When it comes to wedding invitations, the choice of cardstock can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your invitations. Cardstock is the thick, durable paper that forms the foundation of your invitations, and it can be found in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes.
The weight of the cardstock is measured in pounds per ream (lb/ream), and the higher the weight, the thicker and more durable the cardstock will be. For wedding invitations, a weight of 100-120 lb/ream is a good choice, as it is thick enough to feel substantial but not so thick that it is difficult to fold or mail.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations:
Cardstock for Wedding Invitations
When choosing cardstock for wedding invitations, there are several important factors to consider:
- Weight
- Color
- Texture
- Finish
- Opacity
- Foldability
- Budget
- Printing method
By considering all of these factors, you can choose the perfect cardstock for your wedding invitations that will complement your wedding theme and style.
Weight
The weight of the cardstock is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. The weight of the cardstock is measured in pounds per ream (lb/ream), and the higher the weight, the thicker and more durable the cardstock will be.
- 80-90 lb/ream: This is a lightweight cardstock that is easy to fold and mail, but it is not as durable as heavier cardstock. It is a good choice for invitations that will be mailed in a standard envelope.
- 100-120 lb/ream: This is a medium-weight cardstock that is more durable than 80-90 lb/ream cardstock, but it is still easy to fold and mail. It is a good choice for invitations that will be mailed in a lined envelope or a pocketfold envelope.
- 130-140 lb/ream: This is a heavyweight cardstock that is very durable and substantial. It is a good choice for invitations that will be mailed in a box or a belly band.
- 150+ lb/ream: This is a very heavyweight cardstock that is very durable and luxurious. It is a good choice for invitations that will be mailed in a box or a belly band, or for invitations that will be used as keepsakes.
The weight of the cardstock you choose will depend on your budget, the style of your wedding invitations, and how you plan to mail your invitations.
Color
The color of the cardstock is another important factor to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. The color of the cardstock will set the tone for your invitations and will complement your wedding theme and style.
- White: White is a classic and elegant choice for wedding invitations. It is a versatile color that can be paired with any color scheme.
- Ivory: Ivory is a warm and sophisticated choice for wedding invitations. It is a good choice for weddings with a vintage or rustic theme.
- Cream: Cream is a soft and subtle choice for wedding invitations. It is a good choice for weddings with a romantic or ethereal theme.
- Gray: Gray is a modern and stylish choice for wedding invitations. It is a good choice for weddings with a contemporary or industrial theme.
You can also choose to use colored cardstock for your wedding invitations. Colored cardstock can add a pop of color to your invitations and make them stand out from the crowd. However, it is important to choose a color that complements your wedding theme and style.
Texture
The texture of the cardstock is another important factor to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. The texture of the cardstock can add visual interest to your invitations and make them more unique. There are many different textures of cardstock available, including:
Smooth: Smooth cardstock has a flat, matte finish. It is a good choice for invitations with a modern or minimalist design.
Laid: Laid cardstock has a subtle, ribbed texture. It is a good choice for invitations with a classic or traditional design.
Felt: Felt cardstock has a soft, velvety texture. It is a good choice for invitations with a romantic or vintage design.
Metallic: Metallic cardstock has a shiny, metallic finish. It is a good choice for invitations with a glamorous or festive design.
You can also choose to use textured cardstock for the envelopes of your wedding invitations. Textured envelopes can add a touch of elegance to your invitations and make them stand out from the crowd.
Finish
The finish of the cardstock is another important factor to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. The finish of the cardstock can affect the look and feel of your invitations.
- Matte: Matte cardstock has a flat, non-reflective finish. It is a good choice for invitations with a modern or minimalist design.
- Glossy: Glossy cardstock has a shiny, reflective finish. It is a good choice for invitations with a glamorous or festive design.
- Pearlescent: Pearlescent cardstock has a subtle, iridescent finish. It is a good choice for invitations with a romantic or vintage design.
- Metallic: Metallic cardstock has a shiny, metallic finish. It is a good choice for invitations with a glamorous or festive design.
You can also choose to use a combination of finishes on your wedding invitations. For example, you could use matte cardstock for the invitation itself and glossy cardstock for the envelope. This can create a unique and eye-catching look.
Opacity
The opacity of the cardstock is another important factor to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. The opacity of the cardstock refers to how well it blocks light. The higher the opacity, the less light will pass through the cardstock.
Cardstock with a high opacity is less likely to show through when printed on both sides. This is important for invitations that will be printed with dark ink or that will have a lot of text. Cardstock with a low opacity may show through when printed on both sides, which can make your invitations look less polished.
The opacity of the cardstock is also important to consider if you are planning to use vellum or other translucent materials in your invitations. If you are using vellum, you will want to choose cardstock with a high opacity so that the vellum does not show through.
The opacity of the cardstock is measured in percent. The higher the percentage, the more opaque the cardstock will be. Most cardstock has an opacity of 90-95%. This is a good level of opacity for most wedding invitations.
If you are unsure about the opacity of the cardstock you are considering, you can ask your printer for a sample. You can also hold the cardstock up to a light source to see how much light passes through it.
Foldability
The foldability of the cardstock is another important factor to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. The foldability of the cardstock refers to how well it can be folded without cracking or tearing.
Cardstock with a high foldability is less likely to crack or tear when folded. This is important for invitations that will be folded multiple times, such as invitations with a pocketfold or a belly band.
The foldability of the cardstock is also important to consider if you are planning to use a die-cut machine to cut out your invitations. Die-cutting can put stress on the cardstock, so it is important to choose cardstock that is foldable enough to withstand the process.
The foldability of the cardstock is measured in points. The higher the points, the more foldable the cardstock will be. Most cardstock has a foldability of 250-300 points. This is a good level of foldability for most wedding invitations.
If you are unsure about the foldability of the cardstock you are considering, you can ask your printer for a sample. You can also try folding the cardstock yourself to see how well it holds up.
Budget
The budget is another important factor to consider when choosing cardstock for wedding invitations. Cardstock can range in price from a few dollars per ream to over a hundred dollars per ream. The price of the cardstock will depend on the weight, color, texture, finish, opacity, and foldability of the cardstock.
If you are on a tight budget, you may want to choose a lighter weight cardstock with a simple finish. You can also save money by buying cardstock in bulk. If you are willing to spend a little more money, you can choose a heavier weight cardstock with a more elaborate finish.
No matter what your budget is, there are many different types of cardstock available that can help you create beautiful and memorable wedding invitations.
Here are some tips for saving money on cardstock for wedding invitations:
- Buy cardstock in bulk.
- Choose a lighter weight cardstock.
- Choose a cardstock with a simple finish.
- Consider using recycled cardstock.
Printing method
The printing method you choose will also affect the type of cardstock you need. There are two main types of printing methods: digital printing and offset printing.
- Digital printing: Digital printing is a quick and affordable way to print wedding invitations. It is a good choice for invitations with simple designs and small print runs. Digital printing can be done on a variety of cardstock types, but it is best suited for lighter weight cardstock.
- Offset printing: Offset printing is a high-quality printing method that produces sharp and vibrant colors. It is a good choice for invitations with complex designs and large print runs. Offset printing can be done on a variety of cardstock types, including heavier weight cardstock.
If you are unsure which printing method is right for you, you can consult with a professional printer. They can help you choose the best printing method and cardstock for your wedding invitations.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about cardstock for wedding invitations:
Question 1: What is the best weight of cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 1: The best weight of cardstock for wedding invitations is 100-120 lb/ream. This weight is thick enough to feel substantial, but it is not so thick that it is difficult to fold or mail.
Question 2: What is the best color of cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 2: The best color of cardstock for wedding invitations is a matter of personal preference. However, some popular colors for wedding invitations include white, ivory, cream, and gray.
Question 3: What is the best texture of cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 3: The best texture of cardstock for wedding invitations is a matter of personal preference. However, some popular textures for wedding invitations include smooth, laid, felt, and metallic.
Question 4: What is the best finish of cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 4: The best finish of cardstock for wedding invitations is a matter of personal preference. However, some popular finishes for wedding invitations include matte, glossy, pearlescent, and metallic.
Question 5: What is the best opacity of cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 5: The best opacity of cardstock for wedding invitations is 90-95%. This level of opacity will prevent the invitations from showing through when printed on both sides.
Question 6: What is the best foldability of cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 6: The best foldability of cardstock for wedding invitations is 250-300 points. This level of foldability will prevent the invitations from cracking or tearing when folded.
Question 7: What is the best budget for cardstock for wedding invitations?
Answer 7: The best budget for cardstock for wedding invitations is a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to remember that the price of the cardstock will depend on the weight, color, texture, finish, opacity, and foldability of the cardstock.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about cardstock for wedding invitations. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to consult with a professional printer.
Now that you know all about cardstock for wedding invitations, here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect cardstock for your big day:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect cardstock for your wedding invitations:
Tip 1: Consider your wedding theme and style. The cardstock you choose should complement your wedding theme and style. For example, if you are having a classic wedding, you may want to choose a white or ivory cardstock with a smooth finish. If you are having a rustic wedding, you may want to choose a kraft cardstock with a laid finish.
Tip 2: Consider the printing method you will be using. The printing method you choose will affect the type of cardstock you need. For example, if you are using digital printing, you will need to choose a cardstock that is compatible with digital printing. If you are using offset printing, you will have a wider range of cardstock options to choose from.
Tip 3: Consider your budget. Cardstock can range in price from a few dollars per ream to over a hundred dollars per ream. The price of the cardstock will depend on the weight, color, texture, finish, opacity, and foldability of the cardstock. Set a budget for your wedding invitations before you start shopping for cardstock.
Tip 4: Order samples. Once you have narrowed down your choices, order samples of the cardstock you are considering. This will allow you to see the cardstock in person and make sure that it is the right weight, color, and texture for your wedding invitations.
By following these tips, you can choose the perfect cardstock for your wedding invitations that will complement your wedding theme and style, work well with your printing method, and fit within your budget.
Now that you know all about cardstock for wedding invitations, you are ready to start shopping for the perfect cardstock for your big day. With so many different options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect cardstock that will make your wedding invitations truly special.
Conclusion
Cardstock is an important part of your wedding invitations. It sets the tone for your wedding and complements your wedding theme and style. When it comes to wedding cardstock, there are many factors to consider, including weight, color, texture, finish, opacity, foldability, and budget. By considering all of these factors, you can choose the perfect cardstock for your wedding that is both beautiful and functional.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering cardstock for wedding invitations.
Weight: The weight of the cardstock will affect how thick and sturdy your invitations will be. For wedding invitations, a weight of 100-120lb/ream is a good choice.
Color: The color of the cardstock will affect the overall look and feel of your invitations. White is a classic choice, but you can also choose other colors, such as ivory, cream, or gray.
Treatment: The treatment of the cardstock will affect the texture and finish of your invitations. Some popular treatment options include smooth, laid, felt, and embossed.
Printing method: The type of print method you use will affect the type of cardstock you need. Digital and offset are both popular options.
Budget: Cardstock can range in price from a few dollars per ream to over a hundred dollars per ream. There are many different types of cardstock available to fit all budgets.
No matter what your style or budget, there is a perfect cardstock for your wedding invitations. With so many different options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect cardstock that will make your invitations look and feel amazing.