Create a Paper Pool

• Produce an invitation that resembles a swimming pool to suit the party theme. Print information about the get-together on a piece of transparent blue vellum paper to look like pool water. Tape the piece to your blank card by affixing double-sided tape just along the edges. Cut small squares from glossy card stock and glue them around the edge of the "water" so they completely cover the vellum adhesive and resemble the edge of a pool.
  
  

Use Actual Objects

• If you don't mind the added mailing cost for sending bulky parcels, create invitations with actual pool-related items. For example, turn an uninflated beach ball into a funky party invite. Spread the beach ball until it's completely flat and write the invitation text on one side with an indelible marker that won't smear on the slick surface. Fold the ball to fit into a small, padded envelope, placing a piece of tissue paper between the folds to prevent sticking. Also consider turning thin flip-flops, flattened arm floaties or a lemonade mix packet into dimensional invitations.
  
  

Design with Seasonal Shapes

• Design whimsical pool party invitations in shapes that evoke the feeling of summer. Find large stencils with designs like suns, flip-flops, a beach towel or a large water drop. Trace the shape onto colorful card stock, then cut it out and add details with decorative paper, stickers, markers or glitter glue. Print the party information on white paper, trim it to fit the card and affix to the back with a glue stick. If you're hosting a birthday pool party, you can also use a birthday cake shape with tiny suns or beach balls at the tips of the candles to match the theme.
  
  

Save Money with Email Invitations

• When you're hosting a last-minute pool party or want to cut back on the materials and mailing costs, use an online service that sends free email invitations. Websites like Evite let you choose a premade card design or customize the look. Enter information like your contact information, party date, theme and personal message into the simple form. The site immediately sends the invitations after you've entered your guests' email addresses.