NEW ERA PRINT SOLUTIONS · MISSISSAUGA
Turn one printed sheet into a sequence of panels. Select the fold before designing your brochure, menu, map or invitation so the artwork follows how it opens.
THE PROCESS, UP CLOSE
See the folding demonstration, then plan the order in which your panels open. Your fold style, paper and finished size guide the layout and scoring requirements.
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
The terracotta example shows three panels opening in alternating directions to form a Z-fold. Other folds open in a different order. Plan the cover, inside information and final contact panel around the fold you choose.
Illustrative design concept, not a print proof.
Design direction
Use alternating panels when the content should open into a connected sequence. Plan what readers see before and after opening.
What to send us
Identify the cover panel and supply the approved panel layout for the chosen size.
Design direction
One panel folds inside the others. The tucked panel may need a different width, so three equal columns are not automatically the correct setup.
What to send us
Use the confirmed template and show the fold order before finalising artwork.
Design direction
Two main panels provide a simple cover and interior. Align the reading direction with how the piece will be held.
What to send us
Confirm folded and flat sizes, paper grain considerations and whether scoring is required.
Use this guide to plan your idea. We’ll check the paper, artwork and finishing details before confirming the job.
A score can help control a fold, especially with thicker material or heavy ink coverage. The need depends on the stock and layout; include both when requesting the quote.
Print a simple paper mockup, fold it in the intended sequence and label the cover and inside panels. This exposes reversed panels or misplaced calls to action before production.
BEFORE YOU PRINT
A reader sees a folded piece one panel at a time. Work out what they’ll see first, then arrange the artwork around that opening order.
Put the main message on the panel people see first. Check the closed piece and the first opening, not only the full spread on your screen.
Group information into panels that make sense together. Panels that tuck inside may need different widths; use the approved template rather than dividing every sheet equally.
Place the next step where it is easy to find after reading. Keep contact details, QR codes and small text away from folds, and proof a folded paper mockup at the actual size.
A simple two-panel piece or a familiar folded brochure. Tri-fold panel widths need the correct template.
A panel sequence that opens in alternating directions for comparisons, timelines or extended graphics.
A reveal or nested panel structure. Ask for the exact panel sizes and scoring requirements.
Heavier stocks and some coated or laminated pieces need scoring before folding. Keep critical type, raised gloss and foil away from fold and score lines. Allow for panels that tuck inside; equal-width panels do not fit every folding style.
No. Tucking panels can need different widths to close cleanly. Follow the approved template for the stock and fold rather than assuming equal thirds.
Scoring prepares a fold and is important for many heavier, coated or laminated stocks. NEPS reviews the paper, print coverage and fold requirements for the job.
Include the flat artwork, approved panel dimensions and a labelled reference for front, back and opening order. A simple folded mockup can clarify an unusual layout.
Send the flat and folded sizes, paper, quantity and a rough panel layout. A photo of a folded paper mockup can make the opening order much easier to understand. We’ll check the panel sizes and scoring before production. Pickup is available in Mississauga, with shipping across Canada. Allow time for artwork approval, production and delivery.
Need help with the design? Explore graphic design services.