Totally Free, Totally Rockin Diy Vinyl Record Wedding Invitation

Want your wedding invitation to be a truly unique and memorable experience? Look no further than a vinyl record invitation! This innovative design features ‘Side One’ with the essential details – names, date, and location – in a fun, retro font style, while ‘Side Two’ provides information about the reception. The outer sleeve is inspired by the iconic 1979 Van Halen album art, with your names displayed prominently on the front and RSVP and event details listed on the back.

If you’re a music lover with a collection of vinyl records at home, you can even create this invitation yourself using our free template downloads and step-by-step photo tutorial below. The best part? You can customize the color scheme to match your personal style by simply printing on different colored paper.

Supplies:

To get started with this creative project, you’ll need a few basic supplies. First, click the link provided to access the free template files. Then, gather the following materials: a printer (or make photocopies) for printing out the design; scissors for cutting out the shapes; double-sided tape for adhering the pieces together; two colors of card stock – I used brown kraft and razzle pink – as well as metallic black card stock to resemble faux vinyl records.

If you want to speed up the process, consider investing in a Martha Stewart Circle Cutter or a standard circle punch (I used 2.5 inches but any radius will do). Additionally, have an Instant Hole Setter on hand for making precise holes. Finally, you’ll need a fine-tip silver paint pen for added details and a 5.5-inch square envelope to house your finished project.

The Template:

How to use the free templates to make your own DIY vinyl record wedding invitations:

While the appearance of the files may have changed, our redesign aimed to make them more user-friendly and intuitive.

Step 1: Download, edit, and print

Before sending out the final print run, take the time to review a single test invitation for any last-minute mistakes. This includes checking for spelling errors, ensuring the correct dates are listed, and verifying the layout and grammar are accurate. Consider having someone else take a look over your work as well, just in case they catch something you missed. By doing so, you’ll be confident that your invitations are error-free and professional-looking.

Step 2: Trim the sleeve

To begin the process of transforming your garment, start by carefully cutting along the trim lines to remove the sleeves. Next, use a scoring tool or the back of an X-acto knife to create precise creases along the center line and flap lines. It’s essential to be mindful of your movements to avoid accidental cuts. The scored lines will aid in producing a clean and crisp edge once the garment is folded.

To prepare for the next step, fold the sleeve in half, ensuring that the design side faces outward and the flaps are tucked in.

Step 3: Tape the sleeve

Securely attach the flaps by applying a strip of double-sided tape to each one and folding the sleeve in half. Use the weight of your palm or the heel of your hand to apply even pressure and ensure a tight seal. As an alternative, you can use a glue stick, although this method may leave behind a slight residue.

Step 4: Notch the sleeve

To simplify the process, consider using a circle punch to remove the top seam from the sleeve in a single, swift motion. Alternatively, you can opt for good old-fashioned scissors. If time is not on your side, however, feel free to skip this step altogether – after all, there are more important things than getting bogged down in tedious details.

Step 5: Cut records

When it’s time to cut records, you’re faced with a decision: do you opt for traditional scissors or invest in a circle cutter? Here are two approaches to get the job done.

Option 1: Go Old-School
To create your record template using scissors, grab the included paper template and punch out the center hole using an Instant Hole Setter. Then, use this template to trace onto your black card, making sure to mark the center hole as well.

Cut out the black circles and punch a center hole in each one using the same hole setter.

A pro tip for cutting smooth circles: keep your scissors still and move the card instead. Use long sweeping strokes with the entire length of the blade to achieve a seamless circle, avoiding small snips that can leave multiple edges.

Option 2: Get High-Tech
If you prefer gadgets and speed, consider investing in a circle cutter set to 4.875 inches.

Simply hold the cutting template against your card and run the included tool around the edge. Voilà! You’ll get two records per sheet with ease.

One thing to keep in mind: you’ll still need to punch a center hole in each record using the Instant Hole Setter.

TIP: Make the process more enjoyable by enlisting the help of friends and family. Form a production line, giving each person a task to complete as they move down the line.

And don’t forget to have some wine and cheese (or beer and pizza) on hand – but maybe pace yourself so you don’t end up with any… creative… circle shapes!

Step 6: Cut labels

To properly prepare a piece of cardboard for use, start by cutting off any excess material from the front and back edges, leaving only the central section intact. Next, locate the pre-punched center hole and ensure it is still intact and free from any damage. With these initial steps complete, you’ll be ready to move forward with your project.

Step 7: Attach labels

To ensure secure attachment, employ double-sided tape or a reliable adhesive substance – such as a glue stick – to affix both the front and rear labels onto each document. Utilize the central hole as a reference point for precise alignment and secure fastening.

Step 8: Add glare (optional)

To add an extra touch of sophistication to your records, use the silver paint pen to draw ‘glare’ lines along the edges. Once complete, these embellished records can be carefully placed into their sleeve. The finished invitation will fit neatly inside a 5.5-inch square envelope, making it easy to mail and share with others. And that’s it – a simple yet effective DIY project that yields a truly impressive result!