Technical Specifications Folded Leaflets

Technical Specifications – Folded Leaflets

Folded leaflets are a great way to share more information in a compact, professional format. Ideal for menus, brochures, product guides, event programmes and promotional materials, they are available in a choice of fold styles, sizes, paper stocks and finishes.


What fold types are available?


We offer six main folded leaflet styles, with options to suit different layouts and amounts of content.

Fold type

Pages

How it folds

Half Fold

4pp

Folds once down the centre, like a greetings card

C-Fold

6pp

Folds into three panels, with the outer panels folding inwards

Z-Fold

6pp

Folds into three panels in a zigzag shape

Cross Fold

8pp

Folds in half, then in half again in the opposite direction

Roll Fold

8pp

Panels fold in the same direction, one inside the next

Concertina Fold

8pp

Panels fold backwards and forwards in an accordion-style pattern


“pp” means printed pages or panels. The finished leaflet is one sheet of paper folded to create the required number of pages.


What sizes are available?


Available sizes vary by fold type. The sizes below refer to the finished, folded dimensions unless otherwise stated.

6pp C-Fold and Z-Fold

Available sizes:

  • A3

  • A4

  • A5

  • A6

  • DL

  • 148mm Square

  • 210mm Square

  • A4 Slim

  • One-third A3

  • One-third A5

4pp Half-Fold

Available sizes:

  • A3

  • A4

  • A5

  • A6

  • DL

  • 148mm Square

  • 210mm Square

  • A3 Slim

  • A4 Slim

  • A5 Slim

  • One-third A3

8pp Cross-Fold

Available sizes:

  • A4

  • A5

  • A6

8pp Roll-Fold and Concertina-Fold

Available sizes:

  • A4

  • A5

  • A6

  • DL

  • 148mm Square

  • 210mm Square

  • A3 Slim

  • A4 Slim

Not every size is available with every fold. Check the options displayed on the product page when configuring your leaflet.


What paper stocks are available?


Choose from uncoated, silk and gloss paper stocks, depending on the appearance and feel you want for your finished leaflets.

Paper type

Description

Silk

Smooth, low-sheen coated paper that produces clear images and vibrant colours while remaining writable with a ballpoint pen

Uncoated

Natural, porous paper with a more textured feel, suitable for designs that need to be written or stamped on

Gloss

High-shine coated paper that enhances colour vibrancy and image sharpness


Paper weights


The available paper weights include:

  • Silk: 150gsm, 170gsm, 250gsm and 350gsm.

  • Uncoated: 120gsm and 160gsm, where available.

  • Gloss: 130gsm, where available.

Availability varies by fold type and size. Thicker stocks provide a sturdier, more substantial feel, while lighter stocks are useful for cost-effective distribution.


What lamination options are available?


Lamination adds a film to the printed surface, changing its appearance and providing an additional protective layer.

Finish

Technical specification

Appearance

No lamination

No laminate coating applied

Natural, unsealed paper surface

Matt

27-micron BOPP thermal lamination film

Smooth, low-sheen finish

Gloss

25-micron BOPP thermal lamination film

Shiny finish that enhances colour

Velvet

32-micron BOPP soft-touch thermal lamination film

Soft, velvety feel


BOPP stands for biaxially oriented polypropylene.

Lamination is available on compatible stocks, generally those above 250gsm. It cannot be applied to uncoated stocks. Check the options for your chosen product to confirm availability.


Can I add Spot UV or foil embellishments?


Selected folded leaflets can be enhanced with embellishments to highlight particular areas of your design.

Finish

Description

None

No additional embellishment

Spot UV

UV-cured varnish applied to selected areas of the artwork

Foil

Metallic foil applied to selected areas for a decorative effect


Important: Embellishments can only be added to compatible laminated print. Available foil colours and embellishment options vary by product, stock and lamination choice.


Is perforation available?


Perforation is available on selected folded leaflet products and can be useful when you want to include a tear-off section, voucher or reply slip.

Options include:

  • Single Fold: A perforated line through the centre of the sheet.

  • C-Fold: A perforated line on the right-hand fold, allowing a section to be torn away.

  • Z-Fold: Perforation options may be available on selected configurations.

Perforation is not available on every folded leaflet. Check the specific product options before ordering. Our Perforated product page can be located here.


What printing process is used?


Our folded leaflets are produced using professional printing technology designed to deliver sharp text, clear images and vibrant colours.

The printing method depends on the product, stock and order specifications. Digital and lithographic printing may be used across the range.


How should I prepare my artwork?


Correct artwork setup is particularly important for folded leaflets, as the design must line up across each panel.

Follow these guidelines:

  • Use the artwork template for your selected fold and finished size.

  • Set up your artwork at the dimensions specified in the template.

  • Keep important text, logos and images away from fold lines and trim edges.

  • Allow for the bleed and safe area shown in the artwork guidance.

  • Embed or outline fonts and ensure images are high resolution.

  • Check that the panels and page order are correct before submitting your file.

For C-fold leaflets, the panels may not all be exactly the same width in the finished product. Follow the template and artwork guidance provided for your chosen configuration.

Always review your proof carefully before approving it for print.


Will my leaflets arrive already folded?


Yes. Folded leaflets are supplied folded according to the fold type selected when ordering.


How should I care for my folded leaflets?


To maintain the quality and appearance of your leaflets:

  • Store them in a cool, dry place to help prevent fading or warping.

  • Keep them away from moisture to reduce the risk of smudging or damage.

  • Stack them flat to prevent creases and bent corners.

  • Handle them carefully during distribution to avoid bending or crumpling the edges.

  • Keep them away from excessive heat and damp conditions.


Are folded leaflets recyclable?


Our paper stocks are sourced from FSC®-certified suppliers. Unlaminated paper leaflets without embellishments are generally easier to recycle through paper recycling facilities.

Lamination, foil and Spot UV may affect recyclability. Check with your local recycling facility to confirm which materials it accepts.


Where can I order folded leaflets?


Visit our Folded Leaflets page to explore the available fold types, sizes, paper stocks and finishing options.


Need help?

If you need help choosing a fold, selecting the right paper stock or preparing your artwork, our Live Chat Assistant can help guide you through the available options.

Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article