How to Use Double-Thick Paper for Wedding Invitations

Quick answer

Double-thick paper gives your wedding invitations a weighty, editorial feel, but it requires a few adjustments to your printing, assembly, and mailing process. Follow these steps to get a flawless result without surprises.

Step-by-step guide

1. 1. Confirm your printer can handle 220 lb paper: Check your printer's manual for the maximum paper weight it accepts. Many consumer inkjets top out at 140 lb. If yours cannot feed 220 lb stock, use a local print shop or an online service that specializes in thick paper. A common mistake is assuming all printers can handle heavy card stock — jams and misfeeds are the usual result.
2. 2. Order the correct quantity: Double-thick paper upgrades like the one from Lily & Roe Co. require the quantity to match your invitation count exactly. Order a few extra sheets for test prints and mistakes — at least 10% more than your final guest list. A common mistake is forgetting to account for spoilage during printing or assembly. Always order a test pack or sample before committing to the full run.
3. 3. Design with the thickness in mind: Avoid designs that require tight folding unless you have a scoring tool. Flat cards, layered suites, or two-piece invitations (a card plus a separate envelope liner) work best. A common mistake is designing a bi-fold card without a score line — the paper will crack or refuse to lie flat.
4. 4. Print a test sheet and let ink dry fully: Run a single test print on the double-thick paper using your final design. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before handling. Thick paper has a non-porous surface that can cause ink to pool or smear if touched too soon. A common mistake is rushing to check the print and ending up with fingerprints or smudges. If smudging persists, switch to a laser printer or a professional printing service.
5. 5. Weigh a fully assembled invitation for postage: A single double-thick card plus an envelope, liner, and any additional inserts can weigh significantly more than a standard invitation. Take one complete suite to the post office and have it weighed. A common mistake is using a standard forever stamp and having the invitation returned for insufficient postage. Hand-canceling can prevent damage from automated sorting machines.
6. 6. Assemble carefully to avoid creases: Because the paper is rigid, any crease or fold will be permanent. Use a bone folder or a clean ruler to press down seams if you are inserting the card into a pocket or envelope liner. A common mistake is forcing the card into a tight envelope — this can bend the corners or tear the liner.

Product facts

• Double-Thick Paper: Printed on ultra-thick 220 lb stock, your invitation has a noticeably more substantial, weighty feel — creating a first impression that feels elevated, editorial, and undeniably high-end. This weight transforms a standard invitation into a statement piece, but you'll need to adjust your printing and mailing process to accommodate the thickness.