invites

Here is one of my designs for simple hand-made invites.



There are five basic parts to this card: the backer piece, the printed piece, the vellum cover, twine, and of course, the envelope.



When printing the actual text on the card stock, I use the column feature in Word to separate my page into two columns, and then print the text twice in each column. This makes getting an even border when cutting it out a lot easier. I also prefer to use scrapbooking fonts, although handwriting invites can add a nice personal touch if the handwriting is clear and neat.

Your backer cards and vellum should measure 4 1/4" x 5 1/2".

Helpful hint: Each 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of card stock and/or vellum makes four 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" pieces, when cut down the center both ways. And these cards fit perfectly into 4 1/2" x 5 3/4" envelopes - a standard size carried by craft and stationary stores.

Trim the printed card stock to a slightly smaller size than the backer card. This will reveal a nice border of contrasting color. I prefer to use Zots to adhere the printed piece, because it gives it some depth. Then cover with the vellum (do not adhere), which not only looks nice but also protects the printing. Tie it all up with a piece of twine and it's ready to be put into the envelope and mailed!

The best thing about this design is that it can be adapted for various occasions, just by changing the color scheme and vellum cover. Having a fall wedding? Just coordinate the shower invite colors with the wedding colors:



Or say you're making baby shower invites. Change your color palate to pastels, and use blue or pink ribbon in place of the twine.

The possibilities are really endless.