The fold is not just a practical decision — it shapes how your reader experiences the content. A well-chosen fold controls the order in which information is revealed, creates natural sections for different topics, and determines how the piece fits in a pocket, a rack or an envelope.
Bi-fold (half-fold)
A bi-fold is a single sheet folded once down the middle, producing four panels of equal size. It is the simplest and most versatile fold. What it suits: company profiles, product overviews, event programmes, menus, and any content that divides naturally into two halves. The inside of a bi-fold opens to a full double-page spread, which is excellent for large images, maps, or content that benefits from a wide canvas. Artwork setup: set up your document as four panels — front cover, back cover, inside left, inside right. Paper weight: bi-folds work well at 150–250 gsm.
Tri-fold (letter fold)
A tri-fold divides a sheet into three equal panels, with the right panel folding inward first and the left panel folding over it. The result is a compact piece with six panels. What it suits: the tri-fold is the most widely used brochure format. Six panels provide enough space for a structured narrative. It fits standard DL envelopes and rack display stands. Artwork setup: the right panel (the one that folds inward) must be slightly narrower than the other two panels — typically 2–3 mm narrower — so it folds cleanly without buckling.
Z-fold (accordion fold)
A Z-fold divides a sheet into three panels that fold in alternating directions, like the letter Z or an accordion. Unlike a tri-fold, no panel folds inside another — all panels are the same width. What it suits: the Z-fold is useful when you want each panel to be self-contained and readable independently — a timeline, a step-by-step process, or a series of distinct product categories. It also works well for pieces that will be mailed without an envelope.
Roll fold (barrel fold)
A roll fold divides a sheet into four or more panels that fold in the same direction, each panel wrapping around the previous one. Each successive panel must be slightly narrower than the one outside it to fold flat without buckling. What it suits: roll folds are used for longer-form content that benefits from a sequential reveal — a step-by-step guide, a product story, or a detailed service overview. Artwork setup: panel width adjustments are critical. Always request a folding template from your printer before finalising artwork.
Gatefold
A gatefold has two outer panels that open outward from the centre, like a pair of doors or gates, to reveal a full-width inner spread. What it suits: gatefolds are a premium format associated with high-end marketing materials, luxury product launches, and annual reports. The dramatic reveal of the inner spread makes them effective for large images, bold statements, or content that benefits from a moment of impact. They are more expensive to produce than simpler folds.
Choosing the right fold: a practical framework
When deciding on a fold, consider: How much content do you have? A bi-fold gives you four panels; a tri-fold gives you six; a roll fold can give you eight or more. How will it be distributed? DL formats fit standard envelopes and rack stands. What is the reading sequence? Some folds reveal content progressively; others present everything at once. What is the budget? More folds mean more production time and cost. What paper weight are you using? Heavier stocks require more precise panel-width adjustments to fold cleanly.