What are folded leaflets?
A folded leaflet is a single sheet creased and folded into panels. The fold you choose changes how the reader moves through your content: a roll fold reveals panels in sequence, a Z-fold opens like a concertina, and a half fold creates a simple four-page piece.
Common uses
- Restaurant and takeaway menus
- Service and treatment menus
- Event programmes
- Product overviews
- Visitor and venue guides
Sizes and formats
| Format | Size | Typically used for |
|---|---|---|
| A4 to DL (roll fold) | Folds to 99 × 210mm | Six panels; the classic tri-fold |
| A4 to DL (Z-fold) | Folds to 99 × 210mm | Concertina style, six panels |
| A4 to A5 (half fold) | Folds to 148 × 210mm | Four pages, simple and versatile |
| A3 to A4 (half fold) | Folds to 210 × 297mm | Larger four-page format |
Available formats depend on production availability. Custom sizes may be possible — mention them in your enquiry.
Materials and finishes
Folded leaflets commonly use 150–170gsm silk, which folds cleanly. Heavier papers usually need creasing before folding to avoid cracking along the fold, particularly with heavy ink coverage.
Printing options
Digital printing tends to suit shorter runs, quick reprints and personalised or versioned work. Litho printing tends to become more economical as quantities rise and gives excellent colour consistency on long runs. The right method depends on your quantity, stock and finish, and we'll suggest an approach in your quotation.
Quantities
Folding adds a finishing stage, so the quantity and fold type both affect the quote. If you need a mix of folds or versions, mention it in your enquiry.
Artwork requirements
- Supply a print-ready PDF at finished size
- Add 3mm bleed to every edge
- Keep text and logos at least 3mm inside the trim
- Use images around 300dpi at final size
- Set colours to CMYK (or name Pantone spot colours)
- Embed fonts or convert them to outlines
Roll-fold leaflets usually need the inside folding panel to be slightly narrower so it tucks in neatly. Ask for a template before designing.
Turnaround and delivery
Turnaround depends on the product, specification, quantity, finishing, supplier availability and delivery location. Tell us when you need your folded leaflets and where they're going, and we'll confirm what's achievable in your quotation. We deliver to addresses across the UK.
Folded Leaflets: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a roll fold and a Z-fold?
Both create six panels from one sheet. A roll fold wraps panels inside each other; a Z-fold folds back and forth like a concertina, so every panel is the same width.
Does heavier paper need creasing?
Usually, yes. Stocks above roughly 170gsm are normally creased before folding to give a clean fold and reduce cracking.
