Paper fold patterns

A visual reference for discussing a finished fold. Choose the sheet size, paper stock and finished panel size first; then confirm the plate arrangement and any additional unit with a physical fold test.

1. Describe the finished piece

Share an unfolded sample or a diagram showing panel order, fold direction and final dimensions.

2. Match the configuration

A model name alone does not confirm a fold. Plate count, second unit and line modules are specified for the job.

3. Run a fold test

Paper weight, coating and grain affect the result. Ask for a tested sample before the final configuration is quoted.

Parallel fold references

Folds whose panel lines are parallel in the source chart. The required number of plates varies by pattern.

Half fold paper fold diagram

Half fold

One fold, two panels — leaflets, mailers, greeting cards.

Mentioned as an example for: T490, T600, T780

Letter fold paper fold diagram

Letter fold

An inward-folding reference for discussing panel order and the finished piece.

Double parallel fold paper fold diagram

Double parallel fold

Two folds, four panels, opened in the middle like a book.

Mentioned as an example for: T490, T600

Parallel fold paper fold diagram

Parallel fold

Any fold made on the first unit with the panels running parallel.

Gate fold paper fold diagram

Gate fold

Two panels fold inward and meet in the centre — the classic programme insert.

Mentioned as an example for: T520, T600, T780

Roll fold paper fold diagram

Roll fold

A reference for panels folded inward in sequence. Confirm the panel sizes from a sample.

Accordion fold paper fold diagram

Accordion fold

Concertina panels alternating in direction — 风琴折.

Mentioned as an example for: T490, T520, T780

Z fold paper fold diagram

Z fold

Parallel fold lines alternate so the sheet opens in a zig-zag.

Mentioned as an example for: T600

Multi-stage and combination references

Patterns involving additional stages or special arrangements. A diagram alone does not establish which unit or knife a job requires.

Cross fold paper fold diagram

Cross fold

A parallel fold followed by a fold at right angles on the second unit.

Mentioned as an example for: T490, T520, T600, T780

Map fold paper fold diagram

Map fold

Accordion then cross fold — the fold that lets a large sheet open in stages.

2 buckles + 1 knife paper fold diagram

2 buckles + 1 knife

Two buckle plates plus a knife fold in a single pass.

4 buckles + 1 knife paper fold diagram

4 buckles + 1 knife

Four buckle plates plus a knife fold.

6 buckles + 1 knife paper fold diagram

6 buckles + 1 knife

Six buckle plates plus a knife fold.

8 buckles + 1 knife paper fold diagram

8 buckles + 1 knife

Eight buckle plates plus a knife fold.

10 buckles + 1 knife paper fold diagram

10 buckles + 1 knife

Ten buckle plates plus a knife fold — the deepest combination configuration.

4 buckles + 4 buckles paper fold diagram

4 buckles + 4 buckles

Two four-plate units working a combined pattern.

6 buckles + 4 buckles paper fold diagram

6 buckles + 4 buckles

Six plates on the first unit and four on the second.

Confirm your fold

The diagrams are reference artwork, not a promise that every configuration can produce every pattern. Send the unfolded sheet, stock and quantity to have the correct machine and units checked.

Request a fold test