Vintage key save-the-date
 
Time 3 to 4 hours
When to start 7 to 8 months before the wedding.
Budget $200 (excluding postage)

Inspired by calligrapher and graphic designer Maybelle, this charming save-the-date uses vintage keys to entice your guests. Seam binding, a lightweight and inexpensive ribbon available in a range of colors, gives the card a feminine flair. Look for 3-inch or smaller vintage keys at flea markets, Etsy, or on eBay; the small size will both fit the card and save you money on postage. Note that due to their bulk, these save-the-dates will require extra postage and a hand-cancel fee.

Click to the next page for step-by-step instructions >>

 

Materials
( makes 100 save-the-dates)
• Thirty 8 1/2-×-11-inch sheets card stock
• 100 vintage or reproduction keys, 3 inches or smaller
• 35 yards 1/4-inch seam binding

Tools
• Key Save-the-Date template (available online at www.chroniclebooks.com/handmade-weddings)
• Font: Nelly Script
• Inkjet printer, with extra ink cartridges
• Craft knife
• Ruler
• Cutting mat
• Corner rounder (optional)
• Pencil
• 1/8-inch hole punch, or an awl
• Scissors

Instructions
1 Make your cards.
Customize your text using the online template and print 30 copies on an inkjet printer (each sheet will yield four cards). Using a craft knife, ruler, and cutting mat, trim the cards to size following the crop marks provided.

2 Embellish your cards.
If desired, round the corners of the cards. Determine the ideal placement of your key on the left side of the card; if you are using a variety of keys, this may vary from key to key. Using a pencil, lightly mark the top center of your key. Using a hole punch or an awl, punch two holes on either side of your mark, about 1/4 inch apart. Cut a 1-foot length of seam binding, and thread back-to-front through your holes. Slip your key over the right end of the ribbon, and tie securely in a bow. Trim the ends of the ribbon at a 45-degree angle.

Note: Because of the weight, rigidity, and variety of the keys, have each save-the-date weighed at the post office before purchasing and affixing postage.


Variations
The sentiment of this card works well for almost any type of wedding. Alter the look and feel by changing the typeface, envelope colour, and ribbon.

• Retro Homespun: Tie the key with gingham or stitched ribbon. If desired, back the card with patterned paper or fabric.

• Happy Graphic: Use bold, modern fonts and a bright solid ribbon or yarn to tie your key.

• Modern Classic: Use wide, black satin ribbons to tie your keys, and tie in a square knot. If desired, edge the card or envelopes using a black or silver paint pen.

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BUY THIS BOOK
From Handmade Weddings by Sabrina Moyle, Eunice Moyle and Shauna Faust. Published by Chronicle Books. Copyright 2011 by Chronicle Books. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission of Chronicle Books.