Types of folded brochures: choose the right one to boost your business
In the world of print marketing, folded brochures are a highly versatile and effective tool for delivering your brand message. With the rise of digital strategies, physical formats may seem less relevant—but in reality, a well-designed brochure printed on quality materials can make all the difference when it comes to capturing the attention of potential customers. In this article, we’ll show you the main types of folded brochures to help you choose the best format for your business goals.
Why use folded brochures in your marketing strategy?
Folded brochures allow you to communicate information clearly and in an organized way, offering a tangible physical format that your clients can keep. This kind of material builds trust and reinforces your brand's presence in the minds of consumers. They’re especially useful if you want to:
Communicate detailed information
Thanks to their structure, they provide different panels or sections where you can explain products, services, or promotions.
Strengthen your corporate image
A professional design and quality finish project seriousness and credibility.
Engage with your audience in a personal way
Leafing through a brochure can evoke a stronger emotional response than viewing digital content.
Segment your content
The folds allow you to divide information by topic, offer, or category—making the message more digestible and organized.
Choosing the right brochure format allows you to make the most of these benefits and create a print marketing tool that truly supports your strategy.
Main types of folded brochures
There are several types of folded brochures designed for different needs and objectives. Below we break down the most common formats so you can compare their features and find the one that fits your project best.
1. Bi-fold brochure
The bi-fold is one of the simplest and most popular folded brochures. It consists of two main panels (four sides total—two on the front and two on the back), usually created by folding an A4 or A5 sheet in half.
Advantages:
- Clean, straightforward layout
- Ideal for company presentations or individual products/services
- Easy to store and distribute
Recommended uses:
- Specific promotions or events that don’t require much explanation
- Basic company information
- Simple proposals aiming for direct, clear impact
2. Tri-fold brochure
The tri-fold is one of the most common and effective brochure formats for promoting products and services. It’s made from a sheet divided into three equal parts, creating six content panels (three per side).
Advantages:
- Plenty of space for detailed information
- Well-structured layout for easy reading
- Versatile design, allowing a good balance of text and images
Recommended uses:
- Small product catalogs
- Service portfolios with descriptions and pricing
- Tourist brochures or local guides with maps and directions
3. Z-fold (accordion fold)
This brochure is folded in a zigzag shape. A standard six-panel accordion is made from a sheet divided into three sections, but more folds can be added if needed.
Advantages:
- Clear, sequential layout
- Multiple panels that don’t overlap when opened
- Eye-catching and original format
Recommended uses:
- Step-by-step processes
- Company history or event itineraries
- Charts or statistics that are easier to follow progressively
4. Gate fold brochure
Also known as a "window fold," this brochure folds the outer sides inward to reveal a central panel—like opening double doors.
Advantages:
- Visually striking, inviting the reader to “uncover” the central content
- Impactful design that plays with contrast between cover and interior
- Adds a sense of exclusivity—ideal for premium messaging
Recommended uses:
- High-level event invitations (conferences, luxury launches, galas)
- Promotion of high-end services or experiences
- Unique brand presentations with a distinctive tone
5. Cross fold brochure
Also called a "French fold," this format involves folding the sheet once in each direction, creating a compact brochure that opens to reveal a large surface.
Advantages:
- Strong visual impact when fully opened
- Perfect for showing large images, maps, or layouts
- A standout choice compared to more traditional formats
Recommended uses:
- Maps or large-scale layouts
- High-resolution product images or full-page visuals
- Corporate presentations that benefit from a spacious interior
6. Other variants
Beyond these formats, there are more unusual folded brochures like double accordion or spine fold styles. These add surprise and originality, but are usually more costly due to their complex production.
How to choose the ideal folded brochure format
Choosing the right brochure means analyzing a few key factors:
Campaign objective
Define your goal first: are you informing, promoting, or boosting brand awareness? Your objective will determine the best format and information depth.
Content volume
Decide whether your content is mostly text or visual, and how much you plan to include. Tri-folds or Z-folds provide more room for both.
Design and creativity
Think about how the reader will interact with the fold. Gate and cross folds offer a unique experience but require careful planning for a clean final result.
Budget and print volume
More complex folds like extended accordions or large cross folds may increase print costs. Balance your budget with the quantity you need.
Brand image
If your brand is innovative and creative, go for something more unique. For more traditional brands, a bi-fold or tri-fold conveys professionalism and trust.
Extra tips for a successful folded brochure
Readable typography
Avoid overly decorative fonts and maintain clear visual hierarchy with titles, subtitles, and body text.
Use of images
High-quality photos reinforce your message and enhance the design. Any charts or graphics should be clear and easy to interpret.
Call to action (CTA)
Include at least one CTA—like visiting your website or subscribing to your newsletter—to encourage the reader to take action.
Consistency with brand identity
Stick to your brand’s color palette, illustration style, and tone throughout the brochure for stronger recognition.
Print testing
Always request a print proof before a large run to check finishing, color accuracy, and proportions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right folded brochure format can make a real difference in the success of your print marketing. A well-designed brochure with the ideal fold helps your business stand out and makes a lasting impression on your audience. Evaluate your needs, define your message, and pick the format that best fits your goals.
Need a trusted partner to print your brochures at the highest quality in Barcelona? At Sprint Copy, we specialize in producing outstanding printed materials and offer expert guidance to help you choose the best format and finish. Contact us and take the next step toward brochures that get noticed.