Making your own wedding invitations saves money, lets you personalise every detail, and is more achievable than you might think. Here's a simple step-by-step approach, plus the choices that make the biggest difference to the finished result.

1. Choose your card

Your card sets the tone before a word is read. For a quality, substantial feel, most invitations use 250–300gsm. Linen adds a classic, textured elegance, pearlescent brings shimmer for evening or winter weddings, and smooth suits crisp modern designs. Our wedding cardstock guide covers this in depth — and it's always worth ordering a sample first.

2. Design your wording and layout

Keep it clear: names, date, time, venue and RSVP details. Free tools like Canva have wedding templates, or you can commission a designer for the artwork and print it yourself. Leave a sensible margin and choose a font that stays legible at size.

3. Print a test sheet

Always run a test on the same card before printing the full batch. On textured stock especially, check ink density and drying — see our guide to printing on textured card. Print one sheet at a time and select a heavy/cardstock setting.

4. Cut and assemble

A guillotine or trimmer gives clean, straight edges. For a layered look, mount your printed insert onto a slightly larger backing card in a complementary finish. Double-sided tape or a fine glue gives a neat finish.

5. Add the finishing touches

Ribbon, wax seals, vellum wraps or a pearlescent liner lift a simple invitation into something special. Coordinate the same look across your RSVP cards, menus and order of service for a cohesive suite.

Our tips

Buy 10–15% extra card for tests and mistakes; bulk packs make this economical. Assemble a full sample invitation before committing to the whole run — it's the best way to catch anything early.

Start with our Ivory or White Silkweave linen card, and finish with wax seal kits for that special touch.