Types of Brochures: A Guide to Popular Brochure Styles


What is a Brochure?

A brochure is a printed paper document meant to share information or advertise products and services. They contain graphics, images, and other design elements, but the text content plays a major role. Several types of brochures exist with layouts brochure permitting them to be folded into smaller, convenient shapes. When opened, it has space to provide information on all facets, front and back.

Common Types of Brochure Folds

Brochures can simultaneously contain educational material and promotion content with a call to action. Brochures can be printed on both sides of a paper sheet and folded to fit easily into the hand, a brochure holder, a display, or a handbag or computer bag. How many types of brochures are there? Businesses and organizations can choose from six popular styles of brochure folds.

Bi-fold — this is a single piece of paper folded in half to create a booklet appearance. It is great for introducing a new product or company and telling a story. The two interior panels are used to highlight the main messages. The back panels feature the call to action and contact information.

Tri-fold — a sheet or cardstock is folded into three, typically with the left panel over the right panel. The information is introduced on the front panel, followed by a focus on three different elements of your business or brand on the interior. The back panels contain the summary of benefits and contact information.

Gatefold — the sheet for this brochure is folded with a larger central panel and smaller panels on each side, making it open like a gate. It is mainly used for high-end audiences when advertising a niche product or luxury brand. The interior includes dramatic visuals revealed with the opening of the gate.

Cross fold — this brochure is made with a larger sheet of paper folded multiple times to bring it down to a smaller, transportable size. It is often used for maps or guides to tourist attractions. The large surface area invites detailed drawings or maps to be displayed.

Z fold — also known as the concertina fold, zig-zag fold, or accordion fold, this brochure comprises three double-sided panels. The advantage to this type of fold is the large surface area that permits information to run from one area to the others. It has an experiential effect ideal for announcing events.

Die-cut — this is a visually exciting brochure, similar to the Z fold with the top of the paper cut on a diagonal incline. The front panel is smaller than the other two, revealing a portion of the interior content. They provide excellent opportunities for eye-popping content when surrounded by other company's brochures.

Brochures for the Best ROI

The many popular types of brochures and flyers are an effective way to provide information on a specific subject matter. The success of your brochure is measured by the response it receives. Did it convince the public to contact your company, purchase your product or register for your event? In other words, what is the return on your investment of time and money to make and distribute your brochures?

Brochures with the best ROI depend on a snappy message, engaging visuals, the quality of paper used, and the fold you choose to present your message. They can be simple or extravagant, depending on the preferences of your target audience. Use the different types of brochure folds to create bold, eye-catching promotional pieces that enhance your company brand and maximize your print media impact.


Need to Download CorelDRAW?

Download a Free 15-Day Trial Now!