3D Invitation

Please note: I'm not planning on getting married any time soon, but I'm thrilled to be able to share this idea/technique with folks who are!

While 2D can be nice enough, 3D is much more impressive. In a few simple steps, you turn a plain invitation into something that really pops - and including 3D glasses makes it extra fun.

The steps explained here require some knowledge of Photoshop (or G.I.M.P.), so please feel free to ask any questions if you're having trouble!

_{Nerdy note: Anaglyphic images are those in which one component of the composite image is red in color and is superposed on another component in a contrasting color (like cyan) to produce a three-dimensional effect when viewed through correspondingly colored filters in the form of spectacles.}

If you have any questions, need any advice/assistance, or would rather someone whip these puppies up for you feel free to comment, or shoot me a note here or on Twitter.

Step 1: You'll Need. . .

• Computer with image editing software
• Paper or cardstock
• Scissors or paper cutter
• Printer (or printing service of your choice)
• Paper 3D (anaglyph) glasses (this is a good source for them but there are loads of others online too) - one per invite
• Envelopes

Step 2: First Things First

1. Determine how many invites you'll be sending out and order your 3D glasses
2. Create a new file in your image editing software that's the size you'd like (since I'm using a "standard" business envelope, mine is 3.5" x 8.5")
3. Design and layout your invite however you'd like - it's best to keep it to simple shapes and text. Keep in mind that you can also have some portions that aren't 3D - just make those black and keep them separated from the other layers in the next steps
4. Merge the layers and make a duplicate

Step 3: Into Another Dimension!

1. Select a vibrant red color (in RGB the color created will be R-255 G-000 B-000) and change the color of the first layer
2. Select a bright cyan color (in RGB: R-000 G-255 B-255) and change the color of the second layer
3. Set the opacity of each layer to about 90%
4. Offset the two slightly so that the cyan layer is to the right of the red (it helps to wear a pair of your 3D glasses while doing this but keep in mind that it may need to be altered when printed - you can also try with the red to the right and see which you like the look of better) - make sure that the layers are only offset from left to right, not up and down
5. If it isn't already, make sure the red layer is above the cyan
6. Save as a PDF
7. Print one copy and check using a pair of 3D glasses to ensure that it's 3D-ified - if not, make adjustments as needed

Step 4: It's in the Mail

1. Print and cut your invites
2. Slip each one into an envelope with a pair of 3D glasses
3. Address, add postage, and mail!