What is a Z fold?
In short
A Z fold folds a sheet twice in alternate directions, so it opens like a concertina and forms a Z shape from the side. An A4 sheet Z folded gives a DL leaflet with three equal panels on each side.
A Z fold is a folded leaflet where the first fold goes one way and the second goes the other, so the sheet zigzags like a concertina. Looked at from the edge, it makes the shape of a letter Z. We Z fold A4 sheets (297 x 210mm flat) down to DL.
Panel widths
Because no panel has to tuck inside another, all three panels on each side are the same width: 297mm divided by three is 99mm each, which is also the width of a DL leaflet.
| Fold | Panel widths across the A4 sheet | Finished size |
|---|---|---|
| Z fold | 99mm, 99mm, 99mm | DL (99 x 210mm) |
| Half fold | 148.5mm, 148.5mm | A5 (148 x 210mm) |
| Roll fold | Inner panel slightly narrower | DL |
When to choose a Z fold
A Z fold opens out in one movement, so the reader can see all three inside panels at once. That suits maps, timelines, step-by-step instructions and price lists that read across. The front cover and the back panel are both on the outside, so the leaflet works from either end.
Setting up the artwork
Lay the outside and inside out as two pages of 297 x 210mm plus 3mm bleed (303 x 216mm). Keep text 5mm from the trim and 5mm either side of each fold so nothing sits in the crease. A Z-folded DL leaflet fits a DL envelope (110 x 220mm). Our folded leaflet guide shows the panel order for each fold.
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