So, you have picked the paper colour, texture and finish to make up your dream stationery. But did you know that there is one more thing to consider regarding the overall look of your design? That’s right—how will it be assembled and finished so that it really creates that WOW factor?

We have a few ideas for you to consider!

[media-credit name=”Joanna Moss Photography” link=”https://joannamossphotography.com/” align=”aligncenter” width=”850″][/media-credit]

Layer it!

Layering your invitation on, two, or even three paper mats is still the most common finishing option that we see. Colours can be bold and vibrant, or subtle to bring your guests’ eyes directly to the text. With so many paper and colour choices, the combinations are virtually endless! In fact, that last layer can even be a pocket created to house the extra tidbits like the rsvp card + envelope as well as the details card.

A few things to consider if layering is the look for you:

• • Each layer of matting will add weight to the total package. The more weight you have, the more postage will cost
  • Normally each layer will showcase approximately 1/8″ of colour on each side. This means that for each layer, the next size down will be 1/4″ smaller. (Matting layer is 5″x7″ so the next mat or invitation size will be 4.75″x6.75″ and so on). The more layers, the less room you will have for text.

[media-credit name=”Ken Tan Photography” link=”http://www.kentanphoto.com/” align=”aligncenter” width=”850″][/media-credit]

Deckle it!

A deckled edge is that old fashioned “torn edge” look. Why is it called a Deckled edge? Well, a deckle is the wooden box or frame that was used to make paper up until modern papermaking methods were created. The papermaker would pour the wet paper pulp into this frame and let it dry into sheets of paper. The boxes were not completely waterproof, which means that small amounts of pulp would leak through. That little extra leaking, when dried, created that torn look.

Nowadays we can create that torn look with most papers, however, an uncoated cardstock tends to work best.

Something to consider if deckling is the look for you:

Because each piece is still hand torn to create that look, more time is required for your stationer to do it. This will add assembly cost. So, don’t be surprised if there is a larger charge for this service!

[media-credit name=”Modern Romance Photography” link=”https://www.modernromanceweddings.com/” align=”aligncenter” width=”850″][/media-credit]

Band it!

A great way of finishing your design and also keeping everything together is to add a belly band. Belly bands can be paper, twine, string, cloth… whatever can be wrapped around the invitation package while still allowing the package to fit into the envelope.

We have some clients who use twine or string to tie the design, and then add a monogram tag, as seen in the image above.

Something to consider if banding is the look for you:

If you are looking to add a belly band, ensure that the pieces can still fit within the envelope with minimal bunching. Most envelope postage is calculated not only by total weight (including the envelope and stamp!), but also by the size. This means if there is a part of the invite that buldges (like where the bow is), and it is unable to fit within the slot, you may be charged extra for shipping.

Did you like our list of finishing touches? Did we miss something important? What is your favourite look? Let us know in the comments below!