Vellum is as versatile as it is light and airy, making it a popular choice when creating wedding invitations. Elegant and delicate, it changes like a chameleon.

Because it is so sheer, overlaying is a favorite technique when working with vellum. To overlay is to place the translucent vellum paper over the card stock. Vellum overlays create a soft look for wedding invitations and look just as expressive whether placed over crisp, white stock or stock with an intricate design. Vellum can change the tone of a patterned paper; if that’s the effect you’re looking for. To mute or soften a patterned paper, try placing white or pastel vellum on top. Or, alternately, use a decorative floral motif vellum and experiment with different colored card stocks beneath it. Watch and see the different moods you can create.

When you’ve selected the perfect vellum for your invitations, print your message on it and affix the vellum to your stock. To create a real eye-catcher, use color ink-jet photographic vellum. Print the couple’s engagement photo or other memorable image for an unforgettable invitation.

Attaching the vellum to the stock can be approached in different ways. A vellum adhesive is available, packaged in rolls like tape. But some of the most creative and artistic ways to affix vellum don’t involve adhesives. Other attractive and fun methods are sewing it to the cardstock with stitches or a button, using brads, clips, or other paper fasteners, and punching a hole or holes in it and tying it with a ribbon.

Vellum is not just for overlays though. For the same reasons it is so popular as an overlay - its versatility and artistic effect - make it desirable to use as an invitation wrap. Experiment with different colors and designs to discover the perfect presentation for your invitations. Complete the picture with an elegant ribbon or bow. Whatever mood or feeling you’d like to evoke, you can achieve it with vellum.

Tags: vellum, creative invitations, invitation paper, vellum paper