Here is Part 2 of our article on ordering cut stock.  See Part 1 from our last post.

From time to time, we get a call from a bride who’s ordered custom-cut stock, only to find out too late that her printer of choice cannot print on it. Since custom-cut stock is non returnable once it’s been cut down to your specifications, we have to get creative to help her solve the problem. To make sure you avoid this DIY Disaster, we’ve put together an overview of ordering cut stock.

So, what’s the best way to order?  This will depend on several variables, such as how you are printing, what your cutting capabilities are, time availability, etc.  If you do request custom cutting, you must order one size larger than the size you need.

For example, if you’re ordering a 7 x 4.75 insert for your 5 x 7 pocketfold, you’d order the 5 x 7 cardstock (which is exactly 5.125 x 7.125), then order one custom cut per 100 qty cut in that same size and stock. Unfortunately the way cutting is priced, you cannot order an 8.5 x 11 sheet and cut multiple items out of the piece, but you are welcome to order full sheets and cut it yourself.

For unprinted layers and backings, it is often more convenient to order stock cut to the size you need it. You may be able to save a little on costs by ordering larger sheet and cutting yourself, but remember to order extra stock in case you mess up.

For printed pieces, you need to know how you are going to print.  If you are printing at home, it can be more convenient to order cut sizes. Often your desktop printer will print on cut sizes down to 3.5 x 5 (but this varies based on your printer, so be sure to check before ordering).  Also, keep in mind that if your design bleeds (image goes off the edge, or even near the edge on the bottom) you may need to start with a larger sheet and cut down after printing.

If you are sending out to be professionally printed, or printing on a large copy machine, be sure to check prior what sizes they prefer prior to printing. Do not assume they can print it without checking – remember, custom-cut stock is not returnable.  Also, remember to order 10-20% extra for set-ups. This means if you want 100 invitations, you’ll often need to provide enough stock for 120 invitations.  Your printer can tell you the amount they will require in overage and whether they prefer all pieces cut to size or larger sheets to cut after printing.

SEALS: No printer we know of can print on 2 x 2 or 2 x 3 seals  (commercial or desktop).  Unless you are handwriting or hand-stamping, we always recommend ordering a larger sheet and cutting down after printing for printed seals. (However, it is very convenient to purchase the 2 x 2 seals as backing layers, and then cut down the printed seals 1.75 x 1.75 for layering on top.) Click here to download a template for 1.75 x 1.75 seals (MS Word Doc) that you can use to print on 8.5 x 11 sheets (it’s on about page 3 of either of the invitation template documents). You’ll also want to start from a larger sheet if you intend to print bandwraps or envelope icing.

If you are cutting at home, you’ll want to use a Paper Cutter, or at least an Exacto knife with a straight edge (metal ruler). Never try to freehand cut with a scissors. When you order cut stock or printed invitations from us, they are machine cut. Just for fun, we found a video showing stock being cut by machine. When you order stock cut to size, it is cut on a machine similar to this.

Hope this helps.  Remember you can call, e-mail or chat with our staff regarding your questions, and ALWAYS ask your printer before placing a large order of custom-cut stock.

Click here to order blank stock for your custom DIY invitations or contact us if you’re interested in having your invitations professionally designed and printed.