invitation papers and printing

[invitationdiva]

getting just the right look for an invitation,particularly a custom one,can be somewhat confusing. First,start with the paper. Choose a heavy paper,over 100# cover,in any colour you might like,something formal or to match your theme.Keep in mind that you will not be able to mix and match various papers and linings with the exception of high end books-that is what you are paying for. Also note that you may not be able to do what is called a short run-less than 75 or 100 invitations. No custom art either,unless you already have some camera ready art. There are several "finishes" for papers in general. For example,a vellum-yes,there are two "l"s in vellum,that is a flat smooth finish,suitable for almost any printing from thermography(flat raised printing with powder and heat)and engraving which is expensive and requires two printing plates. For letterpress,which also requires two plates and is somewhat more expensive that offset for example,choose a heavy Italian paper which will generally have a felt finish and will take the impression quite nicely. All of these suggestions are for the customer who is considering doing her own invitation. For someone who is looking at invitation books at a stationery store,choose a store that carried AT LEAST fifteen or so books. You will be just looking,there is no cost for this,you need as broad a range of items as you can get. Be leery of a store that only carries two or three books-you will not get an overview of just what is out there as well as the pricing. Stores must pay for these books,and the higher end ones are more expensive than the less expensive ones. In addition,the ones offered by high end vendors are not offered to low end stores. Take a close look at the envelopes as well. The less expensive books,Carlson Craft,Rytex etc. glue down the envelopes so you cannot see or feel the actual weight. Try to get a sales person who is familiar with all the books to guide you-not a part time employee-they will not be overly interested in finding just the right book for you and will not have the information you need.