Fold schemes
Count panels on both sides of the sheet: one fold makes 4 panels, two parallel folds make 6, three make 8, and a right-angle fold doubles the count. Any panel that folds inside another is cut about 1/16 to 1/8 in narrower so the piece closes flat, and stocks around 100 lb text and up need scoring before folding.
| Fold | Panels | How it works | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half fold | 4 panels | One fold at the center; the simplest folded piece | 8.5 x 11 folds to 8.5 x 5.5 greeting card |
| Tri-fold (letter fold) | 6 panels | Two parallel folds; the front panel covers a panel folded slightly narrower so the piece closes flat | 8.5 x 11 folds to about 8.5 x 3.67 brochure |
| Z-fold (accordion) | 6 panels | Two parallel folds in alternating directions; all panels equal width | 8.5 x 11 folds to 8.5 x 3.67 zig-zag |
| Gate fold | 6 panels | Both outer panels fold inward to meet at the center; outer panels run slightly narrow to close cleanly | Opens like double doors onto a center spread |
| Double parallel fold | 8 panels | Folded in half, then in half again in the same direction; inner panels slightly narrower | Rack brochures and maps |
| French fold (right-angle) | 8 panels | One fold, then a second at a right angle to the first | Folded invitations, unbound signatures |
| Roll fold | 8 panels | Panels roll inward one over another; each inner panel gets progressively narrower | Step-by-step instructions, tall menus |
Folding is priced as a finishing operation in the estimator - a setup charge plus a per-piece rate. For saddle-stitched booklets, where folding and page count interact, see the booklet imposition guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a tri-fold and a Z-fold?
Both make six panels with two folds. A tri-fold rolls one panel inside the other, so the panel that folds in is cut slightly narrower to close flat. A Z-fold alternates directions into a zig-zag and keeps all panels equal.
Why are some brochure panels slightly narrower than others?
Any panel that folds inside another must be narrower than the panel covering it, or the piece buckles instead of closing flat. Typical allowances run about 1/16 to 1/8 inch per nested panel, set at layout time.
How many panels does a folded piece have?
Count both sides: each parallel fold adds two panels, so one fold gives 4, two folds give 6, three parallel folds give 8. A right-angle fold doubles the count instead.
Does paper weight limit which folds are possible?
Yes. Stocks around 100 lb text and heavier generally need scoring before folding to prevent cracking, especially on coated papers and across the grain. Very heavy boards may take one fold cleanly but not a roll fold.