5 Must-Have Supplies for DIY Party Printables
Ellie EmeryCreating your own party printables is an exciting and cost-effective way to add a personal touch to any celebration. Whether you’re assembling invitations, decorations, or favors, having the right tools can make the process seamless and professional.
In this guide, we’ll share the top five must-have DIY party supplies that every printable enthusiast needs, along with tips to get the best results for your projects.
1. High-Quality Cardstock
When it comes to printables, the foundation of your project is the paper you choose. High-quality cardstock provides durability, a polished look, and a professional feel to your designs.
Why It’s Essential:
Standard printer paper is too thin for most party printables and can appear flimsy. Cardstock, typically 80-110 lb (216-298 gsm), offers the sturdiness needed for invitations, table cards, and decorations.
Available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes, cardstock enhances your printable’s visual appeal.
Pro Tip:
We recommend 110 lb cardstock for most projects and sourcing from trusted suppliers like Cardstock Warehouse for a variety of colors and finishes. Matte cardstock is ideal for text-heavy designs, while glossy cardstock works well for vibrant, photo-based prints.
2. Envelopes to Match Your Printables
Nothing ties your printables together like coordinating envelopes. The right envelope adds an elegant finishing touch to your invitations or thank-you cards.
Why It’s Essential:
Properly sized envelopes (e.g., A7 for 5x7” invitations) ensure a snug fit and protect your printables during delivery.
Colorful or patterned envelopes can elevate your design and make it stand out.
Pro Tip:
Choose envelopes that complement your color scheme. Consider adding printable envelope liners for an extra special touch. Look for options at craft stores or online suppliers like Envelopes.com.
3. Paper Trimmer or Guillotine Cutter
Precision is key when cutting your printables to size, and scissors often leave uneven edges. A paper trimmer or guillotine cutter ensures clean, professional cuts every time.
Why It’s Essential:
Creates straight, smooth edges for invitations, table cards, and other printables.
Saves time compared to cutting by hand with scissors.
Pro Tip:
Invest in a high-quality trimmer with a ruler guide to make measurements accurate and cutting easy. A guillotine cutter is perfect for bulk projects, while rotary trimmers work well for intricate designs.
4. Adhesives: Glue Dots, Double-Sided Tape, and Foam Stickers
Adhesives are a game-changer for assembling multi-layered designs, attaching embellishments, or creating 3D effects. They’re versatile and easy to use, making them a must-have for DIY printables.
Why It’s Essential:
Glue dots and double-sided tape are perfect for attaching layers of cardstock without the mess of liquid glue.
Foam stickers add dimension to elements like labels, tags, or decorations.
Pro Tip:
Use acid-free adhesives to prevent discoloration over time, especially for keepsakes like invitations or party favors.
5. Printer with High-Quality Ink
For DIY printables, a reliable printer is non-negotiable. Your designs deserve to shine, and having a printer that delivers vibrant colors and sharp details makes all the difference.
Why It’s Essential:
Home printers with photo-quality settings produce crisp images and vibrant colors that look professional.
Laser printers are great for text-heavy designs, while inkjet printers excel at printing colorful graphics and photos.
Pro Tip:
Always test your printer settings before starting a large batch. Use the highest print quality setting and ensure your printer can handle the weight of your cardstock. Keep extra ink cartridges on hand for larger projects.
Bonus Items to Have on Hand
Bone Folder: For crisp, professional folds on cards or programs.
Ruler and Scoring Tool: Ensures clean, straight lines when folding or creasing.
Hole Punch or Corner Rounder: Adds decorative elements or softens sharp edges.
Creating DIY party printables is a rewarding way to add a personal, polished touch to any celebration. With these five must-have supplies—high-quality cardstock, envelopes, a paper trimmer, adhesives, and a reliable printer—you’ll have everything you need to make your projects shine.
Investing in the right tools not only simplifies the process but also elevates the quality of your creations, ensuring your printables look professional and polished.
Ready to create something magical? Grab these essentials and start crafting your perfect party printables today!
"Discover the 5 must-have DIY party supplies for creating stunning printables! Learn about essential tools like cardstock, adhesives, and paper trimmers for professional results.
