DIY Network

Handmade Wedding Invitation From "How To I Do" episode DHTI-102

Sandi Genovese offered her paper crafting talents to a very lucky bride -- her niece.

Guest expert Sandi Genovese shares a how-to for creating a custom wedding invitation with inserts and reply cards.

Materials:

Paper: Canson
Adhesive: Xyron and Hermafix
Custom dies: Ellison
Gold heart sticker: Cut with a Sizzix die
Ribbon
Gauzy paper: Sterling Art Store

advertisement

Genovese crafted 200 invitations, inserts and reply cards -- elegantly wrapped in handmade paper and ribbon.

1. Cut out base of invitation using pattern or die-cut. (Note: In this demonstration, Sandi Genovese uses a custom invitation pattern. See Resources for a supplier of custom invitation patterns and dies.)

2. Fold on the crease lines. Add adhesive to the side tabs, fold up and fasten to the body of the invitation to create the pocket.

3. Print cards with special wedding information (i.e., directions), then trim all cards to the same width. Vary the heights so that they are graduated sizes when they are sitting inside the pocket.

4. Print the wedding announcement, trim and double-mat to a size that fits inside the invitation. Wrap the gauzy paper around the matted invitation, overlapping it in the front.

5. Fasten coordinating ribbon to the invitation, and fasten the matted and wrapped invitation to the top panel (over the ribbon).

6. Tie the ribbon ends into a bow, trimming any excess ribbon after the bow has been tied.

7. Cut out reply envelopes if using a custom die or pattern (U.S. mail requires envelopes to measure at least 3.5" x 5"). Fold on the crease lines. Place adhesive on the inside edges of the bottom flap and fold up to complete the envelope.(Note: Sandi also uses a custom envelope die available from Ellison, in Resources, below.)

8. Print the reply information onto a card that fits into the reply envelope. Mat the reply card and insert into the envelope.

9. Slide the filled reply envelope into the bottom pocket with the top envelope flap exposed.

10. Cut out the invitation envelope with the pattern provided and fold on the crease lines. Place the completed invitation inside and fold the four envelope flaps so that they meet in the middle. Seal with a gold heart sticker.

11. Be sure to weigh the completed invitation at the post office for the correct postage amount.

RESOURCES :

TheKnot.com
To create your own wedding checklist and budget, go to TheKnot.com.

To Order Custom Invitation and Envelope Patterns and Dies
Ellison
Web site: www.Ellison.com