Two families of paper folding
“Paper folding” covers two broad areas that overlap in technique but differ in purpose:
- Print and document folds: standard folds for letters, flyers, menus, brochures and cards.
- Craft folds: decorative or sculptural folding such as origami, accordion books and folded cards.
Both start with the same basic movements, so skills carry from one to the other.
Basic fold vocabulary
- Valley fold: the paper folds toward you, making a V-shaped trough.
- Mountain fold: the paper folds away from you, making a ridge.
- Crease: the sharpened line created by pressing a fold.
- Score: a pressed or lightly cut line made before folding, usually with a bone folder or the back of a blade, to help a clean fold.
- Panel: a section between creases.
Print and document folds
These are the folds you will meet on printed pieces. For fuller detail, see brochure folding options.
- Half fold (bi-fold): one fold across the middle for four faces in total. Common for greeting cards, programs and simple menus.
- Tri-fold (letter or C-fold): two folds creating three panels that wrap inward. Used for letters and brochures.
- Z-fold: two folds in opposite directions forming a zigzag. Used for flyers and guides.
- Accordion fold: several parallel folds in alternating directions, like a fan.
- Roll fold: panels fold inward again and again, each tucking into the next.
- Gate fold: outer panels fold toward the centre like doors, giving a dramatic reveal.
- French (quarter) fold: a half fold followed by a perpendicular half fold. Often used for large greeting cards and maps.
Craft folding traditions
- Origami: the Japanese art of folding a sheet, usually without cutting or glue, into a shape such as a crane or a box. Traditional origami uses thin square paper.
- Kirigami: folding combined with cutting, used in pop-up cards and paper cut-outs.
- Accordion and concertina folds: zigzag folds used for mini albums, banners and cards.
- Pleating and fan folds: repeated parallel folds used in decorations, paper fans and some paper flowers.
- Folded cards and boxes: structures like gift boxes and the Valentine’s Day explosion card, built from scored and folded cardstock.
What kind of change is folding paper?
Folding is generally considered a physical change. The paper changes shape, but it is still paper, and the material is not turned into something chemically different. Creasing does stress the fibres at the fold, which is why repeated folding in the same place can weaken or tear the sheet.
What is origami good for?
People practise origami for relaxation, as a hands-on way to learn about geometry, to make decorations and gifts, and as a creative hobby. Some educators use it to teach spatial thinking, though how much it helps any one learner is hard to say. It is also a gentle craft that needs few supplies.
Choosing paper for folding
- Thin, crisp paper suits origami and many pleated designs.
- Light to medium cardstock suits folded cards, but it should be scored first so the crease does not crack.
- Very thick stock may need scoring and can still spring back.
- Textured or handmade paper can look lovely but may fold less sharply.
Grain matters too. Folding along the grain usually gives a smoother crease than folding across it (see short grain vs long grain paper), and a quick test fold on scrap paper tells you which direction is easier.
Many kinds of paper exist, from printer paper and tissue to cardstock and specialty sheets, and our craft paper types guide compares them. Different types of paper for different tasks are a core part of card making.
Tips for crisp folds
- Measure and mark fold lines before you begin.
- Score thick paper along a ruler.
- Fold slowly, aligning edges before you press.
- Use a bone folder or the side of a ruler to flatten the crease.
- Practise on scrap paper of the same type.
- For batches, such as note cards, score everything first, then fold.
Safety
Use scissors or a craft knife on a cutting mat, keep fingers clear of the blade, and store blades covered. Adhesives should be used with ventilation. If you use a heat tool to set embossing on a folded project, keep it away from your skin and let it cool afterwards.
FAQ
What is the most folded paper?
There is no single agreed answer. Tissue-thin or large sheets can be folded more times than thick ones, and the number depends on paper type, size and thickness.
What different types of paper are there?
Common types include printer paper, cardstock, tissue, kraft, watercolour paper and specialty origami paper. Each folds differently.
Which fold is best for a card?
A half fold is the simplest, and a French fold gives a larger card from one sheet.
Do I need special tools?
No. A ruler and a firm edge for pressing creases are enough to start.