Accordion Fold
What Is an Accordion Fold?
An accordion fold (also called a concertina fold or Z-fold) is a paper folding technique where a sheet is folded into multiple parallel panels in alternating directions — one panel folds forward, the next folds back — creating a zigzag profile when viewed from the side, like the bellows of a musical accordion.
The result is a multi-panel printed piece that can be fully extended into a single long strip or compactly folded flat for storage and mailing. Every panel remains independently visible when the piece is open, making it one of the most practical and eye-catching formats in commercial printing.
How the Accordion Fold Works
Unlike a tri-fold or letter fold — where panels nest inside one another — an accordion fold creates a series of independent, equally-sized panels connected by alternating mountain and valley folds. This means the piece can stand upright on a flat surface, display all panels simultaneously, and be read or handed out section by section.
A standard accordion fold divides the sheet into 4, 6, or 8 panels (always an even number), though custom panel counts are possible based on the finished sheet size and paper weight.
Accordion Fold vs. Other Fold Types
| Fold Type | Panels | Fold Direction | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accordion / Concertina Fold | 4–8+ | Alternating | Maps, lookbooks, timelines |
| Z-Fold | 6 (3 panels) | Alternating | Self-mailers, simple brochures |
| Bi-Fold | 4 | Single inward | Menus, simple brochures |
| Tri-Fold / Letter Fold | 6 | Nested inward | Mailers, pamphlets |
| Gate Fold | 6 | Two outer panels fold inward | Premium product reveals |
| Roll Fold | 6+ | Rolling inward | Step-by-step instructions |
Note: A Z-fold is technically a 3-panel accordion fold. The term “accordion fold” is the broader category — all Z-folds are accordion folds, but not all accordion folds are Z-folds.
Common Uses
Accordion folding is popular across publishing, marketing, packaging, and specialty printing:
- Brochures and marketing collateral — product lookbooks, brand guides, event programs, and promotional mailers
- Maps and timelines — fold-out reference guides that expand to reveal sequential information
- Instruction inserts — compact folded inserts included inside product packaging or board game boxes
- Mini books and portfolios — fold-out photography showcases, zine-style publications, and artist lookbooks
- Retail and packaging inserts — product information sheets, warranty booklets, and warranty cards
- Trade show and display pieces — self-standing table displays and exhibition handouts
