DIY Stitched Wedding Programs: a tutorial

We completely understand that by the time you reach your readiness for ceremony programs, your budget may have taken on a life of its own.  We've created a simple do it yourself option for those brides with a little craft in their hearts and/or some helpful friends.  Instead of your typical ceremony booklets that are assembled with a ribbon, these programs utilize stitching for their binding. 

Supplies:

-sewing machine

-standard needle

-polyester thread (cotton tends to break)

-cardstock

-scissors

-paper cutter with a scoring blade (helpful, but not entirely necessary)

STEP ONE:

1.  Create your program (or hire a designer to do so).  Print it on cardstock and have it cut to size.  We like to use a 5x7 size, but it depends on how lengthy your program is.  Keep in mind that to stitch the program, you'll need to use 5 or fewer pages.

2.  Score the first and last page at 1/4".  This prevents the stitching from acting like a perforation and tearing once it's opened.

3.  Thread your machine and start the fun.  We find that by starting with a scrap piece of paper, the machine is less likely to jam.

4.  Chain stitch the programs.  This basically means don't cut off each program when it's finished being stitched.  After one is done, stitch a couple dud stitches (on no paper) and then place the next program under the foot.  This saves a lot of time and helps prevent the dreaded sewing machine thread jam. 

5.  Trim your programs.  We love to leave a little bit of thread at the ends of each program.

6.  Display your masterpieces on your big day.

Comments

[Nicola]

Thank you so much for such useful information: simple, easy to read, realistic & helpful.
Your instructions (especially the make-your-own-program-booklet) is perfect.