FOLDS: MAKING AN IMPACT ON A BUDGET…NO DIE REQUIRED!
As a graphic designer working with print, I enjoy creating fun and engaging designs. When planning print projects, we think about how to guide the reader through the content to achieve the client’s goals. While we like to dream big, we also consider the budget. But no worries, we can always find creative solutions that impress without breaking the bank.
Working in a printing environment means we have lots of resources available, like our helpful bindery department. They’re great at brainstorming ideas with us. Together, we can come up with smart solutions, like using simple scores to help the paper fold neatly.
These solutions not only save money during production but can also lower postage costs. Depending on the project’s size and specs, it might qualify for a cheaper mail rate. You can check our quick guide to postage rates here.
Below are some examples of projects created by our talented team. They’re unique, effective, and easy to produce.
ROLL FOLD
A roll fold is a classic design where each panel rolls out from one side, revealing a new section each time you unfold it. With a roll fold, every panel (except the covers) needs to be a bit shorter than the previous one, usually by about 1/32” to 1/16”, so they fit neatly inside each other. This is especially important if you’re using thick paper.
GLUELESS POCKET POSTER TRIFOLD
If you’re looking to save money, try a glueless pocket poster trifold. Usually, pocket folders are made with glued tabs, which can add to the cost. But with glueless pockets, you skip the tabs and the extra die-cutting expense.
Here’s another glueless pocket idea that’s a bit more traditional. The folder has a “pocket” on the inside back cover that works just like a regular pocket folder, but without any glued tabs. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep your materials organized without the added cost of extra glue.
GATE FOLD
A gate fold is made by folding a piece of paper in two parallel folds, creating six panels that open from the center.
In this double gate fold, there are shorter panels on the inside of the gates, adding four extra panels for a total of ten.
This brochure mailer is folded in a closed gate fold style. When you open it up, it reveals another gate fold on the inside.
VERTICAL TRIFOLD
Vertical trifolds usually open upward or downward, providing a unique twist compared to the standard horizontal orientation.
Note: In this example, a pocket is created using glue, but like the glueless pockets mentioned earlier, die-cut tabs are unnecessary.
ACCORDION (Z-FOLD)
The accordion fold, also known as a Z-fold, involves folding a piece of paper back and forth like a fan, with equal panel widths. Like other fold types, you can customize this fold to create unique designs.
BROADSIDE FOLD
In this broadside fold, there are 8 panels, including a hidden flap. This fold is sometimes confused with a French fold.
If you’re tired of the usual trifold or you’re worried about fitting all your content into a simple brochure, these creative ideas could be just what you need. It’s always a good idea to talk to your print provider early on to make sure they can bring your design to life. These ideas might be variations of traditional folds, but it’s the creativity that sets them apart.
Do you have any favorite budget-friendly folds that are easy to produce? Share them with us in the comments below!
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ONE STEP PRINT LLP
FOLDS: MAKING AN IMPACT ON A BUDGET…NO DIE REQUIRED!
As a graphic designer working with print, I enjoy creating fun and engaging designs. When planning print projects, we think about how to guide the reader through the content to achieve the client’s goals. While we like to dream big, we also consider the budget. But no worries, we can always find creative solutions that impress without breaking the bank.
Working in a printing environment means we have lots of resources available, like our helpful bindery department. They’re great at brainstorming ideas with us. Together, we can come up with smart solutions, like using simple scores to help the paper fold neatly.
These solutions not only save money during production but can also lower postage costs. Depending on the project’s size and specs, it might qualify for a cheaper mail rate. You can check our quick guide to postage rates here.
Below are some examples of projects created by our talented team. They’re unique, effective, and easy to produce.
ROLL FOLD
A roll fold is a classic design where each panel rolls out from one side, revealing a new section each time you unfold it. With a roll fold, every panel (except the covers) needs to be a bit shorter than the previous one, usually by about 1/32” to 1/16”, so they fit neatly inside each other. This is especially important if you’re using thick paper.
GLUELESS POCKET POSTER TRIFOLD
If you’re looking to save money, try a glueless pocket poster trifold. Usually, pocket folders are made with glued tabs, which can add to the cost. But with glueless pockets, you skip the tabs and the extra die-cutting expense.
Here’s another glueless pocket idea that’s a bit more traditional. The folder has a “pocket” on the inside back cover that works just like a regular pocket folder, but without any glued tabs. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep your materials organized without the added cost of extra glue.
GATE FOLD
A gate fold is made by folding a piece of paper in two parallel folds, creating six panels that open from the center.
In this double gate fold, there are shorter panels on the inside of the gates, adding four extra panels for a total of ten.
This brochure mailer is folded in a closed gate fold style. When you open it up, it reveals another gate fold on the inside.
VERTICAL TRIFOLD
Vertical trifolds usually open upward or downward, providing a unique twist compared to the standard horizontal orientation.
Note: In this example, a pocket is created using glue, but like the glueless pockets mentioned earlier, die-cut tabs are unnecessary.
ACCORDION (Z-FOLD)
The accordion fold, also known as a Z-fold, involves folding a piece of paper back and forth like a fan, with equal panel widths. Like other fold types, you can customize this fold to create unique designs.
BROADSIDE FOLD
In this broadside fold, there are 8 panels, including a hidden flap. This fold is sometimes confused with a French fold.
If you’re tired of the usual trifold or you’re worried about fitting all your content into a simple brochure, these creative ideas could be just what you need. It’s always a good idea to talk to your print provider early on to make sure they can bring your design to life. These ideas might be variations of traditional folds, but it’s the creativity that sets them apart.
Do you have any favorite budget-friendly folds that are easy to produce? Share them with us in the comments below!
