The Power of 3: The Use of Triangles on Folded Pieces

When packaging requirements call for captivating designs where sheets need to fit in specific spots, the best use of space may be a triangle fold. Many different layouts are possible using triangle folds. Iron cross folded pieces don’t need square panels: triangle shaped panels can create an intriguing, pleasing look. If you want to explore beyond 2, but want more originality than 4, try the power of 3.

At Rickard Bindery, we’ve produced hundreds of thousands of product insert sheets in triangular shapes because they fit best into the final package. Another reason why triangle folds are so effective is because they are just simply, eye-catching!

Design Options
Here are four diverse examples of triangle folds design options that illustrate the versatility of this folding solution:

Example 1: Trading Card Game

Technical Tip: Micro perfing is necessary for the first fold. In some cases, a “perimeter” die cut micro-perf is necessary.

Example 2: Product Instruction Sheet

Note: Rickard Bindery has produced hundreds of thousands of these types of pieces.

Technical Tips:

1. The “hypotenuse” fold in Figure 3 must be no longer than 12”.
2. Figure 3 must be a perfect square.
3. The starting unfolded piece (Fig. 1) doesn’t have to be square. As long as your piece is a perfect square before the hypotenuse fold (Figure 4), we can fold it.

Example 3: Mailer with Attached Coupon

The trick for this product is getting it fed without a side guide. Even though the piece is square, we requested it be perimeter die cut with a single micro-perf, which helped us lock the 1st fold into place. Without these two steps the piece would not be machineable. Note this product had a coupon affixed with a spot of ez-release glue, adding to its complexity.

Technical Tips:

1. Sheet arrives at Rickard Bindery with perimeter die cut & micro perf applied.
2. Attach coupon
3. Fold in 4 corners to square
4. Half-fold to mailable piece
5. Apply 2 one inch clear wafer seals

Note:Note: Rickard Bindery produced 400,000 pieces in 1-1/2 weeks

Rickard Bindery Advantage
Like all folding applications, triangle folding projects require careful planning and an experienced production partner to turn out properly. At Rickard Bindery, we have more than 80 folding machines, allowing you to take advantage of triangle folding ranging from micro-mini to oversized. Let us help you plan your projects for efficient and attractive triangle folding.