Promotional Printing: What is a Tri-Fold Brochure?

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Custom Tri-Fold Brochure Printing

Even with the prevalence of online marketing, printed promotional materials remain a valuable and widely used component of many corporate marketing strategies. That said, one of the most popular and cost-effective formats for printed promotional documents is the Tri-Fold Brochure.

Tri-fold brochures are used in many different industries. Businesses print and distribute tri-fold brochures to showcase their products and services, build brand awareness, and stimulate demand.

Though the name "tri-fold" implies there are three folds, a tri-fold brochure is actually created using only two folds. These two folds are positioned parallel to each other and divide a printed sheet into six panels of like size - three panels on each side of the sheet.

To create a tri-fold brochure, one end of a printed sheet is folded inward until its edge is approximately one-third of the way across the width of the document. The other end is then folded over the top until it aligns with the opposite edge. The right side is usually folded inward first and then the left, so the brochure's content will naturally flow from left to right.

In addition to being called a tri-fold, you may also hear this folding method being referred to by several different names, such as Letter Fold, C-Fold, or 3-Panel Roll Fold.

Tri-fold brochures are a great option for printed marketing communication because they are compact and easy-to-handle, yet still offer plenty of space for text, images, graphics, and other design elements.

Common Sizes of Tri-Fold Brochures

A finished size of 3.66" wide x 8.5" high is by far the most prevalent format for tri-fold brochures. This size is made from an 8.5" x 11" sheet folded into thirds. Using the standard sheet size of 8.5" x 11" helps to minimize the brochure's production cost. When folded, this handy size can slide into a breast pocket, fit neatly into a #10 business envelope for mailing, or stand upright in a counter display.

A folded size of 8.5" wide by 11" high is another common tri-fold configuration. This large brochure is made from a printed sheet measuring 25.5" wide x 11" high. Folding the sheet into thirds yields the finished size of 8.5" x 11". When folded, this size fits well in a presentation folder, a 9" x 12" mailing envelope, or a large literature rack.

Though the two examples above are the most frequently ordered sizes, tri-folded brochures are very versatile and can be created in just about any practical size. For example, a square brochure measuring 5" x 5" or 8" x 8" could be made from sheet sizes measuring 15" wide x 5" high or 24" wide x 8" high respectively.

Though less common, tri-fold brochures can also be created with a landscape orientation (where the width of the finished size is greater than its height).

Regardless of the chosen dimensions, the distinct panels created by the tri-fold method helps to present the brochure's marketing message in a well-organized and logical sequence.

­­­­­Tri-Fold Brochure Layout

Though tri-fold brochures appear to be relatively simple documents, it is important to optimize the layout of the panels so your brochure delivers its content in the most impactful manner.

Using bullet points, short paragraphs, and concise wording will help get your message across quickly. Also, photos, icons, and other graphics can help break up blocks of text and make the information more appealing to read.

Below are some additional suggestions for structuring the flow of your brochure so it is engaging and effective, without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary clutter.

Side One (visible when folded):

1. Front Cover Panel - This is the first panel people will see. It should display your logo, headline, and other visuals to quickly capture your prospects' attention and encourage them to open the brochure.

2. Back Cover Panel - This panel usually displays contact information, social media profiles, a QR code, plus a call to action or other details for taking the next step.

3. Inside Flap Panel - This panel often acts as an intro to your brand, product or service, similar to content entitled "About Us" or "Who We Are." This is what the reader will see when they first open the brochure.

Side Two (interior spread):

4. First Interior Panel - This panel often sets the stage by stating your main marketing message or offer.

5. Middle Interior Panel - This panel is usually where you display key selling points and explain the features and benefits of your brand, product or service.

6. Third Interior Panel - This panel wraps things up and answers the question: "Why Choose Us?" Testimonials, statistics, and other persuasive details often appear on this panel. This is also a good place for a strong call to action.

Color Vision is ready to assist with your next Tri-Fold Brochure!

Affordable, professional, and versatile, Tri-Fold Brochures are the perfect promotional tool for companies looking to showcase their brand in a clear and creative manner.

Color Vision has built a strong reputation in the printing industry by offering quality printing at affordable prices. So be sure to get in touch with us when you're ready to discuss your next brochure project.

Since we offer both offset and digital printing services, we can assist with short, medium, and long production runs. We also offer a variety of coating and finishing options to enhance the visual appeal of your brochures.

If you have an upcoming brochure project and would like a quote, use our easy Quote Request form to send us your specifications and we will be happy to email a quote to you. Or, if you prefer to contact us by phone, we can be reached at 800-543-6299.

As always, we hope to hear from you soon and look forward to assisting with your custom printing needs!