A brochure's size and fold decide how your story unfolds — literally. The same content can feel cramped in one format and effortless in another. If you are preparing a company profile, a property brochure, a clinic services guide or a take-away menu, this guide to standard brochure sizes and folds will help you pick the right format before your designer starts.
Standard brochure sizes
| Flat size | Dimensions | Common folded result | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A4 | 210 x 297 mm | Tri-fold to DL (99 x 210 mm) or bi-fold to A5 | Company profiles, service menus, clinic guides |
| A3 | 297 x 420 mm | Bi-fold to A4 | Corporate brochures, property launches, product catalogues |
| B4 | 340 x 240 mm | Folded economy brochure | High-volume promotional brochures |
You will find these formats in our range, including the premium A4 double-sided brochure, A3 folded brochure and B4 economy brochure with folding included.
The most common brochure folds
Bi-fold (half fold)
One fold down the middle creates four panels: front cover, two inside pages and a back cover. An A3 sheet bi-folded gives you an A4 brochure — ideal for corporate profiles, event programmes and property brochures that need large images.
Tri-fold (roll fold / letter fold)
Two folds create six panels, with one panel tucking inside the other. An A4 tri-fold finishes at DL size, which fits standard racks, envelopes and hands. It is the classic format for service lists, clinic brochures, salon menus and hotel information.
Z-fold (accordion fold)
Also six panels, but folded in a zig-zag so the brochure opens outward like a concertina. Great for step-by-step processes, timelines, maps and route guides because readers can see several panels at once.
Gate fold
Two outer panels fold inward to meet in the middle, like doors. Opening it creates a “reveal” moment — perfect for launches, luxury products and invitations.
Double parallel and roll folds
Used for longer content such as detailed menus or price lists, creating eight panels from one sheet.
How panels are arranged on a tri-fold
Tri-folds confuse many first-time designers because the panels are not in reading order on the flat sheet:
- Outside (flat, left to right): inside flap | back cover | front cover.
- Inside (flat, left to right): three inside panels read left to right.
- The inside flap panel should be slightly narrower (usually 2–3 mm) so it folds in without buckling.
Always design from a proper fold template rather than splitting the page into three equal thirds.
Choosing the right size and fold
- Lots of photos (property, hotels, products)? A3 bi-fold to A4 gives large image panels.
- Services and prices? A4 tri-fold to DL is compact and rack-friendly.
- A process or timeline? Z-fold lets readers follow the steps.
- A launch or VIP audience? Gate fold creates a premium reveal.
- Large distribution? Economy B4 folded brochures keep volume runs efficient.
Paper and finish
Brochures are handled and kept, so paper matters more than on a single-use flyer. Heavier paper feels more premium but must be creased properly before folding to avoid cracking along the fold line, especially with dark full-colour backgrounds. Gloss finishes make photography vivid; matte finishes feel understated and professional. Read our guide on the best paper weight for brochures for a detailed comparison.
Design tips that make brochures work
- Front cover = headline + one image. Treat it like a poster.
- Plan the reading journey. Cover → inside flap → inside spread → back cover with contact details.
- Keep text away from folds. Leave at least 5 mm either side of each fold line.
- Use headings and short paragraphs. Brochures are skimmed first, read second.
- End with a clear call to action — website, QR code, phone and location.
- Include 3 mm bleed and 300 DPI images.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common brochure size?
The A4 tri-fold, finishing at DL size, is the most widely used brochure format.
What is the difference between a brochure and a flyer?
A flyer is usually a single flat sheet; a brochure is folded or bound into panels or pages and carries more structured content.
Can you fold brochures for me?
Yes — several of our brochure products include folding as part of the service.
Order your brochures
Explore the flyers and brochures collection to choose your format, and use our free design support if you need help setting up panels and folds correctly.