If you are sitting in front of your paper folding machine with a stack of papers that need to be folded, chances are you are overwhelmed with the endless folding possibilities. While Martin Yale machines offer unlimited folding options, here is a guide to the seven most popular and effective folds:
Letter Fold: While the Letter Fold is sometimes difficult to accomplish by hand, Martin Yale machines are up to the task. We see this fold on a day to day basis as it is the most common way to fold a document into an envelope- two folds, three sections. Popular for mailings, the Letter Fold is also used for brochures, menus and invitations.
Z-Fold: With two folds and equal three sections, the Z-Fold is very similar to the Letter Fold. Instead of tucking the outer panels inwards, the outer panels are folded opposite directions. From the side view, the paper is in a “Z” shape, hence the name. This fold is designed for brochures, stand-up displays, menus or mailshots.
Half-Fold: Commonly referred to as “Hamburger Style” (as opposed to “Hot Dog Style), the Half-Fold is when a document is folded in half. This fold is usually seen in mailshots, company brochures, stand-up displays, greeting cards or menus.
Double-Fold: The title misleading, the Double-Fold actually folds a document three times, giving it four panels. The Double-Fold is used for brochures, menus or mailshots.
Gate Fold: Similar to the Letter Fold, the Gate Fold has two folds and three panels except in this fold, the center panel is the size of the other two panels combined. Folded inward, the outer panels cover the center panel. By covering the center, this gives the maker a place to reveal something when unfolded. The Gate Fold is perfect for advertising in a mailshot.
Special Z-Fold (Engineering Fold): Sharing a letter, the Special Z-Fold doesn’t have three equal panels like the Z-Fold. Instead, the Special Z-Fold has a projecting end that allows the document to be punched and filed in a folder. This fold is most commonly seen in technical fields.
Special Letter Fold (Church Fold): Used for creative mailshots and advertising purposes, the Special Letter Fold has two folds and three panels. Unlike the original Letter Fold, the Special Letter Fold’s nested panel is significantly narrower than the other two panels, giving it an envelope effect.
With an infinite amount of folds available, it is no coincidence that these seven folds are the most used- they are versatile, simple and timeless. Whether you are sending out mailers or making brochures, these folds get the job done.