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This brochure is an example of a step-down accordian fold. |
The successive panels of this accordion-folded brochure increase in size, allowing the edges of the panels underneath to create a tabbed effect and making information in the piece easy to locate.
Promotional materials, maps and instruction sheets are just a few of the products that benefit from the practical versatility of accordion folding. Alternating fold directions allow panels to unfold in a "Z" pattern. This will give the product a booklet-like function, allowing only two pages to be read at a time - without the need for binding elements or stitches. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when designing and planning a piece to include accordion folds:
More than eight folds without Scores? Plan carefully - On accordion-folding projects with more than eight folds, the trailing panel will need to be undersized. As an unscored sheet moves through the folder, the grain of the paper will cause slight movement in the folds. This variation will cause folds to be slightly off. Undersizing the trailing panels, slightly, can "hide" this variation. The result is all panels will appear even, giving the product a clean, crisp look.
Avoid color breaks on each fold - We know, designers love this look - but we have to fold them. It can be done, but advise your client on the pros and cons. Slight shifts in fold location can become more noticeable with a color break at each fold, especially on unscored sheets. Unfortunately, scoring isn't always the solution. When a die score is applied all "scores" are formed in the same uniform direction. When making accordion folds, one side of the sheet will fold exactly on the score, while the opposing sides fold will typically slip to one side of the score - this slight variation (less than a 1/32") adds up with multiple accordions. Binderies can sometimes compensate by slowing the folder speeds down to maintain folding accuracy.
Design Idea: Step-Down Accordion Folds
Step-down accordion folding is an eye-catching design that involves incrementally reducing subsequent panels in size to achieve a "stepped" appearance. This step-down design allows each panel to function as a tab, making this style ideal for brochures. When designing a step-down accordion-folded project, avoid "trapezoid" designs in which same-size panels are offset slightly to achieve the stepped effect (see image below). These designs are not machinable and will significantly increase costs and turnaround time. Step-down accordion folds require expert attention to turn out properly, so be sure to involve Rickard Bindery early in your planning process.
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Unlike the step-down (middle) and pyramid (right) accordion folding styles, "trapezoid" designs (left) are not machinable, adding significantly to the cost and turnaround time of your project. |
The Rickard Advantage
Accordion folding is a specialty of ours. With the right stock, we can perform up to 16 accordion-folds (17 panels!) on sheets up to 80" long, making our accordion folding capabilities among the most versatile available anywhere. Rickard Bindery can also perform all related processes, including saddle stitching; permanent, ez-release and remoist gluing; wafer sealing; shrink wrapping and more. Whether your project calls for "mild" or "wild" accordion folding, give us a call to begin planning today.
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