paper folding There are plenty of paper folding options out there, really, you’re only limited by your imagination. But to keep things simple, we’ve included the most commonly used ones below to act as a reference and inspiration guide for your marketing materials. Remember to ask your printer or designer for advice on the best type of fold and stock for your materials as the paper not only has to look and feel right but also be fit for purpose. 4 page single fold 6 page roll fold 8 page fold 6 page concertina fold 6 page gate fold 8 page parallel double fold 8 page concertina fold 8 page right angle / french fold 6 page roll fold with flap 8 page parallel map fold 8 page reverse map fold 10 page concertina fold 12 page standard letter fold 12 page concertina fold 12 page endorsement fold paper binding We’ve also compiled the most common types of brochure and book binding (unfortunately, no exciting concertina shapes in this one) and explained their specific features and most appropriate applications for your various needs. Saddle stitch The pages and cover are folded in half and two staples are inserted through the fold along the spine. This style is suitable for both self-covered books (where the cover stock, or paper, is the same weight and stock as the inside pages) and books with separate covers. Typically, the maximum number of pages is around 56 for digital printing and 96 for offset printing (depending on weight and bulk of the paper used). Typical Uses Annual reports, event programmes, magazines, brochures Perfect bound The most common style used for binding paperback books, where a high quality, professional finish is required. With this method, the pages are adhered to either a soft or hard cover with glue. An additional score is placed on either or both the front and back covers to act as a hinge to help prevent stress at the binding every time the cover is opened. PUR PUR (polyurethane reactive) glue is the most durable binding glue available. It has superior adhesion and is especially helpful for difficult coated paper stocks. It is heat and cold resistant, so stays flexible in cold temperatures. Typical Uses Any print material that has a minimum of around 36 pages (depending on the thickness of the paper). Thread sewn (Case bound) This binding style is typically used for books of more than 80 pages, which require a strong, high-quality finish. The pages of the book are collated and sewn together with thread. The cover is then glued to the spine of the page block. Case Bound is generally the most expensive style, so is usually used only for books that must withstand constant use. Typical Uses All books which require a long shelf life and frequent use e.g. reference books, catalogues and annual reports. Spiral bound The book is punched with a series of small holes on the left. A twin loop wire bind is then inserted and closed through those holes forming a wire comb. The pages lie flat when opened and can rotate 360°. Wire bindings are durable, but do not permit printing on the spine. Typical Uses Proposals, reference books, reports, technical manuals, notebooks, calendars, cookbooks, presentations