Invitation Paper Options

The kind of paper you choose can set the tone for your entire event. Traditional formal invitations were made from cotton or wood paper in white or ecru (also known as cream, ivory, or egg shell). Ecru is more popular in the Americas while white is the color of choice in Europe. But today there are many more options to choose from and paper is just the beginning!

Here are definitions for just some of the types of paper offered:

100% cotton:

Because this paper is smooth and pure it is the most desirable and used for the most formal invitations. And yes, it costs more.

Linen:

This is an invitation favorite. It has a linen cross weave texture in comparison to the pure smooth cotton stock.

Mylar:

You've probably seen this type of material as a balloon somewhere. It's very shiny and mirror-like in appearance. It is popular for casual events like birthday parties.

Moire:

Named after the fabric, this stock bears subtle watermarks.

Jacquard:

Paper that looks layered. It is screen-printed to achieve the layered appearance.

Corrugated:

This resembles the ridged, wavy cardboard you sometimes find in boxes. It's thick and usually found in contemporary, edgier invitations.

Vellum:

Vellum was originally known only as a cream cotton blend paper with a smooth finish, less expensive than 100% cotton. There is another type of paper, translucent vellum, which is transparent and very different than a cream cotton blend. People often shorten translucent vellum to just 'vellum'.

Translucent Vellum:

Sometimes referred to as "vellum". This is a translucent paper that is transparent in color and smooth in finish. You'll see a lot of this used as overlays or sometimes invitations.

Parchment:

Cloudy, translucent paper that creates an airy, dreamy effect.

Cardstock:

Your vendor probably offers a variety of cardstock, varying in weight, material and texture.