Printing Planet UK
The fold type determines how content flows through a brochure, how many panels are available and how the piece feels in hand. Choosing the wrong fold can leave panels that are too narrow for the content or make the brochure feel cramped.
Fold Types
Half-fold (bi-fold): A single fold dividing the sheet into two panels, giving four sides of A5 from an A4 sheet. Simple and familiar. Works well for menus, event programmes and service listings.
Tri-fold (letter fold): The sheet folds into three equal panels. The most common brochure format worldwide. Six panels of content, compact to post, easy to rack-display. Works for product brochures, service overviews and takeaway menus.
Z-fold (accordion fold): Like a tri-fold but the folds alternate direction, creating a Z shape when viewed from the side. This means each panel opens independently, which works well for step-by-step content or maps.
Gate-fold: Two outer panels fold inward to meet in the middle, then the whole piece folds again. Creates a reveal effect when opened. Often used for premium marketing materials, invitations and product launches. Costs more to produce because of the extra crease.
Roll-fold (barrel fold): Four or more panels fold sequentially in the same direction. Common for itineraries, instructions and anything with a logical left-to-right reading sequence.
Cost Comparison
| Fold Type | Panels | Relative Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-fold | 4 | Low | Menus, programmes |
| Tri-fold | 6 | Low | Product brochures |
| Z-fold | 6 | Low | Maps, step-by-step |
| Gate-fold | 8 | High | Premium launches |
| Roll-fold | 8+ | Medium | Instructions, itineraries |
Paper Weights
130 to 150gsm silk or gloss is the standard for inside pages. Folds cleanly, prints well, cost-effective.
200 to 250gsm is used for the outer cover of saddle-stitched or perfect-bound brochures. Gives a premium feel and protects the inner pages.
For single-sheet folded brochures (tri-fold, Z-fold), use a single paper weight throughout. 150gsm silk is the most common choice.
Artwork Setup Summary
| Fold | Total Panels | Single Panel Width (A4 sheet) | Bleed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-fold | 4 | 148mm | 3mm each side |
| Tri-fold | 6 | ~99mm (outer 1mm wider) | 3mm each side |
| Z-fold | 6 | ~99mm | 3mm each side |
| Gate-fold | 8 | Varies by gate width | 3mm each side |
For tri-folds, the inner fold panel is typically 1 mm narrower than the outer two panels to allow it to tuck in cleanly without buckling. Supply artwork with this adjustment or ask the printer to confirm panel widths before you lay out the file.
For a quote and turnaround estimate, visit the brochure printing service page.