and tag. Who doesn’t love to open a package!
#5 Adding a fancy pocket organizes the content – response card, directions, etc.. especially if you prefer to keep the front side completely original.
#6 Add the Rossi sheet to the back of the invitation, directions and response card and tie the bundle together with a coordinating ribbon. This is another good way to introduce color and pattern into your invitation.
#7 Create a gatefold by placing the invite on larger paper – 5 x 7- then scoring and folding the sides. Add a bellyband and secure with an elegant monogram tag.
#8 Add a contrasting color envelope and backer card for a country look. Switch the envelope to a pointed flap and you have a completely different look.
#9 Use a bit of origami style folding to create a decorative paper closure on a folded card. The result looks elegant and classic and holds the invitation together in a unique way. Inside, a simple band secures the invitation enclosures.
#10 Add elegance with a pocket fold invitation jacket. They’re available in a variety of sizes and shapes so a standard size invitation will nicely fill the center panel. The pocket fold is lined like an envelope and the outside gets a layered seal, allowing it to easily open and close.
Shelly says that most of these ideas work well for a beginner paper crafter and require only basic paper crafting tools like scissors and paper cutter or trimmer. What’s truly amazing is the affordability …. usually only a few dollars to completely transform the look.
Want to learn more? Shelly provides detailed instructions, a cost breakdown, and additional photos on the Paper Mojo website.
For more information, visit www.rossi1931.it