It is often customary to offer some congratulations to the newlyweds. Today, I'll show you how to do this in the form of a book, where each guest can sign during the wedding, and which you can later browse together. On the cover, there is also space to stick one or multiple wedding photos. If you don't completely fill the book, you also have the opportunity to stick extra photos as memories.
Step 1: Making Envelopes and Cards
First, download the templates for the envelopes and print the ones you need. There is a variant for a rectangular and one for a square envelope.
Now cut out the template and transfer it with a pencil onto the cardboard. Then, cut everything out and fold along the dotted lines of the templates. It is easier and straighter with a ruler. Crease the folds with a fingernail or a bone folder. Then, glue the cards together. The respective longer flap remains outside. Make sure not to glue the envelope together on the inside by accident.
The steps are the same for both sizes, they are optimized for the ring binder and can be arranged in various ways. More about this later. Those who don't want to craft themselves can use ready-made envelopes in matching sizes.
The cards are then made from the white cardboard. For the rectangular envelopes, they should be 10 x 6.5 cm, and for the square ones, 9.5 x 9.5 cm.
Step 2: Designing the Book Pages
First, the scrapbook paper is glued on and then cut to size. This has the advantage that it fits perfectly and there are no gaps. Be careful not to apply the liquid glue too thickly as the paper may ripple. Use an old brush or a glue stick if necessary.
Once the glue is dried, turn the page over, place it on a cutting mat, and cut off any excess edges.
To attach the envelopes, use double-sided tape. This way you can position them better and they adhere immediately. Depending on the envelope size, attach 2-3 strips. Besides the six options, there are naturally more. The total amount also depends on the number of guests.
The first page is left out so that it can later – like the cover – be decorated with die-cuts. Because there you can later write a few words for your guests or other important dates or details about the wedding.
Step 3: Decorating the Cover
You can now decorate the cover with the die-cuts, roses, and lace trim as you wish. If you're unsure how you want to place things, lay out the individual elements first and move them around until you're satisfied with the result. Only then should you glue them one by one. If you take a photo beforehand, you can replicate it exactly.
Use double-sided tape for the lace trim. It smears less and adheres instantly. To prevent the ends from fraying or coming loose, cut them a bit longer, and then stick them on the inside. Cut the roses apart to slightly increase the spacing.
Once everything is securely attached, label the book. On the cover, you can, for example, write the couple's names in the pink pennants and the date in the smaller field below. Place it in the foyer on wedding day. The cards should be placed beside it with a pen so everyone can sign in and then choose an envelope.
Have fun crafting!
