Choosing the right card blanks for wedding stationery is an essential part of the planning process. Card blanks can be used to create all of your wedding stationery, from save the date cards through to thank you notes. The blanks will help to set the overall feel and look of the wedding while also playing an important part in the DIY wedding budget.
What Are Card Blanks?
The term 'blank' is used to describe an item that is ready for decorating with rubber stamps and other embellishments. A card blank is a piece of cardstock that has been ready trimmed and folded. Card blanks are often sold complete with envelopes.
Card blanks can be decorated with rubber stamps and other embellishments to transform the plain card into something completely unique. Inserts are a practical way to add important information. Information is printed or written onto a piece of paper to insert into the card instead of printing or writing directly onto the card itself. This has the benefit of reducing the risk of mistakes ruining the finished cards. It is also a practical solution for designs where printed information is to be included as thick cardstock may be difficult to run through a printer.
Types of Card Blanks
Card blanks are available in many shapes, sizes and styles. In addition to standard 'off the shelf' card blanks, many stationery supplies are happy to make card blanks in custom sizes. When buying card blanks the choice will include:
The Weight of the CardstockThis is one of the most important features to consider. The weight of the cardstock used will effect both the look of the card and the cost. Card blanks that are made from cheap cardstock can be flimsy and not stand up without curling. Likewise, very thick cardstock will produce heavy wedding stationery that might be costly to produce as well as send through the post.
Tip: If you are looking to save money, consider one piece cards that are 'post card' style. This style of card will use half of the cardstock and can be a good compromise if money is tight.
Shape of Card BlankThe shape of the card blank will help to determine the overall cost. Card blanks that can be created from standard sizes of cardstock are the most cost effective shape to buy. Cards that are unusual shapes such as ovals or circles can be more expensive as cardstock that is wasted during the cutting process needs to be taken into account. Unusual shaped card blanks may also require custom made envelopes and this can also inflate the price. There are a range of different card folds that can be used to create different shapes from standard sized pieces of cardstock.
Tip: Instead of using unusual shaped card blanks, use rubber stamps and embellishments to make your wedding stationery really stand out. This is more cost effective than getting card blanks specially cut to size.
Style of CardstockSome cardstock is textured, sometimes extremely so, and while this gives an attractive finish to a card blank, it can make present a difficult surface to stamp on. Popular textures include hammered, linen and leather.
Tip: If you want to used a textured cardstock then consider stamping onto plain paper and adhering this to the front of the card.
QuantityThe quantity of card blanks required will obviously have an effect on the total price. Many suppliers offer discounts for bulk purchases. Buying in bulk can be a cost effective way to purchase a large number of cards, however it can limit you to a single shape and size.
Tip: Consider buying in bulk and splitting the cost with a friend or sell the unused card blanks to recover part of the cost.
ColorCard blanks are available in many different colors. Even if a particular color is not available as standard, many stationery supply stores are able to get card blanks custom made in a specific color. Colors such as white and cream are often the most economical to buy, whereas custom or unusual colors are likely to be the most expensive. The color of wedding stationery is important and many couples like to pick a color that complements their overall wedding theme. Neutral shades provide a good backdrop to a variety of styles whereas bold and distinctive colors can make a dramatic choice.
Tip: Use inks and embellishments to add color to neutral card blanks. Colored paper inserts are another low cost way to bring color to wedding stationery.
Alternatives to Using Card Blanks
There are alternatives to using ready made card blanks to make wedding stationery. Very effective card blanks can be created from sheets of cardstock. These may need cutting and folding in order to make them into wedding stationery. The most effective way of making wedding stationery is to create cards that can be cut from single sheets of cardstock. Some typical sizes of cardstock are in 8.5x11”, 11x17” and 12x12”.
Benefits of Card BlanksThere are many benefits of card blanks. These include:
- Card blanks are ready to use, there is no need to cut, trim or fold the blanks before use
- The cards blanks have been professionally produced and their quality should reflect this
- Discounts are often available for buying in bulk
There are some drawbacks to buying card blanks. These include:
- More expensive than making your own card blanks
- Offer less flexibility regarding size and shape than making your own
