Help With Understanding the Different Types of Leaflet Fold

If you’ve ever needed to print leaflets, then you will understand the confusion that can often occur in regards to the various configurations and sizes of leaflet. Most people assume that the world of leaflets is relatively straightforward: you just print on a piece of paper and fold it to the size you want, don’t you? Yes, however, there are many different types of leaflet fold, and this can be confusing. Below, we’re going to look at some of the most common types of leaflet fold and explain a little bit about their use and suitability for various purposes.

Tri Fold

A tri-fold is the common form of letter folding. Here, an A4 sheet is folded into three panels. There are two different types of fold within the letter fold and each has slightly different advantages depending on the use of the leaflet or letter:

1.       Z-fold: when folded the A4 sheet makes a Z-shape from a side-on view. These are useful for businesses that offer different types of services and who want to show clear separations between each. For example, a beautician may ask for a z-fold leaflet for their price list. They may have a panel for haircutting prices, nail price, and tan prices, for instance.

2.       U-fold: when folded the A4 sheet makes a U-shape from a side-on view. These are useful for businesses who want their customers to be able to see as much information at once. For example, a restaurant may use such a leaflet to show their customers their main meals. To make it easier for their customers to choose, they use a U-fold. A U-fold is also referred to as a gatefold, particularly in America. This can be confusing when doing business between countries, so just remember that the terms are interchangeable.

Both z-fold and u-fold are suitable for businesses that send letters as the address block will show in the window of a standard DL (letter size) envelope.

Half Fold

However, if you are sending business letters in a C5 envelope (equivalent to A5), then you would not use a Tri-fold, instead, you would use a half-fold, which is self-explanatory.

Accordion Fold

The accordion or z pocket media cards are better for times when businesses want their leaflets to stand out from the crowd. Z pocket media cards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but what they share in common is their accordion-like folding and unfolding. They are often used for things like maps because a lot of information can be squeezed into a relatively short space.

Bespoke Fold

Some businesses will request bespoke folds. For example, there are some complicated geometric folds (think origami). Clearly, if you want something a little more interesting, you will need to talk to a specialist, as it requires specialist equipment.

We hope that you have found this article informative, and that you now have a much better understanding of the various types of leaflet available and their possible uses.

If you would like to learn more about the z pocket media cards mentioned above, then please visit http://www.alpha-card.co.uk/products.