What Kind of Tissue Paper Goes in a Wedding Invitation?
Whether you're opting for a traditional or modern wedding invitation, many designs include a layer of tissue paper to include in the envelope. It is typically viewed as a traditional component, but it certainly doesn't limit you to that style of invitation. If you're considering making or assembling your own invitations or just trying to decide whether or not to use the tissue, it is especially helpful to understand why the tissue is there and what type to choose.
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Original Purpose
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The tissue paper is intended to sit on top of the printed invitation to separate it from other layers. Originally, the purpose was to keep the ink, which typically took a long time to dry, from smearing or smudging. This protective layer kept the hand-written invitations as well as the envelope and other components looking clean and crisp.
Today's Purpose
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If you're not having specialty engraved invitations made for the wedding, the tissue layer is no longer functional. Since those types of invitations are extremely costly, the majority of brides choose a printed style and can therefore decide whether they want the tissue. Today, the only real purpose of the protective layer of paper is as a decorative insert. The tissue paper can set the tone for a formal wedding, traditional or not.
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What is It?
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Much like a layer of tissue paper used in wrapping gifts, invitation tissue paper is sheer and translucent allowing the wording of the invitation to show through. The specific material, however, is thinner than wrapping tissue and much more delicate.
Sizes
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The size of the piece of tissue necessary depends entirely on the invitation you choose. Most commonly, you'll see a rectangular shape approximately three by five inches or more to adequately cover the wording on the invitation. However, square sizes are also available for some of today's contemporary designs.
Styles
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You might be assuming that tissue paper is always sheer and white and always plain, but that's not the case. Specialty tissue is available as well and can include lightly printed designs or raised patterns.
Although the purpose is still the same and the look is somewhat similar, these papers can often be slightly thicker and a bit more sturdy than your average invitation tissue. If your wedding theme is ultra traditional or if you are going for budget-friendly picks, the sheer and plain white paper is the best choice. The specialty styles can look impressive and add a lot of personality to an invitation but are quite a bit more expensive.
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