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a.k.a. Z- Fold, Zig-Zag Fold

Typically accordion folds have 6-panels and two parallel folds that go in opposite directions. Each panel of the accordion fold is about the same size.

Variations include half-accordion folds where one panel is half the size of the other two and engineering folds where one panel is twice the size of the other two. Eight and 10-page accordion folds are also common.

a.k.a. Business Letterfold, Tri-Fold, Brochure Fold, Spiral Fold, Roll Fold

In C-Folds there are six panels with two parallel folds in a spiral fold configuration. This is a common type of fold for tri-fold brochures. To allow the panels to nest inside each other properly, the folded-in end panel is usually 1/32” to 1/8” narrower than the other panels.

a.k.a. Right Angle Fold, Quarter Folds, Eight-Panel French Fold

Paper with cross-folds have two or more folds going in different directions, typically at right angles. Primarily used in reference to bookwork (paper crossfolded then cut to form a signature ).

Once a product has more than three panels, it is not considered a C-Fold or Letterfold. Instead, it is called a Spiral Fold, Barrel Roll or Roll Fold. Seen from above, the folds spiral inward.

a.k.a. Right Angle Fold, Quarter Folds, Eight-Panel French Fold

In French folds, the paper is folded with cross folds or right angle folds, often with a short first fold. The shorter portion or head in french folds may be folded to the inside (heads in) or outside (heads out).

a.k.a. Window Fold

Gate folds have the left and right edges fold inward with parallel folds and meet in the middle of the page without overlapping.

In double gate folds there are three parallel folds. The left and right edges of the paper fold and meet in the middle, without overlapping, along a center fold.

The outer panels (the ones that fold in to the middle) are usually 1/32” to 1/8” smaller than the inner panels (the ones covered by the panels that fold in) to allow for proper folding and nesting.