7 Fun DIY Pool Party Invitation Ideas That Guests Keep Forever

The big picture: Creating memorable pool party invitations doesn’t require expensive design services or complicated printing processes. You can craft stunning DIY invitations that perfectly capture your party’s splash-worthy vibe using simple materials and creative techniques.

Why it matters: Custom invitations set the tone for your entire event and build excitement among guests before they even arrive. DIY options let you personalize every detail while keeping costs low and adding that special handmade touch.

What’s next: These seven creative invitation ideas will help you design invites that make a splash and get your guests counting down the days until your pool party.

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Create Waterproof Pool Float Invitations

Waterproof pool float invitations transform ordinary party notices into memorable keepsakes your guests will actually want to keep. These clever invites double as pool toys during the party and create instant excitement when they arrive in the mail.

Choose Pool Float Shapes and Colors

Select mini pool floats like flamingos, unicorns, or classic rings that match your party theme. Bright colors like hot pink, turquoise, and sunshine yellow photograph beautifully and grab attention immediately. Purchase 6-inch inflatable floats from dollar stores or online retailers for budget-friendly options that still look professional.

Add Party Details with Waterproof Markers

Write directly on the float surface using permanent waterproof markers designed for plastic surfaces. Include essential details like date, time, address, and RSVP information in bold, clear lettering. Test your markers on a small area first to ensure they won’t smudge or fade when exposed to pool water.

Include Pool Safety Guidelines

Add a small waterproof tag with basic pool rules like “No diving in shallow end” and “Adult supervision required.” Attach safety reminders using waterproof ribbon or plastic ties that won’t deteriorate. This thoughtful touch shows you prioritize guest safety while maintaining the fun invitation aesthetic.

Design Splash-Themed Pop-Up Cards

Pop-up cards create an instant wow factor that transforms your pool party invitations into interactive experiences. These dimensional designs literally make your party details jump off the page.

Select Bright Blue and Aqua Cardstock

Choose vibrant blue and aqua cardstock as your foundation colors to instantly evoke pool water. These colors photograph beautifully and create visual appeal that guests notice immediately. Select heavyweight cardstock (at least 110 lb) for durability and professional appearance that won’t bend during mailing.

Create 3D Water Splash Effects

Cut layered splash shapes from different shades of blue cardstock to build dimensional water effects. Stack three progressively smaller splash cutouts using foam adhesive dots between layers for depth. Position your party details on the largest splash layer to create readable text that appears to emerge from water.

Add Glitter for Extra Sparkle

Apply fine blue and silver glitter to wet splash edges using craft glue for shimmering water effects. Focus glitter application on splash tips and edges rather than covering entire surfaces to maintain readability. Seal glitter with clear acrylic spray to prevent shedding during handling and mailing.

Make Message-in-a-Bottle Invitations

Message-in-a-bottle invitations bring maritime magic to your pool party while creating keepsakes guests will treasure long after the splash zone fun ends.

Gather Small Glass or Plastic Bottles

You’ll need 4-6 inch bottles with wide mouths for easy invitation insertion. Clear glass bottles from craft stores work beautifully, but plastic bottles offer safer handling for outdoor parties. Dollar stores often stock mini bottles perfect for this project, while thrift shops provide unique vintage options that add character to your invitations.

Design Rolled Parchment Party Details

Create aged parchment by lightly staining white cardstock with tea or coffee, then drying completely before writing. Use calligraphy pens or markers to write party details in decorative script, keeping text small enough to fit through bottle openings. Roll the parchment tightly and secure with thin ribbon or twine that complements your pool party color scheme.

Decorate with Beach-Themed Elements

Add sand, small seashells, or colorful aquarium pebbles to each bottle before inserting invitations for authentic seaside appeal. Wrap bottle necks with jute twine or attach small starfish and seahorse charms using hot glue. Finish with waterproof labels featuring anchor designs or wave patterns that tie into your pool party theme perfectly.

Craft Pool Noodle Invitation Holders

Pool noodle invitation holders transform ordinary foam tubes into fun delivery containers that guests can use during your party. These creative holders add a playful pool-themed element while protecting your invitations from damage.

Cut Pool Noodles into Ring Sections

You’ll want to slice standard pool noodles into 2-3 inch rings using a sharp serrated knife or electric carving knife. Make clean, even cuts to create sturdy rings that won’t compress when handling. Choose bright colors like turquoise, hot pink, or sunshine yellow to match your pool party theme.

Insert Laminated Invitation Cards

Laminate your printed invitations using clear pouches and a home laminator to create waterproof cards. Slide the laminated invitations through the center holes of your pool noodle rings for secure placement. The snug fit keeps cards from falling out while guests handle their unique invitation holders.

Attach Colorful Ribbons and Tags

Thread waterproof ribbons through the pool noodle rings and tie them in cheerful bows for added decoration. Attach small waterproof tags with guest names or fun pool party messages using colorful string. Consider adding mini pool-themed charms like sunglasses, flip-flops, or beach balls to complete the festive look.

Build Miniature Beach Ball Invitations

Beach ball invitations bring instant summer vibes to your pool party planning. These three-dimensional invites create excitement before guests even arrive at your event.

Use Small Inflatable Beach Balls

Small 6-8 inch beach balls work perfectly for invitation holders without overwhelming your mailbox or budget. You’ll find affordable multi-packs at dollar stores or online retailers during summer months. Choose bright colors like classic rainbow stripes or solid blues and pinks that match your pool party theme.

Attach Waterproof Invitation Labels

Waterproof vinyl labels stick securely to beach ball surfaces and won’t peel off during handling or storage. Print your party details on weatherproof sticker paper using permanent ink that won’t fade. Position labels on the largest stripe sections for maximum readability and visual impact.

Include Deflation Instructions for Guests

Simple deflation instructions help guests easily access your invitation details without damaging the beach ball. Include a small note explaining how to gently press the air valve or use a pen tip to release air slowly. This thoughtful touch ensures everyone can read your party information while keeping their beach ball intact for the actual party.

Construct Flip-Flop Shaped Cards

Flip-flop shaped invitations capture the essence of poolside relaxation while creating memorable keepsakes your guests will treasure. These tactile invitations immediately communicate your party’s laid-back summer vibe.

Cut Flip-Flop Templates from Cardboard

Create sturdy templates by tracing real flip-flops onto thick cardboard or poster board. Cut two identical sole shapes per invitation, making them slightly larger than standard flip-flops for writing space. Use a craft knife for clean edges and smooth curves that’ll make your invitations look professionally crafted.

Decorate with Summer Patterns

Transform plain cardboard into vibrant summer footwear using tropical patterns and bright colors. Apply floral prints, palm leaves, or geometric designs using stencils and acrylic paint. Metallic markers add shimmer effects that catch light beautifully, while fabric paint creates textured surfaces that feel authentic to touch.

Add Straps Using Colorful Ribbon

Attach ribbon straps by punching small holes where the toe strap would naturally sit on real flip-flops. Thread grosgrain or satin ribbon through the holes and secure with hot glue underneath. Choose ribbon colors that complement your party theme while ensuring they’re wide enough to prevent tearing during handling.

Assemble Sunscreen Bottle Invitations

Sunscreen bottle invitations blend practicality with pool party fun, creating clever keepsakes that guests’ll actually use. These unique invites turn essential sun protection into memorable party announcements.

Use Empty Travel-Size Sunscreen Bottles

Travel-size sunscreen bottles make perfect invitation containers with their compact 2-3 ounce size. Clean empty bottles thoroughly with warm soapy water and remove original labels using adhesive remover. Dollar stores and travel sections offer affordable options if you don’t have empties on hand.

Create Custom Labels with Party Information

Design waterproof vinyl labels featuring your party details in bright, pool-themed colors. Include essential information like date, time, location and RSVP details in easy-to-read fonts. Print labels on weatherproof material to ensure they’ll survive poolside handling and potential splashes.

Fill with Colorful Sand or Confetti

Layer colorful aquarium sand or waterproof confetti inside each bottle for visual appeal. Choose blues, greens and coral tones that match your pool party theme. Seal bottles tightly and shake gently to distribute contents evenly before delivery to guests.

Conclusion

Your pool party deserves invitations that make a splash before guests even arrive. These creative DIY ideas transform simple materials into memorable keepsakes that’ll have everyone counting down the days until your event.

The best part? You don’t need professional design skills or expensive supplies to create stunning invitations. Most of these projects use affordable materials you can find at dollar stores or craft shops.

Remember to plan ahead and allow extra time for drying or assembly. Your guests will appreciate the personal touch and creativity you’ve put into making their invitation special. With these unique ideas you’re guaranteed to set the perfect tone for an unforgettable pool party celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials do I need to make waterproof pool float invitations?

You’ll need mini pool floats in fun shapes and bright colors, permanent waterproof markers for writing party details, and small waterproof tags for safety guidelines. Budget-friendly options are available at dollar stores or online. Choose floats that match your party theme and can double as pool toys during the event.

How do I create 3D splash effects for pop-up cards?

Cut layered splash shapes from different shades of blue cardstock and stack them using foam adhesive dots to create depth. Use heavyweight cardstock for durability and position party details on the largest splash layer. Add fine blue and silver glitter to edges and seal with clear acrylic spray.

What size bottles work best for message-in-a-bottle invitations?

Small glass or plastic bottles that are 4-6 inches in size with wide mouths work best for easy invitation insertion. Clear glass bottles from craft stores or mini bottles from dollar stores are ideal. The wide mouth ensures you can easily roll and insert the parchment invitation.

How do I make pool noodle invitation holders?

Cut standard pool noodles into 2-3 inch rings and laminate your printed invitations for waterproofing. Slide the laminated cards through the center holes for secure placement. Enhance with colorful ribbons, waterproof name tags, and mini pool-themed charms for a festive look.

What’s the best way to attach labels to beach ball invitations?

Use waterproof vinyl labels and position them on the largest stripe sections of 6-8 inch inflatable beach balls for maximum readability. Include deflation instructions so guests can access invitation details without damaging the beach ball, allowing them to keep it for the party.

How do I make flip-flop shaped invitation cards?

Cut flip-flop templates from thick cardboard or poster board, making them slightly larger than standard flip-flops for writing space. Decorate with vibrant summer patterns using stencils and acrylic paint. Add authentic straps using colorful ribbons to complete the poolside relaxation theme.

What supplies are needed for sunscreen bottle invitations?

You’ll need travel-size sunscreen bottles (cleaned and empty), waterproof vinyl labels with party details in bright colors, and colorful aquarium sand or waterproof confetti for decoration. Design labels that are easy to read and weatherproof to maintain the invitation’s appearance.

How can I age parchment paper for message-in-a-bottle invitations?

Stain white cardstock with tea or coffee to create an aged parchment effect. Write party details in decorative script, then roll the parchment and secure with ribbon or twine. This creates an authentic maritime look that enhances the beach-themed aesthetic of your pool party.