Print & Publishing

Roll-Fold Brochure Panel Calculator

How should a three-panel sheet be divided when the tucked-in panel needs a specified reduction?

Measured values and planning assumptions
Supported: 1 to 10000.
Supported: 0 to 1000.
Supported: 0 to 1000.

Method, formula and assumptions

Let two outer panels equal x and the tucked panel equal x - reduction. Solve 3x - reduction = flat width. Fold coordinates are measured from the tucked-panel trim edge; bleed extends only outside the spread.

Input definitions and supported units

  • Flat trimmed width (mm): Measured or assumed numerical value, from 1 to 10000; must be positive.
  • Tucked panel reduction (mm): Measured or assumed numerical value, from 0 to 1000; zero is supported where the stated method permits it.
  • Outer bleed on each side (mm): Measured or assumed numerical value, from 0 to 1000; zero is supported where the stated method permits it.

Worked example with answer

297 mm flat width with a 3 mm tucked-panel reduction yields 100, 100 and 97 mm panels. From the tucked edge, folds are at 97 and 197 mm; 3 mm outer bleed makes 303 mm artwork width.

How to use the results

This is a roll-fold, not an equal-panel accordion fold. Fold coordinates exclude bleed, so add the outer bleed offset when marking the artwork.

Results retain full precision internally and display up to four decimal places. Very small nonzero results use scientific notation rather than appearing as zero. Check the labels before comparing values across units.

Limitations and references

Stock thickness, folding machine and fold direction determine the actual reduction. Confirm the tucked side and approved panel template with the printer.

The method is a self-contained arithmetic, geometric or explicitly stated mathematical model. There are no imported tariffs, empirical presets or equipment specifications; measured values and allowances must come from your own process.

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