Whether you are designing a new job or entering specs to obtain a quote, it is helpful for designers and print buyers to understand page sizes and folding.
ACCURACY COUNTS
First, page or panel dimensions must be exact, and folds must be sized to nest inside outer layers (see diagram). Since design elements usually acknowledge folds, fold placement is critical when starting to work. Also, paper weight influences fold location — thick stock requires larger allowances.
ROLL-FOLD FORMULA
Note: Fold-in panels must be made narrower.
KNOW THE SCORE
When folding across — against — the natural paper grain, or with heavier paper, a sheet needs to be scored to fold well. Machine scoring on the folder is for lighter stock (and is least costly). Litho scoring is performed on the press; quite efficient for most jobs. Letterpress scoring is the Cadillac approach and is best for heavy cover stock.
RESPECT FOR SPEC’S
Your printer needs to know the flat, opened, full-size of your job, as well as the finished, folded size. Express the reading dimension first (e.g., 8 1/2 x 11). Also, folds are one fewer than panels: “two-fold, three-panel”, not “three-fold”.
Fold Examples:
(a) 1/2 fold (b) “z” fold (c) letter fold (d) parallel 16-page (e) double parallel (f) single gatefold (g) 5-panel accordion (h) right angle 8 or french fold (i) 6-panel right angle “z” fold (j) 6-panel right angle letter fold (k) double gatefold (l) 4-panel accordion
